3300 Ninth Line, Oakville, Ontario, L6H 7A8, Canada
851 Tecumseh, Montreal (DDO), Quebec, H9B 2L2, Canada
3300 Ninth Line, Oakville, Ontario, L6H 7A8, Canada
851 Tecumseh, Montreal (DDO), Quebec, H9B 2L2, Canada
1982
1974
400
485
Preschool to 8
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English, French
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Traditional
18 to 19
10 to 24
In-class adaptations
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$11,177 to $24,550
$15,400
No
Yes
0%
0%
None
7 to 11
$0
$5,000
33
81
0%
0%
0%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Rolling
Oct 09, 2020
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
information not available
information not available
At Fern Hill, academics are important, just as they should be at any school, but culture is important too, including a desire to capitalize on the individual strengths of the staff. Cross-curricular links are a focus, as is a desire to allow students to experience things that may, for the moment at any rate, seem to reside outside their immediate areas of interest. The program is focused on the development of confidence, skill, and social engagement.
View full reportWest Island College (WIC), in Montreal, is effectively two schools under one roof. It offers an enriched education for Grades 7 to 11 in two streams: one for native French language speakers and a separate French immersion program. Academic excellence is the main focus at WIC. The school also has strong athletics and arts programs, and offers a wide range of extracurriculars that includes musical theatre, debate, robotics, school newspaper work, and yoga. This helps unlock kids’ passions and nurtures their interests. After enrolment, kids enter one of three houses at WIC, creating instant camaraderie and community. Small class sizes, individualized learning, and whole-person development help kids thrive academically but also socially and emotionally. Kids at WIC are encouraged to grow into well-rounded, global-minded citizens who are actively engaged with their community both inside and outside of the school gates.
View full report
information not available
information not available
"Since 1982, Fern Hill's mission has been to graduate students ages 3-14 who are dedicated to excellence, feel a sense of personal worth and have confidence in their talents and abilities. Fern Hill's enriched curriculum is taught in a rotary system by qualified, subject-specific teachers who are passionate about their subjects. For 40 years we have seen the success of this approach reflected in the high level of engagement in our classrooms and the success of our graduates."
"West Island College (WIC) is two schools under the same roof: an entirely French school and an English school with a French immersion program. Both offer enriched studies. WIC students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies."
Information not available
"The WIC Difference
The Pursuit of Personal Excellence
Our vision is to be an inclusive community that continuously defines an innovative learning experience and cultivates multilingual, well-rounded, global-minded citizens who embrace change.
By cultivating a culture of care and connecting the classroom to the curriculum of life, WIC empowers every student to have a positive impact in their communities and beyond."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"Families choose West Island College for its established reputation (almost 50 years), close-knit community, bilingual environment, wide range of extra-curricular activities, enriched curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, inclusivity, and commitment to empowering students. These qualities create an educational experience that prepares students for academic success, while also equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"WIC houses two schools in one building, allowing students to mingle together in all activities (meals are included in the fees at WIC). This integrated approach fosters unity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange among the student body. By going beyond language barriers, students develop strong communication skills, cultural competence, and a global perspective. It creates a unique and enriching environment where students can build lasting friendships and connections that extend beyond classrooms."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Each child that walks through our door is valued for whoever they are and they immediately feel comfortable. Fern Hill is a place where academics are very important, but so are music, art, drama and sports. We are a school where the whole child is developed. We achieve this through small class sizes and having engaging teachers, who have a passion for their subjects, teaching our classes. We give our students a myriad of activities and we challenge them. Each of our schools are set on many acres of land and every aspect creates an vibrant environment that inspires learning and creativity. Fern Hill prepares our students for life. It gives them the strength to know who they are and explore their own interests. It gives them a sense of community and teaches them the importance of giving back and being positive contributors. Our students are given confidence knowing their talents and abilities have been nurtured. Unless you do that, you never know how high they can soar.
It is a great pleasure and privilege to welcome you to West Island College Montréal!
We are immensely proud of the reputation our school has established since its founding in 1974. WIC is an independent, non-denominational co-ed day school with more than 470 students from Grades 7 to 11 and 65 staff, all united by the joy of learning, personal excellence in achievement, and shared values. Our progressive attitude and technology-infused approach shape our unique bilingual learning environment.
As you get to know us, you will see that WIC’s vision and mission are impactful, bringing together academic excellence and an inclusive learning community for all. The WIC difference builds on the school’s fantastic 46-year tradition to innovate and create meaningful opportunities for today’s young people, whether in the classroom, enriching experiential excursions or vibrant array of extracurriculars.
Our bilingual learning community embraces change and engages with the curriculum of life beyond the school gates. We positively challenge students of all backgrounds and ignite every student’s innate love of learning. A focus on personalized learning and whole-person development enables WIC students to thrive and achieve excellent results – we have a proven track record of successful progression into post-secondary education in Québec and beyond.
At the centre of every great school is an outstanding staff, and WIC is no exception. Whether inside the classroom or out, students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Together, our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies. Our students acquire the mindset and competencies to make a difference and succeed in the world of the future, actively contributing as well-rounded, global-minded citizens and deeply connected Montrealers.
