131 Farnham Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4V 1H7, Canada
1080 Linbrook Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 2L1, Canada
131 Farnham Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4V 1H7, Canada
1080 Linbrook Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 2L1, Canada
1851
1891
650
550
5 to 12
JK to 12
Coed
Girls
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts
Progressive, Reggio Emilia
18 to 22
Varies
Dedicated gifted school
Dedicated gifted school
$16,500 to $16,750
$25,180 to $32,310
Yes
Yes
18%
9%
5 to 12
None
$12,500
$0
81
37
0%
0%
33%
74%
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Dec 04, 2020
Oct 31, 2021
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 5 - 9
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
information not available
“St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School has grown and evolved into a place where girls can forge their unique educational paths in a caring, close-knit community.”
“At SMLS, every aspect of students’ experience – whether it’s math class, basketball practice, debate club or lunch in the dining hall – is carefully constructed to be part of their growth and learning.”
“The students and parents we spoke to, who were from diverse cultural backgrounds, said the school works hard to live up to its aspirations on equity, diversity,
and inclusion.”
Read The Our Kids Review of St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School
De La Salle College is a Lasallian school, part of an association of schools in more than 80 countries worldwide. The schools are affiliated with a Roman Catholic teaching order founded by Saint Jean-Baptist de La Salle in France in 1679. Canonized in 1900, La Salle was later proclaimed by the Vatican as the patron saint of teachers. So, in all, the College has quite a pedigree. It is committed to a Catholic Education, and religious observance is a daily component of student life. The academic program is rigorous, and augmented by an equally rigorous dedication to the development of ethical leadership, self-confidence, and social responsibility. The ideal student is one intending to advance to university.
View full reportThe school has a long history, having been founded in Toronto 1891. After a move to Oakville, it later paired with a school guided by Ruth Lightbourn, a renowned teacher who founded a school almost by default—she began as a tutor for the children of John Guest, then headmaster of Appleby College, and her success was of the kind we associate with Nanny McPhee. She became the go-to tutor, and in time founded her own school. That and St. Mildred's formally joined in 1969, combining the traditions and the drive of both under one umbrella. More than anything, the intention is to provide girls with the skills, experience, and esteem that will carry over into academic and professional success. Ample opportunities are provided for students to discover their passions, wherever they may lie, as well as the encouragement to grow within those areas of interest.
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"I know I am prepared to face future challenges due to a strong educational background, priceless lessons in character and virtue, and the strength of a caring and loving community."
Adam Abdulhamid - Student (Feb 21, 2019)
My experience at De La Salle College has been life-changing, and I am extremely thankful to have had...
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"We found the teaching staff to be very accessible to discuss progress or problems at any point through the school year."
Jerry Nolfi - Parent (Feb 28, 2019)
We wholeheartedly feel that the traditional academic teaching style, the extracurricular involvement...
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" For the teachers, I have found many quite memorable and created an excitement to learn, they helped me when I needed it and congratulated me when I succeeded."
Mikayla Lorini - Student (Mar 08, 2021)
I learned that Del will challenge you. Nonetheless, it was a great experience that I do not regret. ...
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"Founded on the teachings of St. John Baptist de La Salle, De La Salle College is an independent, Roman Catholic, co-educational day school, from grades 5-12 that immerses its students in a rigorous university preparatory curriculum. Each day the school seeks to maintain its mission of helping students experience opportunities to grow spiritually, intellectually, artistically and physically, fostering Christian virtues and principles inspired by the worldwide Lasallian movement."
"SMLS students (JK to 12) benefit from an enriched academic and co-curricular program, personalized learning, unique Signature Programs, world class facilities and teachers who are experts in educating girls. We engage each student in a personalized, real-world learning experience—one where she can explore her own unique pathways within a nurturing community. From the moment a student enters SMLS, she begins a journey of discovery to emerge empowered and ready to achieve excellence in whatever path she chooses."
"De La Salle College offers a comprehensive variety of Advanced Placement courses while providing instruction in a university-style format. All Grades 9-12 students will have lecture, lab and discussion classes. Lectures offer students an opportunity to obtain scholarly information in a timely fashion. Labs offer students real, hands on experiential learning in state of the art classrooms. Discussions allows students to break down the information with teachers, preparing them for university."
"What differentiates SMLS from all the other schools are the fact that we are experts in personalization. We offer a large school experience with all of the same academic opportunities, athletics, co-curriculars and success, but with a tight-knit, small-school feel, where we’re all part of a community that cares and is connected to one another."
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"Along with a rigorous academic program, students in Grades 9 to 12 are assigned Independent Learning Time through out the day where students are able to tailor their educational experience to their own needs. Students learn independence by making the decisions on how to spend their time. Students may attend department office hours (where teachers are assigned to offer academic support beyond the classroom), complete homework, work out or play a sport, socialize or have lunch."
"Families seek out an SMLS experience for the opportunities the school provides their daughters. As an all-girls school that prioritizes both academic excellence and personal wellbeing, parents know that their daughters are developing in a safe, nurturing environment - one where students get to know themselves and take risks in a safe, comfortable way.
Families who have been at SMLS comment time and again about the warmth and strong sense of community that exists across the school."
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"De La Salle's co-curricular program is the school's most underrated aspect of student life. In developing the whole student, the College has a depth and breath of co-curricular activities. From competitive sports teams to drama productions, golf simulators to debating tournaments, business competitions to newspaper deadlines, there is not shortage of activities for the athlete and /or scholar alike. Critical activities in building a portfolio come university applications."
