Together Towards the Future Ensemble vers
l’avenir
From our home in Canada’s capital city, Ashbury College is a centre for excellence in international teaching and learning, where enthusiasm permeates life both in and out of the classroom. Our goal is to support students in realizing their full potential and help them develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed and adapt to the challenges they will face in our ever-changing world.
This is a close and diverse school community that integrates young children with pre-university students. In a supportive environment, we challenge students to step out of their comfort zones, and to think critically and globally, all while ensuring the simple, yet important, formalities of civility and respect are not overlooked.
A wealth of co-curricular clubs, sports, and arts activities brings learning to a lively stage and, our international orientation permeates these activities and school life on so many levels. Bien entendu, l’école se trouve dans la capitale nationale, et l’école démontre l’importance des deux langues nationales, en offrant plusieurs options bilingue. As we look beyond our 135+ year history, we seek innovative approaches to teaching and learning while not abandoning the tried and tested as we prepare students for the future.
Ashbury College is an exciting place to be, and I invite you to discover the advantages and experiences we have to offer.
Norman Southward Head of School—Directeur
As one of Canada’s most highly respected independent schools, Ottawa’s Ashbury College provides a well-rounded experience for its students. We prepare our students for their post-secondary journey and life by challenging them with authentic learning, delivered by outstanding and supportive teachers.
Established in 1891, Ashbury College offers unique programs and life-enhancing skills to students from across Canada and around the world. As an IB World School with students in Grades 4-12, Ashbury is a top choice for families seeking exceptional learning options for their children.
UNIVERSITY PREPARATION
With small class sizes and an average student/staff ratio of 8:1, Ashbury’s specialized faculty are focused on helping students succeed, by delivering a challenging, thought-provoking curriculum designed to motivate and inspire.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Ashbury offers a dynamic learning environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential. Ashbury graduates excel in all fields of study; the school’s 100% university placement rate is a source of pride for faculty and parents alike.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
With over 70 co-curricular activities offered, there’s something for everyone at Ashbury. Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of clubs and teams to develop or acquire new or existing skills and interests. The school provides opportunities for students to experience new things, collaborate and compete with others, and challenge themselves to learn and grow.
WELLNESS
There is a strong focus on the health and wellbeing of Ashbury College community members. Our Wellness Team works with supportive faculty, staff, and the medical community, as required, to ensure the mental and physical health of our students. Promotion of sport, outdoor pursuits, and the arts are woven into daily life to promote a healthy balance between mind and body.
Together towards Understanding
Ashbury Junior School: 200 students in Grades 4-8
Ashbury Senior School: 550 students in Grades 9-12
Alumni Portraits
Ashbury College has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today. Not only did Ashbury provide me with the skills to excel academically in teaching me the foundations of writing, critical thinking, and time management, but Ashbury has instilled in me how to be a citizen of the world. Being a part of an international student community, we celebrated our differences but also learned they were what united us. Ashbury provided me with global connections. In the countries and cities I’ve lived in since graduation, there has always been an Ashbury community, be it on the ground or virtual, to provide a connection or introduction. The Ashbury education from which I benefited extends far beyond the corridors of elementary or high school. I feel so very fortunate and am grateful to be a part of Ashbury and its family.
Coming from an Indigenous community, I was grounded in my culture and language from an early age. While the opportunity to learn about my heritage was abundant, due to the small size of my community, educational programming was limited. Ashbury, with its robust and comprehensive curriculum, provided the opportunity to not only enrich my areas of interest but to explore new subjects in a supportive environment. At
Victoria Shore, Class of 2007
McGill University, 2011
LLB, The City Law School, 2014
LLM, Osgoode Hall Law School, 2015
Bar Admissions: Ontario, 2016, New York, 2019
Current Job: Associate Attorney, Sheeley LLP (New York City)
Ashbury I was encouraged to excel while also being provided with the tools and knowledge to succeed. To this day, Ashbury remains one of my fondest experiences, and the community that I built has endured long after graduation. As an Anishinabe-Indigenous person, Ashbury welcomed me and my cultural differences while making me feel like a valued and included member of the community. I am proud to say that I am an Ashburian!
Misko McGregor, Class of 2017
Queen’s University, 2022
Manager, Indigenous Financial Literacy
Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada
Ialways felt my teachers were truly invested in my success and so supportive of my learning and wellbeing inside and outside of the classroom. The IB programme gave me confidence in my abilities to overcome academic challenges and opened the door for me to pursue my postsecondary studies abroad.
