With you for life.
J. Edward Kidd
LEADING with Heart
Welcome to Ridley College!
It is my honour and privilege to introduce you to our exceptional learning community.
When Ridley College was established in 1889, our founders believed the only true education developed the threefold nature of the child: morally, intellectually and physically.
Today, we honour our roots from a different century by providing students from across Canada and around the world with a wellrounded, balanced education of the mind, body and spirit. Guided by our aspirational vision, we are inspiring flourishing lives to transform our globe
MISSION
We prepare meaningful and flourishing lives by teaching the habits of mind, body and spirit, and the values needed to lead in a global society.
VISION
We inspire flourishing lives to transform our globe.
MOTTO
Terar Dum Prosim: “May I be consumed in service.”
Ridley places particular emphasis on wellbeing as foundational for learning and flourishing. From day one, we integrate students into an interconnected community of care where every student belongs and thrives. On our campus, knowledge and wisdom are complemented by care and compassion. Achievement and excellence are accompanied by health and wellbeing. As one unified, globally minded and supportive community, we uphold each other to the highest academic standards while fostering a deep commitment to service.
Ridley graduates go on to attend some of the world’s most prestigious postsecondary
institutions. But they are prepared for so much more. Our students are learning the habits they need to live a life well lived. They are dedicated to the development of human flourishing, in themselves and in the communities they will someday lead. Theirs is the impact the world craves: leadership, determination, service and connection.
I invite you to explore the opportunities of a Ridley education. Together, we can prepare the next generation for the great contributions they’ll make in this world.
Yours in education,
J. Edward Kidd, Headmaster
EXCEPTIONAL Surroundings
Our stunning 90-acre campus is a home away from home for our students to learn, grow and thrive. Located in the beautiful Niagara Region in southern Ontario, Ridley is decidedly shaped by great Canadian values and our students reflect the multiculturalism and diversity of modern-day Canada.
CANADA
Canada is a safe and peaceful country. Every year, international students from around the world choose Canada for their education. Our diverse population, friendly and inclusive community and wide range of opportunities are part of Canada’s high quality of life.
CANADA
TOP 4
in the world for education
2024 U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT
TOP 5 in the world for quality of life
2024 U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT
39+ M population
2021 CANADIAN CENSUS
450+
ethnic and cultural origins
2021 CANADIAN CENSUS
NIAGARA REGION
475,000+ population 2021 CANADIAN CENSUS
–7°C to 27°C
(19° F to 81° F) a four-season destination
NIAGARA REGION
Explore nature trails for hiking and biking.
Niagara offers countless internationally recognized vineyards and wineries with great food.
Canada is a beautiful nation, and the Niagara Region is one of its many gems. Lush, diverse landscapes, natural wonders of the world and a fantastic arts and culture scene have become places of learning for our students.
THE CITY OF ST. CATHARINES
Our home in St. Catharines is close enough to large city amenities yet tucked away in the beauty of the Niagara escarpment and green Ontario forests. Students and staff benefit from being located near the Canada-U.S. border, Toronto, Buffalo and Hamilton International Airports.
375+ 840+
boarding students students
OUR SHARED Home
Ridleians feel a deep sense of connection that's rooted in our over 135-year history, as they share life and learning together on our extraordinary campus. But more than the traditions and the place we call home, Ridley’s legacy is a kinship with remarkable people — a worldwide family of students, alumni, faculty and parents.
ridleycollege.com/visit or email admissions@ridleycollege.com.
A PLACE to
Flourish
Education has always been key to a flourishing life, but today’s children need more to flourish in our complex world. Since 2014, Ridley has been a leader in wellbeing education. We create an environment where students develop a strong academic foundation, global perspective and the habits of living well that will be with them for life.
WE ARE CONSUMED IN SERVICE
Since 1889, Ridleians have lived by our school’s inspirational motto, Terar Dum Prosim, “May I be consumed in service.” From student-led fundraising initiatives to boarding house activities and international service trips, giving back is engrained in every part of our community.
WE FOSTER A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
With students from over 60 countries living, working and playing together on our campus, Ridley fosters global competency. We prepare students to move with understanding and ease in a global society.
WE INSPIRE A CULTURE OF WELLBEING
Wellbeing is woven into every part of the student experience. From how we structure our classroom schedules to our daily exercise habits, our aim is to equip students with the habits and strengths they need to build fulfilment, purpose and achievement.
OUR CULTURE
WHAT FLOURISHING LOOKS LIKE
We define flourishing as PERMA-V, a human development theory founded by Dr. Martin Seligman. Each of the letters represents a pillar of wellbeing that is foundational to everything we do at Ridley.
FLOURISHING IN ACTION:
• Three dedicated social-emotional counsellors, led by the Director of Wellbeing and Belonging, reside in Lower, Middle and Upper Schools to support students by providing programming and coaching on a daily basis.
