AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Queen Margaret's School vs. Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence

one-to-one comparison:

View Queen Margaret's School's full report
VS.
View Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    660 Brownsey Avenue, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 1C2, Canada

    207 Bayswater Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 2G5, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1921

    1989

    Enrolment

    553

    150

    Grades

    Preschool to 12

    1 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Boarding, Homestay, Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    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

    Traditional

    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

    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”.
    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

    16 to 22

    8 to 14

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $17,500 to $25,680

    $15,400 to $18,000

    Boarding Tuition

    $62,880 to $79,230

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    25%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    SK to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $3,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    35

    13

    Percent in boarding

    16%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    75%

    Day entry years

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

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Vancouver Island has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to beautiful, excellent schools, and certainly Queen Margaret’s is one of them. It was founded in 1921 by Norah Creina Denny and Dorothy Rachel Geoghegan, who dedicated themselves to providing what was, for the time, something unique: a robust educational experience for all, including women “capable of realizing ourselves as complete individuals.” Certainly, that’s what they did, and it’s a tradition that the school maintains today. The riding program is distinguishing, as is the strength of the academic programs. A strategic plan begun in 2014, to complete at the school’s centenary, will reaffirm the commitment of the founders to excellence as well as their commitment to adapting to the changing needs of students.

    View full report

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Schools are founded for a range of reasons, though a few are founded out of a very acute need, and that’s the case with Heritage. Louise Brazeau-Ward’s son had dyslexia, and she had watched him struggle in traditional academic settings, something which inspired her to make a difference in his life and the lives of others like him. Today she’s a world renowned expert in dyslexia, and a proponent of the Orton-Gillingham multi-sensory approach to instruction which she then adapted. All of that forms the foundation of Heritage Academy, the school that Brazeau-Ward created in 1989. Today the school is run by her daughter, and the program, though having grown over the years, remains consistent to its founding mission. The school provides support for students with dyslexia as well as other challenges. The environment—one that is created to address the needs of the students—can itself be transformative. For many students, that’s what Heritage principally offers.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    " ... outstanding on all levels ... "
    Mary Furneaux - Parent   (Feb 05, 2018)
    At Queen Margret's my child has grown to appreciate the diversity of the students. Being a preschool... View full review

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    " ... were able to customize a plan to teach to his strengths."
    Kim Bridgeman - Parent   (May 02, 2018)
    Our son had many difficulties in the regular school system due to a number of learning disabilities ... View full review

    "...emerged from the school with a giant smile and said, "THIS school is where I belong"."
    Lisa Gomes - Parent   (May 02, 2018)
    My child appreciates the individual attention afforded by small class sizes as well as the flexibili... View full review

    "...thoroughly impressed with the teaching staffs' dedication and care."
    Susan Ward - Parent   (Jul 18, 2018)
    My daughter transferred mid-year. She likes the small classroom setting and the teaching staff. She ... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    "Located in the scenic Cowichan Valley, Queen Margaret’s School is an all-gender school with over 100 years of providing an exceptional education that builds confidence, character and compassion. Students develop and grow through a vibrant curriculum that focuses on experiential learning, innovative thinking and environmental stewardship. We proudly offer Canada's only on-campus Equestrian Program. Be curious. Be kind. Be brave. Be you."

    • Experiential & inquiry-based learning
    • Entrepreneurial thinking
    • Environmental sustainability
    • A rigorous education that builds confidence, character and compassion
    • An on-campus equestrian academic and riding program
    • Equine Facilitated Leadership Development
    • Day & Boarding School
    • On-campus and Family Homestay Boarding Programs
    • Language Prep Program
    • Grades 8-9 Project Based Learning (PBL) Program

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Heritage Academy specializes in supporting students with Dyslexia, as well as students with other language-based learning exceptionalities. Our multisensory environment and smaller class sizes are beneficial for students with a wide range of other exceptionalities. By promoting the values of honesty, perseverance and teamwork, Heritage Academy fosters acceptance and growth among our students and enables them to reach their full potential."

    • http://www.bulletinaylmer.com/finding-the-right-educational-fit
    • https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4115241-support-services-fill-in-gaps-for-dyslexic-students
    • https://www.ottawaparentingtimes.ca/crime-and-punishment-and-school/
    • https://diefenbunker.wordpress.com/2012/05/11/what-do-potatoes-and-the-diefenbunker-have-in-common/
    • https://www.dyslexiadaily.com/blog/specialised-schools-for-children-with-dyslexia/
    • https://www.pressreader.com/canada/ottawa-citizen/20130207/281981784976489
    • https://www.toronto.com/news-story/3971226-potato-project-a-lesson-in-urban-farming-heritage-academy
    • http://www.todaysparent.com/kids/kids-health/synesthesia/
    • https://www.ottawaparentingtimes.ca/getting-ahead-2/

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    "Our unique educational model guides students to academic and personal excellence while developing the confidence to express their ideas and engage actively in their learning. We use our 30-acre campus and our local communities to serve as living classrooms where "learning by doing" encourages students to apply their knowledge to complex, real-world challenges."

