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in-depth report
OUR KIDS Report:
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Grades JK — 12 — Toronto, ON (Map)
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Havergal College
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Havergal College ACADEMICS & Curriculum


Page Contents

Curriculum Liberal Arts

[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 Havergal College: Liberal Arts

Havergal College has a Liberal Arts approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

[Show: About Liberal Arts?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare Havergal College's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Liberal arts - 12%
  Traditional - 39%
  Progressive - 34%
  Montessori - 12%
  Reggio Emilia - 1%
  Waldorf - 2%

International curriculum & programs at Havergal College: Duke of Edinburgh's Award

What Havergal College says about their overall curriculum and approach:

Our liberal arts program meets and exceeds the expectations of the Ontario Ministry of Education. All courses are university preparatory and are at the advanced level. A credit is granted with the successful completion of a course for which a minimum of 110 has been scheduled. Many students elect to write Advanced Placement (AP) exams. Upon graduation, students receive the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. A Havergal education prepares students for a lifetime of learning, leadership and limitless possibilities. In a university preparatory school with rigorous academic standards, Havergal's students are challenged to reach their full academic potential. Learning is increasingly independent, fostering academic achievements while supporting students in their different interests and talents. Havergal students graduate as informed and responsive global citizens, ready to meet the challenges of university study in Canada and abroad.


Approach

Focus
Academic

Pedagogies and subject courses:

  • Mathematics

    Equal Balance

    Mathematics approach at Havergal College: Equal Balance

    Havergal College has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

    Compare Havergal College's Mathematics with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 67%
      Traditional math - 27%
      Discovery math - 6%

    What Havergal College says:

    The goal of the Mathematics Department is to develop both a strong conceptual understanding as well as flexible thinking in mathematical terms. Students understand how and why operations work in mathematics and develop the ability to manipulate numbers.

    Textbooks and supplementary materials:

    Teachers produce their own materials or use texts approved by the Ministry of Education.

    Calculator policy:

    Students can use calculators at the discretion of their teachers.

  • Early Reading

    Balanced Literacy

    Early Reading approach at Havergal College: Balanced Literacy

    Havergal College has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).

    [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

    Our Kids definition: Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.

    Compare Havergal College's Early Reading with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Balanced literacy - 50%
      Phonics-intensive - 48%
      Whole language - 2%

    What Havergal College says:

    Havergal’s Junior School uses a strategic, research-based approach to early reading, aligning foundational literacy instruction across the early years and primary grades to prepare students for academic success. The program relies on four core pillars: 1. Individualized Assessment: Continuous, careful assessment identifies each student’s current abilities, skill gaps and progress to tailor instruction across the school year. 2. Collaborative Support: Core teachers, the Literacy Coordinator and Learning Support Specialists regularly review progress as a team to prevent students from lagging behind or lacking challenge. 3. Early Targeted Intervention: Starting in Junior Kindergarten, students receive systematic, direct small-group instruction focused on essential pre-reading skills. 4. Evidence-Based Support: Students needing additional help work with Learning Support Specialists in one-on-one or small-group settings, targeting phonemic awareness, letter-sound correspondence, decoding and fluency. Through this evidence-based strategy, Havergal ensures all students develop the strong decoding, fluency and comprehension skills needed to become confident, lifelong readers.

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

    What Havergal College says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Writing

    Equal balance

    Writing approach at Havergal College: Equal balance

    Havergal College has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).

    [Show: About Equal balance?]

    Our Kids definition: Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

    Compare Havergal College's Writing with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 78%
      Systematic approach - 11%
      Process approach - 11%

    What Havergal College says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Science

    Equal Balance

    Science approach at Havergal College: Equal Balance

    Havergal College has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare Havergal College's Science with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 68%
      Expository - 7%
      Inquiry - 25%

    Teaching approach:

    At Havergal College, we are committed to developing young women with strong problem solving skills and analytical abilities. We prepare our students for the rigours of post-secondary science education while nurturing a sense of wonder about the natural world around us. Our science programs not only encourage inquiry and exploration of ideas, but also provide challenging content in the areas of biology, chemistry and physics. Havergal students must be able to make informed decisions about the impact of science and technology as well as about environmental issues. These decisions can only be made with a solid understanding of the science involved.


