525 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Westmount, Quebec, H3Y 3H6, Canada
337 Trafalgar Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 3H3, Canada
525 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Westmount, Quebec, H3Y 3H6, Canada
337 Trafalgar Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 3H3, Canada
1909
1978
295
250
K to 11
JK to 6
Girls
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
12 to 20
15 to 18
In-class adaptations
$21,800 to $26,380
$24,515 to $36,608
Yes
Yes
15%
0%
6 to 11
None
$5,000
$10,000
25
28
0%
0%
60%
0%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades K - 11
Yes
No
No
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
“[ECS] was founded in 1909 by Maud Edgar and Mary Cramp, two trailblazing educators who were determined to open a school—not just any school, mind you, but one that would advance the cause of gender rights and equality. … [and] believing to their core that the school would play a role in quite literally changing the world.”
“While the strength of the academic programs is understandably a principal draw, the thing that sets schools apart is their moral ecologies: the values and expectations they prioritize, and the ways of being they demand of the students who participate within them.”
“The administration isn’t prone to resting on laurels, but instead consistently reviews best practices and builds new programs to meet the evolving needs of the student population.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Miss Edgar's & Miss Cramp's School
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Miss Edgar's & Miss Cramp's School was founded in 1909 by Maud Edgar and Mary Cramp, two trailblazing educators. Although still not allowed to own the property that housed their school, or even to vote, Miss Edgar and Miss Cramp were determined to create educational opportunity for young women, to change their place in the world. Those roots in activism and leadership—and the desire to do things better, and more equitably—remain at the school today. The strength of the academic program is a principle draw, though the values, very rightly, are as well. The school has built itself around an ethos of achievement, providing opportunities for authentic engagement with the curriculum and substantial interaction with like-minded peers and mentors. The ideal student is one who shares that vision, and who has the interest and the drive to play an active role in a changing world.
View full report“MacLachlan prides itself on being at the cutting edge of innovation in teaching and learning theory,” says Michael Piening, head of school. “This generation of learner, and the world they are growing up in, is very engaged, social and interactive. We looked internally at how we could best respond and adapt to enhance student exploration, creativity and knowledge.” That’s quite a mouthful, to be sure, but it’s a good one nevertheless. Schools are challenged to adapt their programs to the needs of students, and there are a lot of red herrings out there, such as an over-emphasis on digital literacy, for example. To be a 21st century learner can mean many things, though at McLachlan it means engagement with ideas, peers, and community. The annual Word Fest is a great example of that, in that case using the language arts program as a starting point for an engagement with issues and topics that require students to think creatively, empathize, and communicate their ideas. Earlier this year the grade one classes took part in a workshop with the Hamilton Children’s museum, roll-playing a shipwreck, stuck on coral in the midst of a storm. That, and indeed many programs at MacLachlan, can rightly turn heads. They provide telling examples of how the school expresses its dedication to engagement, exploration, and social interactivity, all of it as charming as it is impressive. The ideal student is one who can thrive in a diverse, active, and challenging academic environment.
View full reportinformation not available
"Each teacher stands out for their expertise in the subject they teach."
Tatiana Memos - Parent (May 27, 2021)
Our son started attending MacLachlan in grade 7 and is currently in grade 10. The choice was between...
View full review
"Miss Edgar’s and Miss Cramp’s is small in size and big in ideas. An innovative girls’ school founded by female mavericks in 1909, ECS values and stewards each girl’s distinct journey. We offer an engaging and exceptional education to thrive in an ever changing world. At ECS, she will feel a sense of belonging and receive individualized attention giving her ownership over her learning process. By fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, each girl is empowered to create her own future and become a global citizen."
"MacLachlan College’s Lower School Campus in Oakville is tailored for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. Our co-ed IB Primary Years Programme fosters a vibrant learning adventure with an emphasis on international-mindedness. The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) is an internationally recognized and rigorous curriculum for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students. It empowers students to become lifelong learners, responsible individuals, and critical thinkers with a global perspective. Our specially trained IB teachers continuously update their knowledge and foster a culture of inquiry in the classroom, promoting higher-order thinking skills and a lasting curiosity about the world. Vibrant classrooms cultivate a love for learning, laying the foundation for academic success. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, promoting a profound sense of belonging. Students embrace learning, developing confidence, and finding their voice in a supportive, safe, and nurturing environment."
