Boarding schools in Canada provide an opportunity to get a certificate of secondary education and become a student of one of the leading universities in the world. The popularity of educational programs is explained by their high quality and more affordable price than in Europe or the USA. With a unique blend of tradition and a modern approach to schooling, Canadian boarding schools guarantee education to the highest international standards.
Distinctive features of studying at a boarding school in Canada
The historical belonging of the country to the British Empire determined the commitment of boarding schools in Canada to British principles of education. However, the specifics of a country with two official languages also affected the curricula. Boarding schools in Canada today are divided into three groups:
- education in English;
- education in French;
- the most prestigious educational institutions offer bilingual programs.
With their help, graduates receive the appropriate certificates, studying two languages at the same time. This expands the opportunity to go beyond secondary education and make a fast career in the future.
Types of boarding schools in Canada
Depending on the number of academic subjects, the level of classroom equipment, extracurricular activities, and sections, Canadian schools can be divided into three types:
- independent paid schools with residence in a closed area;
- private boarding schools with the possibility of choosing a place of residence – in a residence or in a family;
- public educational institutions with the possibility to live in a family.
Independent boarding schools in Canada are called traditional because they have been operating in the country since 1829. The Upper Canada College in Toronto was the first to open its doors to boys. As in all provinces, the British education system has predetermined the teaching of academic disciplines and physical training. Later, additional sports, oratory, theater, and other interesting electives were introduced into the program.
The most prestigious traditional boarding schools in Canada enroll students before birth. Diplomas from Canadian schools of this type can open the doors of prestigious universities in England and the USA.
Private boarding schools in Canada appeared only a few decades ago, so their list is not yet as large as independent or public ones. New schools have increased access to quality education under the close supervision of educators in small classrooms.
95% of the country’s population still chooses public schools with daytime education. The level of education is also very high. In addition, for citizens of the country, secondary education in such schools is free.
Studying programs
The difference in the programs between paid and public schools is manifested not at the level of academic disciplines, but at the level of additional classes and technological equipment. In addition, many private schools provide an opportunity to study under the complicated IB (International Baccalaureate) program.
Some private schools maintain separate education for boys and girls. Public schools are characterized by co-education.
Traditional paid boarding schools in Canada and new private schools also have an important difference, especially for foreign students.
Programs that include English as second language upgrades are only available in newer schools. Independent educational institutions initially assume a high level of English proficiency. Otherwise, the student will have problems with the development of academic disciplines and socialization.
How to choose a boarding school?
When choosing a school, it is recommended to be guided by several parameters:
- What academic program and what language is taught at the school?
- Are onboarding programs available for language immersion?
- Is the climate of the chosen area suitable for the child?
- Is he ready to obey the requirements established at school and adhere to the daily routine?
- Is it enough for the child of the conditions that are provided by the full board?
To find out the answers to these questions, you can personally visit the school or go to its website, find student reviews, and explore social networks.
Accommodation and leisure during studying at boarding schools
Private boarding schools in Canada guarantee comfortable accommodation on campuses that are better equipped than many American or British schools. Spacious rooms equipped with everything you need are designed for 1-2 people. Curators monitor the order 24 hours a day. A full-fledged varied diet is organized according to the principle of a full board.
In their free time, students get the opportunity to play sports, hockey, go skiing and hiking in the forest, as well as spend time doing creative activities – drawing, playing musical instruments, and performing arts. Thanks to the balance of academic disciplines and additional developmental classes, comprehensively developed personalities come out of Canadian boarding schools.
How to apply to boarding school in Canada?
Private boarding houses accept foreign students in elementary grades, as well as middle and senior. The application can be submitted not only in September but also in the middle of the academic year.
High school students themselves decide what subjects they will study. They need to pass the minimum required school curriculum to graduate from college and receive a certificate. At the same time, they are guided by their abilities and plans for further education.
What documents and knowledge are needed for admission?
It is recommended to collect the documents required for admission in advance, especially for foreigners. The list includes:
- application form;
- receipt of payment of the fee for its consideration;
- an extract of the subjects that the child has studied for the last two years at school, with grades;
- a copy of the passport;
- registration forms and forms of the school;
- letters of recommendation from teachers of English and mathematics, possibly from the principal of the school;
- copies of certificates and certificates confirming the level of foreign language proficiency.
Sometimes a motivation letter may be required.
In addition to the documents, you must pass an interview via Skype or during a personal visit to the school, as well as pass the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) or CAT (Canadian Achievement Tests). Some schools may additionally ask you to write an essay or take an internal school exam.
Conclusion
Canada’s private boarding schools are a unique combination of tradition and a progressive approach to education. Education in Canadian schools opens the doors to the world’s leading universities for graduates. At the same time, the cost of studying here is much lower than in the US or Europe. If you are planning to enter a private boarding school in Canada, OurKids will help you. It will allow you to find information about the features of obtaining secondary education in Canada, programs, tuition fees, and admission requirements.
