Spynet facts for kids
Spynet is an exciting CBC Television show for kids. It's all about a super spy named Sam, played by Kim Schraner. Sam works for a secret Canadian spy group called the National Espionage Task-Force (NET). The show first aired on February 25, 2002, and ran until 2004. Michael Kinney directed the series.
Each episode of Spynet mixes education with thrilling spy stories. The show started with short segments and grew into a half-hour format.
Contents
How the Show Works
The show mainly features Sam, who is the only regular character seen for a long time. As the show became more popular, other characters started to appear. Sam works from a special white van that moves around the city. This van is packed with cool spy gadgets and high-tech computer gear. Most of the show is filmed in downtown Toronto.
Mission Briefings
Each episode begins with a voice, Pendleton, giving Sam her mission. Pendleton explains what needs to be done. This part helps viewers think about how to plan and solve problems.
Learning on the Go
During her missions, Sam often watches training videos or old NET files. These videos teach her, and the audience, about the topic of the mission. She might watch clips about spy tactics or historical events related to espionage. This helps viewers learn without Sam giving a long lecture. Topics include things like hidden cameras, secret codes, and stealth.
Spy Adventures
After preparing, Sam goes on her mission. She uses her skills to complete the task. When she finishes, she goes back to her van.
Reflecting on Missions
In the van, Sam records her thoughts in a video diary. This part encourages viewers to think about their own work and learn from their experiences. She talks directly to the audience, sharing what she learned from the mission. She often wraps up the episode by explaining the main idea or lesson.
Over time, Spynet became more like a typical spy drama. It focused more on entertainment and less on being strictly educational.
Meet the Characters
Sam: The Super Spy
Sam is a top agent for the NET. She graduated at the very top of her spy school class. Sam is really good at watching people (surveillance), fighting without weapons (hand-to-hand combat), using disguises, and handling radio and video equipment.
Sam's parents disappeared when she was eight years old. She doesn't know where they are. However, she once received a video from her father. He wished her good luck just before he left on a secret mission. This made Sam feel lonely as a child, which led her to become a spy.
Sam is very eager to prove herself. This makes her an excellent agent. But sometimes, her eagerness makes her take risks that could be dangerous. She reports to Pendleton, who is her supervisor at NET.
Sam never uses weapons, just like the character MacGyver. Even when enemy spies use weapons, Sam finds ways to disarm them or let them escape without using violence herself.
Pendleton: The Supervisor
Pendleton is Sam's boss at the NET. He is the Field Operatives Supervisor. Pendleton gives missions to his agents, including Sam.
