AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Columbia International College vs. Haven International School

one-to-one comparison:

View Columbia International College's full report
VS.
View Haven International School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    1003 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4P3, Canada

    360 Colborne Street, Brantford, Ontario, N3S 3N3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1979

    2018

    Enrolment

    1700

    100

    Grades

    9 to 12

    7 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, Boarding

    Day, Boarding, eSchool

    Language of instruction

    English

    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.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."

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

    Avg. Class Size

    12 to 22

    10 to 15

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $8,500 to $13,900

    Boarding Tuition

    $3,000

    $21,100 to $26,500

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    425

    17

    Percent in boarding

    100%

    50%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    86%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    While some schools pride themselves on being small, Columbia finds its strength in being large—with a student population in excess of 1800, it is easily the largest boarding school in Canada. What Columbia might lack in intimacy it gains in the ability to provide a wealth of supports and programs that smaller schools simply can't. The school maintains extensive liaison offices, a dedicated guidance staff, and even its own medical clinic. The faculty, through size and experience, is remarkably adept at providing a quality, well-rounded education with an eye to success in postsecondary education. The school provides ESL to students who need it, and liaises directly with universities in Canada and beyond in order to facilitate the transition to postsecondary education. In all, the school excels at doing what it was created to do: to support the university-bound international learner who is living away from home within a culture, and at times a language, that is unfamiliar.
    Read The Our Kids Review of Columbia International College

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    While some schools pride themselves on being small, Columbia finds its strength in being large—with a student population in excess of 1800, it is easily the largest boarding school in Canada. What Columbia might lack in intimacy it gains in the ability to provide a wealth of supports and programs that smaller schools simply can't. The school maintains extensive liaison offices, a dedicated guidance staff, and even its own medical clinic. The faculty, through size and experience, is remarkably adept at providing a quality, well-rounded education with an eye to success in postsecondary education. The school provides ESL to students who need it, and liaises directly with universities in Canada and beyond in order to facilitate the transition to postsecondary education. In all, the school excels at doing what it was created to do: to support the university-bound international learner who is living away from home within a culture, and at times a language, that is unfamiliar.

    View full report

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    The school makes good use of the location, including competitions and outreach with nearby universities, Waterloo and Laurier. Haven is very much a preparatory college, attracting students who intend to advance to post-secondary studies, particularly within North America. That said, there is a dedication to ensuring that they live well day-to-day, challenging themselves, yes, but also having time in their day to reflect and enjoy the experience. The diversity of the student body adds to the sense of internationalism, though with an annual enrollment of 100, students find themselves in a close-knit community of like-minded, academically inclined peers and mentors. All the services are represented and then some, including counsellors to advise and help students through the visa and student permit application process. A short-term student exchange program—they come for month-long sessions—is unique, and offered to student in Grades Grade 7 through Grade 11.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    "Columbia International College is Canada’s largest private boarding school, offering Grades 9 to 12 programs. Our Total Care Education System® ensures that every student’s academic, social, emotional and physical needs are tended to. We are #1 in offers of admission from the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo and McMaster University. We are also #1 in scholarships awarded by universities. We offer the only official University of Toronto partnership program - the Elite Pathway Partnership Program."

    • Canada's largest boarding school
    • Total Care Education System® - Total Learning, Total Living, Total Development, Total Communication
    • Offers Grade 9-12 , ESL, and Summer Camp, Short-term/Exchange programs
    • Offer the only official University of Toronto partnership program - the Elite Pathway
    • Leadership programming and The Duke of Edinburgh award ( Bronze, Silver and Gold)
    • University Partners® provide exclusive scholarships to graduates
    • University of Toronto's official Global Partner School
    • # 1 in university admissions and scholarships among all high schools in Canada
    • Separate residences for boys and girls with door-to-door school bus transportation
    • Official Test Centre for IELTS

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "Haven international School is a private school that empowers young minds to reach their fullest potential in education. We deliver Ontario’s Curriculum, but what sets us apart is our ability in delivering this curriculum through individualized learning. At Haven, students are guaranteed a unique educational experience where individual goals and aspirations are valued and met. Haven’s team of teachers are all fully committed and dedicated beyond expectation to offering a one of a kind independent education."

    • Academic Success - Our students have received individual scholarships of up to $72000
    • University and College tours to make an informed decision
    • Inter-School Competitions - EUCLID at Uni of Waterloo, Game Design at Laurier Uni
    • Comprehensive Meal Plan for All Students
    • Community Service - in accordance with Ministry of Education
    • Enjoying the Canadian Experience - Visiting attractions in Ontario
    • Summer Program - A variety of different summer programs designed for our students every summer.

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "At Haven, we do not only care for our students academic growth. We also make sure that they grow emotionally, spiritually and socially in other to be prepared for the outside world. We engage our students in a variety of extracurricular activities like sports, board games, etc. which builds their confidence. Furthermore, we make sure that there is no discrimination no matter who they are or where they come from. Study periods are created to allow students build their study habits."

