118 Main Street East, Merrickville, Ontario, K0G 1N0, Canada
36 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R7, Canada
118 Main Street East, Merrickville, Ontario, K0G 1N0, Canada
36 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R7, Canada
2012
2000
110
180
9 to 12
Nursery/Toddler to 12
Coed
Coed
eSchool, Boarding, Day
Day
English
English, French
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
8 to 12
12 to 18
In-class adaptations
$16,450 to $17,950
$20,700 to $26,150
$56,200 to $58,200
Yes
Yes
15%
3%
9 to 12
Nursery/Toddler to 12
$5,000
$3,000
28
11
55%
0%
95%
80%
9, 10, 11, 12
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12
No
No
“From the outset, the founders of Merrick Prep deliberately intended to have an international student body, with limited enrolment to ensure small class sizes for focused, individualized attention.”
“Students feel known by teachers and staff even before they arrive at the school, and parents need not worry about their son or daughter because they know the level of care they receive at Merrick Prep is on par with what they would receive at home.”
“The cultural diversity within Merrick Prep is one aspect of the student population that receives regular, positive comments from students, their parents, alumni, teachers, and staff.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Merrick Preparatory School
“At La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science, students experience academic rigour and high expectations alongside individualized support, warmth, and care.”
“Parents at La Citadelle told us they value the small class sizes, accessible faculty members, and frequent reporting on their children’s progress.”
“La Citadelle is a school that nurtures true bilingualism, meaning students learn both French and English as first languages—especially if children start their academic careers here.”
Read The Our Kids Review of La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science
Merrick Preparatory School is one of those hidden gems of the academic world. Housed in an historical inn, nestled within a smaller Ontario town, it has all the benefits of being small as well all the benefits of being proximate to some of nation’s most prominent urban centres and a wealth of notable post-secondary institutions. The school is positioned to support the needs specific to students arriving from overseas, including ESL support and university placement services. The academic program is firmly focused on preparing students for success at university in North America. So, it checks all of the important academic boxes and then some. There’s also a sense that learning isn’t only about what we take away from the experience, but also who we are while we’re here; how we spend our days is how we spend our lives, and students at Merrick spend their days in a spotless, beautiful setting alongside mentors and peers who share the experience with them. It’s one of those schools that is so charming, inviting, and personal, that you just want to sit and stay. As such, it’s a particular draw for students arriving in Canada looking for an authentic experience of the life and culture of the country. It’s a school designed for students to feel known within, and to feel rooted and at home. It succeeds in all of that.
View full reportLa Citadelle was established in 2000 with just 5 students and operating out of a church basement. The program has grown considerably since then, with an annual enrolment of 200 students spanning prep-K to Grade 12. Further, in 2015 the school moved into a new space, doubling the size of the physical plan and providing an opportunity to grow the student population and its programs significantly. Despite that growth, the approach to instruction remains true to the original intentions. Since its inception La Citadelle has been progressive, and while achievement is one of the six core values, so are compassion and harmony. There is a high level of individual support, in part a function of a low teacher/student ratio. The ideal student is one that is operating ahead of her peers, able to thrive within a challenging, varied, and multilingual teaching environment.
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"They have truly uplifted my son from an average student to one who excels in everything he does."
Mustafa Tabba - Parent (May 27, 2021)
The staff and the teachers are simply amazing. The care given to my son is second to none. The quali...
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"What I like in MPS is the small class size and the teaching becomes more like one-to-one teaching."
Seem Pharaon - Parent (Aug 17, 2021)
Joining Merrick Preparatory School changed my son into a responsible young man.
Academically he imp...
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"The school has a positive reputation of helping students get into their desired university.
Juan Carlos Uscanga - Student (Aug 17, 2021)
As an international student first arriving to Ontario, the school helped me a lot in overcoming the...
