Dedicated to John Cooper 1941 to 2015
In November of 2015, after many conversations with my father on my drive into work, we discussed the possibility of starting a not-for-profit learning centre. I did not realize that this would be the last topic of conversation that I would have with him.
Hence the John Cooper Learning Centre was founded.
My father would encourage me every step of the way and support me in whatever way he could. When my father and mother would come over they would either help out at Making Small Talk, or help by cooking meals at home after a long day at work.
My passion was encouraged by my father when he visited as he would sit and watch me work with a smile on his face. This has given me the drive to continue and pursue my dream; to set up a learning centre for the children that are falling through the cracks in today’s education system.
I want to build a legacy centred around the love and support of family that I have experienced and that has encouraged me to reach my potential. To be able to share this with families and the great children that will attend the John Cooper Learning Centre is the start of this legacy.
John Cooper Learning Centre sees the client as the person they are and the potential they have.
The Team
Founder
Linda Hurren
Starting John Cooper Learning Centre, or JCLC, was a natural decision for me because I have seen firsthand the challenges many youth and adults face when navigating learning differences and life transitions. As I began building the Centre, my goal was to create a place where every client would feel supported in a way that respects their unique learning needs, strengths, and style. I wanted youth and adults to have a positive learning experience, even when they have faced barriers in traditional settings.
At JCLC, I believe every person has the ability and potential to learn, whether in life skills, social skills, further academic support, or work-related skills. Because each individual learns differently, our programs, strategies, and supports must be adapted to help them succeed and reach their full potential. At the same time, we believe in maintaining high expectations so that our clients are encouraged to keep growing, striving, and working toward their goals.
JCLC is committed to understanding each client as a whole person and to considering the many factors that may affect their learning and development. We do not give up on adults or youth; instead, we take the time to identify their needs and provide the strongest possible support in every area required. Through adaptable programming, Direct Instruction, and the dedication of our trained staff, we work to create a successful and meaningful learning experience.
John Cooper Learning Centre fully supports youth and adults as they work toward their life, social, and work goals. For clients who want to continue their education after school, we also provide support for the transition into college and the next stage of their learning journey.
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Linda Hurren
“Fair isn’t everybody getting the same thing…Fair is everybody getting what they need in order to be successful”. -Unknown
Linda Hurren has over 35 years experience working with neurodivergent children, youth and adults. She has run the York Autism Centre operating as Making Small Talk since 2008, offering services for children and families within the autism spectrum. Students are supported to enable them as individuals to excel in areas of promise. Linda has previous experience as a residential social worker living with adults in a community teaching independence skills. She worked in York Region District School Board mainstream community classrooms for children with Asperger Syndrome. After 4 years in the classroom, she set up her own business in 2008 to support families struggling with the many neurodiverse challenges confronting their children. It was later in 2016 that she decided to start up this charitable organization, the John Cooper Learning Centre in honour of her father, John Cooper.
Instructor
Victoria Allen-Boynett
Victoria began her education with a Social Service Worker Diploma, followed by obtaining her Social Work Honours degree from Trent University. During this time, Victoria gained experience working with teens and adults that are neurodiverse utilizing animal assisted therapy. After her placement she became very passionate about continuing her education in this field. She went back to obtain her Autism and Behavioral Science Diploma and found John Cooper Learning Centre as her placement.
Victoria takes pride in being a Neuro-Affirming instructor therapist with 7 years of experience supporting children, youth and adults building meaningful social skills and confidence. Her work is grounded in respect, understanding and celebrating neurodiversity. She is committed to providing safe and inclusive learning environments for individuals to feel seen, heard and understood. She is also passionate about teaching social emotional learning skills to help individuals learn to manage and understand their emotions while responding to the world around them. Overall, she is dedicated to providing tailored, strengths-based strategies that empower individuals to thrive in their daily lives, focusing on creating safe, supportive and engaging environments where each person can be their authentic selves.
John Cooper Learning Centre Board Members
Philip Hurren President
Risa Whitnall Board Member
Helen Lambrou Board Member