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Our environment, with smaller class sizes and less stimulus, are often advantageous to students with ADD/ADHD. In addition, our teachers bring in the use of frequent body breaks, use of manipulatives, use of multisensory fidgets and use of the desk bicycles.
    By promoting the values of honesty, perseverance and respect, Heritage fosters acceptance and growth among our students, and enables them to reach their full academic potential. We love to see students learn how to succeed and enjoy school."

    Array

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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    "Along with our strong academic and well-rounded programming, families choose QMS because of our welcoming community. From the moment families step onto campus, meet staff/teachers, interact with current students and speak with our families, the feeling of warmth and caring permeates all aspects of campus life."

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Families have grown to know Heritage as a school that provides both academic and social support for students struggling in their current environment. Heritage believes in the potential of our students. Once they have been provided with the tools and strategies to help them learn based on their individual profile, our students can excel and reach their utmost potential."

    Array

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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "By engaging students with multisensory teaching techniques and by using different modalities, students love to learn at Heritage.
    We help students foster new friendships and face new challenges with a positive and open approach. Children deserve an environment that is nurturing, and understanding each student's true potential is essential."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Our teachers and tutors are dedicated to making a difference in their students' lives. Working tirelessly to ensure the curriculum is delivered engagingly and that students progress in the areas that may have been difficult for them, our staff ensures that each student enjoys school and is part of the learning adventure each grade experiences. We follow the "Tribes" program and want all students to feel included and part of the Heritage family."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    ‘Fit’ is everything when choosing a school for your children or when selecting a place into which you want to pour your skills, character and energies. Here at QMS, we pride ourselves on a strong sense of community where everyone is an individual and meaningful relationships are the order of the day. Most people crave a sense of belonging and value connection so a school that works very hard to develop a meaningful culture can indeed be a place where strong attachments are formed.

    I encourage you to explore our programmes and approaches to learning both inside and outside of the classroom. If you take that step and visit us here on campus, you will feel the sense of community for yourself. As we approach our 100th birthday, we are proud of our Founders’ vision, yet, we are excited about the future with all of the opportunities that it presents. 

    QMS is vibrant and ready to keep developing these “young trailblazers” who will take the lessons learned here out into the world to great effect. That’s the joy and it all just seems to be a good ‘fit’ for so many people. 

    Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence, founded by Louise Brazeau-Ward, has come a long way since its inception. In the early 1980s, Louise (as she is known at the school) was a frustrated parent tired of watching her dyslexic son continually struggle in school. This compelled her to focus her time and energy towards dyslexia research in order to help her son and other children struggling with this learning exceptionality. Through her involvement in this issue, Louise became an internationally recognized expert in the field of dyslexia research and therapy. With the goal of providing an academic environment that met the unique needs of students with dyslexia and other learning exceptionalities,  Louise opened Heritage Academy in 1989.

    As Louise began to train new teachers, she recognized the necessity for a specialized system to support the development and strengthening of written language skills in dyslexic students. To meet this need, she developed the Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching method (SMT), a unique learning system available in both English and French. Since its introduction, teachers, students and parents alike have found this system to be a highly effective way of improving and enhancing reading, writing and spelling skills in dyslexic students. SMT is still taught at Heritage Academy, with the concepts being integrated into all aspects of the curriculum. SMT is also utilized in schools and homes throughout Canada and abroad.

    With Louise Ward’s retirement in 2006, Heritage Academy is now under the watchful eye of Cheryl Ward, Louise’s daughter. The school has grown larger, but remains true to its original purpose. We continue to specialize in supporting dyslexic students, and have expanded our expertise to provide additional comprehensive support to students with a variety of learning exceptionalities. By promoting the values of honesty, perseverance and respect, Heritage Academy fosters acceptance and growth amongst our students, and enables them to reach their full academic potential.

    Awareness of learning exceptionalities has been steadily increasing in recent years. Learning exceptionalities are being more readily diagnosed and progress is being made to lift the negative connotations traditionally associated with such exceptionalities.

    Recent research has concluded that dyslexia, ADHD and many other learning exceptionalities are not linked to levels of intelligence. Rather, this indicates that students who receive appropriate accommodations to support their learning challenges can still excel academically.  

    This is where Heritage Academy can help: We are an Ottawa-based school specializing in helping students with learning exceptionalities reach their highest academic potential. Unlike most schools, Heritage Academy offers small classes with no more than twelve students per teacher. We teach grades 1-12 and provide each student with a supportive learning environment and customized learning approach that best suits their individual learning needs.  Heritage Academy: Our methods work – come check us out! 

