AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Rosseau Lake College vs. Webtree Academy

one-to-one comparison:

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  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    1967 Bright Street, Rosseau, Ontario, P0C 1J0, Canada

    250 Lesmill Road, North York, Ontario, M3B 2T5, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1967

    2016

    Enrolment

    135

    100

    Grades

    7 to 12

    9 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Boarding, Day

    Day, Homestay

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    15 to 18

    5 to 10

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $22,700 to $32,700

    $14,000 to $20,000

    Boarding Tuition

    $55,170 to $66,300

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    10%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    6 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $10,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    23

    25

    Percent in boarding

    67%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    85%

    90%

    Day entry years

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

    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 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    “It’s a small school in all the best ways: intimate, active, and personal. … In addition to mastering the core curriculum, students are asked to consider how they can serve their communities, and they are given ample opportunities to do just that.”

    “ … there isn’t a sense of being pushed from class to class, discipline to discipline, whenever the bell rings. Instead, there is time offered to get into a task and stay with it. The dissection of a frog, for example, might take a whole afternoon. This is a school that believes in the value of taking time, that learning is an experience to be savoured.”

    “It’s true that every school is unique, though that’s especially true here. In so many ways, it’s one of a kind, beginning with the integration of outdoor education into all aspects of student life.”
    Read The Our Kids Review of Rosseau Lake College

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Throughout its life, Rosseau Lake has forged its own path, its own tradition, which itself is a primary draw for students and faculty alike. It’s true that every school is unique, though that’s especially true here. In so many ways, it’s one of a kind, beginning with the integration of outdoor education into all aspects of student life. The Seven Generations program, too, is a model for others to follow. And on it goes. The students come because they want an education, yes, but also because they are looking for more. They want to be engaged, to find a place within a community of kindred spirits. They intend to go on to post-secondary studies, though they also understand that school should never be only a stepping stone to some future accomplishment. The school rightly prides itself on graduating students who have a strong sense of identity as learners, are able to describe who they are, and analyze the experiences they’ve had. And while many schools will say those kinds of things, Rosseau Lake can actually point to them. In addition to earning a degree, students leave having spent the equivalent of two months on outtrips. They’ll have paddled canoes, tied knots, and, for many, travelled the world. Despite the small size of the school and its location beyond urban centres, they will also have learned alongside others from diverse communities around the world and down the street. As alumni invariably say, they will have also gained a profound sense of community, having experienced how important they can be to a group, just as they’ve been lifted by it. Both Graham Vogt and Cheryl Bissonette noted to us that Rosseau Lake may not be “the school for everyone,” but, in many ways, perhaps it should be.

     
     

    View full report

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    While still a young school, founding principal, Henry Michels, brings a wealth of enthusiasm, insight, and decades-long experience to the program. Small class sizes are a draw, with less than 10 per, allowing for a very student-directed delivery, building from individual strengths, talents, and areas of interest. The school addresses itself to students operating at the top of their peer group, granting them the challenges and diversity of approach that can make the most of their gifts. The diversity of the student body—the homestay program attracts overseas students—adds to the experience, allowing for a range of perspective within classroom discussion.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "This is my first year here and I can tell you for sure, there is nothing like it."
    robi pardo - Student   (Feb 08, 2018)
    If you are looking for a school where teachers care about the students, and treat them like friends ... View full review

    "an incredible outdoors, future forward, and inclusive school"
    Christopher Gan - Student   (Feb 08, 2018)
    Rosseau Lake College is an incredible outdoors, future forward, and inclusive school. Personally I l... View full review

    "Teachers were fantastic, engaging"
    Barbara Barclay - Alumnus   (Feb 09, 2018)
    I attended RLC in the 90's, for grades 9-13 (OAC) and had a wonderful experience. The dorm experien... View full review

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    "The unique approach the school took when it came to course planning for my son caught my attention."
    Gilbert Tossa - Parent   (Jun 08, 2021)
    My son joined Webtree Academy during a challenging year, when we were at the middle of a pandemic, w... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "Rosseau Lake College is an independent co-ed day and boarding school established in 1967 in the heart of Muskoka, Ontario, a region dotted with pristine lakes and areas of hardwood forest. The lakefront campus provides the basis for an innovative academic program that immerses your child in powerful experiential learning that’s impossible to gain in traditional classroom settings. Our intentionally small school environment ensures meaningful relationships and a deep engagement in curricular and co-curricular life."

