AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Fern Hill School - Ottawa vs. Sudbury Christian Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Fern Hill School - Ottawa's full report
VS.
View Sudbury Christian Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    50 Vaughan Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 1X1, Canada

    1096 Dublin Street, Sudbury, Ontario, P3A1R6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1981

    1982

    Enrolment

    170

    150

    Grades

    Preschool to 8

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    10 to 20

    12 to 18

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $8,750 to $15,200

    $55 to $7,950

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    10%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    JK to 8

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $2,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    14

    12

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    75%

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Families typically cite academics as an important driver when considering a school, and certainly they should be. That said, in the best school settings, a strong academic program is simply the baseline for what the program offers, and Fern Hill is a great example of that. Yes, numeracy and literacy are the core components, though confidence and self-esteem are too. Students are encouraged to grow in all literacies, including those of the arts and music and social interaction. The French language program has been augmented in recent years, driven principally by the needs of students and desire of parents. Administration has worked to create an environment of discovery across all curricular areas, and they’ve succeeded in that. Yes, academics are strong, though, rightly, that’s just the beginning of what Fern Hill is able to offer. It's perhaps the things over and above that which truly give strength to the overall program and distinguish the school.  

    View full report

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Sudbury Christian Academy (SCA) provides a safe, healthy, and dynamic learning environment. The school takes kids from Nursery through to Grade 8. With small class sizes and highly dedicated and committed teachers, the academic standards at SCA are exceptional. Along with academics, athletic pursuits, spiritual growth, social development, and community service are seen as the pillars of a complete and fulfilling school experience. A Christian worldview provides the basis of the well-rounded student experience that SCA provides.

     

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    "Established in 1981, Ottawa’s Fern Hill School offers an enriched curriculum for preschool, kindergarten and elementary grades 1-8, including Core & Advanced French and a variety of extracurricular activities. Fern Hill provides quality education in a warm, caring and nurturing environment, with a diverse international community. Guided by dedicated teachers, students enjoy a supportive community that instills a strong sense of self, responsibility and a lifelong love of learning. Located 10 minutes from downtown."

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    "Founded in 1982, Sudbury Christian Academy (SCA) remains committed to the principle that gifted teachers, small classes, and a structured environment are the greatest factors in student success. Historically recognized as a high achieving academic school, the total SCA student experience is upheld by four pillars -- academic development, athletic development, spiritual development, and community development -- all supported by the solid foundation of a Christian worldview."

    • Qualified teachers
    • Small class sizes
    • Structured environment
    • Academic achievement
    • Athletic pursuit
    • Spiritual growth
    • Social development
    • Community service

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    "Unparalleled class sizes of no more than 18 students per teacher, which is optimal for individualized attention and differentiation."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    "The top reasons cited by families for choosing SCA (in order of frequency) are: 1) small class sizes; 2) safe and healthy learning environment; 3) academic excellence; and 4) Christian education."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    "Families who don't have a basis of comparison might overlook the peaceful and orderly tone of the SCA learning environment, which is partly a product of small class sizes, and partly a product of qualified and gifted teachers."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    "Many families are surprised to find that elementary tuition is more affordable than early years childcare, and that SCA welcomes families from all faith backgrounds regardless of church attendance."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Information not available

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership



    Welcome to another exciting year at Fern Hill School. I look forward to working with our staff to provide a learning community that is safe and secure; one that builds the young child’s self-esteem and develops confidence. I have the pleasure, on a daily basis, of working with our teachers to provide activities and opportunities that will enhance your child’s learning experience.

    I couldn’t imagine a more rewarding job! Our staff work together to create an environment at Fern Hill where students can thrive and learn. Emphasis is placed on the complete development of the child during the preschool, kidergarten and elementary years. Fern Hill's preschool program is designed to provide a wide variety of opportunities for learning through play. We continue to place importance on literacy and numeracy in the preschool years in a warm and caring setting. Fern Hill's elementary school programs are integrated to provide continuous and connected experiences in Languages, Mathematics, Social Studies and Science.  Specialty subjects such as Art, Music, Technology, French and Physical Education are incorporated into the curriculum.  The kindergarten and grade school programs provide an extensive program to help children reach their full potential and to develop confidence, while still retaining his/her individuality.  The emphasis of the program is not only on academics, but on the development of the whole child.  Students develop important character attributes such as respect, responsibility and positive communication which are fostered and reinforced throughout the year in a caring and nurturing environment.

    Increased French education has long been an interest of our families and we are pleased to offer additional French opportunities for the kindergarten levels, as well as the Extended French program beginning in Grade One.  The Extended French program is woven into the school day and provides students with the opportunity for French Language Arts enrichment.

    I welcome the input from parents and thank you all for your support – in the past and throughout the upcoming year. It is our privilege to be a part of your child’s education and we value the relationships between students, teachers, and parents – please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.

    Our commitment is to spark a life-long love of learning by inspiring all our children to become actively involved in discovery, and I look forward to another successful year with Fern Hill students, parents and staff.

    Welcome to Sudbury Christian Academy (SCA)! We hope that you will choose to make our school your new home for total personal growth in mind, body, and spirit.

    At SCA, we want to make the world a better place to live -- echoing Christ's prayer that God's will would be done "on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10 NIV). We believe that we can change our world by raising up a generation of intelligent, resilient, compassionate leaders. In partnership with you, we will accomplish this goal by delivering well-rounded educational programming with a distinctly Christian worldview.

    Discover the SCA difference for yourself! Call or message us today. I look forward to personally giving your family a private tour of our programs and facilities.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Information not available

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      At Fern Hill School we follow a traditional teaching approach. Our focus is on building skills needed for life-long learning, including independence, self-confidence and a strong academic foundation. The enhanced language, math and science curriculum is complemented by a strong arts and sports program. The aim of the Grade School program is to provide an extensive and enriched curriculum to help children reach their full potential while retaining their individuality.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      The emphasis of the program is on the development of the whole child.Through an integrated approach, experiences and opportunities are provided for each child to develop intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically. It is recognized that children learn in different ways and at different rates, therefore a variety of learning experiences are provided to meet the needs of each child.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Standard-enriched

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Students are grouped within the classroom for work and are challenged with individual learning opportunities.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      The provision of a wide variety of enriched programming within a traditional setting allows the students to participate fully and share their ideas. Students are encouraged to strive for success and a high standard of work is expected from all students. The positive, nuturing environment instills a love of learning and students take pride in their accomplishments.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Information not available

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      Secondary

      Secondary

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

      The emphasis of the program is not only on academics, but on the development of the whole child. Through an integrated approach, experiences and opportunities will be provided for each child to develop intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically. It is recognized that children learn in different ways, so a variety of learning approaches are provided to meet the needs of each child. Self-esteem and autonomy are key to development, and are fostered and reinforced in a caring and nuturing environment. Leadership opportunities are provided throughout the grade levels. Students develop into self-confident learners, with a strong sense of community.

      SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    JK - 8

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    10%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $2,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    75%

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

    What the school says

    SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

    The main application forms, along with copies of the birth certificate and immunization record, along with the registration fee are required at the time of registration.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

FERN HILL SCHOOL - OTTAWA:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

SUDBURY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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