1003 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4P3, Canada
7 Bradwick Drive, Concord, Ontario, L4K 2T4, Canada
1979
2004
1700
50
9 to 12
JK to 12
Coed
Coed
Day, Boarding
Day
English
English
Academic
Arts
Traditional
Liberal Arts, Reggio Emilia
12 to 22
11 to 15
In-class adaptations
$12,000 to $16,500
$3,000
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
425
3
100%
0%
86%
90%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
No
No
No
No
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
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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 reportAcademics are the top priority at Rotman Arts & Science School (RASS). This Kindergarten to Grade 12 school provides small class sizes that allow instructors to focus on the development of individual learners. Students are encouraged to be self-motivated and to actively participate in their own education. RASS also fosters lifelong learning and development and nurtures students’ intellectual and emotional growth to help them to make positive contributions to Canadian society. Students practice discipline, self-management, and responsibility, and learn to think critically and creatively. RASS was founded in 2004 to combine academic education with professional arts training, offer unique opportunities for advanced courses and independent study, and enable students to pursue their individual interests.
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"The teachers are not only knowledgeable in their fields but also skilled in engaging students, fostering critical thinking, and encouraging a love for learning."
Sophie D. - Parent (Oct 17, 2023)
My girl was encouraged to join a lot of activities, and field trips like apple picking, strawberry p...
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"The school provides a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests, ensuring that every student can find something they are passionate about."
Misty Ronald - Parent (Oct 17, 2023)
Our child's experience at Rotman Arts and Science School has been nothing short of fantastic. They h...
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"Students appreciate the school's unique interdisciplinary approach, which allows them to explore both arts and sciences."
Valerie Fayer - Parent (Oct 17, 2023)
My child's experience at Rotman Arts and Science School has been overwhelmingly positive. They appre...
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"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."
"Founded in 2004, Rotman Arts and Science School (RASS), formerly Arts and Science Academy of Canada, was established to focus breadth and depth of study across a variety of disciplines . RASS has grown into a day school that combines academic education with professional ballet and arts training. Our school varies in curriculum from JK - Gr12. Small class sizes allow us to focus on the development of individual learners. Experienced teachers help students develop responsibility, creativity, and resilience."
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"Rotman Arts and Science School's unparalleled combination of professional ballet training, a comprehensive arts program, and the hosting of international students exemplifies its commitment to providing a multifaceted and globally minded educational experience. Through an interdisciplinary approach, small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a strong focus on character development, RASS empowers students to excel academically and artistically while fostering a global perspective."
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"RASS's unique combination of offerings, including professional ballet, a comprehensive arts program, and an international student body, can provide students with opportunities for personal and art and artistic growth that may no and artistic growth that may not be readily available at other schools. RASS aligns with their child's interests and educational goals. Whether a student has a passion for ballet, the arts, or desires a well-rounded education that includes exposure to different cultures"
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"The diverse student body and exposure to different cultures provide students with invaluable experiences for developing cultural awareness, cross-cultural communication skills, and a broader worldview. This global perspective is not just an added feature but a fundamental aspect of preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world, and families should recognize its profound impact on their child's education and personal growth."
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"Families may find that RASS fosters a close-knit and supportive community. The small class sizes and personalized attention not only enhance learning but also create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students, teachers, and parents. This sense of community can be a pleasant surprise for families seeking an intimate educational environment. They will be surprised by RASS's adaptability and willingness to evolve with changing educational needs and circumstances."
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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].
Dear parents and students,
I am delighted and filled with enthusiasm to extend a heartfelt welcome to each and everyone of you as the Principal of Rotman Arts and Science School. As we commence this new academic year, I am excited to be part of this lively educational community committed to nurturing young minds and instilling a mindset of boundless possibilities.
Our school takes pride in providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential. We believe that education is a lifelong journey and our dedicated team of educators work tirelessly to inspire and empower our students to become responsible, resilient, and compassionate members of society.
At Rotman, we strive for excellence in all that we do. We offer a comprehensive curriculum that is designed to meet the diverse needs of our students, and we provide a range of extracurricular activities that enable our students to develop their talents and interests.
We are deeply committed to foster strong partnerships with our parents, students and community members, and we welcome your feedback and input as we work to continuously improve our school.
Thank you for your interest in our school, and we look forward to working with you to provide the best education for our students where they can thrive and reach their full potential."
Sincerely,
- Vladimir Demine
19th years Principal of Rotman Arts & Science School
Liberal Arts
Reggio Emilia
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
CIC offers a wide variety of courses to enable students to meet the admission requirements for their desired university programs. https://www.cic-totalcare.com/total-care-education/total-care-learning/courses/ CIC has a Traditional approach to Curriculum. 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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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.
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By incorporating both traditional and discovery methods into math programs, educators aim to strike a balance between foundational knowledge and the development of critical thinking skills. This approach recognizes that mathematical proficiency requires not only knowing how to perform calculations but also understanding why those calculations work and how they can be applied in various contexts.
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Balanced Literacy
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.
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The key advantage of this approach is its flexibility. It acknowledges that reading is a complex skill that requires a combination of strategies. By blending Whole Language with supplementary phonics, balanced reading programs cater to the diverse needs of students. They allow learners to use their understanding of whole words and context, while also equipping them with the tools to decode unfamiliar words systematically. Ultimately, balanced reading programs aim to create proficient and confident readers by harnessing the strengths of both approaches.