    Array

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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "Haven shows a great deal of care for our students. We make sure that they attain their academic goals while building their talents and gifts in other areas. We also provide lunch for our students. Furthermore, when compared to other schools like ours, we are considerably less pricey and more dedicated to meeting individual students' goals."

    Array

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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "Our small class sizes that allow for one-on-one communication between students and teachers. This allows the teachers to attend to each students individual needs. We provide personalized coaching that helps children to become successful and our self-improvement strategies will increase their confidence."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "Our school really cares. When students attend Haven, they join the Haven family which comprises of the students, teachers and all staff of Haven. At our school, students do not miss home because we make them feel like they have a home away from home with us. Families are surprised to see the student's level of achievement in a very short time."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome!

    As Principal of Columbia International College, my belief is that in order for your children to be successful as international students, they need to be cared for as if they were at home with you. All my teachers and staff share the same belief.

    The need for students to learn in an environment where they are well supported is the chief concern that thousands upon thousands of parents have shared with us over the years. From its beginning in 1979, CIC was built to address this concern. We wanted to make sure that every international student could study in a fully supported environment of caring: academically, socially, emotionally and physically.

    We created an approach that would do just that – look after the whole child around the clock. We call it the Total Care Education System®. It’s a study environment where the academic program, the staff and the facilities are fully integrated as one – all geared towards helping students achieve success and give parents peace of mind.

    After almost 40 years, we are proud of how well our Total Care approach works. Our students are most successful in getting admitted to some of the world’s best universities and receiving admission scholarships. Our consistent, proven track record has gained the confidence among parents from over 100 countries.

    But most important to me, it’s how the students have achieved success: in a supportive environment, one where they can study in health, safety and happiness and where their parents can be fully confident that they are being cared for.

    Columbia International College can make the difference in how your child can go higher with their future: positively building their character and helping them to be responsible, global citizens. Through our brochure and website, you can learn more about how Total Care Education System provides peace of mind for parents and fosters success for students.

    If you have any questions about our approach, please reach out to me personally at [email protected].

    Welcome to Haven International School, where our standard of excellence provides international and local students with the foundation for entrance into top-ranked Canadian and world universities. This is an exciting stage in your child’s life; they will become ready to enjoy new experiences and face new challenges. By the time they graduate from Haven International school, they will be equipped to leave with the confdence, knowledge, skills and responsibility essential to fourish in university and ultimately become an active and contributing member of society.

    Haven’s students and teachers work together in a caring, vibrant community that promotes personal and academic growth. Our high-quality student-centred learning environment supports each student’s unique needs and goals, while building on their strengths and weaknesses. Our blend of local Ontario and international students live, learn and grow in an environment that emphasizes excellence, responsibility and morality, both inside and outside the classroom. Students are constantly motivated, challenged and stimulated to always strive to be the very best they can be in everything they do at all times. Haven’s academic and English as Second Language programs are based on the curriculum expectations of the Ontario Ministry of Education and lead to the awarding of the prestigious Ontario Secondary School Diploma. This diploma is recognized and acknowledged worldwide as meeting the entrance requirement for university. Far from being a blank canvas, your child joins us with a rich palette of unique colours. We recognize the personal qualities of each student and celebrate individual talents. Haven students are re ective thinkers, creative problem-solvers, curious learners and energetic performers. Our exceptional co- curricular provision sets us apart: whatever your child’s enthusiasm, there will be an activity just right and lots of new things to try.

    An open door and a warm welcome await you.

  • 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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL 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

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    • We run multiple varsity teams, including basket ball, soccer, badminton, table tennis, and dance.
    • 90+ clubs and extracurricular activities for students
    • School Club Fair is held twice a year where students can learn more about, and register for, extracurricular activities.
    • We have a very robust and highly competitive intramural program(Basket ball, soccer, badminton, and table tennis).
    • We have a competitive Model United Nation team, competes internationally.
    • Every student completes leadership training in our tiered leadership program.
    • We provide the opportunity for students to participate in all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Program. We offer weekly community service opportunities for our students to meaningfully give back to out local community. We provide options for students to fulfill all aspects of the Award, including the Adventure Journey.
    • We offer a dynamic weekend program with a variety of trips and activities.

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    • Table tennis competition, Basketball competition, Soccer competition, Badminton competition, Volleyball, Dodgeball
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    86%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Students who are pursuing OSSD and post-secondary education.

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Good Academic with Great Marks University Scholarships Individual Talent

    What the school says

    What the school says

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Students are asked to submit their transcripts from their previous school with their application form.

    HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    To Apply to school

    Canadian students need:

    •     Ontario Student Transcript from current school, or last report from current school
    •     Registration Fees 200 CAD, Non-Refundable.