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"Strong Academics and Small Class Sizes ensure your child gets the Individual Attention they deserve, Guidance and Support from MPS Advisors and staff who are conscious of and understand cultural differences. With a wide range of extracurriculars, every child receives a well-rounded education both inside and outside of the classroom. Located in a safe, diverse and inclusive community, MPS students graduate with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, making them better prepared for world-ranked Universities."
"La Citadelle is a highly regarded private educational institution rooted in the fundamental concepts of Canadian bilingualism, holistic education, mastery learning, and excellence in both instruction and education. Founded in 2000, La Citadelle offers a highly academic reach-ahead IB and AP curriculum in Languages, Mathematics, Sciences, Technology, Humanities, and Fine Arts together with a panoply of co-curricular activities to an exceptional group of students, from PrepK (2 1/2 years old) to Grade 12, who excel academically, share an enthusiasm for knowledge, are outstanding world citizens and value ethics, personal achievement, and responsibility as fundamental traits of character. Inspired to learn and achieve by exceptionally competent and dedicated teachers, they are guided and encouraged to embrace challenges and reach their goals while being provided with extraordinary opportunities to develop individual interests and talents."
"We focus on creating courageous, community minded, compassionate global citizens - inquisitive, broad-minded, open and tolerant. We challenge our students to think critically and analytically. We build community, showing students the richness of living harmoniously within a diverse and tolerant environment, while pushing themselves and each other to reach beyond their grasp. Each of us has the power to control our destiny and the responsibility to contribute for the global good."
"Navigating private school options can be overwhelming today. La Citadelle addresses this complexity with a focus on essential elements like studying, mastery learning, discipline, and genuine child success. Our conversations with parents are refreshingly candid, emphasizing commitment and hard work for the honest pursuit of success. La Citadelle is committed to providing an authentic and objective perspective on the efforts needed from both students and families for success."
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"We are experts at taking mid-range academic achieving students and helping them become high-range academic achieving students, earning multiple offers to top world ranked universities, often on scholarship. 81% of students earn offers to U of T. But families choose us for our small class sizes, small school and strong sense of belonging and community. Tolerant, open minded, safe. We have a deeply caring environment and instill compassion, and individual responsibility for the choices we make."
"La Citadelle welcomes diverse families seeking unique educational experiences. Academic-focused families value our commitment to excellence. Families seeking a fresh start appreciate our supportive environment. Those desiring a rigorous setting find familiarity in our structured approach. We tailor our methods to meet individual needs, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching academic journey for all students. Our unwavering commitment is to foster success and flourishing in education."
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"Our ability to positively influence our students to believe they can reach beyond their grasp and achieve their dreams, and the impact this has for the rest of their life. Parents and students often look for big fancy campuses with all the bells and whistles – the focus is on the physical environment; the emotional (& even academic) environment is less obvious. We create an environment the positively impacts our students’ confidence, sense of belonging and purpose – and that lasts a lifetime."
"Our school's smaller size, often overlooked, prioritizes interpersonal connections over opulence. In contrast to larger institutions, our close-knit environment fosters a deep understanding of each student's needs, strengths, and challenges, enabling a personalized educational approach. The essence of our school resides in the quality of instruction, a sense of community, and individualized attention, challenging prospective parents to value substance over size for their child's education."
"Our fast response time to all questions. The deep caring provided by all staff: kitchen, cleaning, maintenance, teachers, residential life staff, admissions and Headmaster who lives on campus – the “family” feel is real! Weekly emails from each teacher to each student and their parents. Weekly “All Staff” “meetings where we focus on “student success” - each student is discussed – how to we help them be their best. Four report cards per semester. Keen attention to detail in all facets."
"La Citadelle transcends academics, fostering a notable shift in student behaviour. Embracing values, discipline, and respect, diverse backgrounds undergo positive transformations, leaving parents astonished at improved conduct. Integrating academic excellence with a robust ethical foundation cultivates responsible, well-rounded individuals. Our unwavering commitment to education and character development redefines the educational experience, shaping promising futures for students and families al"
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I am delighted to welcome you to Merrick Preparatory School! We provide a world class education for grade 9, 10, 11 and 12 students wishing to gain entry into the finest universities in North America and abroad. We have a 100% university acceptance rate and over 30% of our graduates receive scholarships exceeding $5,000.
