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Stepping Into Middle School

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Learn with Jo y. Li ve with Purpose.

WELCOME TO MIDDLE SCHOOL

College Commitment

At Hillfield Strathallan College, we value one another as equals, and we honour the humanity of each individual in our community.

We believe that by lifting each other up, we give our community more opportunities to grow and flourish.

We nurture an atmosphere of mutual respect and kindness, to ensure that our College is a safe and inclusive environment for everyone on our campus at all times.

We conduct ourselves with integrity, both academically and in our relationships with one another.

We understand that making mistakes is part of the learning process and that it is our actions after our mistakes that define us.

We show determination to learn with joy and live with purpose, in order that we may continue to grow as individuals and as a community, and make a positive difference in the wider world.

We believe in our students. SCAN HERE FOR A VIDEO

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LIFE IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Grades 5 to 8

Average Class Size 16-18

Faculty have specialized education, advanced degrees or additional qualifications in the subject they teach

House events make for yearround friendly competition and spirited fun Team-building, cooperative games and community events are pillars of the Middle School years

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Students in Middle School continue their individualized learning with our strategic focus on developing the whole child. Middle School students are nurtured by a team of dedicated teachers, staff and enthusiastic peers. At this stage, students will progress academically while being introduced to service and leadership opportunities, which will help them develop into active, engaged citizens.

PERSONALIZED AUTHENTIC LEARNING

Students from other schools and those stepping up from our Junior and Montessori Schools can expect Grade 5 to deliver on HSC’s strategic pillar of developing the whole child. Grade 5 students are grouped into carefully selected classes and experience daily interaction with a dedicated team of teachers, staff and enthusiastic peers.

The Grade 5 program supports individual learning styles and interests. The timetable is structured to include daily literacy and numeracy blocks, timetabled in optimal morning class time. Group size and composition are adjusted to reflect student needs and instructional objectives. Student progress is closely monitored by teachers, and this information is shared regularly with the home form teacher. If a student grasps the essential math or literacy outcomes, they are challenged with extension opportunities. If students require intervention or additional time and support, they receive it from our dedicated student success team.

GRADE 5 FOCUS

» Building foundational skills in core subjects

» Social and emotional wellbeing

» Collaboration and communication

» Developing social-emotional learning skills and competencies of self-awareness, selfmanagement, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making

» Preparation for Senior School and beyond

PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

HSC’s Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach provides students the opportunity to explore areas of passion in ways that make learning an engaging experience at every age and stage. Students have input into their personalized learning pathway and learn through inquiry and problem-solving—they are presented with scenarios to research, or, given the opportunity to delve into their own interests. The learning goals are the same for each student, but the process of exploration is as unique as the learner. From outdoor education to overseas exchange trips, authentic and experiential learning opportunities allow students to find, engage and seek solutions for real-world scenarios.

PBL project examples:

» Human Body Systems Guided PBL

» Biodiversity Expo

» Space Expo

» Think Global, Act Local

STEM/STEAM

HSC’s Middle School offers opportunities for interdisciplinary connections, encouraging students to explore STEM/STEAM in an authentic, real-world context. Engagement in STEM/STEAM projects nurture an innovator’s mindset and allow students to grapple with complex, integrated projects that help them to develop problem-solving skills. These skills are foundational for higher learning in our Senior School and future endeavours.

ROUTE

Grade 5

Humanities

Math

Science

French

Health and Physical Education

Visual Art

Music

Grade 6

English

Math

Science

Social Studies

French

Health and Physical Education

Visual Art

Music

Grade 7

English

Math

Science

History

Geography

French

Health and Physical Education

Visual Art

Music

Performing Arts

Grade 8

English

Math

Science

History

Geography

French

Health and Physical Education

Visual Art

Music

Performing Arts

A FULL AND BALANCED DAY

A Middle School day is always full and varied. The daily schedule balances instructional time with two nutrition breaks and three recess times, with a total of 70 minutes outdoors. Flex Time focuses on community events and offers opportunities for assemblies, studentled committee meetings, house intramurals, wellness, leadership opportunities and home form planning time. At 3:30 p.m., students are dismissed to a wide variety of community time options.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMIC TIMETABLE

Sample daily schedule of an 8-day cycle (Grade 5).

