As educators, we are often asked what really sets our school apart from the rest. After all, every school in the province must abide by the Quebec Secondary School Curriculum. Nonetheless, we believe that it takes more than simply a textbook to create opportunities for our girls and to enrich their lives. So we've highlighted a few of the things that help make Sacred Heart stand out from the rest:
Our Enhanced Learning & Advanced Placement Programme
Courses that enhance learning of the French language, Spanish electives, an enriched science option, contemporary and world issues, and a Faculty Scholars Programme complement and enhance the standard Quebec education. Our fabulous music program offers choral and guitar instruction, and concert and jazz bands. Our robotics program attracts many of our girls who go on to compete at the national robotics competition.
In addition, our Advanced Placement (AP) programme offers college-level courses in Macro-economics, European History, French Language and English Literature, allowing high achievers to earn college level credits or exemptions from entry-level courses at CEGEP or university. These courses are approved by the College Board, which oversees the AP curriculum and examinations worldwide.
International Student Exchange
Our unique international exchange programme embodies the very essence of what Sacred Heart truly is – a part of the worldwide Network of Sacred Heart Schools treasured for the vitality of their cultural and economic diversity. Through carefully developed and managed exchanges, we have partnered with sister Sacred Heart schools and are privileged to offer our senior students enriching travel and learning experiences. These opportunities can be life-altering for our girls as they encounter new cultures, adapt to living with families abroad, and learn to interact with young people from different backgrounds.
International exchanges develop confident independence in our students, a balanced perspective, and a sensitive appreciation of their relationships with others. Over recent years exchanges have transpired with schools in England, Scotland, Ireland, Belgium, France, Italy, Taiwan, Japan, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Putting Students First
Our rich history of educating girls for almost a century and a half has demanded that, while maintaining cherished traditions, we must also evolve with the times. With today's fast-paced lifestyle, we seek ways to support our students.
While classes are scheduled between 8:05 am and 3:10 pm, Sacred Heart's doors are open from 7:30 am to 5:45 pm. An optional breakfast programme is available to ensure our girls start their days off right.
After school, your daughter has the library, study hall, and computers at her disposal to work on assignments or catch up with homework. There are no fees associated with pre-class and after-school access to learning facilities for our students.
And beyond all of this, our small class size means your daughter receives our time and attention. We believe every child has a contribution to make to our school and every educator here has the responsibility to bring out the very best in each student. Your daughter's happiness, self-worth and academic success are our priorities.
Building a Family & Community
Our school enjoys a long tradition of family connections. In fact, since 1861 Sacred Heart has educated generations within families – great-grandmothers, grannies, moms, daughters, aunts, nieces, cousins, and siblings.
Big and Little Sisters: Before our newest students start classes, they are buddied-up in our Big-and-Little Sister Programme. Secondary II students are partnered with incoming girls to ease the transition from elementary school and to act as mentors helping newbies navigate their way.
Breaking Bread Together: The Sault Dining Hall is the backdrop for our midday meals. To reinforce the value and importance of sharing, family and community, our lunches are served family-style where diners learn cooperation, table etiquette, manners, and develop their social skills.
A Unifying House System: Every student, faculty and staff member belongs to one of our school's eight houses, each named in memory of one of our founding Sisters. Houses span the grade levels and promote a feeling of belonging, encourage camaraderie, and help develop bonds between students of all ages. Our house system reinforces the community atmosphere of Sacred Heart inspiring loving concern, strong friendships, friendly competition and loyal support. The accomplishments of individual house members are celebrated by all. Family members share the same house.
Our Extended Family: Our commitment to family and community is not limited to within the walls of our City House. Here at Sacred Heart, we are very deliberate in our efforts to instill a strong sense of social responsibility in our graduates. Whether through Spare Change Tuesdays, Spirit Days, our Christmas basket or Dans la Rue initiatives, our students have established a reputation of dedicated and active service in the community.
Engaging the Spirit Within
Ours is a faith-based school where an active spiritual life is woven into the daily fabric of what defines Sacred Heart. Each Tuesday, students partake in readings and sing in our choir as we celebrate the liturgy together. Dedicated House Masses and a number of special services are held throughout the year.
During the Spring, an after-hours sacrament preparation programme is offered for students wishing to make their first Communion and Confirmation. In the chapel each May, we all come together in the presence of their families and friends to witness our girls receive sacraments.
In keeping with our commitment to activities that bind our school families and extended community together, we are inviting our alumnae and Sacred Heart parents of all faiths and denominations to join us on a regular basis on Tuesday mornings for mass.There are many more advantages that only a Sacred Heart education can provide. Come visit us to see first-hand how our school we will make a difference in your daughter's future. Our open house is held in September, and our entrance exams are in October.
Visit our admissions page or call admissions at 514-937-2845 to learn more about the application process. We hope to see you soon!
