AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Hamilton District Christian High vs. Académie de la Capitale

one-to-one comparison:

View Hamilton District Christian High's full report
VS.
View Académie de la Capitale's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    92 Glancaster Road, Hamilton, Ontario, L9G 3K9, Canada

    1010 Morrison Drive, Suite 200, Ottawa, Ontario, K2H 8K7, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1956

    1998

    Enrolment

    510

    65

    Grades

    9 to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, Homestay

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    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."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    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

    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.
    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

    18 to 22

    8 to 15

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $19,350

    $20,075 to $24,158

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    10%

    6%

    Eligible grades for FA

    9 to 12

    1 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $5,000

    $6,500

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    128

    4

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    97%

    90%

    Day entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Founded in 1956, HDCH has been doing great and impressively consistent work ever since. It has a good breadth of curricular and extracurricular offerings. Instruction is connected with projects, encouraging students to work together toward completing meaningful tasks, which builds and supports a facility with the core curriculum. Families are also drawn by the values which undergird the academic program. The school reaches out to resources and organizations within the local community, using those interactions to build an empathetic worldview and a genuine appreciation of diversity. Certainly, there’s a lot to love.

    View full report

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    It’s a big world out there and for the students who enroll here, AcadeCap is a window onto all of it. The attention to global education is underscored by the adoption of the IB PYP and MYP programs, and things continue from there. Collaborative learning, among peers as well as intergenerational, is an important aspect of the delivery of the curriculum, as is the provision of authentic learning experiences. There is of course a vast array of resources available within the capital region, and AcadeCap rightly makes the most of them. Class sizes are small, and instructional support is personal and individualized. The school casts a very wide net, and models an approach to learning based in curiosity, empathy, and active engagement. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a diverse, challenging, vibrant and social learning environment.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    "The academics at HD are strong and an important aspect of the school environment."
    Trixie Zimmerman - Parent   (May 26, 2021)
    High School can be challenging for any student and my son had his senior years even further challeng... View full review

    "The school leadership was very caring."
    Hannah Moerman - Alumnus   (May 26, 2021)
    For the first 13 years of my life, attending Hamilton District Christian High was what I most looked... View full review

    "Their communication levels with the students around expectations and objectives are clear."
    Anne van der Walt - Parent   (May 26, 2021)
    My son started in grade 10 as a newcomer to Canada and found a welcoming and caring school community... View full review

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "The teacher was able to acknowledge his individual needs while exposing him to new experiences with a variety of new activities."
    Chandra Iyer - Parent   (Jun 22, 2020)
    Our son joined the school in Junior Kindergarten. It was our son's home away from home. The Kinderga... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    "At HDCH, our mission is to cultivate student character, through learning, for lives of service to God. Our vision is to see all HDCH graduates be a faithful presence in the communities that they serve."

    • Wide curriculum, meeting a variety of learning needs
    • Experienced, professional, caring staff
    • Modern, high-tech, 20 acre campus
    • Nurturing learning environment
    • Global reach
    • Excellence in academics, sports and arts
    • Focus on cultivating student character
    • Per-family tuition
    • Our goal: for graduates to become a faithful presence in their community

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale) provides a rigorous, tailored bilingual and/or English education. IB PYP students engage in experiential learning in i STEAM, International Languages and PSPE. The PSSP and the OSSD promote in-depth understanding of content, teaching students to work hard and make practical connections between subjects and the real world, preparing them for post-secondary education. Our proprietary 3-tier 21st Century Learning Curriculum is implemented from grade 7 to 12."