• Educators lead “Brain Breaks,” where students pause from learning and do a brief physical activity to reduce their stress levels and refocus.
• Our advisory programmes pair small groups of students with a staff or faculty advisor — which helps students develop relationships and feel a sense of belonging in the Ridley community.
• Our dining halls focus on nutrition and healthy food choices to power learning and performance.
• We have a health centre and professional medical staff available on campus.
STUDENT CARE AND SUPPORT
A CIRCLE of Care
At Ridley, we see each student as an individual with unique needs. We employ a Circle of Care approach to ensure that every Ridelian is known, cared for and supported. The Circle of Care is an interconnected network of staff and faculty that help students flourish — in mind, body and spirit.
While this vast network of care looks different for every student, one thing remains the same — our caring and compassionate community is ready to help students build relationships, make connections and feel a sense of belonging at Ridley.
The Schmon Health and Wellness Centre is our purpose-built medical centre designed to keep our community healthy. With thirteen beds and multiple exam rooms, it is well-equipped to provide on-site medical care for our students.
TEACHER
Our faculty leaders are experts of their craft and discipline, and they are also mentors, life advisors and friends, inspiring students to develop in all aspects of life — mind, body and spirit.
ADVISOR
Advisors lead programming and wellbeing check-ins and are a resource and mentor for all kinds of life questions, both school and non-school related.
LEARNING STRATEGIST
Our Learning Strategists offer learning support through workshops, assistive technologies, personalized assessments and individual student success plans.
TUTOR
Subject-specific tutors reinforce concepts, strengthen comprehension and offer individualized attention to enhance learning.
LIBRARIAN
Our Librarians boost academic achievement through workshops, build literacy skills and arm students with the knowledge of how to research.
ASSISTANT HEAD OF HOUSE HEAD OF HOUSE
COACH
ATHLETIC THERAPIST
NURSE
HEAD OF HOUSE AND ASSISTANT HEAD OF HOUSE
Heads of House and Assistant Heads of House are parental figures who lead with compassion, foster wellbeing and encourage personal growth.
ATHLETIC THERAPIST
DOCTOR
TEACHER
ADVISOR
LEARNING STRATEGIST
TUTOR
LIBRARIAN
DIRECTOR OF WELLBEING
COUNSELLOR
COACH
Ridley coaches are positive, enthusiastic and goal oriented. They employ wellbeing education into their approaches, helping students harness their strengths to achieve their goals.
Our three full-time Athletic Therapists provide injury prevention education and rehabilitation to our athletes. While our cutting-edge Athletic Therapy space is equipped with treatment tables, Air Relax compression sleeves and a state-ofthe-art cold tub for rapid recuperation.
DOCTOR AND NURSE
Physicians hold on-site clinics four days a week and are on-call 24/7, while our Nursing staff are on-site seven days a week in our Schmon Health and Wellness Centre and on-call 24/7.
COUNSELLOR AND THE DIRECTOR OF WELLBEING
Alongside the Director of Wellbeing, a team of social-emotional counsellors conduct classroom lessons, workshops and meetings with individuals, small groups and families.
BOARDING
THE HOUSES of Ridley
Our boarding houses are more than just residences; they make up the fabric of our community. It’s where friendships are born, independence and life skills are fostered and lifelong connections are made.
A NURTURING HOME BASE
Each House has a Head of House and Assistant Head of House who live on campus in adjoining residences with their families. These caring adults, along with the support of devoted advisors, teachers and residence dons, take great pride in being a part of your child’s educational and personal journey. There’s always someone for your child to talk to.
ACTS OF SERVICE
An appreciation for service to others is instilled in our boarding community, as each House raises awareness and funds for a particular cause throughout the year. There is nothing more meaningful than contributing to the betterment of our community.
MEET HEAD OF HOUSE MR. MCNIVEN
Upper School Teacher and Head of House (HOH) Mr. Andrew McNiven, along with his wife, three girls and their dog, live in an adjoining home to Arthur Bishop East House.
As an HOH Mr. McNiven supports each of his student’s educational and personal journeys at Ridley.
BOARDING HOUSES
ARTHUR BISHOP EAST
Mascot: Beasts
Charity: Gillian's Place
ARTHUR
BISHOP WEST
Mascot: Bandits
Charity: Congo Leadership Initiative
GOODERHAM EAST
Mascot: Crocodiles
Charity: Start Me Up Niagara
GOODERHAM WEST
Mascot: Flamingos
Charity: Canadian Cancer Society — Run for the Cure
MERRITT NORTH
Mascot: Panthers
Charity: Community Care — Raising the Roof
MERRITT SOUTH
Mascot: Strongmen
Charity: McMaster Children's Hospital Foundation
LEONARD
Mascot: Ladybugs
Charity: Niagara Children's Centre — Superhero Run
Mascot: Ducks
Charity: Days for Girls Canada, WE Scare Hunger
DEAN'S
Mascot: Knights
Charity: Special Olympics — Motionball
BURGOYNE Junior Boarding
Mascot: Bears
Charity: Service Sundays
MANDEVILLE
BOARDING
A ONE-OF-A-KIND Experience
As one of the largest boarding schools in Canada, Ridley offers a unique boarding experience in a culturally diverse and supportive community focused on student wellbeing.