The best way to get to know our community is to visit and discover why WIC truly is an extraordinary school where ideas live and breathe. Please contact our Admissions team and join one of our virtual tours. We very much look forward to welcoming you!
Traditional
Information not available
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.
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.
Not applicable
Fern Hill School encourages independent thinking and cultivates individual talents in a supportive classroom environment. Students are encouraged to explore their unique interests while developing academic skills. We are dedicated to academic excellence and we nurture the development of self-confident and positive contributors. The enriched curriculum, taught by subject-specific teachers, stimulates and challenges students to demonstrate a sense of responsibility towards learning and to achieve their personal best. Fern Hill creates learning environments that are engaging and diverse; where talented, dedicated faculty and students are encouraged to interact in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust. Students are well prepared for the future in a manner that enables them to discover the joys of learning and the importance of community.
MISSION To provide an innovative learning culture in a coed bilingual environment, in which each student develops the skills necessary to excel in post-secondary education and in life. VISION We are a lead school redefining the educational experience through innovative teaching and learning. The school, established in 1974, offers a rich tradition of achievement and a reputation as being progressive, innovative, and committed to excellence. At WIC, we provide a stimulating learning environment that is both nurturing and challenging in all areas. Our excellent academic, sports and cultural offerings afford every individual the opportunity to shape their development as well-balanced, happy, and contributing members of the community. Our school combines excellence in teaching, creativity in the curriculum, and a highly personal experience in a technology-enriched learning environment. At WIC, extraordinary opportunities such as international travel, extracurricular activities, arts, and athletics are accessible to all students, and within our small school environment, they are able to participate and excel in a variety of fields.
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.
Fern Hill students develop a love of numbers at an early age. Our individualized program allows each student to be challenged at an an appropriate level to master fundamental skills before moving on to the next concept. Students develop not only computational skills but also critical thinking abilities and reasoning techniques. Those with a passion for mathematics work beyond the grade expectation and in Grade 8, these young mathematicians have the opportunity to graduate with an accredited high school credit in the Grade 9 Principles of Mathematics course.. Math contest preparation for Grade 3 to 8 students equips them for the challenges of the Math Centrum Canada-wide competitions.
Information not available
Information not available
Fern Hill students practice mental math techniques for addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, making calculators unnecessary as a regular tool. In Grade 7 and 8, our laptop program provides access to calculating tools that complement the advanced concepts being studied.
Information not available
Not applicable
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Not applicable
Students in Preschool are introduced to letters and numbers using fun, engaging materials. Pre-printing exercises are also introduced and fine motor skills are developed, Junior Kindergarten students improve competency with the printing process. They begin blending letter sounds and reading begins. Reading really begins to take flight in Senior Kindergarten with students working on individualized programs based on their progress with phonetic decoding and vocabulary strength.
Information not available
No
Assessments are completed by the teachers on an ongoing basis.
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
Subject-specific Language teachers work with students to develop their abilities to express themselves through creative writing, poetry and journal writing. This enables them to present their experiences, emotions and imaginative minds through properly structured written pieces. Concepts of sentence structure, punctuation, spelling and paragraphing are continually improved upon in preparation for essay writing in later grades.
Information not available
Inquiry
Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
Information not available
Information not available
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
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.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Information not available
Information not available
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
Information not available
Equal Balance
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Information not available
Information not available
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.
Information not available
Information not available
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.
Information not available
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
While regular computer classes in our technology lab are scheduled for all grades, it is Grade 6 before students begin integrating laptops into their daily routines. Even then, we still embrace traditional routines of spelling tests, cursive writing, grammar lessons and even the value of a well crafted hand written note.
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Our Phys-Ed program teaches drills and skills needed to become adept with a rotation of sports throughout the school year. In Grade 4, students may begin representing the school in a variety of PSAA ( Private Schools Athletic Association) tournaments that include soccer, cross country running, basketball, floor hockey, softball, flag football, ultimate frisbee, and track and field.
Information not available
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Our Preschool class provides a safe and welcoming learning space for children who turn 3 by December 31st. Their busy and interactive days are filled with our early reading and numeracy program, along with an introduction to Mandarin, French, Music, Drama, and Phys.Ed. JK and SK build on this foundation, introducing writing and blending sounds so that reading blossoms and number sense becomes second nature. Very much a part of our school, our youngest students are active participants in school events and performances which creates anticipation and excitement about coming to school each day.
Information not available
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.
Students work at their individual level with subject-specific teachers supplementing and enriching the program to meet the needs of each student.
Information not available
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”.
Information not available
"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.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
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
7 - 11
0%
0%
$0
$5,000
0%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Rolling
Oct 09, 2020
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
Completed Application Form
Photocopy of your child’s birth certificate / passport
Non refundable $250 ($300 international) application fee
Most recent school reports (if applicable)
PR Card (if applicable)
Immunization Record
Early Years Observation Report PS to Gr 1 (if applicable)
Confidential School Report Grades 2-8 (if applicable)
Entrance Assessment
Interview
Evaluation for French School on Sunday, October 4, 2020
Evaluation for English School on Sunday, October 25, 2020