"Families are often surprised and impressed by the fact that we have leadership opportunities for every student, starting even in the Junior School and as early as Grade 1.There are ways for every student, whether they’re an introvert or an extravert, whether they have many interests or just one passion - whether they’re an athlete, an artist, an academic or still working on finding themselves - every student has an opportunity to lead."
"The unexpected quality students will come to appreciate will be the development of resilience. Initially, the students may find the work challenging, however, through hard work, perseverance and support, where necessary, students will grow into strong, hardworking and conscientious young men and women."
"SMLS is an Anglican-based that welcomes students from every faith, fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging within our
school community. Our weekly chapels celebrate both our Anglican roots and world religions and cultures so that everyone in our community may develop an understanding of the diversity in the world around us."
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On behalf of the entire De La Salle community, I would like to thank you for including De La Salle College “Oaklands” in your search for an independent school and I want to welcome you to a school community whose commitment to academic excellence, while providing a balanced approach to learning has served many students over its 160 year history. De La Salle continues to expose students to a breadth and depth of curriculum that ensures students are not only prepared for university, but for life. De La Salle College “Oaklands” is not defined by its buildings or its beautiful thirteen acre property, but rather, it is defined by the people that are a part of this community. The Brothers, alumni, parents, students, support staff and teachers have built this school into one that is rich in tradition and entrenched in its mission. In short, this school has positively affected the lives of many and continues today to leave an indelible mark on its graduates.
The school is vibrant: its commitment to Catholic Education; its participation in athletic activities and school functions; and its obligation to servicing the needs of the poor shape and define this wonderful school. The College instills Gospel values and exercises a preferential option for the poor through its religion and community service programmes. It allows our students to experience the benefit of a rigorous academic environment while providing extra-curricular activities and programmes that build lifelong camaraderies and friendships. Our programming is diverse and meets recognized standards of excellence, while creating and sustaining respectful human relationships within the school community. In other words, the school fosters an experience that is truly Lasallian. Moreover, the school’s 160 year history has been enriched by its people who are part of this great institution. Students, parents, and teachers, both past and present, have an appreciation of what it means to be part of this institution. Whether you are a grade five student or an alumnus or a parent you understand that De La Salle teaches the value of moral integrity.
Come and visit De La Salle College. I am confident you will experience what many already know, De La Salle College is a selfless and committed community of learners.
I look forward to meeting you.
Live Jesus in our hearts.
Thank you for your interest in St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School.
It is a great privilege and honour to be the Head of School at St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School. I am delighted to be a part of the school's warm and invitational learning community with such a longstanding and rich heritage of more than129 years. SMLS is an all-girls learning environment where girls are encouraged to discover and pursue their personal excellence through a rigorous academic program. Our faculty and staff are deeply committed and dedicated to preparing girls for a strong inspired future as empowered young women.
The entire community celebrates our recent graduates, all of whom are anticipating the start of the next phase of their journey at Canadian and international universities of their choice. For those families who are considering St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School for their daughter, there are a number of virtual opportunities for you to connect and get to know the school, where you will be warmly welcomed.
Nancy
Progressive
Reggio Emilia
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.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
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).
De La Salle College offers a liberal art program that will prepare and encourage students to deal with a diverse, complex and changing world. It will provide students with a broad knowledge of a variety of curricula in a an enhanced, in-depth approach to specific areas of study. A Lasallian liberal arts education will also encourage and foster a sense of social responsibility. Students will be expected to apply their intellect and practical skills to help others, especially the less fortunate. This is truly an atmosphere where students will "enter to learn" and "leave to serve".
SMLS is a dynamic learning environment designed to address the unique needs of girls from preschool to graduation. Our programs focus on the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of girls, and are designed to develop our students to become courageous girls who challenge and change the world.
Equal Balance
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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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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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.
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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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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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
Not applicable
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
Not applicable
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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).
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These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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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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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Not applicable
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia programs aim 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. Projects 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. A high degree of parent involvement is also encouraged, particularly when forming curriculums and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia education, check out our comprehensive guide.
At SMLS, we use best practices from the philosophies of the Ontario 'Play Based' program, Reggio Emilia, inquiry based learning and direct teaching. We take this approach because we believe that providing a balanced program allows for the development of curiosity and the joy of learning in every child. Our process of instruction educates children in the fundamentals needed to go on to a successful academic career in the primary, junior, middle and senior programs. Our goal is to develop within students the core skills of a lifelong learner.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
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.
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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”.
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”.
We are rigorous in our academic culture, while at the same time supportive of girls of different learning styles.
"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."
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."
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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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
5 - 12
18%
9%
$12,500
$0
33%
74%
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Dec 04, 2020
Oct 31, 2021
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 5 - 9
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 5 - 6
Yes
No
No
No
No
De La Salle College strives for a diverse student population and hopes to attract young men and women with excellent academic skills; interest in a variety of co-curricular experiences; and the potential to contribute to the school community with a positive attitude.
Students applying to SMLS should be prepared to participate in an enriched academic program that balances fundamental skill development with inquiry-based learning. SMLS offers a wide range of co-curricular opportunities and we encourage students to participate widely. Students who are most successful at SMLS are bright and engaged learners who are keen to get involved.
For information on How-to-Apply to De La Salle College, please follow this link: https://www.delasalle.ca/admissions/how-to-apply
Please see our website: http://www.smls.on.ca/Page/Admissions