TRANSPORTATION

Included in tuition is our main-route bus transportation program. Our bus drivers cover 30+ routes each day within a one-hour radius of our College. Students enjoy morning pick-up and can select from two afternoon drop-off times, departing at 3:30 or 5:00 p.m., to accommodate family schedules and co-curricular community activities. See where our buses go at hsc.on.ca/ busroutes. Please note there is no late bus on Friday’s.

*Subject to change

myHSC is a robust learning management system that consolidates a students’ course materials, calendars, event listings, groups, news and resources. myHSC includes transportation information, school-specific links, access to the daily nutrition program and other important messages from the College.

THE PURPOSEFUL USE OF TECHNOLOGY

Our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program requires all students to have their own personal laptop for word processing and research. Students will have access to online learning tools, including the myHSC learning management system. Wi-Fi is available campus-wide, including in designated outdoor learning spaces, and technical support is available through IT Services. Early in the first term, teachers assist our Grade 5 students in installing necessary software and discuss their role as new digital citizens.

THE LEARNING COMMONS

The HSC Learning Commons is the informational hub of the Middle School. The Learning Commons team works in partnership with teachers to support students at all levels as they develop strong information literacy skills. Students are encouraged to visit the Learning Commons for help with academic assignments, citation support, reader’s advisory and resource selection. The Learning Commons offers quality literature and promotes a love of reading by offering a variety of reading programs and a current collection. Resources are available in a variety of formats to support students as they become effective researchers and lifelong learners. Our extensive virtual collection provides 24/7 access to e-books, audiobooks, journals, news articles, online encyclopedias and video streaming.

PHYSICAL LITERACY

HSC’s physical literacy program strengthens students’ physical, social, and emotional development, fostering a lifelong positive attitude toward physical activity. Our student-centric approach tailors physical literacy development to each age group.

In Middle School, our curriculum integrates physical literacy across various activities like physical education, active recess, House intramurals and athletics. This holistic framework enhances students’ physical, social and emotional growth in active settings.

From foundational movement skills in physical education and recess to friendly competition in House intramurals, students build the necessary physical and mental strategies. These skills prepare them for potential participation in athletics.

Our revamped physical literacy framework prioritizes development, offering students more enriching active experiences. This approach enhances their competence, confidence and motivation to engage in physical activity throughout their lives.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ENHANCED EXTENSION PROGRAMS

We develop our curriculum according to the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Education and then enrich it to meet our own elevated standards. The Middle School offers many opportunities to further challenge our students.

MATH EXTENSION

Using Universal Design for Learning (UDL), teaching ensures that all students are appropriately challenged within the grade-level curriculum. Math extension opportunities are integrated into the curriculum, offering breadth and depth through activities such as logic puzzles, math contests or student-selected projects. After meeting curriculum expectations, students collaborate with teachers to select personalized extension pathways for ongoing engagement and challenge. These activities promote independent learning, encouraging students to apply math skills in unfamiliar contexts, fostering both academic and learning skill development.

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HERE FOR MORE INFO ABOUT MATH EXTENSION

GROUPE VITESSE ENRICHED FRENCH PROGRAM

Beginning in Grade 8, the Groupe Vitesse Enriched French Program, provides accelerated language courses and higher achievement standards for capable students. This prepares them for Senior School’s DELF-aligned program (diplôme d’études en langue française), promoting proficiency in all language competencies, with internationally recognized certificates awarded upon success. While the program is open for all Grade 7 students to apply, priority is given to those who are keen on language enrichment, interested in continuing French studies beyond Grade 9, and prepared for more challenging coursework.