"ECS is committed to redefining the status quo in education with a strong academic offering and through our innovative Entrepreneurial Platform (EP). Collaborative in spirit, this Platform fosters an entrepreneurial mindset which is opportunity-seeking, persistent, and resourceful. Through the iterative process, they learn to reframe problems as opportunities as well as express and execute their strategies with clarity."
"MacLachlan's academic program offers a transitional approach of two globally recognized programs beginning with the International Baccaulaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Gr.6 and Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 academic program offering Advanced Placement preparation/enrichment. The overarching goal from Pre-K to Gr. 12 is to develop essential real-world skills, support academic excellence, foster a growth mindset, and cultivate transdisciplinary abilities."
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"ECS offers an environment where all students have access to opportunities to thrive, grow, and reach their full potential. Guided by our vision and mission, we strive to mentor each girl on her distinct journey. Small class sizes, strong academics and a vibrant co-curricular programme are just a few ways that we inspire students as they pursue their academic and discover their passions."
"Families choose MAC because of our highly respected academic programs and co-educational learning environment. What families quickly appreciate is MacLachlan’s high level of communication between home and school and how our smaller school size allows for their child(ren) to immerse themselves in their learning. Smaller classes afford teachers the opportunity to foster and influence tremendous growth in our students, and we feel privileged to guide them through their learning journey."
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"Our Co-curricular and Athletics programmes are exceptional. Students experience life outside of school though trips, special events and guest speakers who touch upon many social issues. From sport tournaments to field trips they get to experience the world in a safe and nurturing environment with our wonderful staff. Student Life at ECS provides opportunities beyond the classroom, that build leadership skills, self and global awareness, and independence."
"MacLachlan is an incredibly tight-knit community. It quickly becomes obvious to prospective families that staff have an impressive connection to students, knowing virtually all them by name. Our leadership team is highly engaged with the everyday routines within the school community and are immersed throughout the school year. This level of engagement lends itself to MacLachlan’s commitment to facilitate programs that have a whole child development approach with a focus on student wellness."
"ECS is a home away from home. Students love their school and they are nurtured by a dedicated teaching team and surrounded by a caring student body that spans Kindergarten to Grade 11. Students not only find peers within their class but also through special school activities and events throughout the school year. Students at ECS are part of a sisterhood that lasts beyond their school years and carries them into the future."
"MacLachlan is committed to creating successful and innovative approaches to learning by promoting and developing skills that transcend the classroom environment. MacLachlan is a small but mighty school. Our students score top achievements in cross-collegial local, national and international competitions in the areas of math, debate and public speaking. These opportunities provide enriching experiences for students outside the classroom where they can further explore their passions."
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MacLachlan College lives its mission statement by cultivating intellectual curiosity in its students and inspiring them to be active contributors to our ever changing world. Our small class sizes, averaging 15 in the lower school and 18 in upper school, ensure that every student is known on a personal level. This is a key feature of our school. MacLachlan College is committed to providing a superior, world class education.
Accredited as an IB World School, MacLachlan offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, making us the only private school in Oakville with this prestigious designation. The IB PYP programme is an internationally recognized curriculum designed for students from pre-school to grade 6. The IB is one of the world’s most highly esteemed education programs. In an increasingly globalized world, the IB challenges students to think critically, research deeply and develop internationally minded perspectives on a broad range of issues. Students become lifelong learners and conscientious critical thinkers.
In grades 7 to 12 we offer a rigourous academic program with an option to work toward Advanced Placement courses of study. We believe in the traditional approach to education. However, true to our motto "Where tradition and vision meet", our methodology and approach to the use of communication technology is progressive. Our teachers and students engage in dynamic and interactive educational opportunities. Our approach leads to inquiry based learning and the development of higher order critical thinking skills. At MacLachlan College we believe in the personal touch. We take the time to listen. I would like to hear about your child and I invite you to call for a visit.
Progressive
International Baccalaureate
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.
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.
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.
From Kindergarten through Grade 11 we are committed to engaging students in the rich process of inquiry, asking questions and defining problems, designing methods of investigation, analyzing and interpreting data, communicating findings, and reflecting on the experience. This process is relevant no matter the learner’s age or the subject at hand. Please see our website for more information: www.ecs.qc.ca.