A PLACE TO BELONG
Every Upper School student, day or boarding, belongs to and has a dedicated space and desk in one of the nine Houses. Our approach creates deeper friendships and lifelong connections between our local and international students.
SATURDAY PROGRAMMING
Upper School students enrich their learning every Saturday morning with our S.O.A.R. programme. S.O.A.R. is an extension of Ridley’s regular academic programme and provides students with an opportunity for enriched learning in a variety of areas.
• Special Interest: motivational speakers, art and vitality workshops, and our signature courses, such as Seven Habits of Successful Teenagers and Life Skills.
• Outreach: students engage in community service initiatives on and off campus, reflecting our school motto, Terar Dum Prosim, “May I be consumed in service.”
• Academic Support: dedicated time for projects, the IB personal project and extended essay, university preparation support and academic course planning.
• Residence Life: throughout the year, spirited inter-house competitions inspire team pride as Houses chase after the coveted Bradley Shield or Bermuda Cup.
10 66%:34%
boarding:day upper school students GRADES
6–8 GRADES
9–12
WEEKENDS
Weekend activities are planned throughout the year to enrich the experiences of Ridleians. These include activities planned by the Heads of House in conjunction with student leaders, which may be focused on community service or just for fun! In addition, school-wide outings and activities are regularly planned to engage students on and off campus.
Recent outings include:
• Toronto Blue Jays baseball game
• Culinary school at Ridley
• Horseback riding
• CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium
• Canada's Wonderland
• Laser tag
• Rock climbing
• Wellness trip to Pillar and Post Hotel and Spa
LONG WEEKENDS AND BREAKS
When a national holiday extends a long weekend on campus, Ridley provides a few options for students:
• Stay overnight with family or friends.
• Go on a Ridley-organized group trip to explore new regions across Canada or internationally.
• Stay on campus and participate in various activities planned by our boarding team. The campus is closed over the Winter (December) and Spring (March) breaks, and families need to make plans for their children during these times.
JUNIOR BOARDING: A NURTURING AND GROUNDING HOME BASE
Smaller than the Upper School residences, Burgoyne House has a structured and home-like atmosphere for younger students. Life in Burgoyne is like being part of a family with a dozen or more brothers and sisters.
SAFE AND SECURE
In addition to Ridley’s security team being available on campus 24/7, key fobs provide restricted access to each House for students and necessary staff.
DINING
GATHER at our Table
At Ridley, we focus on nutrition because we know a healthy body boosts confidence, improves happiness and strengthens academic and athletic performance.
WHAT WE OFFER
Vegetarian Vegan
Halal meat products
Dairy free
Nut free
Gluten free
Don’t see your child’s dietary requirement or allergy represented above? Talk to our team! Our talented chefs will work with your family to ensure your child has delicious and nutritious meals daily.
DAILY MEALS
Our full-time nutritionist and chefs plan and prepare three hot meals and nutritious snacks daily in our historic Great Hall and Williams Hall. Meals are made using high-quality ingredients, ensuring local in-season fruits and vegetables are used whenever possible. All meals and snacks are included in the cost of tuition.
DINING AROUND THE WORLD
We serve culturally conscious and diverse meals using recipes from all over the world. Our food provider, Aramark, prides itself on high-quality food, excellence and dining experiences that are globally inspired.
HEALTHY EATING MADE SIMPLE
Our chefs take special care to provide students with choices when it comes to eating while preserving health and nutrition. In class, students are taught about making healthy choices beginning in Lower School.
Williams Hall
Great Hall
SELF-EXPRESSION through Creativity
The Ridley arts programme fosters artistic capabilities and an awareness of how art can enrich life.
All students have the option to work in our art studios, perform with an ensemble, act on a stage and explore their creative talents. Learning from faculty members who are accomplished professionals in their artistic field, students explore a variety of styles and mediums and produce artworks that are prominently on display throughout our school. ARTS
ARTS EDUCATION
An arts education facilitates the development of fundamental skills that enhance a student’s physical and mental capacity to engage with a myriad of day-to-day tasks that require fine motor skills, creative problem solving and fluent expression.
Some of the equipment that students have access to in the Arts, include 3D printers, CAD vinyl cutter, DSLR cameras, large format giclee printer, laser cutter and Wacom drawing tablets.
NEW, PURPOSE-BUILT SPACES
Our new Creative Commons house a design makerspace, film classroom, ceramics room, wood shop and design studio. The facilities provide incubator spaces that "knock down the walls" between traditional subject areas and elevate our ability to inspire creativity, design thinking, disruptive innovation and risk-taking for the next generation of Ridleians.