Our school is nestled on the shores of the Rideau Waterway - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - in Merrickville, Ontario, a safe, quiet and clean village where students can focus uninterrupted on their studies. Home to nationally and internationally renowned artists and named "The Most Beautiful Village in Canada", the warmth of this historic town provides an idyllic family environment for learning. Just 45 minutes from Ottawa, the nation's capital, our students have access to Parliament Hill - seat of our federal government, our national museums, national art gallery, national performing arts centre, Rideau Canal - the worlds longest skate-way, two universities, two colleges and the spectacular National Capital Commission's Gatineau Park.
Our boarding students enjoy luxurious rooms with en suite bathroom, fine dining and some of the best teachers this country has to offer. Our day students share classes with students from around the world providing a dynamic and truly international education. With an average class size of 10 students and over 140 hours of in-class instruction per credit course, our students excel and reach beyond their grasp. Individualized and focused attention, academic differentiation combined with personal and social growth result in students who become courageous, resilient and compassionate global citizens.
Come join the Merrick Preparatory School family. We are Distinctly Canadian and Uniquely Global. Your success starts here!
Sincerely,
Kevin Farrell, Headmaster
Alfred Abouchar is the Headmaster and founder of La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science. With a rich and diverse educational background spanning 40 years in both Canada and internationally, Mr. Abouchar has created this unique educational institution to instill in children a profound value for education while offering them a curricular program of study that leads students to the highest standard of academic achievement. For the past 17 years, La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science has been the living testimony of his vision that All children can succeed!
Fluent in both English and French, Mr. Abouchar holds an Honours B.Sc. in Physics and Chemistry from the American University in Cairo, a B.Ed. from Althouse College of Education of the University of Western Ontario, a M.Sc. in Physics from the University of Western Ontario and a M.Ed. from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto.
Beginning his extensive career in education by teaching Physics and sciences at the secondary level, Mr. Abouchar was recruited by the Ministry of Education as Education Officer, Provincial Consultant in Mathematics and Sciences and Secretary General of the Council for Franco-Ontarian Education. He has among his various academic contributions also occupied the positions of Principal Investigator & Coordinator of the Ontario Assessment Instrument Pool in Chemistry and Physics, Professor at the Faculty of Education of the University of Ottawa and Superintendent of Curriculum, Research and Continuing Education with the Ottawa-Carleton French Language School Board. Mr. Abouchar has also lead the Ontario delegation at the joint Canada-France Educational Workforce in Chad, founded the Multicultural Francophone Association of Ontario, and served for 9 years on the Ontario Advisory Council on Multiculturalism and Citizenship.
Mr. Abouchar has furthermore participated in the provincial overhauling of the Ontario Science Curriculum, written Physics and sciences textbooks, developed innovative educational software and related films, and lectured extensively on a variety of topics in Education.
A passionate musician and composer, Mr. Abouchar has successfully merged his musical talent with his expertise in computer technology and pedagogy to create a unique Computer Music Program of study which is offered exclusively to all elementary and secondary school students at La Citadelle. The annually produced albums of their collective compositions are but tokens of the authentication of the development of their creativity and their power of learning and achieving at La Citadelle.
“Since 'seeing is believing ', I gracefully extend an invitation to all parents of school children to visit La Citadelle and experience first-hand its harmonious and scholarly perspectives and to join us on our fascinating endeavor of distinctly shaping the lives of our children and leading them to success,” - Mr. Abouchar.