    Treatment of evolution:

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

    Topics covered in curriculum:

    SubjectOffered
    Biology
    Chemistry
    Ecology
    Geology
    Meteorology
    Physics
    Physiology
    Zoology

  • Literature

    Equal Balance

    Literature approach at Havergal College: Equal Balance

    Havergal College has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

    Compare Havergal College's Literature with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 73%
      Traditional - 25%
      Social justice - 2%

    What Havergal College says:

    The study of English touches on virtually every aspect of a student’s life at Havergal. The program offers both a series of core courses and a range of more specialized elective courses, all of which are founded on three goals. The first goal is to have a student master skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking to enable them to function effectively in society. Of equal importance is the development of a profound understanding of literature and media as the means by which they can build a vision of a society that contributes to the betterment of the one in which they live. Finally, the program seeks to foster an appreciation of and delight in literature that will serve the student as a source of recreation and education throughout their life.


    Program covers:

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

  • Social Studies

    Thematic

    Social Studies approach at Havergal College: Thematic

    Havergal College has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).

    [Show: About Thematic?]

    Our Kids definition: The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.

    Compare Havergal College's Social Studies with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Thematic - 33%
      Core knowledge - 39%
      Expanding communities - 28%

    What Havergal College says:

    In the Junior School, social studies is taught through a thematic, inquiry-based approach that inspires curiosity about how the world works and fosters a deep understanding of heritage, identity and global connections. Key pillars of our approach include: 1. Guided Inquiry & Discovery: Learning is driven by student curiosity and critical thinking, encouraging girls to explore big questions, examine diverse perspectives and draw real-world connections. 2. Project-Based Learning: Students engage in collaborative, cross-disciplinary projects where they apply literacy, research and problem-solving skills to produce meaningful reports and creative presentations. 3. Self-Direction & Voice: As students progress from JK through Grade 6, they build growing independence, persuasion and teamwork skills — learning to connect with their local and global communities while discovering their unique voices. Through this fluid, student-centered strategy, social studies prepares Havergal students to become reflective, active and empathetic global citizens.

  • Humanities and Social Sciences

    Equal Balance

    Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Havergal College: Equal Balance

    Havergal College has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

    Compare Havergal College's Humanities and Social Sciences with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 79%
      Perennialism - 8%
      Pragmatism - 13%

    What Havergal College says:

    The Social Sciences Department at Havergal offers courses in modern and ancient history, physical and human geography, law, economics and philosophy. At all grade levels, the approach in our courses is to treat historical subjects and current events not as facts to be memorized but as issues to be examined and resolved. We view our subjects as a record of the human condition and its ability to adapt to changing environmental, political, economic and social forces. Our collective aim is to prepare students for continued success in post-secondary education and to remain informed and active citizens in their present and future communities.

  • Foreign Languages

    Equal Balance

    Foreign Languages approach at Havergal College: Equal Balance

    Havergal College has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

    Compare Havergal College's Foreign Languages with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 64%
      Audio-lingual - 4%
      Communicative - 32%

    What Havergal College says:

    Havergal College teaches languages to students so they will excel beyond mere linguistic competence and expression and begin to think about, imagine, participate in and understand the complex and diverse world beyond their own linguistic community. The learning of languages is not just central to establishing a more civil, just and equitable world; it is the essential golden key that will help prepare young women to make a difference, to become leaders who strive to fulfil the school’s values of courage and compassion, inquiry and integrity.


    Language instruction offered in:

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

  • Fine Arts

    Equal Balance

    Fine Arts approach at Havergal College: Equal Balance

    Havergal College has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

    Compare Havergal College's Fine Arts with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 63%
      Receptive - 1%
      Creative - 36%

    Program offers:

    SubjectOffered
    Acting
    Dance
    Drama/Theatre
    Graphic Design
    Music
    Visual Arts

    Visual studio philosophy:

    Expressive
    Disciplined

    What Havergal College says:

    Arts programming at Havergal College provides opportunities to engage with music, drama and technological and visual arts. Dedicated practice facilitates discovery and development in the arts through curricular and co-curricular experiential opportunities. Our teachers believe that practising creativity, in all of its forms, is a basis for success for all pursuits later in life.

  • Computers and Technology

    Medium integration

    Computers and Technology approach at Havergal College: Medium integration

    Havergal College has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).

    [Show: About Medium integration?]

