Branksome Hall

About Branksome Hall

Each day at Branksome Hall, we challenge and inspire girls to love learning and to shape a better world. Established in 1903, Branksome Hall is Toronto’s only all-girls, all-years International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Our liberal arts education creates independent thinkers, strong writers and skilled communicators. Located on a beautiful, 13-acre, downtown campus with state-of-the-art facilities, Branksome offers our students an outstanding academic program, with opportunities to learn, first-hand, about international mindedness and well-being. From the earliest grades, students learn to become leaders and to understand the value of serving the community. Our graduates are welcomed by the leading universities in Canada and around the world, most with scholarships. Discover Branksome Hall’s remarkable programs and campus at www.branksome.on.ca.

13-acre downtown campus
Athletics and Wellness Centre
IB programs: JK to Grade 12
Leadership opportunities
Tennis courts and playing fields
Laptop program
International student exchanges
ESL and international languages
Scholarships and financial aid
Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) opportunities

Our Take: Branksome Hall

Clans and tartans, prefects and polo shirts—the initial gestalt is very traditional. Some of the buildings on campus are heritage buildings, which adds to the luster, though they pre-date the founding of the school. Still, the spirit of the school is strikingly modern. The IB program starts early, as does the view to globalism. Branksome has a sister campus in South Korea, offering a hint of the dedication to an international gaze. Lists of notable alumni don't always reflect the work of the school—princes, for example, appear on those lists no matter what they achieve at school or afterward—though Branksome might prove the exception, in part because of the consistency of the achievement it demonstrates. Arts, letters, philanthropy, and leadership are all well represented in the list of notable alumni, just as they are within the school itself. Branksome Hall sets its sights very high, to be sure, and the ideal student is one who shares the core vision and is able to function in a very diverse, challenging, expansive environment.

13-acre downtown campus
Athletics and Wellness Centre
IB programs: JK to Grade 12
Leadership opportunities
Tennis courts and playing fields
Laptop program
International student exchanges
ESL and international languages
Scholarships and financial aid
Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) opportunities

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Location

10 Elm Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 1N4

Gallery

School Life Gallery

Gallery showcasing school life and general photos of Branksome Hall.

Promotional video for Branksome Hall.

Academics

Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

Curriculum: Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
- Mathematics: Traditional Math
- Early Reading:
- Writing:
- Science:
- Literature:
- Social Studies :
- Humanities and Social Sciences :
- Foreign Languages:
- Fine Arts: Equal Balance
- Computers and Technology: Heavy integration
- Physical Education:
- IB Diploma courses:
- Advanced Placement courses :
- Sex and health education: Ontario curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum: Play-based
Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
Academic Culture: Rigorous
Developmental priorities: Intellectual
Special needs support: Withdrawal Assistance
Gifted learner support: No Support
Language: English

Curriculum Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
[Show definition of Curriculum]

Central to your child's school experience is the underlying curriculum taught in the classroom. "Curriculum" refers to both what is taught and how it's taught. When considering the different curricula outlined in the next few pages, keep in mind that few schools fall neatly into one category or another. Most schools' curricula comprise a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. Having said that, most schools do have a general overall curriculum type. These are identified for each school on OurKids.net.

Curriculum approach at Branksome Hall: Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
Branksome Hall has a Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate?]
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.

Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

Liberal arts - 16%
Traditional - 43%
Progressive - 25%
Montessori - 15%
Reggio Emilia - 0%
Waldorf - 1%

Branksome Hall has a International Baccalaureate approach to secondary curriculum.

Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.

What Branksome Hall says: Branksome Hall is a fully authorized three program IB World School, offering a liberal arts program that is designed to ignite a spark in each student. Our unique blend of wellness, outstanding academics and global engagement opportunities ensures we integrate 21st century learning into our students’ daily lives. We are committed to helping each student reach her full potential as she explores her own interests, builds positive relationships, and learns to understand the world around her. Beyond the classroom, our students participate in various clubs, athletics teams, leadership opportunities and service learning experiences.\n

International Baccalaureate offered:

Program offered
Primary Years
Middle Years
Diploma program
Career-related program

Approach:

Focus

Academic
Pedagogies and subject courses:

Mathematics Traditional Math

Mathematics approach at Branksome Hall: Traditional Math
Branksome Hall has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math , Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]
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.

Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

Traditional math - 26%
Discovery math - 7%
Equal balance - 67%

What Branksome Hall says: The Mathematics program at Branksome provides opportunities for university-bound students to develop a strong understanding of mathematics; practise strategies for applying knowledge and skills to solve complex problems in both real-life and abstract situations; communicate reasoning using mathematical conventions and terminology; and become proficient in using graphing calculators and relevant computer software. Students will learn new mathematical concepts and skills through class discussion, group work and individual practice. In all grades, students will be encouraged to develop specific study strategies that can promote academic success here at Branksome and later at university.

Textbooks and supplementary materials: This information is not currently available.

Calculator policy: This information is not currently available.

Early Reading

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Writing

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Science

Teaching approach: This information is not currently available.

Topics covered in curriculum:

Subject offered
Biology
Chemistry
Ecology
Geology
Meteorology
Physics
Physiology
Zoology

Treatment of evolution:

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

Literature

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Social Studies

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Humanities and Social Sciences

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Foreign Languages

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Fine Arts Equal Balance

Fine Arts approach at Branksome Hall: Equal Balance
Branksome Hall has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

Equal balance - 60%
Receptive - 1%
Creative - 39%

Program offers:

Subject offered
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts

Visual studio philosophy:

Expressive
Disciplined

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Computers and Technology Heavy integration

Computers and Technology approach at Branksome Hall: Heavy integration
Branksome Hall has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration , Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]
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.

Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

Heavy integration - 30%
Light integration - 23%
Medium integration - 47%

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Program covers:

Subject offered
Computer science
Robotics
Web design

Physical Education

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

IB Diploma courses

Group 1 (Language A)
English Literature SL
English Literature HL

Group 2 (Language B)
French SL
French HL
Spanish SL
Spanish HL
Spanish ab initio SL

Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)
Economics SL
Economics HL
Geography SL
Geography HL
History SL
History HL

Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
Chemistry SL
Chemistry HL
Biology SL
Biology HL
Physics SL
Physics HL
Environmental Systems SL
Sports, Exercise and Health Science SL

Group 5 (Mathematics)
Mathematical Studies SL
Mathematics SL
Mathematics HL

Group 6 (The Arts)
Music SL
Music HL
Theatre SL
Theatre HL
Visual Arts SL
Visual Arts HL
Film SL
Film HL

Advanced Placement courses

This information is not currently available.

Sex and health education Ontario curriculum

Sex and health education approach at Branksome Hall: Ontario curriculum
Branksome Hall has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]
The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

Follows provincial curriculum - 54%
Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 46%

Approach to sex and health education:
Branksome Hall has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).
[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]
By and large, students are taught about sex free of any particular moral or ethical standpoint. The school doesn't impose any particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) on students when teaching sex and related issues.

Branksome Hall's approach to sex-ed: The goal of our curriculum is to encourage respectful and open-minded conversation. Our approach is to equip our students with the information they need to make well-informed decisions based on their own personal experiences, values and beliefs.
Jump to:

Mathematics

Early Reading

Writing

Science

Literature

Social Studies

Humanities and Social Sciences

Foreign Languages

Fine Arts

Computers and Technology

Physical Education

IB Diploma courses

Advanced Placement courses

Sex and health education
Preschool/K Curriculum Play-based

[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]

Preschools and kindergartens tend to have a particular curriculum or curricular approach. This refers to what is taught and how it's taught. Most preschools have a curriculum that comprises a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. A preschool's curriculum may or may not, though, reflect its higher-level curriculum (if it's part of a school with elementary or secondary programs)

Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Branksome Hall: Play-based
Branksome Hall has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Play-based?]
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

Play-based - 18%
Montessori - 31%
Waldorf - 2%
Reggio emilia - 5%
Academic - 44%

What Branksome Hall says: The Junior School sparks a joy and interest in learning that will stay with a student for life. Caring teachers stimulate natural curiosity. Small classes allow for the personal attention that helps a young girl thrive and develop her self-esteem. Students follow a curriculum that provides a solid grounding in basic skills and promotes good study habits. From the earliest age, girls learn to express themselves as competent communicators and to develop self reliance. Students learn through inquiry-based instruction within a variety of subject disciplines, including English and French, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, and Physical Education.

