Ridley College, located in St. Catharines, Ontario, is one of Canada’s leading independent, co-educational boarding and day schools for students from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12.

Ridley College

Established in 1889, Ridley College has a proud tradition of providing a world-class education that prepares students for success in university and beyond. The school’s motto, Terar Dum Prosim, which means “May I be consumed in service,” reflects its commitment to fostering leadership, academic excellence, and community engagement.

Ridley College is known for its rigorous academic programs, strong athletic tradition, and rich extracurricular offerings, making it an ideal choice for both Canadian and international students seeking a holistic and transformative educational experience.

This detailed guide, prepared by Fortune Education Consultancy, provides an in-depth overview of Ridley College, its unique programs, student life, and admission process, along with insights into how we can assist international students in navigating the competitive admissions process.

Ridley College

Ridley College is dedicated to developing the mind, body, and spirit of its students through a balanced approach to education that emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and community service.

With over 125 years of history, Ridley has built a strong reputation for producing graduates who are confident, compassionate, and prepared to become leaders in their fields.

The school’s beautiful 90-acre campus, situated in the heart of the Niagara region, provides a stimulating environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Features of Ridley College:

• Rigorous Academic Programs: Ridley offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and a rich curriculum that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning.
• Boarding Tradition: Ridley’s strong boarding tradition provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from over 60 countries, creating a diverse and globally-minded community.
• Focus on Leadership and Character Development: The school emphasizes character education, leadership development, and service, preparing students to be compassionate and proactive global citizens.
• Strong University Placement: Ridley College has a proven track record of placing graduates in top universities around the world, including Ivy League schools, leading Canadian universities, and prestigious institutions in the UK.

Academic Programs at Ridley College

Ridley College offers a challenging and dynamic academic program that is designed to inspire a love of learning, promote intellectual curiosity, and prepare students for future academic success. The school’s curriculum is structured to meet the diverse needs of its students, providing them with a strong foundation in core subjects while allowing them to explore their individual interests and talents.

1. Lower School (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8)

The Lower School at Ridley College provides a nurturing and engaging environment where young learners develop foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and inquiry-based learning. The program emphasizes the development of essential skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

• Core Subjects: The Lower School curriculum includes Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, French, Physical Education, and the Arts.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: The program encourages students to explore, ask questions, and conduct research, fostering a sense of curiosity and a love of learning.
• Character Education: The Lower School places a strong emphasis on character development, teaching values such as respect, responsibility, and empathy through daily interactions and community projects.

2. Middle School (Grades 7-8)

The Middle School program bridges the gap between Lower School and Upper School, providing a challenging academic environment that emphasizes independent learning, teamwork, and leadership.

• Broad Curriculum: The Middle School curriculum includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, French, Physical Education, and the Arts.
• Focus on Leadership: Students are given opportunities to take on leadership roles, participate in service projects, and develop decision-making skills.
• Experiential Learning: The program includes interdisciplinary projects and experiential learning opportunities, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

3. Upper School (Grades 9-12)

The Upper School at Ridley College offers a rigorous academic program that prepares students for university and beyond. Students can choose from a wide range of courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program.

• Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Ridley offers a variety of AP courses, including AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP English, AP Physics, and more. These courses provide college-level curriculum and the opportunity to earn university credits.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Program: Ridley is an authorized IB World School and offers the IB Diploma Program for students in Grades 11 and 12. The IB program is known for its academic rigor, interdisciplinary approach, and focus on developing globally minded individuals.
• University Preparation: The Upper School provides extensive university counseling services, including guidance on course selection, career planning, and university applications.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at Ridley College

The IB Diploma Program is one of the hallmarks of Ridley College’s academic offering. The program is designed to challenge students to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with complex global issues. The IB Diploma is recognized by universities around the world and is highly valued for its emphasis on research, analytical skills, and global awareness.

• Comprehensive Curriculum: The IB curriculum includes six subject groups—Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts.
• Core Components: The program includes three core components: the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), which encourage students to engage in independent research, reflect on their learning, and contribute positively to society.
• Global Perspective: The IB program at Ridley fosters international-mindedness, critical thinking, and a sense of social responsibility, preparing students to become compassionate and engaged global citizens.

Co-Curricular and Extracurricular Activities

Ridley College believes in educating the whole student and offers a diverse range of co-curricular and extracurricular activities that complement its academic programs and provide opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and creative expression.

1. Athletics

Ridley College has a strong athletics program that promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and resilience. The school offers over 25 sports teams, including soccer, rugby, basketball, swimming, tennis, and rowing.

• Competitive Sports: Ridley’s teams compete at local, regional, and national levels, offering students the opportunity to develop their athletic abilities and represent their school.
• Athletic Facilities: The campus features a state-of-the-art Athletic Centre, gymnasiums, sports fields, tennis courts, and a rowing center on the Henley River.

2. Arts Programs

The arts are an integral part of the Ridley experience, encouraging students to express themselves creatively and appreciate various forms of artistic expression.

• Visual Arts: The visual arts program includes drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media. Students have access to professional-grade studios and equipment.
• Music and Performing Arts: Ridley offers opportunities to participate in choirs, orchestras, jazz bands, and drama productions.
• Arts Showcase: Students can showcase their talents through annual arts festivals, exhibitions, and performances.

3. Leadership and Service

Ridley places a strong emphasis on leadership and community engagement. The school’s leadership program includes student government, peer mentorship, and service learning.

• Community Service Projects: Students are encouraged to engage in service projects that promote social responsibility and make a positive impact on the community.
• Student Leadership Opportunities: Students can take on leadership roles in clubs, student government, and school initiatives.

4. Clubs and Societies

Ridley has a vibrant club culture, with over 40 student-led clubs and societies that cover a wide range of interests, including debate, robotics, environmental activism, and entrepreneurship.

• Model United Nations (MUN): Ridley’s MUN team competes at regional and international conferences, allowing students to develop public speaking, negotiation, and diplomacy skills.
• Debate and Public Speaking: The school’s debate team is one of the strongest in Canada, regularly winning awards at national and international competitions.

Boarding at Ridley College

Ridley College has a strong boarding tradition, offering a welcoming and inclusive residential community for students from around the world. The boarding program is designed to provide a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

1. Residential Life

Boarding students live in one of Ridley’s modern residences, each equipped with comfortable living spaces, common rooms, and study areas. The school’s house system fosters a sense of community and belonging, while experienced residential staff provide 24/7 support.

• House System: Each boarding student is part of a house, creating a close-knit community and fostering friendships.
• Academic and Social Support: Boarding students have access to additional academic support, including evening study sessions and one-on-one tutoring.

2. Weekend and Evening Activities

Ridley’s boarding program offers a variety of activities and events on weekends and evenings, providing students with opportunities to relax, socialize, and explore new interests.

• Cultural and Recreational Activities: Students can participate in activities such as movie nights, sports tournaments, art workshops, and community service projects.
• Off-Campus Trips: Organized outings to nearby attractions, such as Niagara Falls, Toronto’s cultural sites, and local hiking trails, provide boarders with the chance to experience Canadian culture and natural beauty.

Admission Process for International Students

The admission process at Ridley College is competitive and requires careful preparation. Fortune Education Consultancy offers personalized guidance to help students present a strong application.