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Trusted by families since 1998.
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OUR KIDS REPORT:

NOIC Academy

Grades 9 — 12 — Markham, ON (Map)
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School Busing:

NOIC Academy offers bus transferring. Service options offered are airport pick-up, regular rider.

The regions NOIC Academy offers busing from are:

Additional notes: We offer transportation by school bus from our student residence to campus every day. We provide airport pick up to welcome our students upon their arrival.

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
NOIC Academy
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • LOCATION
    Markham, ON (View address)

The big picture on NOIC Academy

We summarized the school ourselves

NOIC was founded in 2004 in order to support international learners intending to enter post-secondary study in North America. The enrollment is relatively small, at just shy of 300, which is rightly a draw—students are known here, rather than lost in the shuffle as the might be at larger international institutions. It offers the Ontario Secondary School Diploma in conjunction with the IB Diploma Program, and has been an accredited IB school since 2015. The academic program is rigorous, as are the supports for students who are arriving from overseas and adapting, in some cases, to learning in an English language environment. The ideal student is one looking to learn in an international setting and intending to advance to post-secondary study.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"NOIC ACADEMY is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Being a full-time, high end private boarding secondary school, it has offered the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) since 2004. In March, 2015, it was authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to become an IB World School, offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). NOIC ACADEMY is co-inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education and IBO."

  • Private secondary boarding school in Ontario
  • Provide an ESL program designed to help students achieve mastery of their English proficiency
  • Individualized mentoring service offering academic and emotional support for students
  • Weekly parental updates to foster strong support for students.
  • IB school since 2015
  • Offer social volunteering opportunities to engage with the local community.
  • OSSD Online credit course
  • e-Learning online OSSD

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

By combining the rigorous academic framework of the IB program with the flexibility and breadth of the OSSD curriculum, students benefit from a holistic approach to learning that nurtures critical thinking, inquiry skills, and global perspectives.
Rigorous academics OSSD & IB program: We provide the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and the IBDP program, allowing students to choose the path that best suits their goals.  
Student-Centered Learning & projects for purpose: Through Project-Based Learning (PBL), enhanced internships, and community partnerships, we ensure learning is purposeful and develops critical future-ready skills. 
Individual Care in Small Classes: Our commitment to small classes and individual care ensures every student is known, supported, and can thrive. 
Multiple & Successful Pathways: We specialize in creating tailored routes to graduation and top universities. T

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

At our school, we have made deliberate tradeoffs to uphold our core values and prioritize certain aspects of education over others. One significant tradeoff we have embraced is between traditional methods of education and embracing innovative teaching approaches.

Our commitment to a classical model of education, which emphasizes rigorous academic standards, deep subject knowledge, and critical thinking rooted in the classics, comes at the cost of integrating cutting-edge technology into every aspect of learning. While we recognize the importance of technology in today's world, we have chosen to prioritize the development of foundational skills and intellectual exploration over constant technology integration in the classroom. This means that our students may not have the latest gadgets or use digital tools as extensively as they might in other educational settings.

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

Founded in 2004, NOIC Academy has evolved significantly through key milestones. Launching the IB program in 2015 elevated its academic offerings while introducing an online program in 2019 expanded accessibility. Relocating to the existing campus in the same year provided enhanced facilities. Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 showcased resilience. In 2024, its global education expansion underscores its commitment to preparing students for a dynamic world. These junctures define NOIC Academy's presence as a leader in international education, blending tradition with innovation to foster academic excellence and global citizenship.

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

At NOIC Academy, students who thrive are intellectually curious, globally minded, and motivated to excel academically. They embrace diversity and are eager to engage in a supportive, multicultural environment. Families who value rigorous academics, personalized attention, and preparation to further their university education find our approach ideal. A proactive mindset towards learning, adaptability to new environments, and a commitment to community involvement align well with our educational philosophy. Families seeking a nurturing yet challenging educational experience emphasizing academic achievement and personal growth will find NOIC Academy a perfect fit.