Liberal Arts
International Baccalaureate
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.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
Merrick Preparatory School follows the Ontario provincial curriculum for Grades 9 to 12. We offer a wide range of University and Open level courses designed to assist students in gaining their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Upon graduation, our students have the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to gain entrance to top world ranked universities in Canada and internationally. Our graduates have maintained a 100% university placement rate to their first choice university since our founding in 2012. All of our students also write the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test and, for those requiring additional support, we offer the Ontario Literacy Course in Grade 12. We also offer three hours of IELTS preparation for international students.
La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science offers an exceptional well-rounded international education and a truly comprehensive advanced instructional program from PrepK to Grade 12 in a multilingual environment within the Canadian experience. Promoting good education and a balanced instructional program of study covering languages, the arts and sciences in its pedagogy of excellence, which is based on the Ontario and French Curriculum, the IB and the AP programs, La Citadelle strives to create a well-rounded learning process that is geared to establish a marked impact on the holistic development of the learner.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Each class begins with students being presented with complex, real-world problems they have not yet been taught how to solve. During these discovery-learning sessions students are encouraged to collaborate with their classmates and to think critically and creatively to develop approaches to the problem using their current knowledge. For the remainder of the class, learning is done more traditionally with the teacher guiding students as they build on their knowledge. Students learn increasingly advanced tools in the form of mathematical equations, algorithms and technologies which allow for greater efficiency when solving complex problems. Teachers present these tools through traditional instructional lessons. Students develop mastery using these tools through daily practice with ample teacher support. Students then revisit complex, real-world problems using their newly learned equations, algorithms and technologies to solve the problems efficiently and accurately.
At La Citadelle, we believe that one can more effectively teach a subject if they have a passion for it. As such, specialized teachers are designated for specific subjects, and mathematics is no exception. Guided by the textbook, the approach to teach mathematics combines both the traditional and the discovery math approaches in an effort to equip the student with an array of skill sets relevant to the assimilation of mathematical concepts.
We use Ontario Ministry of Education recommended textbooks that prepare students for university business and engineering.
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Students require a scientific calculator for all math courses. Use of scientific non-graphing calculators is allowed on most quizzes, assignments, tests and exams. Graphing calculators are not recommended as graphing calculators are not allowed during many tests and exams.
Calculators may be used in an upper elementary class at the request of and under the supervision of the mathematics teachers. Secondary School students will possess a scientific calculator to use at their discretion, primarily outside of the classroom.
Phonics-intensive
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
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Reading beginnings are phonics-centred and will evolve into sound blends and word formation. Students begin this early reading practice in French in Junior Kindergarden and are relatively fluid readers in this language by the end of Grade 1. English as an academic subject begins in Grade 1, with a phonics-based system as well, but given their initial proficiency in the language overall, their reading skills are at par with their French ones by the end of this same year.
Systematic approach
The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction.
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Beginner writing is systematic in both mechanics and content. As of Grade 1, there is a balanced approach to teaching a student the proper techniques to write cursive (how to hold a pencil, how to respect a line, forming letters, letter sizing, etc.) and what it is that they are writing. It begins with the ability to write sight words and to reproduce words containing sound blends seen in reading. From there, there is a gradual progression towards sentences, paragraphs and longer pieces of written works, all with a strong emphasis on correct sentence structure, and proper spelling.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.
Science is taught in an expository capacity but is strongly supported by inquiry learning. Students learn the foundational information through direct teacher instruction to support vocabulary acquisition. Students are then encouraged to think critically about these new ideas and demonstrate their learning through investigative and experiential learning techniques. Students are given lab experience and then asked to design their own lab to answer a scientific question as part of their summative assignment. These strategies are designed to support and encourage student curiosity about scientific concepts. Students are engaged in classroom activities through the use of online labs and demonstrations, as well as hands on practical lab experience.
