AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Ashbury College vs. Nile Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Ashbury College's full report
VS.
View Nile Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    362 Mariposa Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 0T3, Canada

    5 Blue Haven Cresent, Toronto, Ontario, M9M 1W6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1891

    2005

    Enrolment

    730

    235

    Grades

    4 to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Homestay, Day, Boarding

    Boarding, Day

    Language of instruction

    English, French

    English

    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.
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional, International Baccalaureate

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    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).
    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

    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”.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    17

    12 to 16

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Accelerated curriculum

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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

    $33,720

    $8,400 to $8,900

    Boarding Tuition

    $76,380

    $30,000

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    10%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    7 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $15,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    81

    16

    Percent in boarding

    15%

    6%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    70%

    90%

    Day entry years

    4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Dec 01, 2023

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Jun 30, 2021

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Ashbury celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2021, making it one of the oldest schools in the nation. Of that class, it’s also one of the larger schools, with an annual enrollment in the 800 range. There are benefits to size, and Ashbury displays them, with a wealth of extra-curricular activities and co-curricular programs. The school was founded by a graduate of Oxford, Canon George Penrose Woollcombe, who cast the school within the academic tradition that Oxford was, and is, an example of. That said, times change, and certainly Ashbury did as well. The school was an early adopter of global education, most obviously with the addition of the IB program in 1976. Girls were enrolled in 1982, and while the boys still marginally outnumber the girls, the school continues to move toward gender parity. The list of alumni is impressive, including a prime minister, John Turner, and a Nobel laureate, Douglass North. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge, and who can function well in very active curricular and extracurricular environments.

    View full report

    NILE ACADEMY

    Nile was founded in 2005 and quickly grew to where it sits today, with an annual student population of 350. The program includes all grades from JK through 12, though is centred on academics with the mandate of preparing students for success at university. While not a STEM school in name, the school has brought science, math, and technology forward in the offering, and in a cross-curricular way, much as STEM programs do. The ideal student is one who thrives within a diverse, challenging, values-based academic environment.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    "We are very happy with the quality of education and instruction our son is receiving."
    RIMA SAAD - Parent   (Aug 17, 2021)
    My son is very enthusiastic to go to school every morning. My husband and I were quite surprised as ... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    "Established in 1891, Ashbury College is an IB coeducational facility recognized as one of Canada’s leading day and boarding schools for students in Grades 4–12. Motivated students from 60+ countries benefit from rigorous academic programs, over 70 co-curricular activities, 100% university placement rate, and an average class size of 17."

    • IB Diploma, since 1976
    • 100% university placement
    • 85% of students admitted to first choice university
    • $2 million awarded annually in university scholarships
    • Over 50 countries represented
    • Average class size: 17
    • Over 70 co-curricular activities
    • Coeducational
    • Boarding population: 110
    • Enrollment: 725

    NILE ACADEMY

    "Excellence in Education and Ethics. Nile Academy will prepare your child not only to achieve greatness, but to live their life with a sense of moral and ethical responsibility. By providing a private school environment with small class sizes and low student to teacher ratio, while also following the Ontario Curriculum, we can ensure our students are well prepared for the rest of their educational pursuits here in Canada. Our school also welcomes and provides boarding for international students."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    "Ashbury offers our students boundless opportunities for learning beyond the classroom from our broad range of co-curricular activities, athletic opportunities and artistic endeavours to our Internship Program that provides students the chance to explore various career options. Ashbury is actively involved in the Round Square Program including the opportunity for our students to take part in the International Exchange Program."

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    "Ashbury is proud of its 100% IB Certificate completion rate and university placement record. Attending Ashbury opens doors to the future for our graduates."

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    "The location of the Ashbury in the heart of the Nation's Capital, Ottawa, provides a number of unique opportunities for our students including access to a multitude of museums, galleries, and learning centres such as the Global Centre for Pluralism. Ottawa is surrounded by a variety of greenspaces in which to learn and play. Ashbury actively engages our students with the greater Ottawa community through our charitable activities and our ongoing relationship with our local Indigenous partners."

