4600 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9A 1A5, Canada
360 Colborne Street, Brantford, Ontario, N3S 3N3, Canada
335.1 km
317.3 km
1989
2018
480
100
JK to 12
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Boarding, Day, eSchool
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Traditional
20 to 22
10 to 15
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$30,995 to $34,500
$8,500 to $13,900
$21,100 to $26,500
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
32
17
0%
50%
100%
0%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
“Our school community is open, caring, and kind,” says Director of Advancement Hallie McClelland, who helps with community engagement.
“It’s an academically rigorous school, yet the demands are tempered by a strong
commitment to individualized instruction, academic support, and student well-being.”
“The teachers take the time to understand your child as an individual and translate that into programming, or simply connecting with them in a way that makes them feel so empowered and cared for,” says one parent of a Junior School student.
Read The Our Kids Review of Kingsway College School
information not available
Neil deGrasse Tyson has said, "imagine how different the world would be, if, in fact, that were 'reading, writing, arithmetic, empathy.'" Kingsway College School, offering Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, poses the same question and has worked to augment a strong academic program with cross-curricular attention to values. Derek Logan, the head of school, notes that a goal is to teach students to "lead with vision and humility." The attention to values, and providing opportunities for social development, in addition to a sense of mastery with core skills, is a strength of the school. The ideal student is one who is able to thrive in an active, academically challenging environment.
View full reportThe school makes good use of the location, including competitions and outreach with nearby universities, Waterloo and Laurier. Haven is very much a preparatory college, attracting students who intend to advance to post-secondary studies, particularly within North America. That said, there is a dedication to ensuring that they live well day-to-day, challenging themselves, yes, but also having time in their day to reflect and enjoy the experience. The diversity of the student body adds to the sense of internationalism, though with an annual enrollment of 100, students find themselves in a close-knit community of like-minded, academically inclined peers and mentors. All the services are represented and then some, including counsellors to advise and help students through the visa and student permit application process. A short-term student exchange program—they come for month-long sessions—is unique, and offered to student in Grades Grade 7 through Grade 11.
View full report
"There is a strong emphasis on self-directed learning that extends beyond the core curriculum."
BRAD MCCAMUS - Parent (Feb 28, 2024)
Both of our kids love the culture of KCS and the faculty and staff. Each year has been outstanding ...
View full review
information not available
"At KCS, students develop the Habits that matter most for success in life. Through our distinct Four Doors to Learning Program, our students explore and grow as learners, artists, athletes, and citizens. Every student is challenged to examine all aspects of school life, to take responsible risks and uncover a wealth of talents, interests, and passions throughout their journey. Our goal is to provide environments where a student’s wellness is supported as they become lifelong learners who are good people."
"Haven international School is a private school that empowers young minds to reach their fullest potential in education. We deliver Ontario’s Curriculum, but what sets us apart is our ability in delivering this curriculum through individualized learning. At Haven, students are guaranteed a unique educational experience where individual goals and aspirations are valued and met. Haven’s team of teachers are all fully committed and dedicated beyond expectation to offering a one of a kind independent education."
"Kingsway College School differentiates itself through its focus on wellness, enriched curriculum and personalized learning approach, innovative teaching methods including place-based, project based, and experiential, and supportive community. By combining these distinctive features, KCS delivers an unparalleled educational experience that inspires students to reach their ultimate potential."
"At Haven, we do not only care for our students academic growth. We also make sure that they grow emotionally, spiritually and socially in other to be prepared for the outside world. We engage our students in a variety of extracurricular activities like sports, board games, etc. which builds their confidence. Furthermore, we make sure that there is no discrimination no matter who they are or where they come from. Study periods are created to allow students build their study habits."
"Families choose KCS because of our good reputation in the community and within the independent school system; the people - our amazing teachers, staff, and leadership; our location in west Toronto, the school is co-ed; our innovative, individualized and progressive learning environment (project-based, place-based and experiential sprinkled with traditional learning with tests, exams, homework and our distinctive Four Doors Learning Program and Three School rules: Respect, Manners, Try Your Best"
"Haven shows a great deal of care for our students. We make sure that they attain their academic goals while building their talents and gifts in other areas. We also provide lunch for our students. Furthermore, when compared to other schools like ours, we are considerably less pricey and more dedicated to meeting individual students' goals."
"New families often say their experience exceeded their initial expectations. The level of dedication and care that the teachers show in their interactions with students goes above and beyond . KCS teachers are extremely empathetic and caring people who genuinely care about the success and well-being of every child. Families are also surprised by the variety of the extracurricular activities, scope of the place-based and project-based learning taking place and the enrichment opportunities."