Program	offered
Primary Years
Middle Years
Diploma program
Career-related program

Focus
Academic

Subject	offered
Biology
Chemistry
Ecology
Geology
Meteorology
Physics
Physiology
Zoology

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

Subject	offered
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts

Subject	offered
Computer science
Robotics
Web design

Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched

[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]

This refers to the rate at which students move through the curriculum (e.g., topics, textbook material, skills, etc.). Curriculum pace is often defined in comparison to provincial standards.

Curriculum Pace approach at Branksome Hall: Standard-enriched

Branksome Hall has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

[Show: About 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.

Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

Standard-enriched - 57%
Accelerated - 16%
Student-paced - 27%

What Branksome Hall says: We offer all three International Baccalaureate (IB) programs: PYP (Primary Years Program) for JK to Grade 6, MYP (Middle Years Program) for Grades 7 to 10 and the DP (Diploma Program) for Grades 11 & 12.

Flexible pacing style

Flexible pacing style	offered
Subject-streaming (tracking)
Multi-age classrooms as standard
Ability-grouping (in-class) as common
Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace)
Regular guided independent study opportunities
Differentiated assessment

What Branksome Hall says about flexible pacing: This information is not currently available.

Academic Culture Rigorous

[Show definition of Academic Culture]

Through the collective mindset of teachers, administrators, students, and parents, each school develops and maintains its own academic culture. This generally relates to the norms and expectations created around academic performance. Many parents look to private schools because they want a specific type of culture. Some want a rigorous environment that will elevate their child to new heights. Others want a nurturing environment that will help their child develop a passion for learning.

Academic Culture approach at Branksome Hall: Rigorous
Branksome Hall has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About 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”.

Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

Rigorous - 46%
Supportive - 54%

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities Intellectual

[Show definition of Developmental priorities]

Schools have specific goals regarding how they want their educate and develop their students. This is part of a school's overall philosophy or vision, which is contained in its mission statement. While they tend have several developmental aims, schools tend to priortize certain aims, such as intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, or physical development.

Primary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

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

Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced

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

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Special needs support Withdrawal Assistance

[Show definition of Special needs support]

Schools offer a wide range of approaches and services to support students with special needs. This may include individualized learning, one-on-one support, small classes, resource rooms, and learning aids. These supports may be provided in a number of different environments such as a dedicated special needs school or class, an integrated class, a withdrawal class, or a regular class with resource support or in-class adaptations.

Branksome Hall offers Withdrawal Assistance

Students remain in a regular classroom for most of the day, but are pulled out for extra support from a qualified special education teacher.

What Branksome Hall says about their special need support: Branksome Hall follows an inclusion and Learning Diversity Policy where every student is the responsibility of every classroom teacher and where our teachers take ownership of the special learning needes of students in their classroom and differentiate their instruction to meet those needs.

Academic Support:

Subject Ttype	offered
Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD:

Subject Ttype	offered
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support

Summary: As Branksome Hall is an independent school with a rigorous admissions process, our students with identified learning needs are generally high-functioning students. They have formal, individual, written plans based on a psycho-educational assessment, medical documentation or social emotional documentation. Provincial funding is not available for our Learning Strategies program. For this reason, Branksome is unable to support students whose learning needs exceed the inclusive classroom.

A - Forms of Support

Accommodation:

Modification:

Remediation:

B - Environments

Indirect Support:

Resource Assistance:

Withdrawal Assistance:

Partial Integration:

Full-Time Class:

Special NeedNeed

Forms of SupportA

EnvironmentsB

ADHD

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.
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.

Read our guide to special needs schools and special education

Gifted learner support No Support

[Show definition of Gifted learner support]

Schools support students with gifted or advanced learning abilities in a several ways. Whether they offer a full-time gifted program or part-time support, they normally provide some form of accelerated learning (delivering content at a faster pace) or enrichment (covering content more broadly or deeply). Many schools also offer a wide range of in-class adaptations to support advanced learners, such as guided independent studies, project-based learning, and career exploration.

Dedicated gifted programs:

Program	offered
Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school)
Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class)

Curriculum delivery: This information is not currently available.

In-class adaptations:

Program	offered
Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement)
Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement)
Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement)
Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement)
Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others)
Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement)
Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement)
Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement)
Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement)

What Branksome Hall says: This information is not currently available.

Language English

Branksome Hall offers English as the primary language of instruction.