EXTENSION OPPORTUNITIES AT A GLANCE

English

» Write Across the College – A focus on uninterrupted creativity

» Writers in Residence – Students work with published authors

» Spelling Bee contests

» @theHelm – student newspaper

Mathematics

» Math contests

» Coding Club

Languages

» Concours Oratoire – Provincial French speaking contest

Science and Technology

» Robotics (Vex IQ team) and STEM activities

» LaunchPad makerspace exploration and invention

Music

» Middle School Choir

» Middle School Musical

» Conference of Independent Schools of Ontario (CIS) Music Festival

Visual Art

» Exhibitions and Art Clubs

» Visiting Artists in Residence

Social Studies

» E-Week Activities

Physical Education

» Co-curriculars and intramurals

» Competitive and recreational teams

MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORTING CYCLE

NOVEMBER

REPORT 1

FEBRUARY

REPORT 2

Student-Involved Conference (SIC)

» The student, parents/guardians and home form teacher meet to discuss progress toward goals, highlights and next steps

» Home form teachers help students to plan SICs using graphic organizers, templates and scripts

Progress Report

» Focus on demonstrated learning and academic skills by subject

Full Report

» Detailed anecdotal comments by subject

» Academic and learning skill levels (Grade 5-8)

» Overall subject marks (Grade 8 only)

Student-Involved Conference (SIC)

» Meetings with subject teachers

» SICs concentrate on student work (portfolio)

APRIL

REPORT 3

JUNE

REPORT 4

Progress Report

» Updates on academic and learning skills progress

» Teachers indicate if a further SIC is necessary

Student-Involved Conference (SIC)

» Concentrate on student progress toward overall course expectations

» Scheduled at the request of teachers

Final Report

» A reflection of student achievement and growth

» Final academic and learning skill levels (Grade 5-8)

» Overall subject marks (Grade 8 only)

» Anecdotal subject comments

We extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the vibrant and engaging world of Middle School! Here, learning is an exciting adventure where students will actively explore new ideas, collaborate with friends, and discover how their studies connect to the real world around us. Get ready to dig into simulated archaeological sites, tackle fun and challenging math problems, build amazing robots, understand the energy systems that power our school, and work together on solutions for a more sustainable future.

Our Grade 5 program is thoughtfully designed to support our newest students every step of the way. Students will have the comfort and familiarity of their home form teacher at the start and end of each day, providing a consistent point of contact and support. Throughout the day, they will have the opportunity to explore different subjects such as HPE, art, music, and French with teachers who specialize and are passionate about these areas. Additionally, we ensure that students have active breaks throughout the day to recharge, socialize and enjoy the outdoors.

In our Middle School, we believe in fostering holistic growth, nurturing not only academic excellence but also personal development. Our dedicated teachers encourage students to believe in themselves, set meaningful goals and develop an understanding of their own unique learning styles. Through this journey, students will discover their individual strengths and learn how to effectively use them to explore and engage with the world around them.

Being part of our Middle School means joining a supportive and fun-filled community. We offer a wide array of opportunities for students to connect and build relationships, including weekly House competitions that foster teamwork and school spirit, exciting trips such as E-Week and winter camping, a diverse selection of clubs and sports teams, various music groups and engaging assemblies. All of these initiatives are designed to help students make new friends, build strong connections, and feel truly at home within our Middle School community.

We are incredibly excited to welcome you and look forward to witnessing all the wonderful things our students will discover, achieve, and share with our Middle School community.

Middle School Principal, Kim Kniaz

COLLEGE LIFE

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Experiential learning in the Middle School offers a dynamic approach to education that fosters active engagement and deep understanding among students. Through hands-on activities, field trips, simulations and interactive projects, students are encouraged to explore concepts in real-world contexts, making learning relevant and memorable. Whether conducting science experiments, participating in historical reenactments, or collaborating on community service initiatives, experiential learning empowers students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, honing critical thinking, problemsolving, and interpersonal skills. By placing themselves in immersive learning experiences, Middle School students not only gain a deeper comprehension of academic subjects but also develop a lifelong love for learning rooted in curiosity and discovery.