"Our school really cares. When students attend Haven, they join the Haven family which comprises of the students, teachers and all staff of Haven. At our school, students do not miss home because we make them feel like they have a home away from home with us. Families are surprised to see the student's level of achievement in a very short time."
"Although KCS is well known in the local community, the emphasis on experiential learning and providing learning opportunities outside the classroom may not be so obvious. Hands-on experiences, field trips, place and project-based learning opportunities are integrated throughout the curriculum, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts. KCS is committed to providing an engaging and relevant education that goes beyond traditional classroom learning."
"Our small class sizes that allow for one-on-one communication between students and teachers. This allows the teachers to attend to each students individual needs. We provide personalized coaching that helps children to become successful and our self-improvement strategies will increase their confidence."
"Our goal is to provide environments where a student’s wellness is supported as they become lifelong learners who are good people.
Respect, responsibility, honesty, kindness, manners, and empathy are taught to students and help guide their actions and decisions.
We offer an enriched curriculum above and beyond the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements.
KCS Senior School is the only co-ed Grade 9-12 CAIS school in Etobicoke/West End of Toronto.
Students feel safe, valued, and supported."
"1. Small class sizes
2. Multicultural environment
3. High success rate
4. Great relationships
5. Extracurricular activities"
It is said that learning is an end in itself. That may be. Our belief is that learning is inextricably a part of life. Strangely, this belief makes us different from other schools. Our faith in this idea makes Kingsway College School a place of joy, respect, fulfillment and... superior individual development.
The children who graduate from Kingsway College School leave knowing what matters in life. They know how to lead with vision and humility. Though they may go on to excel in specialized areas, they have the advantage of beginning as generalists. They have avid appetites for life’s experiences. And, they have the surety to dive into their future comfortable in themselves and their abilities. Our children (your children!) are ethical, responsible, concerned. They are exceptionally sound of mind, body and spirit.
One hundred percent of KCS students graduate with more than sufficient academic standing to go on to the schools of their hearts’ desire.
Welcome to Haven International School, where our standard of excellence provides international and local students with the foundation for entrance into top-ranked Canadian and world universities. This is an exciting stage in your child’s life; they will become ready to enjoy new experiences and face new challenges. By the time they graduate from Haven International school, they will be equipped to leave with the confdence, knowledge, skills and responsibility essential to fourish in university and ultimately become an active and contributing member of society.
Haven’s students and teachers work together in a caring, vibrant community that promotes personal and academic growth. Our high-quality student-centred learning environment supports each student’s unique needs and goals, while building on their strengths and weaknesses. Our blend of local Ontario and international students live, learn and grow in an environment that emphasizes excellence, responsibility and morality, both inside and outside the classroom. Students are constantly motivated, challenged and stimulated to always strive to be the very best they can be in everything they do at all times. Haven’s academic and English as Second Language programs are based on the curriculum expectations of the Ontario Ministry of Education and lead to the awarding of the prestigious Ontario Secondary School Diploma. This diploma is recognized and acknowledged worldwide as meeting the entrance requirement for university. Far from being a blank canvas, your child joins us with a rich palette of unique colours. We recognize the personal qualities of each student and celebrate individual talents. Haven students are re ective thinkers, creative problem-solvers, curious learners and energetic performers. Our exceptional co- curricular provision sets us apart: whatever your child’s enthusiasm, there will be an activity just right and lots of new things to try.
An open door and a warm welcome await you.
Traditional
Information not available
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.
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
We know every child is unique. The KCS curriculum is carefully designed by teachers so that it prepares, inspires and challenges each of our students every day. Core skills are taught through direct instruction, often in small groups. Ample time is also dedicated to developing the KCS Habits of Mind, Body and Action through project-based learning, school-wide student leadership, hands-on creation, field trips, student-initiated learning and much more. Our Senior School builds on the foundation of the Junior School with an enriched experiential program that includes regular student engagement with external experts, regular offsite learning, and an introduction to entrepreneurship. The Senior School also offers a unique program called 'Path' every Wednesday afternoon where students are challenged to independently pursue learning in an area of interest. A Faculty Advisor will support students in developing as independent, resourceful learners and an external Mentor with expertise in the student’s chosen area will support them in this pursuit.
Information not available
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Information not available
Information not available
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
Information not available
Information not available
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
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
Information not available
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.