Based on the textbooks, we cover all strands required by the Ministry of Education at the elementary levels: Life Systems, Matter and Energy, Earth and Space systems and finally, Structures and Mechanisms. In grades 11 and 12, Science subjects are divided into the respective disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics which are offered as University Preparation courses.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
An equal balance of traditional and social justice inspired programs is the focus of our literature program. Core concepts and theories are discussed and deconstructed in detail using a variety of teaching methods. These methods include, but are not limited to, instructor-centred, learner-centred, content-focused, interactive and participative, lecture, multi-subject, cross-curricular as well as differentiated learning methods. There is particular emphasis on analyses of content where students become ‘experts’ on specific literature texts. Class discussions as well as participation are a major component of teaching literature. Students will develop critical thinking and essay skills as well as social deconstruction.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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The Ministry of Education conglomerates History, Geography and Civics into one big umbrella called Social Sciences. At la Citadelle, we believe, in preparation for the upper grades, that, though interconnected, each facet of the Social Sciences is a subject to be treated independently. Grades 1 & 2, are given a generalized Social Science course using an Expanding Communities approach. From Grades 3 to 6, History, Geography and Civics are treated as distinct units. We further divide the curriculum in the following manner. History is taught more with regards to world history, and Geography is taught with a heavy Canada slant. Civics remains a course with an Expanding Communities approach. At the secondary levels, each facet is considered a different subject in which separate credits are obtained.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
As a diverse and multicultural school, Merrick Preparatory School includes a variety of teaching approaches. Our focus is to ensure thorough understanding of core concepts while keeping the learning progressive and relevant. There is particular emphasis on critical thinking, investigation and deconstruction. Throughout all of our courses there is a strong focus on discussion, participation, debate and careful reflection of change over time. Developing critical thinking skills is an essential part of our course work.
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Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
Our English as a Second language courses incorporate an audio-lingual approach in conjunction with the communicative methodology. Through imitation and daily choral repetition, the students become actively engaged in their English language learning. Immediate feedback is given to students to ensure they are correctly and efficiently using language forms until it becomes habitual. Worksheets are regularly administered with some explicit grammar instruction. Students extend their listening and speaking skills by the usage of inflection and completion drills, whilst doing authentic conversational practice within the context of a daily setting. Students are required to narrate and respond to a variety of cultural pieces and media texts in the target language. Our blend of audio-lingual and communicative styles is an effective and productive pedagogical approach to English language acquisition.
Students are required to take a 3rd language (either Mandarin or Spanish), in addition to their bilingual (French, English) core education. This 3rd language is taken from Grade 2 all the way up to Grade 9. Guided by textbooks which are divided into units pertaining to everyday life, students are given the tools to actively communicate in every-day situations using the target language. Writing, though a key component, is not the primary focus of our 3rd language programme.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Receptive arts programs emphasize art history (visual, music, theatre, etc) and appreciation over creating or “making” art. Students learn about various artistic works and movements, and are asked to reflect on their underlying aesthetic features and principles. The goal is to give students a core body of knowledge related to the arts, while developing their cognitive, emotional, and aesthetic sensibilities. Studio-work is still a component of most reflective programs, but it plays less of a role than in creative programs.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
At Merrick Preparatory School, teachers provide a receptive approach to teaching drama. Teachers provide cross-curricular opportunities to discuss historical content in areas of visual, musical, theatrical arts and how they have changed over time. Students have the opportunity for hands on application of set design and costume design. Students will also develop their own monologues and plays in a learner-centered method of instruction. A major emphasis is placed on participation/involvement, response to change and application. Students will also learn from an audience perspective and reflect on the various techniques and movement used on stage.
At La Citadelle, our main goal is to bring out the artist in every student. Through Fine Arts, Music, Drama, Dance, Computer Music, Graphic Design and other forms of creative courses our students receive an in-depth hands-on experience from specialized teachers who are passionate in what they do and bring to each student and the classroom curriculum.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Light integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Merrick Preparatory School offers a high degree of technological integration in all our classrooms. Through the use of OneNote, teachers provide our students with an interactive, online learning environment where lectures can be reviewed, student work posted and assessed, and regular individual feedback provided all within an easily-accessible electronic platform. Students are required to bring with them laptop/desktop devices in order to access the OneNote network.
