3910 Quesnay Wood Drive SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3E 7M3, Canada
245 Garner Road West, Ancaster, Ontario, L9G 3K9, Canada
1995
1997
468
16
JK to 12
7 to 12
Coed, Boys, Girls
Coed
Day
Day, eSchool
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts
Traditional
15 to 20
1 to 6
$6,300 to $17,400
$5,600 to $34,000
Yes
No
20%
0%
1 to 12
None
$5,000
$0
31
3
0%
0%
75%
100%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
Clear Water Academy consistently ranks very highly nationally, distinguished particularly by the strength and quality of the academic program. The approach is also a distinguishing factor, and it’s the only school in Canada to base the curriculum in integral theory, one that relies on the full spectrum of knowledge formation, from empirical inquiry to personal and spiritual engagement. As a Catholic institution, the relationship that students grow with God and their understanding of themselves as spiritual beings is yet another significant draw, and rightly so. Class sizes are small, and the feel of the school is very much of a community, one that includes the parent population. That’s a reflection of how the school was formed; in 1995 a few families got together in order to create a better education for their children. They did, and indeed very many families have been the beneficiaries of their vision ever since. Clear Water Academy presents a robust academic environment, with programs delivered through an authentic Catholic lens.
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Private schools are created in order to address different kinds of learners, and different learning styles, and Tapply Binet is a great example of that. It’s a small school, which for the students who attend, is its great strength. The average class size is just 3 students, with none exceeding 6. As such, the program is very much student focused, and student led, in something akin to a tutorial approach to learning. Instructors engage closely with students, allowing them to interact with the material and with each other around the concepts being presented. Lessons are built to address the specific curiosities and perspectives that the students bring with them into the classroom. The goal of the program is to reward personal curiosity, and grow students’ ability to access and process information through that lens. The expertise of the staff is also a draw for the families that enroll—all instructors have doctorates and are specialists in the areas in which they teach. The ideal student is one operating at the top of his or her peer group, one who longs for an environment that will nurture their academic instincts, and who is preparing to continue to university.
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"He graduated from TBC as an Ontario Scholar, received early offers of admission from all..."
Nicholas Richter - Parent (Jan 06, 2021)
Our son attended TBC for grades 9-12 and liked it so much that he stayed an extra year (also known a...
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"Clear Water Academy stands as the only private Catholic school in Alberta. We offer a rigorous program from Jr. K to Grade 12. Our dedicated faculty educate the whole child in their intellectual, spiritual, human, and apostolic formation. We provide small class sizes, single-gender classrooms from Grades 4 to 9, and a top-ranked university-prep program, which includes Advanced Placement courses. 100% of our students pursue post-secondary education. While we are a Catholic school, we welcome students of all faiths."
"Flexibility best describes our approach to learning. We pride ourselves on accommodating student and parent needs. In consultation with students and their parents, TBC provides a program to suit the needs of the individual with full and part-time options with class sizes ranging from 1 to 6 students. Empowerment and responsibility given to students provide ownership and their personal sense of success and recognition as a member of their school and community."
"We consistently rank among the top schools in Alberta and proudly stand as the sole institution in Canada offering the innovative educational framework of Integral Formation. This unique approach centres on nurturing four fundamental dimensions of development: intellectual, human, spiritual, and apostolic, ensuring the education of the whole person."
"Our team approach to education sets us apart. Together, staff are committed to reviewing student progress on an ongoing basis, ensuring the plan is optimal. Students are encouraged be part of this process as this fosters engagement in their learning."
"Clear Water Academy offers families a compelling proposition: a commitment to the highest quality education delivered through the Integral Formation® model. Aligned with the Regnum Christi Education Network, we dedicate ourselves to nurturing the complete development of each child, fostering their intellectual, spiritual, human, and apostolic capacities. Within our nurturing environment, students thrive, benefiting from personalized attention tailored to unlock their full potential, enabling them to emerge as confident Christian leaders ready to embrace and utilize their unique gifts. Our motto, Semper Altius, meaning "Always Higher," encapsulates our ethos, inspiring students, parents, and faculty alike to continually pursue excellence and personal growth through a dynamic journey of formation and advancement."