MUSIC
A vital part of campus life at Ridley College since 1889, music is a course of instruction from Kindergarten through Grade 12. All Music courses are taught by subject specialists in music studios and practice rooms, and additional private lessons are available at all grade levels.
DRAMA
Students in our Lower, Middle and Upper School who have an interest in theatre and the performing arts are able to participate in one of our theatre productions each year. Beginning in Grade 10, students can take a Theatre Arts course to bring their co-curriculars into the classroom.
VISUAL ARTS
Taught by specialist teachers, our Visual Arts programme develops key skills and habits required for creative compositions. With art studios equipped with a wide assortment of specialized tools and materials, our students have everything they need at their fingertips.
FILM
We offer the opportunity to collaboratively translate great stories from page to screen and from screenwriting to post-production. Our programme empowers students to develop practical and technical skills and apply them analytically to evaluate films.
FLOURISHING Through Sport
Ridley is a national leader in physical literacy and sport, dedicated to a longstanding tradition of daily physical activity and a broad offering of athletic pursuits.
HOME OF THE RIDLEY TIGERS
From purposeful play to high-performance sport, athletics is the crux of everything we do. Physical literacy, positive wellbeing and academic achievement combine to form a flourishing lifestyle.
A HOLISTIC SPORTS APPROACH
Unlike traditional sports academies, we approach sport for student flourishing, focusing on a winning balance of learning, training and competing. Coaches, assistant coaches, athletic therapists, Ridley’s medical team and boarding staff are among those who devote their time and talent to help students improve their athletic abilities.
RIDLEY SPORT FOR LIFE
Beginning in Lower School, students foster a love for daily physical activity, build confidence and the habits to create a healthy lifestyle as they grow. Some of the sports we teach include:
• Badminton
• Multi-sport rotation
• Tennis
• Ultimate Frisbee
• Weight training
• Yoga
COMPETITIVE SPORT
Our competitive sport offerings, which start in Middle School, are focused on providing an environment that supports fun and friendship, cultivates life skills and further develops sportspecific competencies and fitness. Organized competition occurs within the Canadian Independent School Athletic Association (CISAA) and focuses on competing and applying learned skills rather than on results.
WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES
Our renovated and expanded Evans Athletic Complex promotes health, wellness, connection and athletic excellence. It’s a communal space on campus for all levels of competitive sport and physical wellness.
Ridley’s athletic facilities include:
• Three-court hardwood floor gymnasium
• Competition-grade squash courts
• A Yoga and fitness studio
• NHL-sized ice surface
• A purpose-built fitness centre
• Rowing training room and rowing tank
• Six athletic team change rooms
• Eight natural turf playing fields
“The coaches have been phenomenal! Most of them are also teachers, so I’ve been able to build connections with them in the classroom and around campus, as well as on the water, which I think is incredible — it’s really special to always have people in your corner that know you.
- TALIA ‘23, PREP ROWING ATHLETE
“
PREP SPORT: PATHWAY TO POSTSECONDARY SPORT
Prep Sport, in our Upper School, combines Ridley’s exceptional athletic programme with the resources, support and exposure necessary to pursue educational and athletic aspirations in postsecondary. Prep sports include:
• Boys Basketball
• Girls and Boys Hockey
• Girls and Boys Rowing
FIND YOUR SPORT:
• Lower School, page 30
• Middle School, page 36
• Upper School, page 42
ACADEMICS OVERVIEW
A LEARNER-CENTRED Approach
At Ridley, we believe education is the key to a flourishing life. Our classroom culture is learner-driven and encourages a student’s natural inquiry and curiosity. Enhanced by the philosophy of the IB curriculum, we teach students how to learn and why they learn, to help them grow into citizens who are inquiring, knowledgeable and care deeply about creating a better and more peaceful world.
average class size student-toteacher ratio
18 8:1 of faculty members hold master's or doctoral degrees 35%
AN INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) WORLD SCHOOL
Ridley College offers the IB Continuum, a leading international education model for children ages 3 to 19. Renowned for its personal and academic rigour around the world, the IB Continuum develops students at their level and prepares them for their next educational leap. Prior experience in an IB school isn’t necessary to enroll in IB courses; the programme is crafted to welcome and assist students from different educational backgrounds.
• Primary Years Programme (PYP), JK to Grade 6, page 28
• Middle Years Programme (MYP), Grades 7 to 10, page 34
• Diploma Programme (DP), Grades 11 and 12, page 40
OUR APPROACH TO LEARNING
• Encourages critical thinking and asking challenging questions.
• Explores understanding across disciplines.
• Uses real-world examples to instil knowledge.
• Inspires students to be active in their communities and to take their learning beyond the classroom.
• Focuses on understanding and curiosity, not memorization.