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

    Compare Havergal College's Computers and Technology with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Medium integration - 52%
      Light integration - 22%
      Heavy integration - 26%

    What Havergal College says:

    Students can choose to study the language of technology by taking our Computer Science courses where computer programming is the focus. In these courses, students learn logical problem-solving skills by using common programming structures such as loops, conditional statements and arrays. Or, at the more advanced level, students learn object oriented programming in Python.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Computer science
    Robotics
    Web design

  • Physical Education

    What Havergal College says:

    The Health and Physical Education program allows each Havergal student to develop an active and healthy lifestyle through participation in the various activities offered from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. Through their active involvement, students will have the opportunity to develop confidence, self-esteem and physical abilities that will enhance their personal growth. The Grade 7, 8 and 9 programs teach these elements through traditional sports, water activities, fitness activities and initiative and team-building tasks. The health units prepare students to make healthy choices. Topics include healthy eating, growth and development, healthy sexuality, personal safety and injury prevention and substance use and abuse. Health and Physical Education students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 explore and develop leadership skills through challenging individual and group activities. They practice self-assessment and goal setting and gain the knowledge, skills and understanding for healthy living.

  • Advanced Placement courses

    7 courses
    • AP Research (Second part of the AP Capstone program)
    • AP Seminar (First part of the AP Capstone program)
    • AP Statistics
    • AP Biology
    • AP Calculus AB
    • AP French Language
    • AP Microeconomics

  • Sex and health education

    Ontario curriculum

    Sex and health education approach at Havergal College: Ontario curriculum

    Havergal College has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

    [Show: About Ontario curriculum?]

    Our Kids definition: The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

    Compare Havergal College's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Follows provincial curriculum - 57%
      Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 43%

    Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

    Havergal College has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).
    [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    What Havergal College says:

    This information is not currently available.

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 Havergal College: Play-based

Havergal College has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).

[Show: About Play-based?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare Havergal College's Preschool/K Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Play-based - 20%
  Montessori - 29%
  Waldorf - 2%
  Reggio emilia - 7%
  Academic - 42%

What Havergal College says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

We have a play-based program with a focus on academics. Students are supported in learning literacy, numeracy, problem-solving and social interaction skills.

Language English

Learn about Havergal College's languages of instruction and enrolment.

Havergal College offers English as the primary language of instruction.

Language of enrolment include: English

Online Learning

Havergal College's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.

Havergal College offers online courses to students.


Course schedule

PeriodGradesNumber of CoursesStart - End
Full year 9 to 12 17 Sep 08, 2026 — Jun 04, 2027

Course format

TypeOffered
Distance
Asynchronous
Synchronous

What Havergal College says about their course format:

Asynchronous: E-Learning Consortium Canada uses a blended model of synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities.


Academic support and services

TypeOffered
Dedicated teacher per course
Exam proctoring
Student progress tracker
Regular office hours
Additional support
Study groups
Special needs support

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 Havergal College: Standard-enriched

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

[Show: About Standard-enriched?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare Havergal College's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Standard-enriched - 54%
  Accelerated - 18%
  Student-paced - 28%

What Havergal College says about their curriculum pace:

This information is not currently available.


Flexible pacing style

Type 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 Havergal College says about their 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 Havergal College: Rigorous

Havergal College has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).

[Show: About Rigorous?]

Our Kids definition: 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”.

Compare Havergal College's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Rigorous - 51%
  Supportive - 49%

What Havergal College says about their academic culture:

This information is not currently available.

Developmental priorities Balanced

[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: Balanced

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

Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

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

What Havergal College says about their developmental priorities:

This information is not currently available.

Special needs support

[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.

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.
    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.

Read our guide to special needs schools and special education


Academic support

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

Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities

TypeOffered
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support

What Havergal College says:

This information is not currently available.


Additional support

TypeOffered
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy

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.

Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment

The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.

Class structure

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

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 Havergal College says about their gifted learner support:

This information is not currently available.

Homework Policy

[Show definition of Homework Policy]

Homework is work that's assigned to students for completion outside of regular class time. There's a long-standing debate over homework. Should homework be assigned to school-age children? If so, in what grades? And how much homework should be assigned? In selecting the right school for your child, it's important to look closely at a school's homework policy.

Nightly homework

In grade Gr. 12, Havergal College students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.

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Site Average6 mins7 mins16 mins19 mins26 mins31 mins37 mins44 mins56 mins60 mins75 mins84 mins100 mins107 mins

This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).

What Havergal College says about their flipped classroom policy:

This information is not currently available.