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    "Given our rich history, many families are surprised to see our state-of-the-art education spaces including our Design Technology and Science labs, Arts studios and Music facilities, and Library and Learning Commons. Your child will have access to vibrant, modern learning facilities that are truly conducive to teaching innovation and learning."

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

     

     

    Together towards the future—Ensemble vers l’avenir.

    From our home in Canada’s capital city, Ashbury College is a centre for excellence in international teaching and learning, where enthusiasm permeates life both in and out of the classroom. Our goal is to not only get students to new destinations but also to help them develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed and adapt to the challenges they will face.

    This is a close and diverse school community that integrates young children with pre-university students. In a supportive environment, we challenge students to step out of their comfort zones and to think critically and globally—all while ensuring the simple, yet important, formalities of manners and respect are not overlooked.

    A wealth of co-curricular clubs, sports, and arts activities bring learning to a lively stage, and our international orientation permeates school life on so many levels. Bien entendu, l’école se trouve dans la capitale nationale, et l’école démontre l’importance des deux langues nationales, en offrant plusieurs options bilingue. As we look past our 130+ years teaching bright young minds, being innovative while not abandoning the tried and tested will inspire our teaching and learning pedagogy and prepare students for the future.

    Ashbury College is an exciting place to be, and I invite you to discover the advantages and experiences we have to offer.

    Norman Southward

    Head of School—Directeur

    Nile Academy’s mission is to enable its students to reach the highest levels of achievement and acquire the skills, knowledge, and values they need to become productive individuals. We aim to develop intellectual and personal qualities so that our students can become confident, effective and responsible citizens of the World.

    Our vision is to be the most outstanding private school in the greater Toronto area.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Traditional

      NILE ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      International Baccalaureate

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      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.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      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.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      The liberal education provided by the Ashbury College teaches students to think, speak and write clearly, critically and creatively. It leads them to explore the core subjects that comprise our human heritage and are the hallmarks of an educated person. It develops a healthy body and illuminates the spirit by inspiring students to look beyond themselves towards the greater good. Ashbury graduates enter university with the knowledge, skills, integrity and compassion born of careful scholarship, richly rewarding faculty contacts, physical activity and spiritual reflection.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Nile Academy's Grade 1 to Grade 8 curriculum is taught within the framework of the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum. Specialist educators teach our comprehensive curriculum in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Information Technology, Physical Education, Music, and Visual Arts for Grade 6 to 8 classes. At Nile Academy, children are encouraged to discover their emerging capabilities and achievements. Our teaching staff is dedicated to nurturing their students’ individual needs in an accommodated atmosphere where they can grow emotionally, socially, and academically – freely at their own learning pace. Support programs are conducted for individual students who need extension or acceleration in various key learning areas; remedial sessions in English and Mathematics; a Reading Recovery program; and specialist support for ESL students. We offer an Aftercare Homework Program (for Grades 1-8): Students can register for this supervised time to work on homework and connect with some peers after school.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Traditional Math

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

        NILE ACADEMY

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Whole Language

        NILE ACADEMY

        Phonics-intensive


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Whole Language reading programs eschew sublexical (under the word-level) training, focusing instead on getting students to infer and guess at words based on their understanding of the larger meaning of the sentence (“context-clues”). Students are given ample opportunity to read actual literature (age-appropriate) along with strategies for using semantic-based clues to pronounce unrecognized words.

        NILE ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        DIBELS testing

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        No

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Equal balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        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.

        NILE ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        NILE ACADEMY

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Physiology

        NILE ACADEMY

        Physics

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        NILE ACADEMY

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        NILE ACADEMY

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Thematic

        NILE ACADEMY

        Core Knowledge


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.

        NILE ACADEMY

        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).


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

        NILE ACADEMY

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

        NILE ACADEMY

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        NILE ACADEMY

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

        NILE ACADEMY

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        NILE ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Medium integration

        NILE ACADEMY

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        NILE ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ASHBURY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      NILE ACADEMY

      Academic


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      NILE 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

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Nile Academy’s Kindergarten program is uniquely designed for the educational, emotional and social needs of four- and five-year-old students. The Kindergarten curriculum reflects the importance of early literacy and numeracy activities, as well as self-initiated inquiry-based pursuits. Our broad program also includes daily physical education, French language classes, as well as science, creative arts and computer time. Our child-centred classrooms are led by skilled, dedicated teachers who are experts in early childhood education, guiding and developing each child’s individual approach to learning.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Accelerated

      NILE ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      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).