A FOCUS ON STUDENT WELLBEING
As a visible wellbeing and positive education institution, our curriculum focuses on the “whole person,” fostering intellectual, physical and socialemotional skills. Our goal is to teach young people the habits of living well, so they develop the skills and grow their strengths to help them face life’s challenges now and for the rest of their lives.
THE IB LEARNER PROFILE
The IB Learner Profile describes the characteristics we strive to uphold as responsible, global citizens, which motivates our learning and shared guardianship of the planet. These attributes prepare students with a broad range of human capacities and responsibilities that surpass intellectual development and academic success.
LOWER SCHOOL
NURTURING Curiosity
Our Lower School is a learning community where children, in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6, unlock the wonder of inquiry-based learning, develop the foundations of their physical literacy and explore the boundless possibilities of their personal creativity.
A QUICK LOOK
195 students
18 average class size
CURRICULUM
Students take part in the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the initial programme of the International Baccalaureate Continuum. Teachers use the Ontario Elementary School Curriculum and additional resources as a guide for developing curriculum within the PYP framework, including evidence-based practices in literacy and numeracy instruction.
DAY STUDENTS
Local busing and daily after school care programmes are available to families living within 60 kms of Ridley.
BOARDING STUDENTS
The Burgoyne House boarding programme is available to students in Grades 6 through 8.
FACULTY EXPERTISE
Homeroom teachers guide students through their learning, working closely with specialist teachers in French, Music, Physical Education and Art.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
Students develop a strong sense of belonging from day one in their House Teams, which also encourage relationship development, leadership and friendly competition.
UNLOCKING HIDDEN POTENTIAL
The student experience at Ridley fosters a growth mindset, prioritizes wellbeing and promotes leadership development from an early age. Students are encouraged to be curious and try new activities and experiences to grow their strengths and find their passions.
NOURISHING MINDS AND BODIES
• Students are cared for by a compassionate and dedicated team of professionals who conduct regular wellbeing check-ins and teach socialemotional skills.
• Daily physical activity on our all-natural playscape breaks up learning and reduces stress levels.
• Our focus on nutrition ensures a hot lunch, snacks and healthy food choices are served daily, all included in tuition.
“I place exceptional value on the learning opportunities Ridley presents — not just academics but life skills. You hope to provide a foundation and tools for your children and let them decide what they build with them.
- MARKO, LOWER SCHOOL PARENT
“
LOWER SCHOOL
THE JOY of Learning
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) teaches the fundamentals and a love of learning. Students ask questions, seek answers and develop a foundation for academic and personal success.
A FOUNDATION FOR LIFELONG LEARNING
At this stage in their development, students are learning how to learn. The PYP programme builds students’ confidence in their abilities to identify and achieve goals. Children develop the tools and self-awareness they need to become lifelong learners.
BEGINNING THE IB CONTINUUM PROGRAMME
The PYP establishes a solid educational foundation so that they are ready to take their education to the next level in the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
The earlier students begin studying the IB, the better; however, they can enter at any point in their school career.
STUDENT-CENTRED FRAMEWORK
At every grade level, the PYP framework engages students in six transdisciplinary themes of inquiry. These themes help students understand their place in the world and gain confidence in their ability to inspire meaningful change.
SIX INTERDISCIPLINARY THEMES:
• Who we are
• Where we are in place and time
• How we express ourselves
• How the world works
• How we organize ourselves
• Sharing the planet
A CULMINATION OF LEARNING: THE PYP EXHIBITION
By Grade 6, students have become skilled knowledge seekers who can research topics, build their own understanding and complete a cumulative PYP Exhibition project. Recent exhibition topics include the housing crisis, rising sea levels, global population trends and invasive species.
A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Students in our Lower School are supported by experienced leadership, caring and talented teachers, subject-matter specialists, a learning strategist and a school counsellor. There are many adults to help guide your child to be the best version of themselves and set them up for success.
LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
We offer a variety of experiential learning activities and class trips to match students’ natural drive for discovery. Teachers also examine local and global issues with their students and apply these real-world examples to concepts and learning in the classroom.
BUILDING Balance
Co-curricular participation is an integral and exciting part of life at Ridley. Lower School students choose activities from a wide range of co-curricular programmes and sports to enhance their learning, grow their leadership abilities and form personal bonds with their peers and teachers.
FUEL FOR LEARNING
Co-curricular involvement and physical activity are part of a balanced lifestyle. Students flourish in classroom learning when they can explore their physical environments, be active every day and independently explore their personal interests.
MODELLING LEADERSHIP
From their earliest days at Ridley, we teach students how to be positive role models to their peers and younger students. Students witness and develop leadership skills through sports teams, House Teams, the reading buddies programme and various classroom leadership roles.
HIGHLIGHTS
We offer 50+ co-curricular and sport programmes.
Students can participate in co-curricular programming up to four times per week after school.
Students explore co-curricular learning opportunities in the areas of service, wellness, leadership, the arts and more.
