What makes Canadian schools special? Why do parents from all over the world choose Canada primary and secondary schools for their children?
First of all, it is a high level of education, which is recognized throughout the world. Canada is the most educated country on the planet, so the culture of education is at the highest level here. All schools in Canada - public, private, independent - follow a provincial curriculum, and all educators are required to hold a teaching degree and certification. All these factors convince families that no matter which school they choose, their children will receive a first-class education.
What criteria are used to compile ratings - and to what extent can these ratings be trusted today?
The authorities and commissions do not assess Canadian boarding schools - there are simply no universal criteria: each has its own approach, specialization (for example, in sports or additional training courses).
What are the most important questions when choosing a Canadian school?
Location, achievements (both academic and extracurricular), programs the school offers (AP and IB, for example). Cost, of course. Many people choose to visit the territory in advance, even before the application and enrollment, in order to understand whether it is comfortable on the campus, whether the child will feel at home here.
When should you start the Canadian school application process? What should applicants prepare for?
Typically, Canadian boarding schools accept applications all year round - as long as there are places. However, I advise you to start the process in February-March - this way you will have enough time to prepare (including for visa issues), and you are more likely to find a free place on the desired course.
Admission requirements may vary as schools set them independently. However, among the universal requirements, one can note the report cards, recommendations, certificates of the level of the English language. Some schools continue to use entrance tests, but in recent years, most have switched to interviews: this provides a more holistic, personalized approach.
What are the most popular subjects in recent years?
The passion of STEM students (science, mathematics, technology) is stable, because many graduates of Canadian schools go to conquer engineering specialties. But Canada has the right direction for everyone - business and entrepreneurship, music, health sciences and more.
Do all schools want to be ranked among the best?
I repeat, we do not have an official national rating. But if our partners decide to "promote" our schools, describe their unique achievements, qualities and advantages, of course, we never mind!
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected student numbers? How does the school help children during this period?
Of course, COVID-19 could not pass without financial implications for the entire world - both for schools and families. But we tried very hard to mitigate all the negative consequences, because the families of our students are still confident in the quality of education. Many Canadian boarding schools were able to stay "afloat" and work even during the pandemic in person - this certainly increased interest in them. This year we have an excellent number of applications and enrollments.
Is it difficult for a talented student to get a scholarship? Does your school have an average discount rate?
Canadian schools set scholarships on their own (if any), so the numbers vary, but usually it is 10-15% (but maybe more).
At what age do international students usually enter schools in Canada?
Often it depends on the country where the child came from, but if you try to calculate the average age, then it will be 9 and 11 grades. Grade 9 is the beginning of the upper secondary school: if you plan to complete secondary education in Canada, that is, study for 4 years continuously (possibly in one school), then this is a great option. During this time, the child will have time to adapt, "take" the local educational system, make friends with classmates, teachers, coaches, consultants. Grade 11 is also very important and therefore in demand: this is the beginning of intensive pre-university training, because it is logical that parents want to make this path for their child as easy as possible - and they choose the best Canadian school for him.
At Ridley College (as in some other Canadian boarding houses) we offer a boarding program from grade 5: this is a less popular option, but a good choice if you have several children in the same family. Brothers and sisters will study together, support each other, and by the time of graduation they will be already remarkably qualified, educated guys.
Does every school have an ESL language support course? How important is it?
Yes, almost all schools offer foreigners an English ESL course - the level is determined on a case-by-case basis. Most often it is offered in grades 9 and 10, summer courses are in demand. It is assumed that students in grades 11-12 are already fluent enough in English to begin the high school program.
How much should parents budget for additional expenses each year, besides tuition and living fees?
Usually this is $ 2000-3000 CAD per year: textbooks, form, etc. + sports equipment, additional excursions and trips. Everything else is already included in the cost of the school course, but families are trying to provide children with an additional 2000-3000 $ CAD per year for pocket expenses, walks, shopping, ordering food and other pleasures. Although, of course, each family determines the last amount independently.
What should be considered when choosing a school, besides the qualifications of teachers?
Extracurricular activities, because the interests of children differ. Some schools in Canada have an emphasis on sports (for example, hockey or basketball), someone develops music, someone offers to improve leadership skills, etc.
A very important general school philosophy is its values, atmosphere, tonality of every day. All this should correspond to your ideas about comfort and taste, the interests of your child.
What advice can you give to potential applicants to schools in Canada and why?
Explore the country and make sure it suits you. Explore selected schools and narrow down your favorites: contact them, for sure they will offer you a tour (virtual or real), brochures, newsletters. Pay close attention to the language requirements, if you can meet them at the time of application. If you can't visit a school with, say, a trial semester, see if they organize a children's camp - it will help you know what to expect from the school.