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
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Information not available
Information not available
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
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Information not available
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Students at Kingsway College School receive regular physical education instruction. The focus is on learning and practicing the fundamental movement skills necessary to participate in a wide variety of physical activities and sports. We also focus on physical literacy to nurture the motivation, confidence, and physical competence required to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life. We help our students along this important journey with our physical and health education program in conjunction with our extensive extracurricular program.
Information not available
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
The KCS Early Learning Program includes junior kindergarten and senior kindergarten. Much of the program is Reggio-inspired and emergent, and evolves based on the students’ demonstrated interests and areas for growth. Some direct instruction is also introduced as children become ready, including the introduction of printing with the Handwriting Without Tears program, as well as reading with Reading Mastery. Ample time to socialize, create, and play in our award-winning Outdoor Classroom makes for a rich and healthy day of learning.
Information not available
Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
While the general pace of the program is steady, adjustments are made as needed for individual students. In addition, our Super Skills and Workshop programs, from grades 1-8, offer small-group dedicated instruction in reading and math.
Information not available
Supportive
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
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."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Information not available
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
0%
0%
$0
$0
100%
0%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Good Academic with Great Marks University Scholarships Individual Talent
If you wish to apply, please navigate to the Admissions portion of our website at https://www.kcs.on.ca/admissions/apply-to-kcs then complete and submit the application form.
To Apply to school
Canadian students need:
International Students need: (Admission Flow Chart)
1. Complete the application form.
- Copy of the original school transcript or at least 2 years of report cards.
- Provide a $200 CAD Registration Fee (non-refundable). Bank money order or draft for registration fee.
2. Upon approval of application form and submitted documents, the school will issue an offer of Admission Letter to the applicant.
3. Make the tuition payment as directed in Offer of Admission Letter.
4. Once the tuition fees are received by the school a letter of Acceptance, Receipt for payment and Custodian Document will be issued to the applicant.
5. International Applicant applies for travel documents and student visa through the local office of the Canadian High Commission or Embassy.
6. Once Student Visa is received by the student; a copy of the visa should be sent via e-mail or fax to the school with confirmation or travel arrangement and arrival date.
7. Upon arrival in Canada, student will need to present all the necessary documents, including valid passport and student visa immigrations to Canadian Immigration.
8. Academic assessment test(s) at the school.
9. Commence education at Haven International School
Applications Deadlines
For Canadian Students: Wednesday the 30th of September
International Students can join Haven International School for Semester II on January 11.
International Students can join Haven International School for Semester I, third week of September, when they submit their application, because the process will take some time.
School Year Calendar
SEMESTER ONE
September 8 FIRST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER ONE
October 9 THANKSGIVING SCHOOL CELEBRATION
October 13 THANKSGIVING DAY – NO CLASSES
October 29 LAST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER ONE, TERM ONE
MID-SEMESTER STUDENT ASSESSMENT
October 30 FIRST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER ONE, TERM TWO
MID-SEMESTER REPORTS AVAILABLE
November 11 REMEMBRANCE DAY ASSEMBLY
December 15 – 18 FINAL EXAMINATIONS, SEMESTER ONE
December 18 CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON & CAROL SERVICE
LAST DAY SEMESTER ONE
FINAL SEMESTER ONE REPORTS AVAILABLE
December 22 HAVEN GRADUATION CEREMONY & PROM
December 21 - CHRISTMAS BREAK – NO CLASSES
SEMESTER TWO
January 11 FIRST DAY OF CLASSES SEMESTER TWO
February 14 VALENTINE’S DAY ASSEMBLY
February 15 FAMILY DAY – NO CLASSES
March 15 – 19 MARCH BREAK – NO CLASSES
March 30 INTERNATIONAL DAY
April 2 GOOD FRIDAY – NO CLASSES
April 5 EASTER MONDAY – NO CLASSES
April 13 LAST DAY OF CLASSES – SEMESTER TWO TERM ONE
MID-SEMESTER STUDENT ASSESSMENT
April 14 FIRST DAY OF CLASSES, SEMESTER TWO, TERM TWO
MID-SEMESTER REPORTS AVAILABLE
April 21 WELCOME SPRING CELEBRATION
May 19 – 25 FINAL EXAMINATIONS, SEMESTER TWO
May 24 VICTORIA DAY – NO CLASSES OR EXAMINATIONS
May 25 LAST DAY OF SEMESTER TWO
May 31 HAVEN GRADUATION CEREMONY & PROM
FINAL SEMESTER TWO REPORTS AVAILABLE