Computer literacy is an increasingly important skill in today's society, and it is a very valuable teaching and learning tool. We do not however believe that it should replace traditional teaching and learning skills as these too remain valuable assets. To maintain our students' level of computer proficiency, without it deterring teaching of other subjects, students from Kindergarten to Grade 10 take a mandatory computer technology course, in which they progress from learning basic computer and keyboarding skills to more advanced programmes and web design.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
We offer the Health Active Living Education credit (Physical Education) in our grade 9 program. Physical Education is a major part of our holistic approach to student life. Students must choose 2 co-curricular activities for at least an hour each day, including baseball, soccer, basketball, ball hockey, ice hockey, badminton, volleyball, track, among others. All activities have a structured educational component. Physical Education is encouraged by all staff in order to keep the students active, healthy, and entertained. During the winter months, students are brought to local fitness clubs to supplement physical activity. Our residential program has mandatory activities on weekends often involving a physical component. In addition, we have a weight room with various free weights, weight machine, heavy boxing bag, ellipticals, running machines, stationary bike, and rowing machine (erg).
Across all grades, the physical education programme combines both Health and Physical Education where students learn to make healthy active living a part of everyday life by participating in the classroom and gymnasium, out of doors, in schoolyards and school gardens, and in the community. Beginning with Kindergartens, students gradually develop their kinesthetic awareness and understanding of movement concepts as well as acquire an extensive subject-specific vocabulary. As students become adolescents, and are beginning to face important life decisions more advanced knowledge and skills are developed to help them better understand and cope with the changes they are experiencing and to make responsible decisions about the health of their adult bodies. In this programme, they have the opportunity to learn and establish patterns of healthy, active living
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.
At the four levels of the Kindergarten Panel, La Citadelle aims to instill in children a curiosity and a love of learning as they develop their own skills and talents. Offered exclusively in French through a concrete based pedagogy, the curriculum program at the Kindergarten Panel is structured in such a manner as to integrate a variety of subject matters such as play and learn, cursive writing, mathematics, sciences, computer studies, music and arts and to foster accelerated mastery learning and a high level of achievement by all children.
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.
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Use of OneNote online classroom platform to allow students to explore and revise topics at their on pace and close teacher tracking of student progress. We create opportunities for students to delve deeper into content. Paperless classroom with electronic submission and reporting for ease of tracking and individualized learning.
Starting from Grade 1, all subjects are taught by specialized teachers who teach across grade levels and who provide students with the flexible academic support needed to make them achieve mastery learning.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Merrick Preparatory School promotes a rigorous academic culture that challenges students to reach beyond their grasp within a supportive environment. Our students’ learning extends beyond the classroom through a comprehensive residential life curriculum, as well as mandatory supervised study sessions five evenings per week. Students are also part of small-sized, teacher-led advisor groups and provided with one hour per day additional tutorial support in any subject they may be struggling in.
La Citadelle provides a rigorous curriculum in a holistic and supportive environment whereby our students excel academically, share an enthusiasm for knowledge, are outstanding world citizens, and value ethics and personal responsibility.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
With young men and women drawn from around the world, we nurture an intimate campus environment that empowers students with the discipline to persevere in their studies, the freedom to explore new opportunities, the confidence and creativity to express themselves both in and beyond the formal classroom. We aim to shape students to take calculated risks, to try something new, and to challenge themselves in academics, co-curricular activities and community service. We aim to have a large impact on a small number of students versus a small impact on a large number of students and ensure they have the skills, knowledge and confidence to be successful in university and life beyond.