    • IB ® World School offering the PYP Next in bilingual formats
    • Pre-Secondary School Programme (PSSP) (Grade 7 & 8)
    • Ontario-Inspected Secondary School (OSSD) (English)
    • 21st Century Core Competencies Cursus (Grade 7 to 12)
    • Scholarship Programme
    • Small class sizes
    • Expertise in differentiated learning and Reach-Ahead courses for talented and gifted learners
    • Inclusive community
    • Well-rounded education: DELF, iSTEAM/Coding, visual & performing arts, music, international language
    • Synchronous and asynchronous online learning with teachers and peers

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    "At HDCH, every staff members seeks to know every student. Our students tell us that what they love most about the school is the strong sense of community, as well as the warm, dedicated and care exhibited by every teacher. Our building is located on 20 peaceful acres, set back from the road, providing a peaceful setting for our students. We have baseball, disc golf, beach volleyball and soccer facilities. Indoors, we have relevant technology including robotics and 3-D printers."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "Respecting a student’s potential by way of built-in differentiation maximizes each student’s learning and achievement. AcadeCap recognizes that no two students are the same nor do they learn the same. With differentiating, we ensure that students comprehensively learn and master the concepts and skills to be successful. Teachers adapt according to the individual abilities of each student. We get to know our students because of our small class sizes. Both factors support differentiation."

    Array

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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    "Families appreciate our relevant learning opportunities, the sense of community, the passion and caring from the teachers as well as our faith-based learning approach. They appreciate the breadth of extra-curricular opportunities, as well as the Project-Based Learning approach to classroom work. They also love the fact that our students are focused on service...taking curriculum and turning it into something that helps others."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "AcadeCap offers the convenience of its one-stop-education offerings, from a top-notch bilingual IB PYP, the OSSD, the Orton-Gillingham dyslexia support, our enriched physical education programme, the after-school clubs and the summer camps. Academically, we stand out due to our successful teaching style differentiation, our skill-development-based learning, our enriched science instruction, and our accelerated math program."

    Array

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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    "Although families might see our technology in photos and when they visit, the degree to which we engage students in science, technology, engineer and mathematics is not always clear until the student is here. We go to great lengths in all our subject areas, and the STEM area is one at which we excel."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "AcadeCap’s learning-to-learn approach translates into academic achievement, resilience, and an arsenal of problem-solving strategies when presented with challenges in learning, at work and in life. Contrary to popular belief, large social environments such as large schools do not develop social skills. We capitalize on small groups and across-the-ages interactions to actively teach social skills.
    AcadeCap students are confident in communicating with people of all ages, not only their peers."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    "Families are often surprised to experience the degree to which our teachers commit to our students. As they witness the many ways our staff provide wrap around supports, guidance, opportunities and possibilities, they frequently note that it is one thing to read about it, and another to experience it. In a parent's words: It was so completely and wonderfully surprising for us that HD, along with a Christian education, also offered project based learning - something that really stood out to us"."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "The efficiency of across-the-ages collaborative learning in an open-concept setting. The open-space and the small class sizes at AcadeCap allow for a great deal of flexibility, opportunity, and time to differentiate. Solid social skills and long-lasting friendships develop in a small group setting, where children can interact with one another in a more approachable way. This allows children to develop their skills, and learn new skills from others while accomplishing any collaborative task."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Exceptional learning is for every student. Each student has unique gifts, abilities, and learning styles. We work to differentiate learning so that each student can succeed. We provide support for academic planning and development, learning, and individualized programs where appropriate.

    Our staff takes a vested interest in student learning, growth, and spiritual well-being. They develop a mentor relationship beginning in Grade 9 and foster these connections through to Grade 12, often going above and beyond to get to know each student as a unique person with diverse interests, strengths, and gifts.

    We understand that ultimately God transforms the lives of our students at HDCH, and it is with this in mind that we trust in our mission to be clear and to be the directive of our school. We use the five habits of an HDCH graduate.They are:

    • Reflection
    • Resilience
    • Compassion
    • Competence
    • Creativity

    Exceptional education at Hamilton District Christian High is imaginative, innovative and interwoven with our essential Biblical identity. An exceptional learning community looks to produce and engage with culture by turning our visions into actions, our ideas into products. One of the ways that we will accomplish this is through the essentials of Project-Based Learning (PBL).  And it is our vision to have Project-Based Learning as an everyday learning experience for our students at Hamilton District Christian High.