Co-curriculars enable students to learn from diverse teachers and form connections with peers outside the classroom.
LOWER SCHOOL
SAMPLE CO-CURRICULARS
Astronomy
Baking
Board Games and Chess Club
Lego Club
Mad Science
Math Club
Origami
Outdoor Survival Skills
Photography
Robo Think (Robotics)
Theatre
SAMPLE SPORTS
Basketball
Dance
Fitness
Flag Football
Gymnastics
Lacrosse
Martial Arts
Rowing
Skating
Soccer
Squash
Yoga
COMPETITIVE SPORT GRADES 4-6
U12 Basketball
U12 Hockey
U12 Soccer
U12 Ultimate Frisbee
MIDDLE SCHOOL
GROWING at Ridley
Our Middle School is a supportive learning environment that helps students learn and grow during a pivotal time of development. Students cultivate curiosity through experimenting with new interests, pursuing passions and building lasting relationships.
A QUICK LOOK
GRADES 7–8
Middle School
120+ students
8:1
student-to-teacher ratio
CURRICULUM
Students learn the Ontario Elementary School Curriculum taught through the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, called the Middle Years Programme (MYP).
BOARDING STUDENTS
The Burgoyne House boarding programme is available to students in Grades 6 through 8.
DAY STUDENTS
Local busing is available to families living within 60 kms of Ridley.
FACULTY EXPERTISE
Students learn from specialist teachers in every subject, using diverse learning and teaching approaches.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
Students attend camp at the beginning of the school year to adjust to their new learning environment, teachers and peers. During the year, House Teams build camaraderie, community and relationships that will last a lifetime.
GROWING INDEPENDENCE
Something unique happens in Grades 7 and 8 as students begin to step into leadership roles within the school and gain practical experience. Our goal is to encourage and nurture their desire for independence and provide them with valuable opportunities to contribute to the Ridley community in meaningful ways.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL CARE
Students at this age are navigating rapid change. Our Middle School environment helps students build self-awareness and develop effective academic habits in a supportive educational setting. Providing for students’ unique social-emotional needs leads to higher academic achievement and cognitive skills.
GROWTH ROOTED IN CONNECTION
At this age, we focus on developing a student’s vital communication, organization and teamwork skills. Middle School students benefit from smaller class sizes, which allow for more individualized attention and support from faculty and learning strategists.
In their clubs, House Teams, sports and other co-curricular activities, students are exercising their abilities to form and maintain positive relationships in all aspects of life.
BUILDING HEALTHY HABITS
These unique years of development are the ideal time to cultivate healthy relationships and habits, setting the foundation for students to flourish in adolescence. We teach healthy eating and sleep habits in our health and physical education programming, and students are taught how to develop positive mental health and emotional regulation habits by our Middle School Counsellor.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
LEARNING in Action
The Middle Years Programme (MYP) develops curiosity, open-mindedness and agile thinking and doing. Expert instruction and real-world application go hand in hand to create leaders who can find fulfillment, purpose and achievement in their lives to transform our globe.
EXPLORING PASSIONS
The Middle School Exploratory programme allows students to select and engage in five unique exploratory sessions over the course of the year. These sessions offer a comprehensive and immersive experience on a chosen topic, culminating in presentations, projects, performances or other innovative methods to showcase their learning.
Embracing the essence of the IB philosophy, the exploratory programme encourages academic exploration and nurtures the development of problem-solving, communication and collaboration skills. Students are empowered to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of diverse subjects and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
STRETCHING AND EXPANDING HORIZONS
A hallmark of the MYP is interdisciplinary learning, which encourages students to understand connections and big ideas across disciplines. Students receive a minimum of 50 hours of instruction per year across eight MYP subject groups.
MYP SUBJECT GROUPS:
• Arts
• Design
• Individuals and Societies
• Language Acquisition
• Language and Literature
• Mathematics
• Physical and Health Education
• Sciences
IMMERSED IN THE REAL WORLD
The MYP is a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their MYP subjects and the real world. Ridley helps students gain confidence in their ability to assess problems and find a path forward.
STEM LEARNING
STEM-based learning is available in MYP personal and community projects, and through both formal and informal learning. Recent STEM learning experiences include computational thinking and nanotechnology.
MYP PERSONAL PROJECT SHOWCASE
The MYP programme culminates with an independent personal project — where students pursue a passion while building their independent learning, project management and communication skills.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
FINDING Direction
Our Middle School exploratory and athletic programmes play a vital role in shaping a student’s educational journey. As students begin to leave their childhood years behind, we focus on boosting their self-esteem and building fundamental skills as they explore new interests and passions.
COMMUNITY AND MENTORSHIP
Students benefit from close relationships and community integration at this stage of their development. Ridley coaches, instructors and teachers take pride in supporting students, teaching them specialized skills and encouraging independent exploration.