Language of enrollment include: English

Extracurriculars

[Show definition of Extracurriculars]

While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.

What Branksome Hall says:

Branksome Hall's rowing and debating programs are world-ranked. We are the reigning Canadian champions for both rowing and debating.

Sports Offered	CompetitiveComp	RecreationalRec
Badminton
Baseball
Basketball
Downhill skiing
Fencing
Field Hockey
Football
Golf
Ice Hockey
Ice Skating
Lacrosse
Rowing
Rugby
Running
Soccer
Softball
Squash
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
Volleyball
Weightlifting

Clubs Offered
Foreign Language Club
Jazz Ensemble
Math Club
Musical theatre/Opera
Outdoor Club
Outdoor Education
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Robotics club
School newspaper
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Yoga
Animation
Art Club
Astronomy Club
Audiovisual Club
Band
Chess Club
Choir
Community Service
Computer Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club

Tuition & Financial Aid

[Show definition of Tuition & Financial Aid]

This can depend on a number of factors, including the type of school, living arrangements, what’s included in tuition, school location, resources, and facilities. Many private schools in Canada have tuition that ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 a year. While some schools, such as schools which provide room and board, can be more expensive, many of these schools provide ways to defray the costs of tuition. For instance, they may offer merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial aid (often referred to as “bursaries” or “subsidies”).

Day Boarding

	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
Day	$29,590												$31,840
Boarding									$54,605				$56,855

What Branksome Hall says about their tuition: This information is not currently available.

Need-based financial aid

Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	7 to 12
Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	5%
Average aid package size	$15,000
Percentage of total enrollment on financial aid	5%
Total aid available	$750,000

Application Deadline:

December 04, 2015 Repeats annually

More information:

http://www.branksome.on.ca/admissions/Pages/financialaidscholarships/Financial-Support.aspx

Application Details:

This school works with Apple Financial Inc. for processing financial applications
Families must apply online to Apple Financial: https://applefinancialservices.ca/home/ as well as complete the Branksome Hall admissions process (online application, tour, interview and student assessment).

Merit based Scholarships

Branksome Hall Merit-Based Entrance Scholarships Amount: $12,500	Academic Deadline: 12/04/2015
Eligibility Details: Students grade 7 to 11— Merit scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated excellence in academics and co-curricular experiences. Merit scholarships range from $1,000 to $12,500 for day and residence students entering Grade 7 to 11. Applicants participate in the scholarship process of a written essay and presentation.
Application Details: To more details on our Entrance Merit Scholarships, please contact the admissions office: [email protected]
For more details, visit: www.branksome.on.ca/admissions/Pages/financialaidscholarships/Financial-Support.aspx

Branksome Hall Meghji Scholarship Amount: 100%	Other Deadline: 12/04/2015
Eligibility Details: Students grade 9 to 12— The Meghji Scholarship provides full tuition for an exceptionally promising new student entering Grades 9, 10 or 11 in Branksome Hall's day program who might not otherwise have the means to attend Branksome Hall. It also covers applicable IB fees and assists with the purchase of books and additional school expenses, such as school laptop and co-curricular fees. The Scholarship Committee will review applications from qualifying students with the following characteristics and achievements: High academic achievement, interest in learning, and the ability to articulate future academic goals Broad interests outside the classroom, including ongoing commitment to one or more of the arts, athletics and service learning, as well as participation in school or community leadership Branksome Hall is looking for applicants who have demonstrated the qualities of leadership, adaptability, perseverance and integrity. Financial need. Families must apply and qualify for financial assistance. Interested families need to complete the Financial Aid for Canadian Students' (FACS) Form, which is done through Apple Financial Services
Application Details: Submit a brief letter of interest by email to Kimberly Carter, Director of Enrolment Management at Branksome Hall Online admissions application to Branksome Hall (Apply now) Online application to Apple Financial Services Completion of an admissions interview at Branksome Hall (November 2015 – February 2016) Admissions assessment (either SSAT or The Branksome Hall English and Math entrance tests by February 2016) Submit two reference letters from adults who have worked with the applicant and can speak to her strengths and character by January 30, 2016. Written Task: Applicants are asked to send a letter to the Branksome Hall Scholarship Committee by January 30, 2016 that states: a. Why the applicant feels she would be an excellent Meghji Scholarship recipient b. Her academic achievements c. Her co-curricular and service achievements d. Evidence of leadership, collaboration and teamwork Final Presentation Task: Finalist applicants will be invited to participate in an oral presentation to the Scholarship Committee in early February 2016.
For more details, visit: www.branksome.on.ca/admissions/Pages/financialaidscholarships/Financial-Support.aspx