    At the core of Project-Based Learning is that real-world problems capture students’ interest and provoke serious thinking as the students acquire and apply new knowledge in a problem-solving context. This learning is contextual, creative, and shared.  Students collaborate on meaningful projects creating opportunities for groups of students to gather information, think critically be creative and communicate in order for them to answer challenging questions or solve complex problems. By making learning relevant to them in this way, students see a purpose for mastering state-required skills and content concepts.

    Hamilton District Christian High is registered as a private school with the Ontario Ministry of Education. It provides a curriculum that follows Ministry guidelines and standards and uses the credit system outlined in the Ontario Secondary School Document (1999). All the teachers have Ontario teacher’s certification. Graduating students will have completed the credits required for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

    We believe HDCH is a place to dream dreams and see visions, a place to learn and grow and be cultivated, a place to live as a healthy community, a place for exceptional learning. The learning that happens here is a launching pad for our graduates’ futures; this is exciting stuff.

    We’re always happy to welcome our friends and supporters to school. If you are in the neighbourhood, we hope you’ll drop by and experience exceptional learning first-hand.

    Sincerely,

    Duncan

    Académie de la Capitale (AcadeCap) I am proud to say, is a unique bilingual IB World School where students want to stay, long after the school day is finished! Soon after its inception, it had the distinction of being the first school in the Ottawa/Outaouais region authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme. AcadeCap, still true to its roots, upholds its unique approach to education. Our students: construct learning according to their potential rather than their age and/or grade; engage easily in learning “beyond the classroom” as a result of the “pick-up and go” potential of the small class; participate in e-long-distance learning to support geographically mobile students; become totally bilingual, and even multilingual; develop collaborative social skills through interaction across the ages; learn to work respectfully alongside each other in an open-concept facility; participate in an AcadeCap developed Globalization, Leadership and Innovation course in middle school; At AcadeCap, we are convinced that real life learning and a lifelong love of learning occur when a child or a teenager engages in on-going personal interaction with adults as well as other children, and participates in relevant learning experiences such as going to Bamfield Marine Science Center and to Race Rocks at Lester B. Pearson United World College. To tailor such authentic learning experiences, to offer guidance throughout the experience, as well as to nourish this love of learning, it is essential for educators to have the time to interact with each and every student. Open-mindedness, flexibility and small class size, allow for such learning to take place at AcadeCap. Take the challenge: we invite you to enrol your child at AcadeCap and find out how engaged in learning your daughter or your son can be when inspired to transcend limits!

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Not applicable

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Education at Hamilton District Christian High is imaginative, innovative and Christ-Centred. This is achieved through Project-Based Learning. At the core of Project-Based Learning is that real-world problems capture students’ interest and provoke serious thinking as the students acquire and apply new knowledge in a problem-solving context. Students collaborate on meaningful projects creating opportunities for groups of students to gather information, think critically, be creative and communicate in order for them to answer challenging questions or solve complex problems.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      At Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale), our students benefit from the philosophy, the approach, and the curricula of the Ontario Ministry of Education and the International Baccalaureate. Our younger students, from JK to grade 6, follow the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), with classes taught 65% in French and 30% in English & 5% languages. Our grades 7 & 8 follow our own Pre-Secondary School Programme (PSSP) approach, with classes taught 50% in French and 50% in English. In grades 9 to 12, our students continue on with the English Ontario OSSD curriculum, taking full advantage of the higher-order thinking skills and rigorous preparation gleaned from completing the PSSP. At Acadecap, we are a community of learners, encouraging the mingling of different age groups, especially when it comes to daily subjects and intra-curricular activities like Math, STEM (iSTEAM), Coding, Jiu-Jitsu, Violin, Visual Arts, Waterpolo and Skiing, where ability and age do not necessarily follow in lock-step. The result is a convivial atmosphere that one might be hard-pressed to witness in other schools.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        We use Project Based Learning and Discovery Problem Solving that both focus on the application of math and using the problem-solving process to discover and make sense of new content. We use PBL to connect math to life outside of school to help our students gain a deeper insight into the role of math in careers, personal financial literacy, in our local communities. We also look at how math is discovered in the created order, such as in nature. Students have access and use technology as they study math. Our teachers are intentional to incorporate mathematical tools. Students will find a balance of these approaches mixed with traditional instruction.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Information not available