GRIT AND DETERMINATION
Through exploratory offerings and sport, students engage with problems and learn to persevere, building resiliency. Students develop their self-belief to confidently pursue leadership opportunities at Ridley and beyond.
THE KEYS TO WHAT’S NEXT
Our exploratory and athletic programmes prepare students for Upper School and postsecondary by teaching communication, teamwork, leadership and time management skills. Students may choose from a wide variety of activities to discover new talents and build individualized skills.
HIGHLIGHTS
Participation in a sport and exploratory programme is part of our philosophy, as it leads to higher academic performance and overall welllbeing.
Daily physical activity is a pillar of our student experience.
Exploratory programming increases social development, builds character and allows students to explore new interests.
Sport is offered three times per week after school.
SAMPLE EXPLORATORY OFFERINGS
5 Pillars of Health
Esports
Improv
Investors Club
One-of-a-Kind Market
Painting
Printmaking
Robotics
Theatre Production
COMPETITIVE SPORT
Boys
U14 Basketball
U14 Rugby
U14 Soccer
Girls
U14 Basketball
U14 Field Hockey
U14 Soccer
U14 Softball
U14 Volleyball
Co-ed
U14 Badminton
U14 Cross Country
U14 Hockey
U14 Rowing
U14 Squash
U14 Tennis
U14 Ultimate Frisbee
UPPER SCHOOL
CREATIVITY, Action
and Service
Students in our Upper School are empowered to guide their own learning, pursue their passions and persevere through challenges. Ridley’s emphasis on community, personal growth and academic rigor creates top-tier graduates who are ready to flourish at their choice of postsecondary institution.
A QUICK LOOK GRADES
9–12/PG
Upper School
520+ students
150+ academic courses offered
CURRICULUM
Students learn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) curriculum taught through the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework:
• Grades 9–10: OSSD in the Middle Years Programme (MYP)
• Grades 11–12: OSSD and optional Diploma Programme (DP)
BOARDING STUDENTS
Upper School boarding programme begins in Grade 9 and continues through to Grade 12/PG.
DAY STUDENTS
Local busing is available to families living within 60 kms of Ridley. It may be challenging for some Upper School students to take the bus home, as it will depend on their co-curricular schedule.
FACULTY EXPERTISE
Students learn from specialist teachers in every subject, using diverse learning and teaching approaches.
COMMUNITY
Intentional opportunities are built into campus life so that students know and feel they belong here, beginning with an annual camping trip during the first week of classes.
EXCEPTIONAL FACULTY
Small class sizes with dedicated teachers allow our educators to establish strong connections with their students and ensure your child receives one-onone support when they need it. Teachers also hold office hours to offer extra help and attention.
A BALANCED STUDENT LIFE
Our students are required to balance their academic lives by participating in a variety of cocurricular activities in arts, athletics, leadership and community service. Getting involved is proven to have a positive impact on overall wellbeing and academic performance.
PREPARING FOR POSTSECONDARY
Our academics unlock career and postsecondary prospects. Students have a dedicated guidance counsellor who helps them navigate their Ridley education, preparing them for admission to premiere postsecondary institutions around the world.
GRAD SURVEY
97% of students feel academically prepared for postsecondary studies.
$3.3M+ total scholarship dollars received by the graduating class.
95% of students were accepted to at least one of their top three schools.
UPPER SCHOOL
LEARNING TO Level
Up
We equip students to be leaders and world-changers who are ethically and socially responsible. They graduate from Ridley with confidence in their self-identity, abilities and a dedication to lifelong learning.
WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES
We offer purpose-built classrooms that foster academic excellence in diverse subject areas. Ceramics, performance arts and woodworking are among some of the dedicated spaces for students.
ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOL DIPLOMA (OSSD)
The OSSD is a highly regarded diploma across Canada and around the world. To receive the diploma, students complete 18 compulsory credits, 12 elective credits, 40 hours of community service and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test.
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
Upper School students can choose to undertake the challenge of the world-renowned IB Diploma Programme (DP) starting in Grade 11. The DP framework includes three DP Core components and a mixture of higher-level and standard-level courses taught in six subject groups (Individuals and Societies, Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts).
CUSTOMIZE YOUR EDUCATION
Upper School students have the option to pursue the full IB programme, the OSSD or a combination of courses from both. A hybrid approach is ideal for students seeking a broader range of courses than the OSSD alone offers or those who wish to specialize in three or four courses within a single discipline.
THE DP CORE
IB students reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete independent research and undertake a personal project that involves community service. The DP concludes with an independent, selfdirected 4,000-word extended essay that allows students to practice university-level writing with one-on-one guidance from a supervisor.
GATEWAY TO HIGHER EDUCATION
IB graduates are regarded as some of the most highly accomplished and resilient learners by premier institutions around the world, and are more likely to excel academically when compared to students studying other curricula. The DP framework supports student flourishing physically, intellectually, emotionally and ensures they are well prepared for higher education.