Report Card Policy

[Show definition of Report Card Policy]

While all schools measure individual progress and achievement in students, they have different ways of doing this. For instance, many traditional schools gauge progress through report cards, which give students lettered or numbered grades. Other schools, meanwhile, measure progress in other ways, either in addition to or instead of giving grades. For instance, they may offer prose-based feedback (i.e, comments), academic achievement reporting, habits and behaviour reporting, and parent-teacher meetings. In choosing the right school for your child, take a close look at its policy for measuring the individual progress of students.

How assessments are delivered across the grades

TypeGrades
Lettered or numbered gradesJK to Gr. 12
Prose (narrative)-based feedbackJK to Gr. 12
Habits and behaviour reportingJK to Gr. 12
Parent-teacher meetingsJK to Gr. 12
 

Qualitative insights

These insights are based on conversations with parents, alumni, and school leadership. Handpicked and curated by our editor, they offer a close look at how the school is experienced and perceived by those who know it best.


There is a culture of excellence and ambition.

Observations from students and alumni suggest that Havergal College excels in providing both academic and athletic support, inspiring students to pursue diverse paths and achieve excellence in multiple areas.

Academically, Havergal College is an excellent institution that is going to make you learn how to work very hard and work well and smart, but also push you academically and support you academically too.
—Yasmin Alameddine, alum (see full interview)
There is a very high academic standard for Havergal students to keep up with, but it really helps them down the road. That’s the payoff for all the work, and responsibility, and the constant push of the staff to get them to think deeper and wider about everything.
—Carrie Porter, parent (see full discussion)
We picked Havergal because we were looking at schools that had very high academic standards, and we believed in the benefits of all-girls schooling. We were looking for a very robust extracurricular program, and also a very well-rounded education, and that’s what we found at Havergal College.
—Carrie Porter, parent (see full discussion)

They have an adaptable and future-oriented approach.

Comments from parents and administrators highlight Havergal College's commitment to evolving with technological advancements and preparing students for an unpredictable future.

Today, if you ask me how my perception of the school has changed, I have to give Havergal College credit. The world is changing, with technology, and the school is adapting to prepare these students for a future that none of us really know what it’s going to be like. Havergal is working hard to stay on top of that, and I’ve been very impressed with that.
—Charlotte Anderson, alum (see full interview)
Adaptability is key to a changing world. Although Havergal is a school with many traditions, it also prides itself on changing with the times for the betterment of the school and its community. Advancements in technology are reflected in the curriculum as is the continuous evaluation by the leadership team on helping each student reach their potential.
—Alnar Meghji, parent (beginning 2015) (see full review)

Student development is holistic through diverse engagements.

Perspectives from the school community emphasize Havergal College’s dedication to fostering well-rounded individuals and encouraging students to discover and pursue their talents and interests beyond academics, through a variety of extracurricular activities.

Havergal College really shapes you as a student. No matter when you join, your daughter will be the best version of herself coming out of the school. Whether that is the best artist, the best hockey player, or the best mathematician, they will be the best version of themselves.
—Yasmin Alameddine, alum (see full interview)
We want to make sure our students experience a whole host of academic and co-curricular experiences before they specialize. We emphasize both the breadth and the depth in our program, but the breadth is an important piece. It's not to say that you can't have a passion in a particular area, but if the decision for somebody looking at schools was that they're really focused on one particular pursuit, then I don't think they would get as much out of the Havergal experience, because we really do focus on the breadth of experience that we want students to have. 
—Katrina Samson, Principal (see full interview)
I will also say that Havergal encouraged me to pursue the academic side, absolutely, but also the athletic side that I pursued in university and to figure out how could I do both, and make sure that I was doing both to a level of excellence, and a level that challenged me in that academic component and in the athletic component.
—Charlotte Anderson, alum (see full interview)

Students benefit from a supportive atmosphere.

Feedback from faculty and parents points to the remarkable sense of community at Havergal College, where the strong bonds among students, teachers, and parents create a supportive and enriching environment that values diverse perspectives and promotes personal growth.