Aniela Onuoha, Class of 2023
King’s College London, UK 2nd Year International Relations
A Snapshot of our History 1891-Present
Ashbury College continues to build on its 135-year reputation of excellence, innovation, and leadership by inspiring students to think critically, create meaningfully, and contribute towards the betterment of their school, their community, and their planet.
The staff at Ashbury are committed to creating an environment where students feel supported and where they are encouraged to find within themselves the courage to question, to lead, and to share. This dedication to character is the backbone of the Ashbury experience, and the foundation on which students build a desire for lifelong learning and purposeful employment.
Ashbury College Shelters 50 Abinger Hill Boys from Britain
The Head of School’s New House
Mariposa Avenue
Rhodes Hall
Victoria Chambers
Mr. Woollcombe’s School
Argyle Street Ashbury College
Wellington Street Ashbury House School
Final Examinations
Athletics in the New Gymnasium
Argyle Wing Opens
IB Programme Introduced at Ashbury College
Maclaren Hall and Double Gymnasium Open
Matthews Boarding House for Boys Opens
Coeducation Introduced in the Senior School
Heather Gillin Boarding House for Girls Opens
Creative Learning Centre Opens
Chris and Mary Taggart Fitness Centre Opens
Coeducation introduced in the Junior School
Centre for Science and Innovation Opens
Maple Boarding House for Girls Opens
Ashbury Clock Tower Completed
Ashbury College Founder, George P. Woollcombe
Together towards Connection
International Engagement Outreach
Ashbury College provides its students with platforms to engage with international groups and communities through various external and internal programs. Students can be a part of Round Square, and/or the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and connect internationally via Ashbury’s global student population and academic programming.
Within the Ottawa area there are many charitable organizations that Ashbury students support through meaningful outreach. Our students have the opportunity to connect with and support those who are less fortunate, and learn through this impactful and purposeful community service.
Internships
Pluralism
With work experience in mind, Ashbury has designed an Internship Program linking students to work placements with Ottawa area employers. This program is a valuable support as students grow, develop, and plan their postsecondary next steps.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
three pillars at Ashbury College that are touchstones to ensure all past, present, and future community members feel valued, are supported, and have a voice that is heard.
“The goal of pluralism is belonging.”
—Global Centre for Pluralism
Ashbury has more than 50 years as an IB World School, offering a high-quality education with fully accredited IB teachers. Students in the two-year Diploma Programme are able to choose from a wide range of IB subjects and levels and have the opportunity to develop artistic, cultural, athletic, service, and leadership skills.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
To achieve the IB Diploma, students study six subject areas in depth, including a dual language program in English, French, Spanish, or another international language. Ashbury offers IB studies in alignment with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), so our senior students can make choices suitable to their interests, abilities, and university plans while earning both the OSSD and the IB Diploma.
100% of Ashbury students complete IB English. Approximately 75% of Ashbury students complete other IB Certificates or the IB Diploma Programme.
In 1975, Ashbury became the second Canadian school to offer the IB curriculum.
IB Higher Level biology lab workshop: St. Andrews by-the-Sea Marine Biology Centre
The Heart of Canada’s Capital
Un pays bilingue, une ville bilingue
Bienvenue! Welcome to Ashbury College nestled in a quiet, safe neighbourhood in Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, Ontario. Surrounded by embassies and established homes, the school campus is a short walk from the city’s multicultural centre, showcasing historic sites, national museums, galleries, Parliament Hill, and the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal.
Our state-of-the-art boarding residences host 51 young men and 60 young women who acquire real-life skills as they learn to live independently within the boarding structure.
Health, safety, and wellness are central to our boarding program. We have ten dedicated staff who live in the student residences, while the school’s registered nurse lives on campus, providing 24-hour-a-day care.
Ashbury College recognizes our campus is located on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinàbe Omàmìwininì Nation.
Ashbury College reconnaît que son campus est situé sur le territoire traditionnel non cédé de la Nation Algonquine Anishinàbe Omàmìwininì.
Take a virtual tour of our campus at ashbury.ca!