La Citadelle offers a comprehensive, balanced and academically advanced program in languages, arts and sciences, enabling its students to acquire the fundamental intellectual, emotional, social and physical foundations to live a full and enriching life in an ever-changing global and technological world.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
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
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
9 - 12
Nursery/Toddler - 12
15%
3%
$5,000
$3,000
95%
80%
9, 10, 11, 12
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades 3 - 12
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
Merrick Preparatory School is looking for students who take ownership of their education; learn to think critically, creatively and globally; have an appreciation for diverse cultures, faiths, opinions, worldviews, and global perspectives; set challenging goals and work to acquire the the necessary skills to achieve them; become effective communicators; strive to excel; and develop confidence to become future leaders.
At La Citadelle, we believe that every child is unique in their own way, and that it is our duty to help each student shine and thrive through the grades and life itself. A Positive attitude and a willingness to learn always helps.
Application Process
Thank you for your interest in joining the Merrick Preparatory School family. We give careful consideration to every applicant. Each application is reviewed closely and considered both as a student and as a unique individual. We take into account your past achievements and look at your future potential for contribution to Merrick Preparatory School and the greater social good.
While admission to Merrick Preparatory School is on a rolling basis, the Admissions Office encourages students to begin the process during the fall and spring of the preceding academic year. We can process applications all throughout the year but it is encouraged that students apply ahead of time to allow at least 16 weeks for the Canadian Visa and Study Permit application process.
The following 6 steps are required to complete the application process:
Step 1: Application and Application Fee
Navigate to www.merrickprep.com and click on the Admissions Menu. Follow the detailed step-by-step instructions and complete the Application Form in its entirety. Upon completion, submit via email to [email protected] along with the $200 non-refundable application fee. You can also contact us directly at [email protected] to request the Application Form or for additional information.
Step 2: Student Interview
As soon as our Admissions Office receives your application and application fee, we will be in touch with you to set up an interview in person, via Skype, Facetime, QQ, C'Me, telephone or other convenient medium. Interviews generally last 15 to 20 minutes and are informal, allowing us to get to know you.
Step 3: Official School Transcripts
We require a copy of the applicant’s final transcripts from their previous academic years starting from grade 9, in addition to any report cards from the current in-progress academic year. A final transcript from the current academic year must be submitted once the academic year has been completed. For those applying to grade 9 we require your final grade 8 report card.
Step 4: Personal Profile
Applicants are required to submit a 300 word personal profile in their own handwriting, outlining their academic goals and interests, extracurricular activities, community involvement and areas of distinction or achievement. The Personal Profile can be completed during the Student Interview, or the Personal Profile form can be emailed to the applicant. Personal Profiles are to be submitted to [email protected].
Step 5: Confidential Reference
The Confidential Reference will be emailed to you after the application form and application fee have been submitted. Once you receive the Confidential Reference it must be submitted to your Principal or English teacher for completion and returned to [email protected] directly from the Principal or English teacher. Detailed instructions are provided on the Confidential Reference form.
Step 6: Entrance Exam
All applicants are required to complete an Entrance Exam. The exam will be sent to you with instructions from our Admissions Office once the application form and application fee have been submitted. The Entrance Exam is a timed 30 minute online exam.
Please Note: the Steps of the Application Process may be executed in any order once the application form and application fee are received.
Once we receive all of the above six admissions requirements, the selection committee will review and evaluate your application. The committee will make a decision with 24 hours of receiving the final application requirement, and within 48 hours you will be notified of the selection committee’s decision.
Should you have any questions, or if the Admissions Team can be of any assistance in this process, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or + 1.613.269.2064 ext. 471.
We look forward to receiving your application.
Admissions Timeline to our Academic Programs
While we do take applications on a rolling basis throughout the year, we have limited capacity and the school may fill by April - May each year. We also have restrictions on when students can join our academic program.
Semester One (September to January):
Students admitted to Merrick Preparatory School arriving after the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend (typically the second full weekend in October) can join our English as a second language program, but are too late to gain credits in our Semester One academic program.
Semester Two (February to June):
Student admitted to Merrick Preparatory School arriving three weeks after the start of Semester Two (typically after February 21) can join our English as a second language program, but are too late to gain credits in our Semester Two academic program.