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Défi Mathématique


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Students may be permitted to use a calculator based on teacher permission. Students will need a scientific calculator.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        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.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        HDCH uses project based learning, laboratory experiments, sustained inquiry and other more traditional pedagogical practices in the science program. Students acquire the skills necessary to design and carry out scientific inquiries. Labs are equipped with modern technology and equipment. Students are encouraged to engage with the curriculum from a Christian worldview which results in a call to stewardship of all areas of creation.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Physiology

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Medium integration

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        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.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Students have free access to 250 computers and chromebooks throughout the school. We have 5 3-D printers, a laser cutter, and a suite of virtual reality and robotics options. Once students learn how to use these learning tools, they are encouraged to use them as they wish, for both school and other projects.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

        In the Physical Education Department at Hamilton District Christian High, we focus on each student’s Total Health as a child of God. We recognize that each area of a person’s health affects the others, that taking care of Physical Health is a great way to help manage all other areas of health, and that our Spiritual Health is the foundation for the rest of our health. We teach the concepts of Physical Literacy to encourage students to be confident and competent in all types of movement. Our students experience a variety of activities in different settings, including traditional and non-traditional sports, low organization and creative games, and fitness activities. We encourage our students to make goals for the present and goals for the future. Through all this, we hope to meet the goal of our Physical Education program which is to help our students live healthy and active lifestyles.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        WELL-BALANCED P.H.E. Younger students, tweens and teens participate in activities that support self-knowledge and self-understanding; discover the capabilities of their bodies and the variety of ways in which they are able to use their bodies to solve problems, address physical challenges, function as part of a group, manipulate equipment or apparatus, and express themselves kinaesthetically in a range of situations. UNITS OF P.H.E Fitness conditioning and training (including yoga and pilates-inspired conditioning). Individual and team sports including; touch football, ultimate frisbee, baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, floor hockey, hockey, badminton and tennis. Gymnastics. Waterpolo and water fun. Jiu-jitsu instruction by a Renchi. Outdoor education such as cross-country skiing, hiking, downhill skiing/snowboarding. Track and field. Ballet and Jazz

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Not applicable

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      The preschool age children benefit from the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) curriculum framework that enables 3 to 5 year old children to develop their full potential using guided inquiry and play as the best tools for exploring and studying mathematics, science and technology, languages, social studies, the arts, and personal, social, and physical education. We offer a 10 or 12 month inquiry-based programme for students.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Standard-enriched

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      At Acadecap International School, we believe that education needs to be grounded in evidenced practice, while nonetheless accounting for forward thinking and change. We encourage learners of all ages to acquire holistic thinking, to seek answers, to use critical thinking, and to act. The Acadecap syllabus is structured to combine the age-banded stages of the Ontario Ministry of Education, with the developmental phases of the International Baccalaureate programmes. This combination takes any pre-conceived limitations away from the scope and depth of students' learning. The result is a constantly motivated and challenged student body, who are passionate about learning.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      Secondary

      Secondary

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Social
      The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

      Our Mission - to cultivate character through learning for a life of service to God. Our Vision - to see all HDCH graduates become a faithful presence in the community that they serve.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      The Acadecap student is unlike any other. He or she not only develops the ability to think and to question critically, ethically, and divergently, but also the ability to create design and build. It is our aim to develop academically successful students, who also have the gumption to take risks, to innovate, and to tackle the unknown.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    HDCH welcomes learners of all kinds, with the caveat that we are a small school with some limitations of resources. For example, we offer a Lifeskills Pathway for student with severe cognitive ability, however we have a low capacity of 5 students for that class due to its high resource needs. Our older school building is undergoing on-going accessibility upgrades, but these may not always serve students with complex physical needs. We undergo a careful and kind process to determine what the students needs are, matching these with our resources, to ensure a wonderful fit.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Acadecap International School offers support on a case-by-case basis upon meeting with parents and assessing the child's needs.