A good school is made up of really fantastic people, who are known, valued, and loved. At the heart of a good school is the people, and that's students, that's faculty and staff, and that certainly also includes our parent community, as well. We offer an exceptional academic program, great facilities, wonderful opportunities, but it is the connection between people that really makes this place special. 
—Katrina Samson, Principal (see full interview)
I would describe the school’s personality as supportive, open, and demanding. Supportive, because I feel like Havergal has created such an encouraging, safe environment for my daughter, in which she can take some risks that will really grow her as a person. As for openness, we can see how at Havergal that extends to acceptance of different thinking, different beliefs, different faiths. And then demanding, because I think expectations are very high at Havergal. The work ethic being built is such an asset.
—Carrie Porter, parent (see full discussion)
My girls have both loved their Havergal experience on all levels for all the years they attended. They actually loved waking up to go to school on most days. They have learned from the very best teachers, and they have broadened both their academic and social horizons. I know with certainty that they will reflect very positively and fondly on their Havergal days. Personally, I feel that my best decision so far has been to send my children to Havergal College. The girls all seem to be very happy - they seem to feel very safe in a structured yet flexible place that allows them to grow, to learn, to try new things, to make mistakes and to push themselves to become their very best selves.
—Robyn Spector, parent (beginning 2012) (see full review)

Teachers are dedicated and passionate.

Testimonials from parents and students emphasize the dedication and enthusiasm of Havergal College's teachers, who invest in their students' success and foster an engaging and supportive learning environment.

Havergal College gives students the opportunity to be taught by some of the best teachers, in some of the best facilities with very specialized programs—whether it’s the STEM program with science and the technology, or the languages—which allows students to get a leg up before they pursue whatever’s after high school.
—Charlotte Anderson, alum (see full interview)
The quality of teachers in all areas is extraordinary—bright, passionate teachers who genuinely care about their students and who clearly love to teach. In all the subjects in every grade - the teachers are incredibly gifted educators and role models and mentors to our girls. The marking structure is tough but fair. There are frequent assessments. Teachers champion their students by motivating them, assigning interesting projects and providing extra help when needed. Teachers want their students to succeed and achieve high grades, as long as the students work hard to earn them. There is a lot of support from both teachers and the administration.
—Robyn Spector, parent (beginning 2012) (see full review)
In the beginning of each school year, Havergal hosts a “People and Program” evening for parents to essentially meet your child’s teacher(s) and learn about the curriculum and learning goals for that year. These presentations were thorough and give a sense of purpose and direction to learning strategies: Listening to the teachers speak reaffirmed to us how lucky our daughter is to be taught by educators as passionate as the teachers at Havergal. For most, their training is extensive, with many of them acquiring post graduate degrees and additional training in mathematics. Our daughter has received a high level of instruction from her teachers, who ultimately try to ensure she reaches for her full potential. Concepts are taught in a variety of methods, through group and individual discussions, investigative research, hands-on activities, numerous real life connections, textbook and workbook activities, etc., all of which contribute to a child’s deeper level of understanding.
—Alnar Meghji, parent (beginning 2015) (see full review)

Students become prepared for life beyond the classroom.

According to alumni and current families, Havergal's educational approach is designed to equip students with essential life skills, solid academic foundations, and strong core values, preparing them effectively for life's challenges beyond school.

In Grade 12 at Havergal, I had the opportunity of taking a kinesiology class, which at that time was new to the high school curriculum. That, coupled with the support of my coaches and the science teachers at Havergal College, allowed me to pursue science with more specialization on the human body, which definitely, definitely influenced my decision to go into kinesiology in university.
—Charlotte Anderson, alum (see full interview)
For my daughters, who are now in grad school, one of the biggest impacts was the fact that they were taught to think critically, to question. They entered university with an ability to express their ideas, and to communicate. It was a standard that was far above where their peers were at, and that was so valuable to them. They didn’t realize just how valuable until they had moved onto university.
—Carrie Porter, parent (see full discussion)
We have been quite impressed with our daughter's breadth and depth of knowledge of the subjects she has taken at Havergal, and find her understanding of the curriculum to be a testament to the effectiveness of the teaching methods used at the school. Havergal has provided a challenging curriculum over a wide range of subjects for our daughter. Through her various courses, she has been able to explore her interests in numerous areas including languages, technology, science, humanities, and the arts. Having to complete culminating projects and final exams from Grade 7 on has helped our daughter develop important study habits and taught her how to handle performance pressure at a young age, skills which we think will be invaluable to her throughout her academic life. We are confident that the academic program offered by the school is preparing her well for her post secondary education and her eventual career path.
—robert gabor, parent (see full review)
 

OUR KIDS REPORT: Havergal College

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