AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Athol Murray College of Notre Dame vs. Sacred Heart School of Halifax

one-to-one comparison:

View Athol Murray College of Notre Dame's full report
VS.
View Sacred Heart School of Halifax's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    P.O. Box 100, Wilcox, Saskatchewan, S0G 5E0, Canada

    5820 Spring Garden Rd., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1X8, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1920

    1849

    Enrolment

    310

    515

    Grades

    8 to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed, Girls, Boys

    Living arrangements

    Day, Boarding

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French, Spanish

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    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

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

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

    Academic culture

    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

    12 to 16

    15 to 20

    Special needs support

    Learning, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

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

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $3,400 to $11,550

    $13,820 to $19,360

    Boarding Tuition

    $23,100 to $53,550

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    30%

    13%

    Eligible grades for FA

    8 to 12

    1 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $10,000

    $7,120

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    62

    34

    Percent in boarding

    87%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    90%

    78%

    Day entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

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

    Boarding entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    The school began its life in 1920 as a convent school, though came into its own—and gained the present name—after Father Athol Murray arrived in 1927. Murray is one those great Canadians that we all should know more about. Charity was a guiding principle, and he believed that quality education was to be offered to all, if they wanted it, whether they could pay for it or not. Indeed, many students he admitted couldn’t, and he took them anyway. It was on that basis that he was invested into the Order of Canada.
     

    Still, Murray is more remembered today due to his influence in regional and professional hockey. He once said, “I love God, Canada and hockey—not always in that order.” He built the Notre Dame Hounds into a force, and in time the program attracted students for that reason, many of who went on to professional careers. Olympic medalist Delaney Collins is an alum, as is Wendell Clark and of course many others. That said, there is far more to the school than hockey. The program is based in the Catholic tradition, and attention to values is a particular attraction, both for students who share that tradition as well as those who don’t. Character is important, too, and while we tend to look first at the hockey program, the list of notable alumni would be impressive even without the NHL players. The ideal student is one looking for a strong foundation for their careers at university and beyond.

    View full report

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    The school describes its campus as iconic, and to be sure, it really is. The school was founded in 1849, and the campus shows its age in all the best ways. The location is iconic as well, in the heart of Halifax and across from the historic public gardens. As those things signal, Sacred Heart is a part of the historical culture of the city, and arriving here each day delivers its own frisson of excitement. As with any school of this vintage, much has changed, and today the program is iconic in other ways. The provision of single gender education through Grades 7 to 12 is one of them, offering the best of both worlds. As a member of a global network of schools, the gaze is international, with emphasis on social justice and social action. While there are many longstanding traditions and events, the school also distinguishes itself as cutting edge, both in the curriculum it offers—the broad Advanced Placement offering, for one—but also through its delivery, with lots of hands-on, project oriented, collaborative learning. That said, the biggest draw for many is simply the spirit of the school. There is a keen desire to get students involved in a wide range of activity, including a robust program of service learning, while also engaged within the daily life of the school. Sacred Heart has a proven ability to deliver all of it.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    "My daughter's teachers demonstrated an understanding of my daughter's unique learning style, her interests and her potential."
    Anna Stuart - Parent   (Mar 08, 2021)
    Our daughter joined Sacred Heart School as a shy student whose early years experience robbed her con... View full review

    "They all have a sense of pride in the school, and they talk about their experiences with joy and feel secure as soon as they walk through the doors each morning. "
    Jennifer Derwey Deane - Parent   (Mar 08, 2021)
    My partner and I are parents of 3 girls. When our youngest daughter was ready to begin Primary we we... View full review

    "SHSH creates the conditions that challenge him to do his best academically, where the primary goal is learning and preparation for university..."
    Gord Cooper - Parent   (May 03, 2021)
    We have four children at Sacred Heart School of Halifax (SHSH). If I think about our eldest son, who... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    "Athol Murray College of Notre Dame is a private, independent, co-educational boarding high school, rooted in Catholic tradition and open to students of all faith backgrounds. Athol Murray College of Notre Dame is dedicated to the development of intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual and physical qualities of our students with a passion for lifelong learning. Through a balance of strong academic, athletic and spiritual growth in a safe and caring prairie environment, we prepare our students for life as leaders."

    • Private, independent, co-educational boarding high school, on 50 acres of land, founded in 1920
    • Home to 300 students, grades 8 - 12, with 90% boarding from up to 20 different countries
    • Exceptional academic standards, offering Honours & AP Stream or Advanced Courses
    • 80% of all students are on Honour Roll with 100% graduation rate
    • Christian teaching in a Catholic environment, all faith backgrounds are welcomed
    • Safe and caring prairie environment, develop life long friendships with students around the world
    • Leadership & character development, exceptional boarding life
    • Outstanding athletic & hockey programs with 12 hockey teams and 15 high school sports to choose from
    • 21st Century academic learning program
    • Outstanding fine arts programs with elite music, art, drama, multi-media and choral teachings

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    "Founded in 1849, Sacred Heart School of Halifax teaches the whole child — mind, body, spirit. Our iconic campus in the heart of Halifax offers co-ed education for JP-Grade 6 and single-gender education for Grades 7-12. Sacred Heart has earned a stellar reputation for the quality of our academics and university preparedness, and through leadership and community action, our students are well prepared to conquer the world. As part of a global network, we educate to a strong moral code prescribed by our Five Goals."

