AN OUR KIDS REPORT:St. Andrew's College vs. Columbia International College

one-to-one comparison:

View St. Andrew's College's full report
VS.
View Columbia International College's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    15800 Yonge Street, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 3H7, Canada

    1003 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4P3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1899

    1979

    Enrolment

    831

    1700

    Grades

    5 to 12

    9 to 12

    Gender

    Boys, Girls

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, Boarding

    Day, Boarding

    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.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    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.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    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”.
    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

    17

    12 to 22

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $41,440

    Boarding Tuition

    $69,595 to $77,070

    $3,000

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    26%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    5 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $11,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    104

    425

    Percent in boarding

    31%

    100%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    62%

    86%

    Day entry years

    5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

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

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 5 - 11

    No

    SSAT required

    Yes: grades 9 - 11

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    While some schools pride themselves on being small, Columbia finds its strength in being large—with a student population in excess of 1800, it is easily the largest boarding school in Canada. What Columbia might lack in intimacy it gains in the ability to provide a wealth of supports and programs that smaller schools simply can't. The school maintains extensive liaison offices, a dedicated guidance staff, and even its own medical clinic. The faculty, through size and experience, is remarkably adept at providing a quality, well-rounded education with an eye to success in postsecondary education. The school provides ESL to students who need it, and liaises directly with universities in Canada and beyond in order to facilitate the transition to postsecondary education. In all, the school excels at doing what it was created to do: to support the university-bound international learner who is living away from home within a culture, and at times a language, that is unfamiliar.
    Read The Our Kids Review of Columbia International College

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    The program at St. Andrew’s has long been distinguished by a high rate of success, with the list of notable alums providing an abbreviated who’s who of Canadian arts, leaders, politics, and entrepreneurship. While Dr. Bruce Macdonald left the headmastership in 1935, the culture of the school, even today, remains very much an expression of his vision. This is in part due to the fact that, in a lot of ways, he was well ahead of his time. For example, he was the first boys-school headmaster in Canada to hire a female instructor, something he did in 1905. Macdonald wanted the school to develop “the complete man, the well-rounded citizen”—athletics and arts, in addition to academics, were vigorously promoted. What’s interesting is that, even with those sorts of progressive ideals, Macdonald was also keen on tradition, which gave students a sense of being part of something bigger than themselves. While there are a few schools that retain their cadet corps, St. Andrew’s is the one that has retained it entirely intact, with military ranks, pipes and drums, kilts, and sporrans all firmly still in place. St. Andrew's completed a substantial capital campaign in 2015 that included the creation of athletics facilities as well as the Wirth Theatre. All of that, as well as all the development over the century of the school’s life, has created a school that is strikingly modern while retaining a sense of participation in tradition. It’s a nice mix. The ideal student is one given to making the most of the varied programs on offer.

    View full report

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    While some schools pride themselves on being small, Columbia finds its strength in being large—with a student population in excess of 1800, it is easily the largest boarding school in Canada. What Columbia might lack in intimacy it gains in the ability to provide a wealth of supports and programs that smaller schools simply can't. The school maintains extensive liaison offices, a dedicated guidance staff, and even its own medical clinic. The faculty, through size and experience, is remarkably adept at providing a quality, well-rounded education with an eye to success in postsecondary education. The school provides ESL to students who need it, and liaises directly with universities in Canada and beyond in order to facilitate the transition to postsecondary education. In all, the school excels at doing what it was created to do: to support the university-bound international learner who is living away from home within a culture, and at times a language, that is unfamiliar.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    "SAC offers a rigorous curriculum in an activity-based environment. SAC’s mission to ‘develop the complete man, the well-rounded citizen,’ is complemented by a range of co-curriculars. Boys participate in extensive athletics (72 teams across 22 sports), and in its internationally acclaimed arts, drama, robotics, and music programs. Graduates gain entry to top Canadian, U.S., and international universities, and are known for their strong values, dedication to community, lasting achievements, and lifelong friendships."

    • Founded in 1899
    • Excellent university placement record
    • $42M in new facilities & renovations over the past two years
    • 72 rep. teams across 22 sports
    • Strong arts, music, & drama programs
    • Business, leadership, & robotics programs
    • Financial aid & scholarships available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    "Columbia International College is Canada’s largest private boarding school, offering Grades 9 to 12 programs. Our Total Care Education System® ensures that every student’s academic, social, emotional and physical needs are tended to. We are #1 in offers of admission from the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo and McMaster University. We are also #1 in scholarships awarded by universities. We offer the only official University of Toronto partnership program - the Elite Pathway Partnership Program."