Enrollment

[Show definition of Enrollment]

Private schools come in all shapes and sizes. Some larger schools have enrollment numbers in the thousands, while some smaller schools have only a few dozen students. Boarding schools tend to be on the larger side, while alternative schools, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, are normally smaller. Besides the overall size of school, there are other important facts you’ll want to know about a school’s enrollment. For instance, here you can learn about a school’s enrollment for separate streams (if they have them), such as day and boarding, its average class size, and its average enrollment per grade.

Enrollment Details:

	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrollment
Group 1	JK to Gr. 12	All girls	Day	900
Group 2	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12	All girls	Boarding	66

Additional Statistics:

Total enrollment	966
Average enrollment per grade	69
Average class size	12 to 22
Gender (grades)	JK to Gr. 12 (All girls)
Boarding offered	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12
% in boarding (total enrollment)	7%
% in boarding (grade-eligible)	10%

International Students:

Percentage of students are international students
Number of different nationalities within student population	0
Five-day boarding programs offfered

Student distribution:

	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
Day Enrollment	10	16	30	32	40	44	46	46	86	88	103	99	104	99
Boarding Enrollment									2		9	18	14	13

Admission

[Show definition of Admission]

Private schools in Canada have admissions policies. All schools have some required application materials, though these vary between schools. These may include letters of application, application fees, essays, and exams (such as the SSAT). Many schools also require interviews with prospective students, either with their parents, on their own, or both. Schools also have different standards and priorities when evaluating student applications, different acceptance rates (which may vary between grade levels), and target different kinds of students. To improve your child’s chances of acceptance, you should find out everything you can about a school’s admissions policies and how they assess applicants.

Application

Admissions Assessments:

Assessment	Required	Grades
Interview		JK - 12
SSAT		9 - 11
SSAT (out of province)
Entrance Exam(s)		9 - 11
Entrance Essay
Application Fee

Application Deadlines:

Day students: December 04, 2015

Boarding students: Rolling

What Branksome Hall says:

Completed online application form (www.http://branksome.on.ca/admissions/Pages/Apply.aspx)
Recent report cards: the most recent report card plus the final report cards from the two previous years
Any other pertinent educational information that might assist the school in understanding your daughter's history (e.g., an educational assessment)
Interview (in person or via Skype for international applicants) for Grades 4-12
Entrance test (SSATs or Branksome Hall entrance tests) for Grades 9-11
Application fee $210

Acceptance

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Type of student Branksome Hall is looking for:
Students who thrive at Branksome Hall are thoughtful learners who seek knowledge and think critically. Even at a young age, Branksome Hall students are comfortable with differing points of view and they ask challenging questions and solve complex problems. It is important that students are interested in engaging with the school, their community and the world around us. Some key words that describe the Branksome Hall student include risk-taker, communicator, thinker, inquirer, principled, caring, open-minded, balanced, reflective, spirited and awe-inspiring.

Day Boarding

Student Entry Points

Student Type	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	10 - 14 (80%)	4 - 8 (100%)	12 - 18 (80%)	4 - 6 (80%)	4 - 8 (80%)	2 - 4 (100%)	0 - 4 (100%)	0 - 4 (100%)	40 - 46 (80%)	0 - 4 (100%)	12 - 24 (80%)	6 - 12 (90%)	4 - 8 (100%)	0 - 2 (100%)
Boarding Acceptance (Acceptance rate)									0 - 4 (100%)	0 - 4 (100%)	3 - 12 (80%)	4 - 12 (80%)	4 - 8 (90%)	0 - 2 (100%)

University Placement

[Show definition of University Placement]

Where graduates of a school do their post-secondary studies can be an important factor in choosing a private school. Do you want your child to go to a Canadian university, an Ivy league school in the US, or some other institute? Regardless of your inclinations, take a look at a school’s university placement record, and the services they offer to support university applications and decisions.