    International Students need: (Admission Flow Chart)

    1. Complete the application form.

    - Copy of the original school transcript or at least 2 years of report cards.

    - Provide a $200 CAD Registration Fee (non-refundable). Bank money order or draft for registration fee.

    2.  Upon approval of application form and submitted documents, the school will issue an offer of Admission Letter to the applicant.

    3.  Make the tuition payment as directed in Offer of Admission Letter.

    4. Once the tuition fees are received by the school a letter of Acceptance, Receipt for payment and Custodian Document will be issued to the applicant.

    5.  International Applicant applies for travel documents and student visa through the local office of the Canadian High Commission or Embassy.

    6. Once Student Visa is received by the student; a copy of the visa should be sent via e-mail or fax to the school with confirmation or travel arrangement and arrival date.

    7. Upon arrival in Canada, student will need to present all the necessary documents, including valid passport and student visa immigrations to Canadian Immigration.

    8. Academic assessment test(s) at the school.

    9. Commence education at Haven International School

    Applications Deadlines

    For Canadian Students: Wednesday the 30th of September

    International Students can join Haven International School for Semester II on January 11.

    International Students can join Haven International School for Semester I, third week of September, when they submit their application, because the process will take some time.

     

    School Year Calendar

    SEMESTER ONE

    September 8     FIRST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER ONE

    October 9     THANKSGIVING SCHOOL CELEBRATION

    October 13     THANKSGIVING DAY – NO CLASSES

    October 29     LAST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER ONE, TERM ONE

    MID-SEMESTER STUDENT ASSESSMENT

    October 30     FIRST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER ONE, TERM TWO

    MID-SEMESTER REPORTS AVAILABLE

    November 11     REMEMBRANCE DAY ASSEMBLY

    December 15 – 18 FINAL EXAMINATIONS, SEMESTER ONE

    December 18     CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON & CAROL SERVICE

    LAST DAY SEMESTER ONE

    FINAL SEMESTER ONE REPORTS AVAILABLE

    December 22     HAVEN GRADUATION CEREMONY & PROM

    December 21 -     CHRISTMAS BREAK – NO CLASSES

    SEMESTER TWO

    January 11     FIRST DAY OF CLASSES SEMESTER TWO

    February 14     VALENTINE’S DAY ASSEMBLY

    February 15     FAMILY DAY – NO CLASSES

    March 15 – 19 MARCH BREAK – NO CLASSES

    March 30     INTERNATIONAL DAY

    April 2     GOOD FRIDAY – NO CLASSES

    April 5         EASTER MONDAY – NO CLASSES

    April 13     LAST DAY OF CLASSES – SEMESTER TWO TERM ONE

    MID-SEMESTER STUDENT ASSESSMENT

    April 14     FIRST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER TWO, TERM TWO

    MID-SEMESTER REPORTS AVAILABLE

    April 21     WELCOME SPRING CELEBRATION

    May 19 – 25 FINAL EXAMINATIONS, SEMESTER TWO

    May 24     VICTORIA DAY – NO CLASSES OR EXAMINATIONS

    May 25     LAST DAY OF SEMESTER TWO

    May 31     HAVEN GRADUATION CEREMONY & PROM

    FINAL SEMESTER TWO REPORTS AVAILABLE

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Roger Tong (1981)
    Roger Tong is AsiaSat’s Chief Executive Officer. Roger has over 30 yearsʼ experience in the satellite and telecommunications industry.
    Ken Seng Tan (1988)
    Dr. Ken Seng Tan is a prominent figure in the world of Actuarial Sciences, professor at the University of Waterloo and member of Canada’s Research Chair in Quantitative Risk Management.
    Sasha-Kay Gilzean (2002)
    Sasha-Kay is a member of the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, the Bar Council (UK), the Jamaican Bar Association and the Law Society of Ontario.
    You Ming Tan (2007)
    You Ming Tan (谭佑铭) is a successful creative singer songwriter in China. In 2010, he won the 4th place in China’s Super Boy Singing Competition, a popular reality TV talent show in China.

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Temitope and Tobi Shogbolu (2019)
    University: Laurentian University Scholarship: $72,000
    Glory Emanerame (2020)
    University: Laurentian University Scholarship: $40,000
    Albert Membere (2023)
    University: McMaster University Scholarship: $20,500
    Nathaniel Oke-Ighalo (2022)
    University: Brock University Scholarship: $4,000

Compare:

COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

HAVEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




x

By logging in or creating an account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Information presented on this page may be paid advertising provided by the advertisers [schools/camps/programs] and is not warranted or guaranteed by OurKids.net or its associated websites. By using this website, creating or logging into an Our Kids account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Please also see our Privacy Policy. Our Kids ™ © 2023 All right reserved.