    • Advanced academics in the Senior School, including the Advanced Placement (AP) Program.
    • Single-gender education in Grades 7-12 because we know boys and girls learn & develop differently.
    • A robust offering of athletics, arts, debate, and extra-curricular activities at every level.
    • As part of a network of Sacred Heart schools around the world, we offer global exchange programs.
    • As part of our mission, social justice and social action programs are considered a priority.
    • Our incredibly rich heritage provides us with ceremonies and traditions unique to us.
    • We offer an early years bilingual program and core French class for older Elementary students.
    • Our High School curriculum includes Core, which helps students navigate complex social issues.
    • Students are provided with a university prep game plan that includes classes and counselling.
    • We are accredited by both CAIS and SHCOG.

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    "Athol Murray College is more than just a school, it is a way of life. The College is located on 50 acres within the small rural Village of Wilcox, surrounded by endless skies and expansive views, with breath-taking sunsets and ocean like wheat fields. This physical location allows for our students to feel safe, secure and part of a local community. It provides an unique atmosphere free from the distractions, but still connected to the global world with our 21st Century Education Learning Plan."

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    "Sacred Heart School of Halifax is different and we’re proud of it. We believe in Faith, Hope, and Love as guiding principles and as a result, we’re more like a family than a school. In addition to our tailored education, we are the only school in the region that offers single-gender education on a co-ed campus and the Advanced Placement (AP) Program in high school. And, our unique heritage and traditions give us a special character that can’t be duplicated anywhere in this region."

    Array

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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    "Families will choose Notre Dame because of the proven success of our challenging academic, athletic and spiritually balanced lifestyle. Notre Dame develops leaders who are equipped with the emotional, physical, mental and social tools needed to become successful and contributing members within their own communities. The developmental growth within ND students is the most noticeably distinguished character commented on by our parents and guardians."

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    "Strong academics combined with a tailored approach in a nurturing and supportive environment is Sacred Heart’s calling card. Our academic excellence is thanks to an outstanding faculty who are passionately committed to their students’ success. And as a Catholic school that welcomes all faiths, families also appreciate our spiritual grounding and emphasis on love."

    Array

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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    "One of the aspects of our school that is often overlooked is the convenience of all essential amenities located in one location. Our university style campus provides everything you need with no more long hours spent driving to location for sports or clubs. It's all right outside your doorway. We are not just a hockey school, we have 15 high school sports including ND Alumni competing professionally in football and rugby and a new Esports Athletic Program (Canada's 1st Prep-College Program)."

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    "Sacred Heart is the only high school in Atlantic Canada that offers the AP Program instead of the IB Program. Families, and especially students, prefer AP because it allows students to pick and choose ONLY those subjects they excel in and want to concentrate on, they don’t have to take a year-long program of all advanced courses. Widely accepted around the globe, students in AP can earn first-year university credit(s) before they even enter university — an excellent head start."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    "Families might find surprising that no other high school in the world has developed more elite junior, collegiate, USPORTS, NCAA, National, Olympic, NHL and professional hockey players than Notre Dame with over 215 NHL drafted players alone. ND graduates also receive more than twice as much in post-secondary scholarships and 50% more scholarships that the average Canadian high school. 80% of all students are on the Honour Roll with 100% graduation rate."

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    "It may surprise some families to discover how seriously we live our Five Goals. Yes, we provide an academically excellent education, but also a deeply meaningful one based on our founder St. Madeleine Sophie Barat’s vision that education transforms society. We are dedicated to faith, intellectual values, social justice, building community, and personal growth and these can be seen throughout school life day in and day out."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Information not available

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      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.

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

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


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      The academic program at Notre Dame is an integral part of the development of the complete Notre Dame Hound. Graduates from Notre Dame are regularly accepted at top universities in Canada, the United States and abroad. At Notre Dame, our academic strength lies in the philosophy that all students benefit from a positive learning environment. It is more than the delivery of the curriculum that is important. Our students excel in an environment that is supportive and demanding, challenging each student to strive for growth and understanding in all academic areas. A professional, highly educated and highly motivated academic faculty provides students with a unique learning experience. The creation of a positive classroom environment where students are challenged to think and speak for themselves contributes to the education of our students. The Notre Dame academic program demands excellence from students and prepares these same students to achieve greatness beyond Notre Dame.