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

Families seeking a solely traditional educational model focused heavily on standardized testing preparation may find NOIC Academy less aligned with their preferences. Our emphasis on holistic education, including critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness, may not meet the expectations of families prioritizing strict adherence to traditional academic methodologies. Additionally, families seeking a very small, intimate school setting may find our moderate-sized student body and diverse community less suitable for their preferences. Conversely, families valuing a dynamic, multicultural environment that promotes independent thinking, cultural exchange, and comprehensive university preparation will find NOIC Academy an ideal fit. Our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for success in a globalized world may not fully resonate with those seeking a more narrowly focused educational approach.

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

Families choose NOIC Academy because of our proven track record in preparing students for success in universities. They value our strong academic programs, including the IB curriculum and enriched courses, which provide a rigorous yet supportive learning environment. Our commitment to small class sizes and personalized attention ensures that every student receives individualized support and achieves their full potential.

Moreover, families appreciate our diverse and inclusive community, which fosters cultural exchange and global perspectives. They see the benefit of their children learning alongside peers from different backgrounds, preparing them for a multicultural world. Our modern facilities and emphasis on technology integration also distinguish us, offering students access to state-of-the-art resources that enhance their educational experience.

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

NOIC students have been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, recently we have joined in hand with a local NGO for mentally impaired people to support their fundraising carnival for opening a vocational training centre. Our students showcased their creativity by designing a dedicated NOIC Booth for the event.

Furthermore, we have launched a Food Drive event aimed at gathering food and essential items to benefit the Markham Food Bank.
The primary objective is not only to promote support for the local community but also to instill in our students an appreciation for the virtues of sharing and giving.

Additionally, our students demonstrate strong participation in sports such as basketball, badminton, table tennis, and football. Notably, one of our alumni is even a member of the local ice hockey team, highlighting our community's diverse talents and interests.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

An aspect of NOIC Academy that is often underappreciated is our strong emphasis on community and student support beyond academics. While families recognize our academic rigor and diverse student body, they may not fully appreciate the extent of our extracurricular programs and holistic support services. These include comprehensive university counseling, robust extracurricular activities, and initiatives promoting student well-being and leadership development. These aspects play a crucial role in shaping students' overall experience and success, fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth beyond the classroom.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

Families often find NOIC Academy surprisingly welcoming and inclusive once they experience our community firsthand. While they may expect a rigorous academic environment, they are pleasantly surprised by the warmth and support from both faculty and peers. They discover a diverse student body that fosters cultural understanding and friendships across borders. Moreover, families appreciate the depth of personalized attention and resources available, ensuring each student's unique needs are met. These aspects create a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and personally, exceeding initial expectations of a typical academic institution.

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

Recently, NOIC Academy has enhanced the student experience through several initiatives. We've integrated smart boards in classrooms to elevate interactive learning. Furthermore, we've strengthened our community engagement by organizing a food drive for the Markham Food Bank and actively participating in local NGO fundraising carnivals with our NOIC game booth. These efforts reflect our commitment to fostering academic excellence alongside social responsibility, empowering students to make meaningful contributions to their community.

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

At NOIC Academy, our ongoing commitment revolves around continually enhancing the experiences of both our students and our dedicated team. Our primary goal is to create an optimal environment that supports their well-being and fosters a balanced life. This dedication drives us to consistently improve our facilities and services, ensuring that everyone at NOIC Academy can thrive both academically and personally. By prioritizing these elements, we aim to cultivate a supportive community where every individual can reach their full potential.


We got insight from alumni, parents, and students

NOIC Academy: Alumni Review from Charles Huang

Watch our alum interview with Charles Huang to learn about the unique experience of attending NOIC Academy.
NOIC Academy, Alumnus Video Review from Charles Huang

NOIC Academy: Alumni Review from Ivan Zhang

Watch our alum interview with Ivan Zhang to learn about the unique experience of attending NOIC Academy.
NOIC Academy, Alumnus Video Review from Ivan Zhang

NOIC Academy: Alumni Review from Erin Liu

Watch our alum interview with Erin Liu to learn about the unique experience of attending NOIC Academy.
NOIC Academy, Alumnus Video Review from Erin Liu

Insider community voices

 

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