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For over a century, Appleby College in Oakville, Ontario, has been a beacon of excellence in Canadian education. Established in 1911, this co-educational independent school has consistently redefined the boarding experience, emphasizing global citizenship and personal development alongside academic achievement for its 800+ students in grades 7 through 12. ‘At Appleby, boarding is more than just accommodation; it’s a vibrant community where empathy, independence, and leadership are nurtured daily,’ says Tracey Pearce-Dawson, the school’s Executive Director of Marketing & Communications. Boarding is optional from grades 9 to 11 and mandatory in grade 12, ensuring every student gains invaluable life skills before transitioning to university. The school’s leadership philosophy is deeply integrated into its curriculum, offering over 125 formal leadership roles and incorporating leadership theory into courses like Business Leadership and Healthy Active Living Leadership. ‘Every student receives regular leadership training and skill-building, using tools like the Student Leadership Challenge and VIA Institute on Character to foster self-awareness and strengthen relationships,’ Pearce-Dawson explains. Beyond academics, Appleby’s co-curricular and club programs, including student ambassadors and peer counselors, provide practical leadership opportunities. ‘We aim for our students to leave Appleby not just with knowledge, but with confidence and compassion,’ she adds. With a student body representing 40 nationalities, Appleby’s campus is a microcosm of global diversity, fostering tolerance and curiosity. ‘Living and learning alongside peers from diverse backgrounds helps our students become leaders who value global perspectives,’ Pearce-Dawson notes. This global ethos resonates particularly with families in the Middle East, where interest in Canadian boarding schools has surged. Appleby’s appeal lies in its rigorous academics and inclusive community life, offering Advanced Placement (AP) and AP Capstone programs, as well as diploma specializations in Business, STEM, Creative Arts, and Global Leadership. ‘We honor diverse traditions and provide accommodations that respect religious and cultural practices,’ Pearce-Dawson emphasizes. Student well-being is central to Appleby’s approach, with services ranging from strength and fitness training to nutrition and lifestyle guidance. ‘Our advisor groups ensure every student is seen, heard, and supported,’ she explains. Before joining boarding, students complete a Foundations of Community course to ease the transition. Experiential learning is another cornerstone, with each student participating in a global learning experience before graduation. Many pursue the Diploma with Distinction in Global Leadership, and membership in Round Square, a global network of schools, further broadens horizons. ‘We’re expanding immersive programming to let students explore topics that inspire them,’ Pearce-Dawson shares. The upcoming Cockwell Hall, a state-of-the-art facility, will support this vision with new academic, co-curricular, and boarding spaces. While technology enhances learning, Appleby remains committed to personal connection. ‘Technology supports but never replaces the value of shared meals, house competitions, and outdoor expeditions,’ says Pearce-Dawson. From canoe trips to winter camping, Appleby’s outdoor education program builds resilience and teamwork, essential qualities for future leaders. Ultimately, Appleby’s mission is to develop leaders of strong character who will positively impact their communities. ‘Breadth, excellence, innovation, and caring define Appleby. We prepare graduates to be thoughtful, capable contributors in a fast-changing, globally connected world,’ Pearce-Dawson concludes.

St. George’s School in Vancouver, Canada, offers a distinctive urban boarding experience exclusively for boys in Grades 8-12. As the nation’s only program of its kind, it combines academic rigor with character development, fostering a vibrant community where students thrive. The school’s philosophy extends beyond traditional education, emphasizing the cultivation of empathetic, curious, and courageous young men prepared to make a meaningful impact on the world. Through innovative teaching methods such as small-group Harkness discussions, a comprehensive advisor program, and inquiry-based learning, students gain confidence in their voices and take ownership of their ideas. The curriculum is enriched with nearly 30 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, over 40 athletic options, and 50 special-interest clubs, ensuring every student discovers and pursues their passions. The boarding experience is uniquely metropolitan, offering weekend activities like skiing on Vancouver’s North Shore mountains, kayaking along the Pacific coast, or attending cultural events downtown—all within minutes of campus. This environment nurtures independence, balance, and global citizenship among a diverse student body representing more than 15 countries. For over nine decades, St. George’s alumni have excelled as CEOs, Olympians, artists, and civic leaders, embodying the school’s mission to prepare students not just for success, but for significance. Head of School David Young emphasizes, ‘There are many ways to be a man and many ways to make an impact.’ At St. George’s, this transformative journey begins in the heart of Vancouver, where bold ideas, lasting friendships, and purpose-driven lives take root.

As Upper Canada College (UCC) approaches its bicentennial in 2029, this historic institution continues to innovate, blending its rich heritage with a forward-thinking approach to boarding education. Founded in 1829, UCC has long been a beacon of academic excellence in Canada, and today, it is redefining the boarding experience for globally minded students.

At the core of UCC’s philosophy is a commitment to holistic education, which integrates academic rigor with personal growth, intercultural understanding, and wellbeing. Alexandra Zourntos, Director of Admission, Upper School and Boarding, emphasizes that boarding at UCC is more than just accommodation—it’s a vibrant, inclusive environment where students thrive intellectually, emotionally, and socially. This approach is anchored in the school’s five core values: learning, pluralism, service, community, and wellbeing.

UCC’s diverse student body is one of its greatest assets. With 88 boarding students from 25 countries speaking 24 languages, the school fosters a multicultural community that enriches classroom discussions and builds lifelong connections. International-themed dinners, cultural showcases, and inclusive programming ensure that every student feels valued and at home. The admission team actively engages with families across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, further solidifying UCC’s global reputation.

The Middle East, in particular, has shown growing interest in UCC. Families from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and beyond are drawn to the school’s alignment with shared values such as community, tradition, and academic ambition. UCC’s International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, combined with culturally aware programming and familiar culinary options, makes it an ideal choice for students from the region.

Located in Toronto, UCC benefits from the city’s multicultural vibrancy, providing an ideal setting for global learning. The school’s 35-acre urban campus offers access to over 80 sports teams, 90 clubs, and 14 music ensembles, ensuring a well-rounded education. Beyond academics, students engage in arts, athletics, outdoor education, and community service. The Norval Outdoor School, a 450-acre second campus, offers leadership retreats, sustainability studies, and team-building activities that promote resilience and environmental stewardship.

While technology is integral to modern education, UCC strikes a balance between digital tools and personal interaction. Students in Years 8 to 11 surrender devices at curfew, and dedicated “Boarding Weekends” encourage disconnection from screens to focus on building friendships and shared experiences. This blend of cutting-edge education and genuine human connection defines UCC’s enduring legacy.

For more information about Upper Canada College and its boarding admission, visit www.ucc.on.ca/admission.