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Information not available

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      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.

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Students flourish in small classes where everyone has the opportunity to share ideas. QMS is the ideal size to reflect Canada’s many cultures while remaining an intimate community. We are large enough to offer an extensive educational program, yet small enough to ensure that each student is known and respected as an individual. As a university-preparatory school, academic rigor and personal excellence are our aims. Innovative and unique programs are offered to all students and support is provided to those students who need extra time to help build their confidence, self-esteem, knowledge and skills. We have developed a school culture where students can feel proud of their successes.

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      GRADES 1-8 Our program offers a rich curriculum stressing disciplined learning. Skill development is a major goal of a demanding academic program. All classes emphasize the need to write, speak and listen effectively. Some students entering these grades already have had a history of school failure because of reading, writing and math difficulties. GRADES 9-12 Our high school courses lead to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Courses offered by Heritage Academy have been developed according to the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training. CLASS SIZE Our average class size is 12 students, with 1 main teacher, 1 resource teacher, 1 behavioural interventionist, and 2 educational assistants on staff.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        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.

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        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.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Information not available

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We incorporate the big concepts, phonemic awareness and additional multi-sensory teaching approaches that are seen within the SMT program. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        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.

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        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

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Information not available

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

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

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Physics

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Expanding Communities


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Information not available

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

        Queen Margaret’s School offers exemplary curricular and co-curricular athletic and club programs that provide students with the opportunity for physical as well as academic development. The athletic program in the Junior School includes every student. There are many opportunities for involvement in sports. Building a strong athletic program, developing physically fit and motivated students and building team pride is a process that takes many years. Specific skill development must be sequential and must begin early. Therefore, we expect Intermediate students to participate on a team or in a sport at least twice each year. We also offer structured and unstructured opportunities for our primary students to get involved in athletics and team sports. In Senior School, physical education classes for all students combined with an integrated Outdoor Education program develop physical fitness and skills while enhancing sportsmanship and strengthening student self-esteem.

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Queen Margaret’s Early Childhood Education programs are designed for three and four year-old children. We offer nurturing and play-based programs enriched with a wide variety of age appropriate activities that promote social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional development.

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      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.

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      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

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Differentiated instruction based on student learning needs.

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      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”.

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      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

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

      Information not available

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

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

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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

  • 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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available


    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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Information not available

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

  • 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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    • Vancouver Island Wrestling Champions (Spring 2023)
    • Vancouver Island Senior Boys Soccer "A" Bronze Medalists (Fall 2022)
    • BC Provincial Wrestling Champion Boys 54kg (Spring 2023)
    • BC Provincial Wrestling Champion Girls 90kg (Spring 2022)
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    SK - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    25%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $3,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    75%

    Day entry years

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

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 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

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Our admissions process is very personalized. Members of our team look forward to meeting prospective families to determine if QMS is suited to them. We are looking for students who would benefit from our academic program, small enriched classes and specialist teachers. Student applications are assessed individually, taking into consideration past performance, teacher recommendations and students’ extra curricular interests.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    QUEEN MARGARET'S SCHOOL

    Please visit our Admissions page at qms.bc.ca/admissions/ for our current admissions criteria and fees.

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Late applicants may be accepted depending on available space. In this instance an individual pay schedule will be created on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us at 613-722-0133 with any questions regarding our admissions process. We also encourage you to visit Heritage Academy and see for yourself how our unique program works.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Eve Savory (1965)
    Legislative reporter CHQM Vancouver 1973-74; CBC Radio Ottawa 1975-76; regional parliamentary reporter CBOT Ottawa 1976-79; national TV reporter CBC-TV Saskatchewan/Alberta 1979-83; medicine/ science/technology reporter The National CBC Toronto/Vancouver 1983-abt.2000.
    Suzanne Anton (1974)
    Suzanne Anton, Q.C. (born 1952 or 1953) is a Canadian politician and the current Minister of Justice and Attorney General of British Columbia.
    Charles Hoey (1925)
    A Canadian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
    Rona Jean Murray (1941)
    A Canadian poet.
    Susanna Blunt (1958)
    A Canadian portrait artist who designed the most recent portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the current Canadian coinage, which began in 2003.
    Clio Smeeton (1959)
    Clio Smeeton is president of the Cochrane Ecological Institute (CEI). CEI is best known for initiating and implementing swift fox reintroduction in North America.
    Barbara Cole Walton (2005)
    Canadian soprano who was a recipient of numerous awards including the Governors’ Recital Prize in Singing (RCS). She is a professional & performs around the world.
    information not available

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