    • located within a stunning natural environment
    • small class sizes, allowing for individualized instruction and student support
    • opportunities for students to engage each day in outdoor activity
    • a global perspective through a diverse student population
    • a supportive environment where students feel valued, challenged, and empowered
    • member of the Round Square global network of schools.
    • member of the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards Program

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    "Webtree Academy is a private day school for Gr. 7-12 students, focusing on university preparation. Our institution employs an innovative, nurturing approach to education, tailored to each student's needs. By fostering creativity and individualized learning, we aim to cultivate responsible, engaged citizens, and future leaders. Recognizing the evolving landscape of technology, workplace demands, and multicultural societies, we strive to offer a diverse range of educational programs to meet the unique needs of every student."

    • Nurturing environment
    • Individualized methodologies tailored for the needs of each student
    • Low student to teacher ratio
    • University Preparation program - 100% university placement rate
    • Highly qualified Ontario Certified Teacher educators
    • High emphasis on academics - AP and STEM program options
    • Elite program (additional support) and Post Graduate program

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "Rosseau Lake College was established in 1967, the year of Canada’s Centennial. The founders were of course aware of that, and in a sense the creation of the school was a centennial project. In a letter announcing the appointment of R. H. Perry as headmaster the board wrote, “As Canada prepares to enter its second century, there is a pressing need to equip its future citizens socially, morally, and intellectually so that they may meet the challenges of ensuing decades with courage, intelligence and understanding.” The letter ends by saying that the school intends to “do its modest share to help young Canadians face the post-centennial years.” It’s important that the founders were thinking in that way—thinking to the future, and to the needs of the students in their ability to meet that future. Ever since, that kind of thinking has been what has guided the mission of the school."

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "For us, the ideal student is one who is willing to try something new and to be open to new discoveries. The academic program at RLC seeks to maximize a sense of personal discovery. It’s the difference between spotting an owl on a trail walk and seeing it at the zoo: the bird is impressive in both scenarios, but the experience is vastly different. We want our students to see the owl, not because we show it to them, but because they discover it for themselves. That’s metaphorically true–discovery and experience is at the heart of our academic delivery. It's also literally true–there really are trails, and students really do see owls. At the end of the day, we believe that outdoor education is uniquely able to deliver that sense of discovery. We also feel it delivers the skills that post-secondary programs and employers are looking for: problem solving, decision making, critical thinking, teamwork, observation, synthesis, and communication."

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "We have a lot that distinguishes us, the most obvious being that we're on a 56-acre property on the edge of a pristine lake in Muskoka. The region is home to some of the original Ontario summer resorts, and a nearby are the Windermere and the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka. Given the celebrities who have homes here, the New York Times has called Muskoka the “Malibu of the north,” (if thankfully quieter and more reserved than the Malibu of the south).

    That said, our greatest distinction within independent schooling in Canada—and many would argue our greatest advantage—is scale. When people talk about small schools, they’re typically thinking of enrolments of a few hundred. Today at 130 students, we’re the smallest independent school in Canada. That’s intentional. Our students benefit from being visible and known to all staff, peers, mentors, and parent volunteers. They feel part of a community that wants to see them succeed. Because of that, we believe that small is beautiful."

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    "I think one thing that families don't expect is that we're in a typical Muskoka village. Truly, the experience of the village of can be a pinch-me kind of moment. There’s a bakery, a post office; there’s a farmer’s market, people walking their dogs at dusk, children jumping off the municipal dock on a late spring day. The Rosseau General Store has been operating here since incorporation, and the creaking, worn wooden floors are a charming reminder of its age. (Celebrity sightings are common, too, particularly in the General Store, given the cottages in the area.) In history, and feel, and that sense of community and safety, the village of Rosseau is a unique and delightful aspect of where we are and who we are. True, the village isn't a factor in our academic program, but it's a very important aspect of the student experience. Ask alumni about their time at RLC, and you'll invariably hear about how wonderful it was to spend those years in a charming village by a lake in Muskoka."

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Information not available

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    “We are all one drum and we need each other”  – Richard Wagamese from One Drum

    Our incredible natural setting along with our small, cohesive community establishes a sense of home, belonging and immersion. We truly live, learn, and explore through authentic relationships.

    Nestled among the pines on a pristine 56-acre historic lakefront property in traditional Anishinaabeg territory, Rosseau Lake College offers a boarding and day school experience that is like no other in Canada.

    Students at Rosseau Lake College develop transferable dispositions that transcend time and place by understanding who they are and what they can achieve. 