UPPER SCHOOL
DISCOVERY and Diligence
Ridley opens a world of opportunity. Students develop passions outside the classroom, test and refine their abilities and build their endurance in a tight-knit community.
PAVING THEIR PATH
Our students have the capability, independence and the support of their community to explore their interests and build specialized skills. Close peer, teacher and coach relationships create a connected network of support to guide and encourage students along their path.
IGNITING LEADERSHIP
Ridleians pride themselves on engaging and serving their communities. Leadership opportunities foster a strong sense of belonging and allow students to practice skills that will set them apart in postsecondary and their careers. Arts Council, Athletic Council, Cadets, IB Council, House Captains and Prefects are just a few ways students serve their communities.
LEARNING UNLEASHED
Remarkable experiential and service-learning opportunities are a hallmark of Ridley’s co-curricular programming. Ridley offers Model UN, DECA, debate teams, VEX Robotics and international service-learning trips. Past global service trips have included the Doppenbergs in Guatemala (DIG), Days for Girls in Thailand and the Jacaranda School for Orphans in Malawi.
HIGHLIGHTS
75
academic, arts, athletics and student leadership co-curricular programmes.
15 sports and athletics co-curriculars offered each term.
SAMPLE CO-CURRICULARS
Ceramics
Coding
Debate
Gardening
Photography
Math
Ski
Symphony
Theatre
Women in Leadership
UNICEF
COMPETITIVE SPORT
Badminton
Basketball
Field Hockey
Golf
Harriers (Cross Country)
Ice Hockey
Rowing
Rugby 7s
Soccer
Softball
Squash
Swimming
Tennis
Track and Field
Volleyball
PREP SPORT
Basketball
Hockey
Rowing
UNIVERSITY COUNSELLING
A WORLD of Possibilities
We encourage our students to think big about their life after Ridley. To help them on their journey, we offer a comprehensive and personalized guidance programme for students and their parents starting in Grade 8.
8,000+
alumni in over 100 countries
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Ridley is a postsecondary prep school, and our graduates matriculate to some of the world’s most elite institutions. We focus on finding the right postsecondary fit for students, where they will receive the education that meets their goals and allows them to continue to flourish. Additionally, we host domestic and international university fairs, providing students with valuable opportunities to explore their options and speak with their dream school.
PARTNERING WITH PARENTS
Parents are essential stakeholders in the postsecondary admission process, and we maintain open communication through presentations, emails and our online portal.
STUDENT-DRIVEN CAREER PLANNING
Our guidance department offers caring and individualized attention to students, to support students in building the path to their future. We offer early career counselling, beginning with Grade 9 course selection, helping students drive their ambition while keeping options open.
OUR STUDENTS STAND OUT
Each student has a unique journey — their friends, achievements, course selection, sports and co-curriculars set them apart. We help students communicate their story with resume and portfolio development beginning in Grade 11.
“My guidance counsellor guided me through every step of the college application journey. Whenever I felt uncertain or stressed, he was always there to provide a listening ear and valuable advice.
- DAVID ’22, ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE
“
RECENT UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS FOR RIDLEIANS
CANADA
McGill University
Queen’s University
University of British Columbia
University of Toronto
Western University
UNITED STATES
Columbia University
Johns Hopkins University
Savannah College of Art and Design
University of California, Berkeley
University of Pennsylvania
Yale University
UNITED KINGDOM
Imperial College London
London School of Economics and Political Science
University of Cambridge
University of Oxford
University of St. Andrews
University of the Arts London
INTERNATIONAL
Erasmus University, Netherlands
ESCP Business School, France
European University of Madrid, Spain
Glion Institute of Higher Education, Switzerland
The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Guidance Team
ADMISSIONS
JOIN Our Family
It starts with an application and evolves into so much more. We look forward to meeting with you to discover the possibilities a Ridley education will provide for you and your family.
MORE THAN AN APPLICATION
Our admissions process is designed to get to know our applicants and their families. We look to understand each candidate as an individual with a unique history and incredible potential.
YOUR ADMISSIONS GUIDES
Dedicated admissions officers provide ongoing communication, answer questions and arrange personalized campus visits to help you determine if Ridley is the right fit for you.
DAY STUDENT ELIGIBILITY
Day student families must reside within a 60 km radius of Ridley. Exemptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis at the time of admission.
TUITION FEES
As Canada’s leading independent and coeducational day and boarding school, our tuition fees are very competitive. Our newly renovated and expanded arts and athletic facilities, nutritious hot lunches and snacks, on-site medical care and more are included in tuition.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
We offer scholarships and bursaries to qualifying families to make a Ridley education more affordable. Please contact us to discuss your options.
APPLY EARLY
Some grades fill quickly due to limited space. We encourage you to apply during the fall and spring of the preceding academic year.
DID YOU KNOW?
Ridley awards $3.5M annually in scholarships and bursaries.