MacLachlan College is a dynamic and inclusive community where teachers guide and facilitate learning by creating real world connections and a growth mindset is nurtured in every student. The rigorous academic program is supported by our active and collaborative learning environment, resulting in successful and resilient students who are well prepared for future success in today’s ever-changing world. MacLachlan’s ongoing commitment to innovative and challenging educational experiences allows for the rapid integration of new technologies and emerging active learning resources to enhance student exploration, creativity, and knowledge. By combining traditional methods of instruction with a living systems approach, classrooms have been transformed into creative hubs where students fully participate and engage not only in their coursework but with their peers, deepening their intellectual inquiry and critical thinking abilities. These adaptive and dynamic learning environments enable students and teachers to collaborate, innovate and connect existing knowledge to new thinking.
Discovery Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Discovery Math turns traditional math on its head: it frequently begins by introducing a novel problem to students, and works its way back to “discovering” a method of solving the problem. The goal is to ground mathematical procedures and algorithms firmly in their applications, and to challenge students to think critically about how they might go about solving the problem right from the beginning. Generally associated with the “Chicago Math” movement and related Everyday Math textbooks (Grades 1 to 6), Discovery math spends less classroom time mastering established algorithms and more time getting students invested in and thinking critically about novel mathematical problems and concepts. In this sense Discovery Math aims to establish conceptual and applied understand before procedural understanding.
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Phonics-intensive
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
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.
Approach in French and English is aligned to support student learning and progresses through the grades as they hit touchstone requirements. This method supports both revision and enrichment so students may still be comfortable at their language level. Teachers make sure students are exposed to quality texts and stories and learning to think like an author.
Our teachers use best practices based on individual student need.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
This testing is to inform teaching.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
We teach writing structure, but also learn to build their knowledge through drafts and revisions. This approach is taught in both languages; French and English in order to support students in making connections across the curriculum.
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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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
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).
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.
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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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.
The importance of our programme is to practice French and have a bilingual proficiency. We nurture reading, writing and speaking in both English and French. Spanish is offered from Grades 8 to 11. We nurture speaking and reading in Spanish to become proficient in conversation
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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Technology is seamlessly integrated throughout our curriculum.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Beginning in Kindergarten, technology is integrated into daily life at ECS. Students quickly learn that these tools ENHANCE their learning but technology does not replace pencils, paper and books. Teachers integrate technology to create a stimulating learning environment and students are at ease working on many different programmes.
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Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
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.
Please see our website at ecs.qc.ca for more information
Our educational philosophy of international mindedness is cultivated and supported through the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. MacLachlan is proud to be the only school in Oakville designated with the prestigious IB PYP designation. Small class sizes provide personalized attention where students develop a sense of belonging and purpose through strong bonds with their teachers and fellow classmates. It is of paramount importance that we provide an atmosphere where students do not just learn, but are eager and engaged. Our students embrace learning, develop a spirit of confidence and find their own voice in a supportive, safe and nurturing environment.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
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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”.
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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Not applicable
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CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
6 - 11
15%
0%
$5,000
$10,000
60%
0%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades K - 11
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
Yes: grades 1 - 11
Yes
No
No
No
No
Curious, courageous, mission-appropriate, risk-takers, motivated to learn, well-rounded. We're looking for the sparkle in their eye - the girls who are keen to learn, enthusiastic. We're looking for the girl who plays rugby, the oboe, and loves ballet; the girl who loves math, engineering, and a good book. Our student body is varied and diverse - give us a call.
Birth Certificate
Final Report Cards for Last Two Years
Junior School - Permanent Residency cards or Certificate of Eligibility or Study Visa or Parent Work Permit or Parent Diplomatic Status
Middle / Senior School - Certificate of Eligibility or Study Visa or Parent Work Permit or Parent Diplomatic Status
Candidate photo
$50 application fee
Admissions test and ‘Spend-A-Day’ on site
Family interview
International applicants Grade 8 through 10 must provide their IELTS/TOEFL scores.
All Grade 7 applicants must write the Common Admissions Test with Brisson Legris (mid-October). If inquiring after the deadline, please contact our Admissions Team.
In some cases, we require a copy of the child and parent's passports
Applications are welcome throughout the year, however, beginning the process early increases the likelihood of securing a space for your child. MacLachlan accepts applications from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. Please note, admission procedures are more informal for children at the PK to SK levels. Rolling admission is available for Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8.