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    We would not advise a family against de-enrolling their child at our school if they had a clinically diagnosed learning disability that became apparent while studying at HDCH, so long as we were able to accomodate their needs.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    At Acadecap International School, differentiation is acknowledged as a sound teaching practice applicable to all students. Our small classes and open-concept space allow for a great deal of flexibility, opportunity and time to differentiate, giving every student the varying levels of support needed. Tutoring and one-on-one instruction can also be provided, such as Orton-Gillingham-based multisensory teaching. Specialists are also called in to provide additional support, if required. Before admission, all potential students are required to spend a visit day with a class, where he or she will be evaluated.

  • 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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    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

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    • HDCH has a number of Social Justice clubs that have been developed to become better aware of our local communities and beyond. Through these clubs the HDCH community has been able to support charities and not-for-profit organizations such as 541 Eatery & Exchange, Hamilton Out of the Cold, and 30 Hour Famine Canada (World Vision). Students have also organized and particpated in Carol Sing-Alongs in Gore Park, collecting toys for Wesley Urban Ministries Christmas Store, collecting purses and toiletries for women's shelters, collecting warm clothes for the Share the Warmth Campaign, and organizing blood drives, and so forth.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    • After school Programming Clubs: JAVA script, HTML/CSS, Ruby, Python
    • Lunch period clubs: drama, newspaper, TEDed Talk, and much more
    • After school Math enrichment
    • After school RC Club
    • Master Chess
    • Jiu-jitsu and Water Polo as part of P.E. units
    • Downhill skiing/snowboarding and snow shoeing in the winter
    • Group violin lessons and concerts as part of music education
    • Extra language classes: Mandarin and Spanish
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    9 - 12

    1 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    10%

    6%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $5,000

    $6,500

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    97%

    90%

    Day entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    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

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    The best way to get the most out of your high school experience is to get involved. Student life is rich at Hamilton District Christian High. We offer much more than academics and have very active extracurricular programs. Whether you’re into sports, inclined towards the arts, or serving in your community (or all), there are plenty of activities to help you stay active and connected. Our campus thrives on the involvement of the entire school community. Exceptional learning is for every student. Each student has unique God given gifts, abilities, and learning styles. We work to differentiate learning so that each student can succeed. We provide support for faith development, academic planning and development, learning, and individualized programs where appropriate.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    At AcadeCap, we strive to create a culture of academic excellence driven by the ideal of a community that embraces differences and risk taking; and the belief that education does not only stem from a place, but also an attitude. This is why, in addition to all the admission requirements, the day students spend at AcadeCap helps the students and parents decide whether or not they feel our community is the ideal setting for them to continue their education. It also helps us take note of their ability to contribute and to excel both independently and cooperatively.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH

    Application Form needs to be filled out entirely and is found here: https://hdch.org/prospective-students/admissions/

    • Depending on your needs, you may need to connect with one or more of the following:
      • General information about the school, and the application process, Director of Advancement and Admissions, Sandra Baker or by phone at 905-648-6655
      • Our Principal, Duncan Todd - to talk about a vision of Christian education for your child.
      • Our Student Services staff - to ensure we have a program suitable for your child’s learning.
      • Our Director of Finance, Sherry Osinga - to answer any questions you might have about tuition, bursary support and payment options.
      • School Bussing Transportation to and from HDCH is managed by Committees in different areas. 

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    • The student must spend one day at the school to be evaluated in terms of willingness and ability to participate.
    • A copy of the student’s last report card
    • Any report impacting on the teaching and learning of your child
    • Students entering Grade 4 and up must submit a recommendation from the previous homeroom teacher, subject teachers, counselor and/or director
  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

HAMILTON DISTRICT CHRISTIAN HIGH:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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