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"Our school, Clear Water Academy, is deeply rooted in the rich traditions and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. It's essential for families considering enrollment to prioritize the Catholic faith and embrace its beliefs to fully benefit from our educational model of Integral Formation. Our rigorous academic program, aligned with Alberta certification standards, emphasizes excellence in literature and mathematics, encouraging students to strive for their highest academic achievements.
At Clear Water Academy, our dedication to academic excellence goes hand in hand with our commitment to nurturing ethical and compassionate individuals grounded in their faith, preparing them to excel not only academically but also as Christian leaders in their communities."
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"Families choose Clear Water Academy for its commitment to academic excellence in a safe, caring, and fun environment, emphasizing character and moral growth. The prestigious University Preparatory program secures children's university placements. The separated classrooms for girls and boys in Grades 4-9, tailoring teaching to unique interests, are cherished. They value the high-quality Catholic education and small class sizes that foster strong connections and community."
"Families appreciate the dedication to their children's security and educational needs. "The Tapply staff are kind and helpful", as stated by one current Grade student."
"Clear Water Academy offers a faith-filled environment with small classes and a dedicated faculty, enhancing the education experience and cultivating future leaders prepared for post-secondary education. Our commitment to forming Christian leaders is evident in our approach, of engaging students not only with high academic standards but also with strong character formation. We empower students to be well-prepared and confident as they embark on their future journeys and choices, ready to make a positive impact on the world."
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"As we operate from a heritage building, once the home of the Marshall potato farming family, we reference the importance of family and community. The single dwelling offers a homey atmosphere to their educational experience. For example, we all share the kitchen!"
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"We profess to accommodate and empower our students. Families are surprised by the length we go to make this a reality. This year, a Grade 12 student sat in on the interviews to hire a Chemistry teacher. Another Grade 12 student taught the Grade 7 science class. Our Science Fair event included all science students."
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Dear Parents of Prospective Students,
Thank you for your interest in Clear Water Academy, A Catholic School - Forming Christian Leaders. Our school is centrally located in Calgary, Alberta and offers programs from Jr. Kindergarten to Grade 12. We are proud that our school is consistently ranked a top school in Alberta by the Fraser Institute.
Clear Water Academy is a school where students receive a balanced spiritual and educational foundation. We ensure that every child receives a personalized education aimed at forming their character, intellect, faith, and desire to serve others. Today, Clear Water Academy is home to nearly 450 students in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12, and over 75 staff members (role models). Clear Water Academy teaches, educates, and forms students so that they will become the leaders necessary to change society.
Semper Altius - Always Higher is Clear Water Academy's motto. Whether it is helping a classmate with difficult math homework, taking on a leadership role in a school club, or participating in the dozens of athletic teams or service projects that take us into local neighborhoods and around the world, Semper Altius is a way of life.
I invite you to learn more about our very special school. Please contact our Admissions Director, Val Blahut, to book your personal tour. We'd love to meet your family and introduce to Clear Water Academy!
God Bless,
Darren Forrester
Principal
Let me introduce myself, Sue Davidson, proud Principal of Tapply Binet College, a Brick and Mortar School established in 2003 and Principal of Tapply Online High School launched in April 2020.
Education for our young people is an essential service. We will continue to engage them. That is the key to students’ success. Our flexible program delivery, always considerate of the students’ schedules and needs, provides the students with a personalized program. This will ultimately lay the foundation for a bright future and tailored-fit career path. Our philosophy is simple – Engage, Empower, Encourage in a fluid world. Students will have access to post-secondary preparation by our Guidance Counselor Specialist.
Please contact us to learn more about how we are putting STUDENTS FIRST
Traditional
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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.
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.
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Our goal is to provide the highest quality education with an emphasis on developing authentic Christian leaders. Our university preparatory curriculum sets high, yet attainable, academic expectations. Solid intellectual formation provides students with the ability to think, speak and write clearly, coherently, and persuasively. Our students develop habits essential for ongoing academic success including study skills, critical thinking, perseverance, and a desire to produce high quality work. Our approach provides an excellent education amongst like-minded peers, with a wide range of enrichment activities in a challenging, positive, faith-filled environment. Our dedicated team of educators gives our students the personal attention they need to develop their unique potential and God-given talents. Through leadership and personal development opportunities, we focus on character and spiritual formation, instilling confidence, poise, and maturity. Our graduates are young men and women of integrity and character who have attained a solid foundation in their faith, the humanities and the sciences.