E-WEEK

At the start of each school year, students engage in E-Week, an off-campus educational week that is an integral component of the College’s curriculum and comes highly recommended. The Middle School E-Week experience revolves around fostering connections and facilitating a deeper understanding of each student’s unique voice through various outdoor activities. Moreover, this experience facilitates the introduction of students to new peers and the establishment of meaningful relationships within their grade levels. The primary aim of this initiative is to nurture and instill qualities such as courage, self-awareness, and personal growth among students. It also encourages students to engage in positive interactions with their peers and the broader community. Please note that fees for E-Week are not included in tuition and vary depending on the itinerary.

My favourite thing about E-Week is spending time and doing fun challenges with my friends like the high ropes at Cedar Glen and riding the Made of the Mist in Niagara Falls.

Madyn Verbeek Grade 5

My favourite thing about E-Week is playing with all my friends and rock climbing.

Andrew Mattatall Grade 6

My favourite thing about E-Week is being able to do lots of fun activities like canoeing, standup paddle boarding, and swimming on the inflatables with my friends outside of school.

Avery Campbell Grade 7

My favourite thing about E-Week was probably the chance it gave me to take a little break from school and have some laughs with friends. Eweek gives us the opportunity to focus on the present, and it creates memories and laughs that are remembered throughout the school year and beyond.

Oliver Zeiter Grade 8

CAMP WANAKITA

Grade 5 students will travel to Camp Wanakita during the second half of their Grade 5 school year. The theme of this trip is Embracing Challenge. They will learn that challenge is part of life. The design of the program allows students to experience determination, resilience and support in the winter environment, which are three foundations we must consistently practice to embrace and learn from challenges.

Students will work on skills linked to the HSC ideals and participate in traditional winter games.

WINTER WANAKITA ACTIVITIES

» Cross Country Skiing

» Tobogganing

» Broomball

» Drumming

» Fire building

» Snow shoeing

» Low ropes

» Iron Chef

» Inuit and Arctic Games

Through these exciting activities, students will learn to navigate challenges confidently and persevere, building essential life skills. Like our fall E-Week program, students will make curriculum expectations in their outdoor environment, blending academic learning with real-world adventure. This is an unforgettable experience where every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth and discovery.

LEADERSHIP, SERVICE AND VALUES EDUCATION

There are many leadership opportunities available to Middle School students, including Principal’s Council, Ambassadors, Arts and Athletic Councils and Junior House Representatives. Student-led committees focus on initiatives of interest to them. Middle School students participate in the College House System. Houses Birch-Earn, Cedar-More, Maple-Tay and Pine-Yre, provide opportunities for students to participate in spirit activities. When students enter Grade 8, they can pursue leadership roles such as House Captains.

COLLEGE IDEALS

HSC students helped define the values that guide our College community. We believe that living these ideals positions community members to be well-rounded leaders with a sense of purpose. INTEGRITY

COLLEGE-WIDE CHAPEL ASSEMBLIES

Each week, the Hillfield Strathallan College community eagerly anticipates the non-denominational Chapel service held in the Senior School Athletic Complex within the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Excellence. During this gathering, our Head of College alongside Grade 12 Prefects deliver uplifting updates on the week’s happenings across HSC’s four schools. Students are treated to captivating artistic performances, enlightening presentations and spirited renditions of College songs, making it a cherished highlight for all.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES

Middle School assemblies take place weekly in the Virtue-Fitzgerald Centre for the Arts. Assemblies bring the Middle School community together for student-led presentations and performances. Themed assemblies focus on key community values.