    • Canada's largest boarding school
    • Total Care Education System® - Total Learning, Total Living, Total Development, Total Communication
    • Offers Grade 9-12 , ESL, and Summer Camp, Short-term/Exchange programs
    • Offer the only official University of Toronto partnership program - the Elite Pathway
    • Leadership programming and The Duke of Edinburgh award ( Bronze, Silver and Gold)
    • University Partners® provide exclusive scholarships to graduates
    • University of Toronto's official Global Partner School
    • # 1 in university admissions and scholarships among all high schools in Canada
    • Separate residences for boys and girls with door-to-door school bus transportation
    • Official Test Centre for IELTS

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Parents and students have the luxury of choice in selecting an independent school. As you investigate the options for your son, we believe you will come to view St. Andrew’s College as a truly unique place. With a tradition dating back to 1899, we remain the single largest all-boys boarding school in Canada. The many defining features of SAC provide a comprehensive and fulfilling educational experience.

    We offer a broad range of academic courses to satisfy the most curious minds. In an all-boys’ academic setting, teaching and learning styles are geared specifically toward how young men learn best. From our Middle School (grades 5-8) through Upper School (grades 9-12), our curriculum challenges each boy to reach his potential. We are proud of our 100% university placement from each graduating class. With more than 6,000 active alumni spanning the globe, SAC graduates benefit from worldwide connections.

    Our athletic, art, and co-curricular programs are among the most varied and comprehensive of any independent school in Canada and inspire our students to discover their passion by tackling new challenges. With a school population of approximately 651 students, comprised of 393 day and 258 boarding students, our boys learn to live in a multi-cultural setting, gaining a global perspective on world issues and viewpoints.

    Our 126-acre campus provides an ideal setting for learning and growth. While our facilities are exceptional, St. Andrew's primary strength is its people. Faculty, staff, and students combine to make SAC a wonderful place to spend one’s formative years preparing for university.

    To learn more about how your son can gain admission to SAC and better understand why our school mission statement is The development of the complete man, the well-rounded citizen, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.

    Welcome!

    As Principal of Columbia International College, my belief is that in order for your children to be successful as international students, they need to be cared for as if they were at home with you. All my teachers and staff share the same belief.

    The need for students to learn in an environment where they are well supported is the chief concern that thousands upon thousands of parents have shared with us over the years. From its beginning in 1979, CIC was built to address this concern. We wanted to make sure that every international student could study in a fully supported environment of caring: academically, socially, emotionally and physically.

    We created an approach that would do just that – look after the whole child around the clock. We call it the Total Care Education System®. It’s a study environment where the academic program, the staff and the facilities are fully integrated as one – all geared towards helping students achieve success and give parents peace of mind.

    After almost 40 years, we are proud of how well our Total Care approach works. Our students are most successful in getting admitted to some of the world’s best universities and receiving admission scholarships. Our consistent, proven track record has gained the confidence among parents from over 100 countries.

    But most important to me, it’s how the students have achieved success: in a supportive environment, one where they can study in health, safety and happiness and where their parents can be fully confident that they are being cared for.

    Columbia International College can make the difference in how your child can go higher with their future: positively building their character and helping them to be responsible, global citizens. Through our brochure and website, you can learn more about how Total Care Education System provides peace of mind for parents and fosters success for students.

    If you have any questions about our approach, please reach out to me personally at [email protected].

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Information not available

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      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.

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      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

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Over 100 years of experience teaching boys has shown us that our students benefit when teachers prioritize organization, support active engagement with the topic at hand, and empower boys to work toward authenticity. Teachers at St. Andrew's design their courses to reflect both the Ministry of Education's curriculum and our beliefs that all students need to work in a collaborative environment where critical thinking is expected and a growth mindset is fostered. Our overarching mission statement suggests that being well-rounded is at the heart of the St. Andrew’s classroom experience, and boys are encouraged to seek breadth in their course selection. Advanced Placement courses are offered for those boys who seek to accelerate their learning in a particular field of study. Most importantly, we know that how a boy feels about his teacher has a direct impact on his capacity to learn; the positive rapport between students and teachers is tangible in the hallways, classrooms, and on the playing fields at SAC.

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      CIC offers a wide variety of courses to enable students to meet the admission requirements for their desired university programs. https://www.cic-totalcare.com/total-care-education/total-care-learning/courses/ CIC has a Traditional approach to Curriculum. 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.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Traditional Math


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        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.

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

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


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Information not available

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Information not available

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Information not available

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        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.