Equal balance
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.
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Balanced literacy programs offer supplementary instruction in grammar, sentence structure, and various writing strategies. This instruction is designed to equip students with the necessary tools to refine and enhance their writing. It helps them understand the mechanics of language, develop a command of grammar rules, and craft well-structured, coherent sentences and paragraphs.
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.
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Science programs that blend expository and inquiry learning empower students to become well-rounded scientists, capable of both understanding scientific theories and actively contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge through experimentation and exploration.
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
Physics
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.
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The equal balance between these two approaches allows students to appreciate the richness of literature, from both classical and contemporary sources, while also developing a keen awareness of the social issues that literature can address. It empowers them to become thoughtful readers and critical thinkers who can navigate the complex intersections of literature and society.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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What sets Core Knowledge apart is its commitment to breadth of content. It aims to expose students to a wide range of knowledge, fostering an understanding of the interconnectedness of different subjects. For instance, history may be taught sequentially, ensuring that students acquire a chronological understanding of historical events and their consequences. This approach acknowledges that a solid foundation of knowledge equips students with the tools to think critically, make connections, and engage with complex ideas effectively. By emphasizing the acquisition of content knowledge, the Core Knowledge approach prepares students to become informed and well-rounded individuals capable of tackling a broad array of academic and real-world challenges.
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.
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In balanced programs, students benefit from the best of both worlds. They engage with classical texts and enduring ideas, gaining a deep appreciation for the intellectual heritage of human thought. Simultaneously, they explore practical, real-world issues, developing critical thinking skills and an ability to apply their knowledge to contemporary challenges. By striking this equilibrium, students not only develop a strong foundation in the humanities and social sciences but also acquire the analytical and problem-solving abilities needed to navigate a complex and ever-changing world effectively. It ensures a holistic and relevant education that prepares students for both intellectual enrichment and practical success.
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.
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By combining both approaches, language programs offer students the opportunity to develop a balanced skill set. Learners gain the benefits of the audio-lingual method's precision and grammar mastery, ensuring a strong foundation. Simultaneously, they acquire the communicative approach's ability to use language effectively in practical, everyday situations, fostering fluency and real-world communication skills. This balanced approach acknowledges that language learning is not merely about rules and structures but also about meaningful interaction and expression. It equips learners with the tools to both understand the mechanics of a language and use it confidently and naturally in diverse contexts.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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An equal emphasis on both receptive and creative learning recognizes that education is a dynamic process. Students need the ability to absorb information effectively and then apply that knowledge in innovative and practical ways. This balance ensures that learners not only understand concepts but can also use them to analyze, synthesize, and contribute meaningfully to their fields of study. In essence, programs that embrace both receptive and creative learning empower students to become well-rounded, adaptable, and resourceful thinkers and doers, capable of thriving in a variety of academic and real-world contexts.
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.
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The approach acknowledges that digital literacy is a tool that enhances learning and prepares students for the modern world but is most effective when integrated seamlessly into the broader context of education. This allows students to leverage digital skills as part of their overall educational experience without overshadowing the importance of traditional knowledge and critical thinking.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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We encourage students to engage with the broader community through sports events, fitness challenges, and community service activities. This fosters a sense of belonging and civic responsibility. Our school's approach to physical education prioritizes holistic health, skill development, inclusivity, and personalization. We aim to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to lead active and healthy lives while fostering important values and life skills.
Academic
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
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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.
A supportive academic culture within our school is characterized by a set of norms and expectations that prioritize student well-being, growth, and success. We emphasize collaboration over competition, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to help and support each other in their academic endeavors. Mistakes are viewed as opportunities for learning, and failure is seen as a stepping stone to improvement rather than a source of shame.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
86%
90%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 9 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Students who are pursuing OSSD and post-secondary education.
We are seeking students who are curious, motivated, and committed to their academic and personal growth. Successful candidates at our school typically exhibit the following attributes: 1. Curiosity: We value students who have a genuine thirst for knowledge, who ask questions, and who are eager to explore new ideas and concepts. 2. Resilience: The ability to face challenges with determination and bounce back from setbacks is crucial in our rigorous academic environment. 3. Responsibility: We look for students who take ownership of their education, complete assignments on time, and contribute positively to the learning community. 4. Creativity: Our school values creative thinking and encourages students to approach problems from multiple angles. 5. Collaboration: Being able to work well with peers, engage in discussions, and contribute to a cooperative learning environment is highly regarded. 6. Diversity and Inclusivity: We appreciate students who are open to different perspectives, embrace diversity, and foster an inclusive and respectful community. 7. Passion: A strong passion for their chosen fields of study, whether in the arts, sciences, or both, is a significant asset. Our goal is to provide an enriching and supportive learning environment, and we welcome students who possess these qualities to join our community and thrive academically and personally.
Students are asked to submit their transcripts from their previous school with their application form.
To initiate the enrollment process, we kindly request the following documents:
1. Transcripts for the last three years of the student's academic history.
2. Completed application forms.
3. Payment for the first and last month of tuition fees.
4. Submission of post-dated checks for the remaining tuition fees.
Upon receiving these documents and payments, our admissions team will process your application. Once approved, we will issue a formal letter of acceptance, enabling the student to commence their studies at our institution.