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      Students develop a strong foundation of academic excellence, through good study habits, solid organizational skills, critical thinking, and self-confidence. We also use an Advanced Placement (AP) program in Senior School.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Not applicable

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Information not available

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      In our JP program, play is encouraged, yet purposeful, and structured learning is enriching, exciting, and fun. We nurture the best in your child while laying the foundation for spiritual, emotional, and social growth.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      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.

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      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

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Information not available

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      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”.

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      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

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      At Notre Dame, our academic strength lies in the philosophy that all students benefit from a positive learning environment. It is more than the delivery of the curriculum that is important. Our students excel in an environment that is supportive and demanding, challenging each student to strive for growth and understanding in all academic areas. The Notre Dame academic program demands excellence from students and prepares these same students to achieve greatness beyond Notre Dame.

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

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

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

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

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

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

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      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

      ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

      Our aim is the growth of individuals with deeply rooted personal values, who are ready to take responsibility for their own lives and to serve the true needs of our society in Canada and the world. This aim is achieved through the College's program of studies and of spiritual, cultural and social activities, with a special emphasis on athletics. It is also reached through the experience of community life in the College, a life involving both cooperation and competition in the context of the prairie village of Wilcox.

      SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

      Information not available

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    Information not available

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    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

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    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

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    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

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    8 - 12

    1 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    30%

    13%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $10,000

    $7,120

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    90%

    78%

    Day entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

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

    Boarding entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    The Notre Dame Man & Woman The world today is looking for men and women, Who are not for sale Who are honest, sound from centre to circumference, true to the heart's core With consciences as steady as the needle to the pole Who will stand for the right if the heavens totter and the earth reels Who can tell the truth and look the world right in the eye Who neither brag nor run Who neither flag or flinch Who can have courage without shouting it In whom the courage of everlasting life runs still, deep and strong Who know their message and tell it Who know their place and fill it Who know their business and attend to it Who will not lie, shirk or dodge Who are not too lazy to work, nor too proud to be poor Who are willing to eat what they have earned and wear what they have paid for Who are not ashamed to say "No" with emphasis God is looking for them. He wants those who can unite together around a common faith - who can join hands in a common task - and who have come to the kingdom for such a time as this. God give us such as them. Not only will they be better prepared to fulfil their duties as a citizen, they should make a better friend, a better husband, a better father, a better wife, because free people do. They will, in short, be better prepared to live, and when their hour comes, they will know better how to die because free people do. – Athol Murray

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Sacred Heart students are kind to their peers and teachers, intellectually curious, and socially conscious young women and men who show their school spirit in ways that are relational and constructive. Sacred Heart seeks students who want to be engaged in learning and who seek to develop their unique extracurricular gifts and talents. Becoming who one is meant to be is the key to success at Sacred Heart, and this requires self-awareness, interior listening, kind and constructive feedback, and a global outlook.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME

    • At Athol Murray College of Notre Dame, the academic program commences at the beginning of September and ends in June each year.  All applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible – preferably six months to one year in advance of planned enrolment. 

      Applications for admission will be accepted until our programs are full, at which point a waiting pool is established. International student applicants must apply early enough to allow time for their Canadian Study Permits to be processed. This process can take several weeks to complete. If you require assistance with the application process, please contact our Enrolment Office at 306-732-1249.
    • Applicants must submit all documentation in the English language.
    • Applicants will be considered for admission on a rolling basis. The College establishes a waiting pool once each grade is full.
    • Documents needed include: photo of applicant, principal recommendation from current school and school report card. Additional documentation may be required upon completion of on-line application found here: https://notredame.myschoolapp.com/app#login/apply 

    SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX

    Prospective families can complete the online application which is easy, free, and takes very little time. Once the Admissions Department receive the application, they will be in touch to arrange an in-person or online tour, and an appointment for the child’s admissions assessment. 

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Vincent Lecavalier (1997)
    NHL hockey star. Stanley Cup winner, Conn Smythe Trophy winner (MVP of playoffs), Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner (NHL's top goal scorer).
    Jordan Eberle (2008)
    NHL hockey player for the Edmonton Oilers. Named the best Canadian World Junior Player ever by TSN.
    Rene Bourque (1999)
    NHL hockey player.
    Tyler Myers (2008)
    NHL hockey player and winner of the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's best rookie.
    Rod Brind'Amour (1988)
    Stanley Cup winning NHL player and captain, now coaching in the NHL.
    Brad Richards (1998)
    Stanley Cup winning NHL hockey player. Winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy (league's most valuable player in the playoffs).
    Keith Aulie (2007)
    NHL hockey player. Played in the 2009 World Junior Championships.
    Braydon Coburn (2003)
    NHL hockey player.
    Wendel Clark (1984)
    NHL hockey player and Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs
    Jaden Schwartz (2010)
    NHL hockey player, currently with the St. Louis Blues. Selected 14th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.
    View all
    information not available

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ATHOL MURRAY COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME:
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SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX:
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