Graduation Requirements
ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOL DIPLOMA
All students graduate with the Ontario Ministry of Education regulated Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the completion of:
• 30 course credits (one credit = 110 hours of in-class instruction)
• Minimum 40 hours of community service
• Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
ASHBURY DIPLOMA
In addition to the OSSD, Ashbury issues its own diploma characterized by its carefully planned academic and nonacademic structure that highlight aspects of Ashbury’s values, above and beyond the Ontario Ministry OSSD requirements. To earn the Ashbury Diploma students must:
• take one additional course in Physical and Health Education
• take one “global perspectives” course from a select list of courses
• complete a total 60 hours of community service (an additional 20 hours beyond the OSSD)
• take nine terms of co-curricular activities
To encourage the development of student interests and proficiency in French, the Ashbury Bilingual Certificate/ Designation is granted to students who earn eight credits in French:
• Four Extended or Immersion French
• Four additional courses taught in French
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA
Ashbury College has a long tradition as an IB World School, starting in 1976, offering high-quality education with fully accredited IB teachers. Students have the choice to complete the IB Diploma or take IB Certificates. Ashbury offers IB studies in alignment with the Ontario Secondary School qualifications, offering students choices suitable to their
individual interests, abilities, and university plans.
• Students have an opportunity to earn a Bilingual IB Diploma by completing Language A in French or through our supported Self-taught Language A option
• All students in Grade 11 and 12 take IB English
• IB Diploma students take an intensive week-long summer research and writing course to prepare for the Extended Essay process
• Students have access to meaningful challenges in a range of service opportunities and grassroots projects in our CAS program
EVALUATION
Ashbury’s evaluation of student performance is based on a combination of continuous assessment and class tests, and summative evaluations which typically includes a summative project and/or a final exam. Students completing the IB Diploma will be accessed according to IB expectations and protocols.
In Ontario, the complete mark range is 0 to 100%, with a passing mark set at 50%. Honours-level marks are considered 80% and above. Students receive a term average on their report cards, but these do not represent a Cumulative GPA. All courses are unweighted and due to the nature of our school and its relatively small class sizes, we do not provide students a specific rank.
SAT/ACT EXAMINATION RESULTS
Ashbury College is a centre for SAT Testing; however, Ashbury does not provide additional preparation or support for students wishing to take these tests. Our CEEB and ACT code is: 826422.
Course offerings
IB courses are offered at both the Standard (SL) and Higher Level (HL) unless otherwise noted.
Grade/Level
Senior Courses 11 12 IB
American History
Biology •
• HL/SL
Business Leadership •
Canadian and International Law
Chemistry
Communications Technology
Computer Science
Design Technology
Dramatic Arts
Economics
English
English: The Writer’s Craft
The Environment and Resource Management
•
• SL
French (Introductory) IB Ab Initio SL
French (Core) IB B
French (Extended) IB B
French (Immersion) IB A
Global Politics
Healthy Active Living •
Introduction to Financial Accounting
Introductory Kinesiology
•
•
•
•
•
Mathematics: Advanced Functions •
•
Mathematics: Calculus and Vectors •
Mathematics: Data Management
Music
Philosophy/TOK
Physics
Sociology
Spanish (Introductory) IB Ab Initio •
Spanish (Intermediate) IB B •
Spanish (Advanced) IB B •
Visual Arts
World History
World Issues/Enjeux mondiaux
University Destinations
Ashbury’s cornerstone is academic rigour, enhanced by small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and innovative technology. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme and our bilingual certificate (French and English) further enhance diversity and provide a broader world view.
Specialized staff in the University Counselling Department work closely with senior students during their final years to provide personalized guidance and counseling to every graduate. One-on-one meetings and broader information sessions involving parents ensure a comprehensive approach towards the transition to post-secondary education.
The best universities around the world recruit Ashbury graduates; we have sent grads to Harvard, Cornell, McGill, University of Toronto, University of Ottawa, Queen’s, Cambridge, University of St. Andrews, Dartmouth College, Oxford, Boston College, Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, BI Norwegian School of Business, and the Sorbonne, to name a few.
We have an excellent university placement rate with the majority of our graduates gaining entry to their preferred university. With millions awarded to Ashbury grads annually in university scholarships, Ashbury is the first choice for a world-class educational experience in an inspiring, safe environment.
SMART (Science, Math, and Research for Transformation) Program for Science
Our students are working at a university level in biology with the opportunity to travel to present their work at an annual university conference in the United States.