INDIVIDUALITY

COLLEGE HOUSE SYSTEM

The House System stands as one of our most enduring and beloved traditions, uniting our community through mentorship, special activities, service and healthy competition. Each House is distinguished by its own unique color and named after either a Canadian tree or a Scottish river, paying homage to HSC’s heritage. Families find continuity as they are placed in the same House across generations. Supervised by staff members and student House officials, each House welcomes new members early in the school year, with co-captains elected by their peers and faculty. Students earn points for academic and extracurricular achievements, leading to various awards and prizes for Houses contributing significantly to College life.

In the Middle School, the College House System takes centre stage, nurturing bonds among students. House tables are the setting for shared meals, while routine gatherings facilitate cheer rehearsals, event planning, and recognition of accomplishments. An array of annual House events, encompassing both athletic and academic pursuits such as soccer, cross-country running, the House Mile Run, and track and field competitions, adds to the spirit of camaraderie. The Nancy Rocca Challenge Cup offers diverse challenges like spelling bees, Reach for the Top trivia, math contests, and the Geo-Challenge. Grade 8 students lead as House Captains, with Grade 6 students contributing as Jr. House Reps. The pinnacle of the year arrives with the awarding of the Campbell Gibson Shield to the House amassing the highest points.

Middle School was a transformative part of my life. One of my favourite parts of it is the Middle School’s emphasis on pushing students to their fullest potential. As a Gr. 5 student, I was interested in math and problem-solving. With the help of HSC, I pursued this interest through math contest preparation periods and writing. Through the constant encouragement and mentorship of the school’s amazing teachers, I eventually placed 2nd schoolwide in the Canadian National Math League. It was only with the Middle School’s amazing resources and emphasis on the exemplary that I would have been able to take my interest to the next level.

One of my favourite parts of the Middle School was the Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach used in the classroom. We were often encouraged to find a problem in our community and solve it using our classroom skillsets and creativity. For example, the Gr. 6 biodiversity science project helped me learn more about ecosystems and biology by solving on-campus biodiversity problems. This made me more engaged in the outcome and more enthusiastic about participating in the classroom.

Looking back, Middle School was an integral part of my growth and created the foundation for the skillset I’ve built over the rest of my academic career. Every day, I apply something I’ve learned from Middle School to my life. Whether it’s the value of respect or the importance of ambition and creativity, I’m able to go back to my time in Middle School and use the skills I’ve learned to thrive.

Middle School Prefect,

SCHOOL/COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP

Principal’s Council

Elev8

Music Council

Community Service Committee

Visual Arts Council

House Captains

Health Action Team

Student Ambassadors

Green Team

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

*Activities are subject to change

ARTS, MUSIC AND DRAMA

Art Club

Writer in Residence

@theHelm Newspaper

Grade 7 & 8 Band

Jazz Ensemble

Musical Production

Stage Crew

AFFINITY GROUPS

Inclusivity +

Black Students’ Association (BSA) (Senior School)

Asian Students’ Association (ASA) (Senior School)

Jewish Students’ Association (JSA) (Senior School)

Muslim Students’ Association (MSA) (Senior School)

Indigenous Students’ and Allies Association (ISAA) (Senior School)

Femina (Senior School)

Inclusivity, Diversity and Equity Alliance (IDEA)

Jr.

Choir

INTER-SCHOOL ATHETICS (CISAA)

CLUBS

STEAM

Kids Lit Quiz

Debate

Science/BASEF

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Co-Ed

Yoga

MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICAL

One of the highlights on the Middle School calendar is the annual musical production. Whether in the starring role, as a member of the chorus or working behind the scenes on sets and lighting, students can pursue their interest in theatrical arts as part of the Middle School co-curricular program. In addition to developing their interest in acting, singing and dancing, students learn the importance of commitment, perseverance and teamwork in a creative setting. The result is an impressive culmination of the term’s work where each of our students has the opportunity to shine. Auditions for this winter activity typically take place in October.

Past productions have included:

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONTACTS

Our Middle School Transition event, Stepping Into Middle School, provides a lot of information. If you have any questions that were not addressed, please do not hesitate to contact us.