Services	Offered
Career planning
Internships
Mentorship Program
University counseling

Key Numbers
Average graduating class size	115
*Canadian "Big 6" placements	53
**Ivy+ placements	38

*Number of students in the past year who attended one of McGill, U of T, UBC, Queen's University, University of Alberta, or Dalhousie University.

**Number of students in the past 5 years that that attended one of Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, University of Chicago, Oxford or Cambridge (UK)

What Branksome Hall says:

Choosing a university is a match to be made and not a prize to be won. At Branksome Hall, the Guidance and University counselling team prides itself on providing individualised support for our girls through the university exploration and application process. Postsecondary planning begins in Grade 10 with the Careers Studies course, and carries through the Diploma 1 and 2 (Grade 11 and 12) years. We encourage students to discover the best university fit for them, through one-on-one counselling, exploration of postsecondary resources, writing clinics, application workshops, student-parent information evenings, and annual visits from over 80 university representatives. The enrichment offered through the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate program offered at Branksome Hall, enhances the girls’ educational experience, thoroughly preparing our students for the demands of university programs, and providing multiple avenues for girls to explore their passion for service learning, athletics and well-being, and creativity. Given their rich academic and co-curricular experiences, it is no surprise that Branksome girls are admitted to, and thrive at, a wide variety of top universities and programs in Canada and globally.

Notable Alumni

[Show definition of Notable Alumni]

Many private schools in Canada have numerous graduates who have gone on to great things. Learn about a school’s most influential, important, successful, and famous alumni.

Alumnus	Grad Year	Accomplishment
Budge Wilson	1945	Award-winning Canadian author. Member of the Order of Canada. Received the Order of Nova Scotia.
Nancy Ruth	1960	Canadian Senator
Ann Rohmer	1976	Lead TV anchor of CP24, Toronto
Linda McQuaig	1969	Noted social critic, author (The Wealthy Banker's Wife), and journalist. The National Post described her as "Canada's Michael Moore".
Marjorie Gross	1974	Television writer and producer. Wrote for numerous shows including Seinfeld.
Stacey Farber	2005	Actress best known for her role as "Eleanor" on the TV show, "Degrassi: The Next Generation"
Jackie Burroughs	1957	Gemini-winning actress. Received a Governor General's Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement.

Stories & Testimonials

Below, find stories and testimonials about Branksome Hall.

Taking Action on Day One

Back to school this week took on new meaning for our Grade 6 students. Very familiar with social action projects, the girls enthusiastically embarked on a Water Walk, together with WE.org and Brita Canada as sponsors.

Carrying heavy water cans on their backs, in temperatures as hot as you might experience in rural Kenya, our girls learnt what it means for some African girls and women to carry water daily in order to provide for their families' water needs.

"It's amazing how fast you tire out after walking half the field," said Grade 6 student Lulu.

The girls walked in teams of four, together with volunteers from Brita. At times, they had to help each other with the water-filled barrels. "It was tough, and you learn just how hard it is for some people to get water," commented Grade 6 student Helena.

View the Video

Free the Children (WE.org) founder Marc Kielburger told students that "The number one reason why girls don't go to school in sub-Saharan Africa is not because there are no schools, but because they have to get water for their villages."

As program sponsor, Brita's goal is to provide access to safe, clean water to the community in Irkaat, Kenya through the provision of boreholes. "Brita Canada has partnered with WE.org to educate a generation of youth around the idea that small choices can make a very, very big impact," said Brita's General Manager Mike Pilato.

Adding to this meaningful day, talented Canadian artist Serge Belo created a large art installation in the middle of the field, using 600 white water barrels. The installation depicted a woman's profile and a water drop. Belo noted that the number of barrels depicts the average amount of water a Canadian family uses in a year.
...
Glee Star Visits Branksome Hall

Emmy-nominated Dot Jones, one of the stars of the hit TV show Glee, flew to Toronto this week to attend the Junior School's "Girls Glow" talent show and to meet a very special Branksome family.

The compelling story of Sophie Sullivan, a huge Glee fan, prompted the actor to travel for a face-to-face meeting with the nine-year-old and attend the Branksome show that was inspired, in part, by Sophie.

In February 2012, Sophie, then in Grade 3 at Branksome Hall, was rushed to Sick Kids Hospital, where doctors determined that she had suffered a major brain hemorrhage as a result of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) rupture. Since that time, as Sophie has made slow but steady progress in her recovery, her spirits have been buoyed by watching Glee with family and friends.