    Our Discovery Projects represent our student centric beliefs. Students are able to express themselves, explore their passions, and demonstrate their curiosity and intellectual skills. 

    The Seven Generations and Rosseau Roots foundations are integrated into all we do along with our amazing Outdoor Learning. Students are immersed into academic pursuits that are integrated, meaningful and incorporate values, curiosity, our natural setting and relationships.

    Rosseau Lake College is unparalleled in our natural environment and small school size. We truly are connected to each other, our land, and our values. We have without a doubt an extraordinary school and experience that is a privilege to experience. 

    When students graduate from RLC they have developed the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on any challenge. They are ready for anything.


    “Being immersed in our majestic, close knit campus is an incredible privilege. We are unique, proud, and joyful. Students develop character, personal expression and meaningful relationships with the land, self and others. Learning transcends time and place so students develop an everlasting sense of belonging and an understanding of who they are and what they can achieve.”

    – Dave Krocker, Head of School

    DEAR STUDENTS, STAFF, AND PARENTS

    Education has been a lifelong passion and is the greatest gift, we give to our youth. It has the transformative power to change lives and continually redefine the limits of what can be achieved. As an educator with over 30 years experiences working with gifted, special needs, second language learners, I am convinced that all students can excel to reach their full potentials with provision of stimulating challenge, encouragement, and the targeted support.
    Therefore, at Webtree, we value every individual's uniqueness, recognize his /her strength and areas that need improvement, so as to personalize the academic path leads to each student's ultimate success.
    At Webtree., we aim to nurture our student with global version, a sense of citizenship, a critical mindset, in addition to their academic success. Webtree Academy. is the home away from home for our students; is a school where they will laugh and shine.

    WEBTREE PRINCIPAL: HENRY MICHELS

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Progressive

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      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

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Rosseau Lake College is a preparatory school that challenges and empowers each student individually through the rigours and adventures of a highly academic program; one that is intentionally rooted in the vast opportunities of nature and our incredible geographical setting. Our teachers are relentless in the maintenance of our kind, caring and supportive personalized learning community while continuously innovating practices and approaches that make us a leading outdoor-education, environmental, indigenous-knowledge-based and experiential school. Students graduate from Rosseau Lake College with a strong sense of self according to each of our six Rosseau Roots, and the knowledge and skills that will allow them to truly thrive in the next phase of life. Our mission is to connect students’ lives to the natural world, enriching their education, health, wellbeing and personal development with a focus on cross-curricular project based learning, diverse learning strategies, and building skills and competencies for the future. Nature is present in every aspect of the school’s operations and is central to, and deeply embedded in, the school’s culture.

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      At Webtree., we strive to provide our students with the necessary language, academic, and technological skills required for students to achieve their educational and personal goals as well as being successful in post-secondary studies. Additionally, we aim to assist our students to not only better immerse them into Canadian cultural and social environments but also to thrive in a competitive global environment.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Traditional Math


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

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

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        At the forefront of all subject areas in our Academic Program is building a love of subject through "real world" applications and experiences. At Rosseau Lake College we also work to explore the relevance and meaning of topics through the adventure of the outdoors and our natural, geographical setting. All of this is balanced by challenging and supporting our students with only the highest level of curriculum as offered through the Ontario Ministry of Education. Mathematics at Rosseau Lake College maintains an overall balanced approach of intentionally building a foundation of skills and knowledge while helping students to discover creative applications.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Our OCT Math teachers are qualified in Mathematics and some in Special Education, having the qualifications to manage student groups of varying needs including ESL accommodations, the sequentially-chunked curriculum at a pace that suits the individual student. Being that our mathematics credit courses are Academic and University-level, our focus is to achieve high standards of achievement in preparation for university entrance requirements.


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Ministry-approved textbooks along with learning materials from SOLARO.


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Calculators are permitted.

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Equal balance

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        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.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Inquiry

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Expository


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        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.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Our Science OCT teachers are qualified in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as well as Special Education. Our teachers are qualified to manage student groups of varying needs including ESL accommodations, the sequentially-chunked curriculum at a pace that suits the individual student. Being that our Science credit courses are Academic and University-level, our focus is to achieve high standards of achievement in preparation for university entrance requirements.


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

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

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Physics

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Our English OCT teachers are qualified to manage student groups of varying needs including ESL accommodations. The curriculum is offered at a pace that suits the individual student and is designed thematically. Being that our ENG credit courses are Academic and University-level, our focus is to achieve high standards of achievement in preparation for university entrance requirements. Our ESL program is comprehensive in building the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills for other language-oriented credit courses.