•
•
SL
What Students are Saying
I love Ashbury because every teacher I’ve had has been willing to go above and beyond to make sure I’m properly learning the material. I’ve always felt like I’ve had the resources at this school to constantly improve myself and reach for the next opportunity. Not only that, I’m encouraged to do so. At Ashbury, you always have someone that believes in you. Keelin, Grade 11
Ashbury est une école multiculturelle et inclusive. Les professeurs font tout en leur pouvoir pour que les étudiants se sentent confortables et en sécurité. Toute la communauté d’Ashbury est comme une grosse famille et je me suis déja fait beaucoup d’amis en seulement un an et demi. Ma partie préférée d’Ashbury est les activités et oportunités comme le ski, les excursions, et méme les voyages de nuit.
Marie, Grade 8
From the first day at Ashbury, I have always felt that everyone here is very friendly and welcoming. I like studying a variety of subjects in the school, and all the teachers here are very helpful and encouraging. I love that Ashbury offers so many clubs that gave me a chance to discover my interests. My favourite club so far is the Little Medical School. I also like that my school gives importance to phys-ed and outdoor learning. I love being a student at Ashbury. Aditya, Grade 4
Ashbury is such an inclusive and caring community, filled with diversity and culture. There is a rich variety of choices at the school ranging from academics, to sports, to the arts and sciences, and student life and leadership. Studying at Ashbury really is an incredible opportunity, and an experience I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. Sahanna, Grade 10
With students from over 60 countries, including 100+ boarding students living on campus, the Ashbury community is alive with a diversity of traditions, languages, and cultures—providing the perfect learning ground for international understanding. Ashbury is committed to inclusion through access to financial assistance, fostering a community that embraces pluralism and builds on the strengths of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students are invited to participate in Ashbury’s Pluralism Circle where they, along with staff, parents, and alumni, work together to ensure everyone belongs at Ashbury.
Our boarding and day students interact in the classroom, on the field, and in clubs and activities.
Each connection allows students to share life experiences, provide personal ties to global issues, and express their national heritage through conversation, music, art, and food.
Together towards
Pluralism
While studying at Ashbury, international students also learn about Canada. With our close proximity to the national seat of government, students can witness politics in action. Seasons are fully celebrated and students participate in Canadian pastimes and traditions, such as fall hiking in the nearby Gatineau hills, ice hockey, dog sledding, and spring visits to maple sugar shacks.
Students are encouraged to participate in sports, outdoor pursuits, and the arts through a range of offerings including Round Square, the International Baccalaureate Programme, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Service-learning opportunities are available locally, nationally, and globally.
Assembly announcements include a “Worldly Wake-Up” news feed which focuses on various global issues from student perspectives.
University Admissions Teacher Advisor Groups Student Leadership Summer Programs
Ashbury’s system of academic and program advisor groups (TAGs) fosters a strong internal community. Students in Grade 9 are assigned a faculty advisor and the relationship extends for all four years of secondary school, providing sustained personal guidance and coaching throughout the high school experience.
Ashbury’s university placement program begins early in Senior School. Our 100% university placement rate is a source of pride for faculty and parents alike, and graduates excel in all fields of study. Graduating students receive one-on-one counseling to help them find their best post-secondary fit.
There are many opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, either formally through House Council or Prefect programs, or informally through a multitude of other programs and activities. Connections between our Junior and Senior Schools provide mentorship opportunities in all grades.
Year-round opportunities to learn are part of the advantage at Ashbury, where a variety of non-academic summer programs, camps, academic credit courses, and academic extension workshops are on offer. All courses are taught by Ashbury faculty and offer an excellent chance for students to get a head start on their program or sample curriculum of interest.
International Travel
Ashbury provides opportunities for students to engage in local, national, and international trips led by knowledgeable Ashbury faculty. Whether volunteering at a local school or participating in a French immersion ski program in Quebec or a service project in Africa, the experiences offered are transformational and promote a lifelong commitment to our global community.
We are there to listen to students—not just about school issues, but life. We encourage them to reach their full potential and have confidence in their abilities.
Ashbury takes great pride in offering an outstanding athletics program, which is locally, nationally, and even internationally recognized. School coaches create an enjoyable learning experience, while teaching the importance of striving for excellence. All teams exist in an environment that accentuates fair play, teamwork, diligence, and leadership. The program provides interscholastic opportunities that span a varied spectrum of student abilities.