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        The Science department strives to develop lifelong learners who are interested in understanding the world around them, are capable of generating their own questions, and have the skill set to find their own answers. Our courses are geared toward utilization and application of knowledge vs. acquisition of knowledge. To achieve this we include numerous inquiry-based labs (approximately 350 experiments across nine course offerings and 30 class sections), collaborative problem solving activities, critical thinking exercises, and student driven learning. All of our courses make an effort to contextualize the curriculum to make it relevant and meaningful to the students. We do this purposefully; we want to encourage our students to develop a natural curiosity in the sciences so they themselves strive for greater knowledge rather than having them feel that they just have to meet the basic curricular objectives of the course.

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

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

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Physics

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Core Knowledge


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Information not available

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

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


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Information not available

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ST. ANDREW'S 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.

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL 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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Information not available

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      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”.

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      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

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

      Information not available

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

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

      COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

      "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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    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

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    Information not available

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    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

    ST. ANDREW'S 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

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL 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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    • SAC's Arts/Co-curricular Plus Program (ACPlus) is an after-school option for Upper School students to pursue their passions.

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    • We run multiple varsity teams, including basket ball, soccer, badminton, table tennis, and dance.
    • 90+ clubs and extracurricular activities for students
    • School Club Fair is held twice a year where students can learn more about, and register for, extracurricular activities.
    • We have a very robust and highly competitive intramural program(Basket ball, soccer, badminton, and table tennis).
    • We have a competitive Model United Nation team, competes internationally.
    • Every student completes leadership training in our tiered leadership program.
    • We provide the opportunity for students to participate in all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Program. We offer weekly community service opportunities for our students to meaningfully give back to out local community. We provide options for students to fulfill all aspects of the Award, including the Adventure Journey.
    • We offer a dynamic weekend program with a variety of trips and activities.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    5 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    26%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $11,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    62%

    86%

    Day entry years

    5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

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

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 5 - 11

    No

    SSAT required

    Yes: grades 9 - 11

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    Yes: grades 9 - 11

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 5 - 11

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    We look for well-rounded students with solid academics, character, participation in athletics and co-curricular activities, and leadership qualities.

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Students who are pursuing OSSD and post-secondary education.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE

    - Complete Online Application ($175 fee, payable online)
    - Register for an SSAT or CAT (Upper School vs. Middle School)
    - Submit Candidate Statement
    - Submit applicable Certificates and Awards
    - Submit applicable English Proficiency Exams (if necessary)
    - Submit two years of school reports (including most recent)
    - Have teacher submit the Confidential School Recommendation Form
    - Book Interview with Admission Officer

    COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

    Students are asked to submit their transcripts from their previous school with their application form.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Lawren Harris (1903)
    Pioneering Canadian artist and Group of Seven painter. Companion of the Order of Canada.
    Kiefer Sutherland (1984)
    Emmy award and Golden Globe award winning actor, best know for his role as Jack Bauer on the hit show "24".
    Anthony S. Fell (1958)
    Chairman of RBC Capital Markets. CEO of RBC Dominion Securities Limited. Officer of the Order of Canada
    Rob McEwen (1968)
    Chairman and CEO of McEwen Mining Inc. Chairman of Lexam VG Gold Inc. Founder, Chairman and CEO of Goldcorp Inc.
    Graham Towers (1915)
    First Governor of the Bank of Canada. Governor for Canada at the IMF. Chairman of the National War Finance Committee. Order of Canada.
    Charles S.L. Hertzberg (1901)
    Major General, Chief Engineer of the First Canadian Army, and commander of the Canadian Engineering Corps during the Second World War. Prominent structural engineer with many works
    H.F.H. Hertzberg (1904)
    Major General and Commandant of Royal Military College (RMC) during the Second World War. Quartermaster General and Adjutant General. Companion of the Order of Bath.
    John Crosbie (1949)
    12th Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador. Federal Minister of: Fisheries and Oceans, International Trade, Transport, Justice, and Finance.
    Vincent Massey (1905)
    18th Governor General of Canada
    John Alexander Douglas McCurdy (1904)
    20th Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia and Canadian aviation pioneer.
    View all

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Roger Tong (1981)
    Roger Tong is AsiaSat’s Chief Executive Officer. Roger has over 30 yearsʼ experience in the satellite and telecommunications industry.
    Ken Seng Tan (1988)
    Dr. Ken Seng Tan is a prominent figure in the world of Actuarial Sciences, professor at the University of Waterloo and member of Canada’s Research Chair in Quantitative Risk Management.
    Sasha-Kay Gilzean (2002)
    Sasha-Kay is a member of the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, the Bar Council (UK), the Jamaican Bar Association and the Law Society of Ontario.
    You Ming Tan (2007)
    You Ming Tan (谭佑铭) is a successful creative singer songwriter in China. In 2010, he won the 4th place in China’s Super Boy Singing Competition, a popular reality TV talent show in China.

Compare:

ST. ANDREW'S COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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