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Thematic

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        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.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Pragmatism

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        To study History, Economics and Philosophy is to embark on a voyage of discovery, to seek in many ways to advance beyond the limitations and preoccupations of the present. Only by exploring the human experience in the past can we see how and why society changes and develop a sense of perspective on where we are heading in the 21st century.

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        At Webtree, we offer Mandarin as an international language credit course.


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Creative

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        At Webtree, we offer visual arts, dramatic arts & music (keyboard & guitar) to enrich our academically-focussed students.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Medium integration

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Light integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

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

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Information not available

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        At Webtree, students are allowed to use personal laptops to complete homework or assignments such as writing essays, constructing Power Point slides for presentation. Our science teachers sometimes use Virtual Labs on computers to demonstrate physics or chemistry experiments in assisting teaching and learning.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

        Rosseau Lake College offers an active outdoors education program which makes great use of our 56 acre campus with over 3000 feet of shoreline on beautiful Lake Rosseau in Muskoka, Ontario, Canada. Climbing, paddling, hiking, camping, and outdoor pursuits and skills are developed in each grade (7 - 12).

        WEBTREE ACADEMY

        We utilize the soccer field and rented space for physical education credit courses and the afterschool sports program.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Standard-enriched

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      Accelerated


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      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).


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      At Webtree, credit courses can be completed in 10-week blocks in small-sized groups (ranging from 1-6 students per OCT teacher). Teachers are sensitive to differentiated instruction including multiple intelligences.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      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.

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      In addition to teaching academic credit courses, we offer specialized learning programs for our students entering into DECA competitions and Waterloo Math Contests. For our International students we offer intensive, personalized support toward accomplishing their post-secondary goals into reputable universities and colleges in Canada, USA and abroad. We offer summer camps for our students to explore different cultural areas of Toronto. We have OCT teachers giving extra hours to tutoring students within our school and other students from leading Preparatory schools.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

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

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

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

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

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

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

      Information not available

      WEBTREE ACADEMY

      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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    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

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    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

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    • Duke of Edinburgh's Award Program. A balanced, non-competitive program that encourages personal discovery and growth, self-reliance, perseverance, and responsibility to self and community.
    • Fall outtrips are a long-standing tradition at Rosseau Lake College. Each grade is assigned a five-day expedition in a remote area of Ontario, where students and teachers participate in activities like canoeing, sea kayaking, hiking and survival skills. Past destinations have included Killarney Provincial Park, Georgian Bay, and Temagami.
    • The House Cup is a popular fixture among students, giving plenty of opportunity to engage in fun activities while enjoying some healthy and friendly competition.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    6 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    10%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $10,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    85%

    90%

    Day entry years

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

    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 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes

    Entrance essay required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Rosseau Lake College is looking for students who are well-rounded individuals and those who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service, extracurricular involvement.. and those who love being in the outdoors.

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    We are looking for well rounded applicants. Who is committed to work towards his/her goal.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ROSSEAU LAKE COLLEGE

    Step 1. The Paperwork

    Application Form, Teacher Reference Form, Academic Records from previous two years, and a non-refundable application fee of $200 CDN for Canadian students / $330 CDN for International students.

    Step 2. The Interview

    Once the paperwork is received and evaluated we schedule an interview. This can be done via video conference (zoom).

    Step 3. The Entrance Test

    Every applicant must complete an entrance test. The test is used to assess the student's fluency in math, their English comprehension and writing ability.

    WEBTREE ACADEMY

    Completed Application Form with Signature

    Report Card from Previous School

    Copy of Identification

    Application Fee - $250 CDN

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Jonathan Alderson (1987)
    Jonathan is a Sorbonne and Harvard university graduate. Jonathan is an autism treatment specialist, educational consultant , trainer and lecturer. He founded his company, Intensive Multi-Treatment Intervention.
    David Straiton (1983)
    Freelance film director and producer, currently living in Beverly Hills. His productions include episodes of popular shows on American television, such as House, Hemlock Grove, and Star Trek: Enterprise.
    Katie Tsuyuki (2001)
    Athlete, consultant, and motivational speaker. Named to Canadian Olympic Snowboard Team in Sochi 2014 and Pyeongchang 2018.
    Waubgeshing Rice (1997)
    Waubgeshig Rice is an Anishinaabe writer and journalist from the Wasauksing First Nation near Parry Sound, Ontario. Waub has published four books and won several awards for his writing.
    information not available

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