Tapply Binet College delivers the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and meets the requirements as it passes the Ministry inspections.
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.
Students too often have a fear or reluctance in mathematics. Our staff encourage a love for the subject with confidence building as well as a sense of humour.
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Not applicable
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Not applicable
Home reading program commence in Junior Kindergarten.
Information not available
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
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.
We encourage students to study science as an essential component of the way the world works. Everyone should take Physics.
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
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Developing process work skills is the focus in the English department. Proficiency in literacy is encouraged by honing reading and writing skills.
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
Not applicable
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).
Not applicable
Information not available
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Information not available
both perennialism and pragmatism are important in the teachings of these disciplines
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Spanish taught from JK to Grade 3. French taught Grade 4 to Grade 9. High school students encouraged to take either French or Spanish. Spanish and French clubs are offered.
students are encouraged to use only the foreign language during class therefore optimizing language fluency
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
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
The fine arts are an integral part of our program from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. In addition to classroom time, our students can participate in our musical theatre productions at both the elementary and secondary levels.
We encourage students to express their creativity in fine arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Computers and technology are used in our classrooms to enhance the learning environment and allow our students to become competent in the use of technology. We have some options courses that are primarily focused on technology.
In a tech-savvy world, students need to be efficient on the keyboard and confident with their personal electronic devices. All aspects of computers are encouraged
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Physical education is an integral part of our program. We provide our students with exposure to many sports and outdoor education opportunities. Our goal is to foster healthy attitudes and provide our students with life skills. Athletics and outdoor education provide character formation opportunities. Our youngest students focus on developing gross and fine motor skills with the help of a certified PE instructor. In addition to regular PE classes, our elementary students receive skating and swimming lessons and have a chance to join the Jr. Crusaders. In junior high and high school we have field competitive teams in basketball, volleyball, track and field, badminton, and soccer. Our teams regularly qualify for provincial competitions. Our outdoor education program in junior high allows students to experience many activities from skiing, to cycling, to hiking and camping.
At Tapply Binet College, we believe all students need a healthy balanced lifestyle. With a Goodlife gym nearby and numerous outdoor activities in the area, students in elementary school take part in regular exercise. The high school students will take Grade 9 gym as a compulsory course and encouraged to continue this routine throughout their school life and beyond.
Not applicable
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.
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We have taken what we believe to be "best practices" from the Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies, embedded within those are traditional academic practices coupled with authentic Catholic values. We also offer specialized Spanish, Music, and Phys. Ed programs. Numeracy and literacy skills are introduced and reinforced through play. Our Jr. Kindergarten students are well prepared for entry into Kindergarten and the academic expectations of our Elementary program.
Information not available
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.
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.
Information not available
Supportive
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 “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
We set high standards for academic performance and personal character development in a caring and supportive learning environment that focuses on the whole child. We recognize that strength lies in virtue as well as in academic performance. Loving, talented teachers give each student the tools needed to learn to the best of their ability. Our program provides structure, academic foundation, study of the Catholic faith, and leadership opportunities. Students are naturally led to intellectual curiosity, the love of learning, and positive character formation. Our students grow in self-control, generosity and respect of others.
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"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.
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Our mission is to provide the highest quality education and foster integrally formed Christian leaders. We focus on four dimensions: intellectual, human, spiritual, and apostolic. We strive to: teach the mind, in an environment of academic excellence; educate the heart, helping each student to love authentic values and to develop a sense of what is good, right, noble, beautiful; form the character, which serves as the foundation of all virtue and integrity. Our graduates become strong Christian leaders, convinced of the truth, prepared and committed to establish and foster a society where Christian values are put into practice.
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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
1 - 12
20%
0%
$5,000
$0
75%
100%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 12
No
Yes: grades 2 - 12
No
No
No
We are looking for families that will partner with us in the education of their children and that are open to having their children educated within the Catholic faith. Our students are well-rounded with many interests and are open to discovering who God created them to be. Our students are willing to face challenges and stretch themselves to become the best they can be.
Students at Tapply Online School are as varied as at any school. All academic levels and learning styles are accommodated in our small familial setting.
All Applicants:
Canadian Citizens:
Non-Canadian Citizens:
All students are welcome to attend Tapply Binet College.