      NILE 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

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Rigorous

      NILE ACADEMY

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      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”.

      NILE ACADEMY

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

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

      NILE ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

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

      NILE ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

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

      NILE ACADEMY

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ASHBURY COLLEGE

      Information not available

      NILE 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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    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

    NILE 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

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    • 8 City Championship Teams, 10 Teams represented NCSSAA at OFSAA 2 OFSAA Gold and 4 OFSAA Bronze

    NILE ACADEMY

    • Nile Academy offers a vigorous sports program that teaches our students the importance of health, strength, teamwork, and discipline. We instill in our students that a healthy individual is made up of a healthy mind and body. Nile Academy’s wrestling, soccer, and badminton varsity teams compete with other area secondary schools. Nile Academy is a member of TDCAA (Toronto District College Athletic Association) that is a member of the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA). The Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) is an organization of student-athletes, teacher coaches, student coaches, teachers, principals, and sports administrators in Ontario, Canada. OFSAA is the second-largest high school athletic association in North America, second only to the California Interscholastic Federation.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    10%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $15,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    70%

    90%

    Day entry years

    4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Dec 01, 2023

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Jun 30, 2021

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    Yes: grades 2 - 11

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    We are looking for curious and engaged students who will contribute to Ashbury College in many different ways. We have a very diverse student body that is highly involved in many different aspects of life at Ashbury College.

    NILE ACADEMY

    We are looking for hard working, energetic, and motivated students to join us here at Nile Academy.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ASHBURY COLLEGE

    Confidential Reference
    We require one Confidential Reference per applicant from their Math or English teacher. The Confidential Reference Request is found in the applicant's checklist found on the MySchoolApp portal. 

    Application Fee
    The $200.00 application fee is non-refundable and is payable by Visa, MasterCard or American Express.

    School Reports
    The applicant’s final report card from their last completed academic year, as well as any interim report cards as they become available, may be uploaded to the MySchoolApp portal. 

    Interview
    All applicants will be interviewed during their Day Visit. Applicants unable to visit Ashbury College must participate in a telephone or Zoom interview.  To schedule your interview please contact us at [email protected] or +1.613.749.5954.

    Day Visit
    Grades 4–8 applicants must spend a day at the school at any time during the application process. Grades 9 – 12 applicants are encouraged, but not required, to spend a day at Ashbury College at any time during the application process. Applicants living at a distance are excused from the Day Visit requirement. Please email [email protected] or call +1.613.749.5954 to make arrangements for a Day Visit

    Entrance Examination
    The Entrance Exam consists of an online standardized multiple-choice test for reading and mathematics skills at the applicant’s last completed grade level. Registration information will be sent through the online application process.

    Students may also write the SSAT (Additional Fee).

    Financial Assistance Program
    If you are interested in financial assistance, please contact us at [email protected] or +1.613.749.5954.

    NILE ACADEMY

    Students must attend an in-person interview and complete an Admissions Test in order to apply. To schedule an appointment, you can reach the school office at 647-748-6453.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    John Turner (1946)
    Prime Minister of Canada. Rhodes Scholar.
    Stockwell Day (1968)
    Leader of the Canadian Alliance Party. Federal Minster for: Public Safety; International Trade. President of the Treasury Board
    E.P. Taylor (1919)
    Business tycoon and breeder of thoroughbred race horses.
    Douglass North (1938)
    Nobel Prize winner for Economics
    Guy Simonds (1921)
    Lieutenant General. Commanded the II Canadian Corps during World War II. Appointed Chief of the General Staff.
    Matthew Perry (1987)
    Actor best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the popular NBC sitcom "Friends"
    Ben Barry (2001)
    Founder and CEO of the Ben Barry Agency, a modelling agency known for its use of diverse models. High profile author and women's health advocate.
    information not available

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ASHBURY COLLEGE:
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NILE ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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