Sophie "would smile at familiar songs and jokes, and seemed genuinely comforted by the soundtrack playing in the background," wrote Physical Education teacher Kristin Buchanan in a letter to Glee's cast. "Glee became so much more than just a television show…. The music matters. The laughs matter. They made a difference in Sophie's life—perhaps the difference—when it mattered most," she added.

As the Junior School singers, dancers and actors rehearsed for their own Glee-like show, called Girls Glow, they decided to turn the event into a fundraiser for Sick Kids Hospital, where Sophie was treated.

In the meantime, Ms Buchanan's letter made it into the hands of Glee producers and actors—thanks to contacts from Carly Cohen, who produces many of the Junior School musical theatre productions at Branksome Hall. Dot Jones, who plays Coach Beiste on Glee, decided to fly from Los Angeles to meet Sophie and see Girls Glow.

Sophie's medical condition has left her unable to return to classes this year, but she attended Girls Glow and "she remains in our hearts and our thoughts," said Principal Karen Jurjevich Murton before the curtain rose on the talent show.

"Thank you for letting me be a part of this," said Dot Jones at the June 4th event, which featured girls in Grades 1 through 6.

"What an incredible show. I am so incredibly proud of each and every one of our girls," said Head of Junior School Sarah Craig. "Just as Glee recognizes that teachers, students and music have a shared connection, Branksome recognizes the power of music in our classrooms and our lives."

"There are things within your community that you just don't think exist, and what we've learned is that there are amazing people in this world who want to help," Sophie's mother, Shannon Sullivan, told Global TV prior to the show. "We're grateful and we can't even believe the overwhelming support and love for a little girl who deserves it."

To learn more about Sophie's story, visit Global News. Photos of Girls Glow are available on The Globe and Mail website and the Branksome website.
...
Alumna Fights for Human Rights

Fiona Sampson has a mission: to improve the lives of African women and girls who are subjected to abuse and denied human rights.

"Every 30 minutes, a girl or a woman is raped in Kenya," says Ms Sampson, a Branksome graduate from the Class of 1981. "It is an extremely serious problem that is growing." This sobering message, was shared by Ms Sampson during a Branksome Hall senior assembly in April 2013. Her presentation helped students understand the value of the work of Equality Effect and what the organization is doing to try to help women in many African nations.

Ms Sampson obtained her Ph.D. in women's equality law from Osgoode Hall Law School. While in school, she founded the "Equality Effect," which is an organization that creates legal solutions for women and girls whose basic human rights are being violated.

Ms Sampson put her passion for social equality to a good cause and began a career where she is making a difference for women in many countries, including Kenya, Ghana and Malawi. Her drive to improve women's legal equality is evident through her work and her ongoing involvement with numerous human rights organizations. She hopes that, once changes in the legal system in these countries are made, women will have better access to legal aid and that their rights are maintained and respected.

In May 2013, her efforts paid off when the High Court of Kenya took action on behalf of women. Kenyan police are now required to enforce the nation's rape laws and take action against perpetrators, or they will face prison sentences or fines. See news coverage: http://bit.ly/11xKLkE.

In 2012, Branksome Hall bestowed upon Ms Sampson the Allison Roach Alumna Award for the rights advocate's remarkable work and contributions to improving the lives of women globally. Branksome Hall is honoured to have an alumna who has had such a tremendous impact on the improvement of women's lives.
...

Principal's Message

Karen Jurjevich, Principal

Each day, we challenge and inspire girls to love learning and to shape a better world. Our mission statement tells you a lot about Branksome Hall, but I invite you to visit our school to learn first-hand all that our school has to offer. Every day, I witness the astounding accomplishments of students in our classrooms and beyond — on our playing fields, on the stage, and in the community. I am continually inspired by the expertise and compassion of our faculty and staff. I am awed by the commitment of Branksome parents, who give so much of their time to help their daughters, and Branksome, succeed. And I see the impact Branksome Hall has had on the lives of our graduates — from the lifelong friendships they take away to the challenging endeavours they pursue. We are a caring community that is committed to nurturing and inspiring learners and leaders. I invite you to get to know us. Come to our Open Houses, take advantage of our ambassador tours, and explore our website. You will find a warm welcome and many opportunities to get answers to all of your questions about life at Branksome Hall.

In the News