Frank Robinson Youth Academy
For Nature, the Environment and Feeding the World
The Frank Robinson Youth Academy (FRYA) provides dedicated extra-curricular, hands-on experiential learning for students from kindergarten through to post-secondary education.
With FRYA, students explore agriculture, food systems, environmental science and sustainability both on and off the University of Alberta campuses. They can learn about farm animals, soil, water and ecosystems, explore research facilities, and discover the role they can play in shaping a more sustainable future.
FRYA runs and supports a range of established and emerging programs that give Alberta youth access to working farms, parkland, and cultural spaces, inspiring the next generation of farmers, conservationists and citizens.
Through FRYA, students can:
- Explore working farms, research facilities, and natural environments
- Participate in hands-on activities that connect classroom learning to the real world
- Learn directly from University of Alberta researchers, instructors and industry experts
- Discover careers in agriculture, food systems, environmental science and sustainability
- Develop curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Develop food literacy and become informed, engaged members of their communities
- Build lasting connections with nature and food systems
Programs
Interactive Programming
FRYA’s interactive programming gives K-12 students the opportunity to experience agriculture, food and environmental science. Teachers and youth groups can bring K-12 students to the University of Alberta for farm tours, classroom visits, presentations, campus field trips and hands-on agricultural learning, or work with us to build a bespoke experience around your group’s learning interests. Lessons and activities can focus on foundational topics such as soil, water, agriculture, food systems and environmental science.
Programs are offered during the fall and spring, and are designed to complement Alberta curriculum outcomes. Requests are accepted during two registration periods each year:
- For visits in September, October and November 2026: submit requests now through early November
- For visits in May and June 2027: submit requests February to April 2027
Request a visit
Homeroom Holsteins
Homeroom Holsteins, offered out of the Dairy Research and Technology Centre, teaches grades K-12 classes across Alberta about dairy and agriculture by matching them with a newborn heifer and providing regular updates on its growth. Details coming soon!
Bespoke Projects
Have an idea for a hands-on agricultural or environmental learning project?
FRYA offers limited funding to support experiential, hands-on agricultural and environmental science learning for youth in Alberta and Western Canada. Funding is open to schools, teachers, and student or community groups. Funding can support transportation, project materials and other eligible costs. There are two funding options:
- Small grants - up to $500
- Project grants - up to $10,000
Applications open twice a year, on the second Monday of January and the second Monday of July, and remain open for one month.
ALES Mini-Internship Program
The ALES Mini-Internship Program (AMIP) sets University of Alberta undergraduate students up to get first-hand learning experiences on careers in agriculture, life and environmental sciences. This program matches students twice a year with an industry-specific organization for a visit and volunteer work.
Organizations interested in hosting undergraduate student internships may contact amip@ualberta.ca
Partners and Supporters
Collaboration is key to achieving our ambitious goals. FRYA works with partners and supporters across the University of Alberta and the community, including:
- U School hosted by the University of Alberta Senate
- Alberta Pork Pig Science Centre
- Inside Education
- Alberta Milk
- The University of Alberta Dairy Research and Technology Centre
- The University of Alberta Poultry Research Centre
- The Prairie Urban Farm and Green & Gold Community Garden, both at the University of Alberta South Campus
- Alberta Chicken Producers
- Alberta Turkey Producers
- Egg Farmers of Alberta
- Alberta Hatching Egg Producers
Resources
Contact frya@ualberta.ca for more information.
Donate
Reduce financial barriers to participating in these programs by donating to the Work Integrated Learning Opportunities Fund.
About Frank Robinson
Dr. Frank Robinson started his career at the U of A in 1986 as a professor of Poultry Production and Physiology and later served in several administrative positions including Vice-Provost and Dean of Students.
Frank was inducted into the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame and the Canadian Poultry Research Hall of Fame, was awarded a 3M National Teaching Fellowship, and is a Fellow of the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture and the Poultry Science Association.
Through creative endeavors in engaging undergraduate students in experiential learning and promoting active industry integration, Frank has helped students find their careers in animal and poultry science, agricultural community development and research. He has given countless public talks about animal agriculture, and is recognized locally, nationally and internationally for expertise in small flock and large commercial poultry production.