Athletics
Students have the opportunity to compete and participate in a wide range of activities.
• Badminton
• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cross-Country Running
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Curling
• Field Hockey
• Fitness
• Football
• Golf
• Rowing
• Rugby
• Skiing
• Snow Boarding
• Soccer
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Track and Field
• Ultimate Frisbee
• Volleyball
• Ice Hockey
• Yoga
Creativity is alive at Ashbury! Thanks to our Creative Learning Centre, students have the creative spaces to pursue their passions in music, art, and drama.
Visual and performing arts are a big part of the Ashbury experience, allowing students the chance to express themselves in many ways. Music is a vibrant part of an Ashbury education, with successful bands and energetic music classes.
Each year, the school’s musical and drama performances draw rave reviews, and fill our theatre with captivated crowds.
Arts
Each year at Ashbury, students can choose from a wide variety of co-curricular activities. The diverse offerings are part of what makes Ashbury such a vibrant community.
In the co-curricular program, students are provided with quality learning experiences that instill lifelong values related to the benefits of health, the arts, sports, teamwork, and cultural, physical, and recreational endeavours. In addition to competitive and recreational sports, students can engage in a wide range of nonsporting activities.
Before and After School Activities
• Art Club
• Bands
• Blazer: Student Magazine
• Chess Club
• Choir
• Dance Club
• Debate and Speech
• Destination Imagination
• Entrepreneur/Investment Club
• Environmental Club
• Friday Night Skiing
• Glee Club
• Laugh While You Craft
• Lego Club
• Mandarin Club
• Model UN
• Musical Theatre
• Robotics
• Science Club
• Spanish Club
• World Affairs Club
• Yearbook
Boarding Life
Our Boarding Program
Ashbury College is home to 100+ boarding students from Canada and 30+ other countries. Our students live in three modern residences: Matthews House is home to 51 boys, while 51 girls live in Heather Gillin Residence, and seven girls live in Maple Residence. Each house provides a warm and comfortable environment with a mix of single and double rooms and the following amenities:
• Spacious and bright bedrooms
• Private ensuite bathroom in all bedrooms
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Laundry facilities
• In-house fitness area
• Outdoor recreational spaces.
Our modern and spacious dining room in the main school building provides healthy and delicious meals with an impressive array of options to suit all tastes; the menu reflects the cultural origins of our boarding students.
Ashbury’s boarding program intentionally fosters individual character development and nurtures personal growth, all within a safe and supportive environment. Our Ashbury boarding community is often described by students as a warm family. Students study, socialize, and live together, while learning about, and being exposed to, different cultures and perspectives.
Boarding Weekend Programming
Over the course of the academic year, boarding staff organize and supervise a variety of weekend activities. These events range from small groups to full-boarding community activities held on campus or off-site within the National Capital Region. Activities are designed to encourage students to try something new, explore their interests, challenge themselves, and build community.
There are also five, four-day long weekends each year when the school is closed. Boarders have the option of leaving campus to be with friends or family, or they may sign up for the Ashbury Long Weekend Program (LWP), allowing them to remain on campus and participate in local programming. At least once a year, the LWP involves a trip to another Canadian city, enabling participants to explore another region of our country. Our LWP is very popular with students who are looking for a balance between free time and planned activities. The cost of this program covers activities and any catered or restaurant meals; long weekend trips outside of Ottawa also include the cost of transportation and hotel.
Financial Assistance
An independent school education involves a major financial commitment. Ashbury College has established a Financial Assistance Program to aid qualified students. Over 95% of our funding is awarded through a robust needs-based bursary program that is supported by the Ashbury College Foundation.
Ashbury Bursaries are awarded to students with demonstrated financial need who exhibit sound scholastic achievement, good character, and the capacity to make a worthwhile contribution to the school. Financial assistance is available for students in Grades 7–12.
Ashbury offers Merit Awards to select students who display high proficiency in a combination of academics and extra-curricular activities. Merit awards are competitive and offered to fewer than 5 percent of new students.
For more information about our Merit Award and Bursary Program, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@ashbury.ca.
WHAT IS A BURSARY?
A bursary is a sum of money awarded to a student who has demonstrated financial need (as determined through an application and review process managed by a third party). The student recipient must go through the standard Ashbury application process and meet the entrance criteria. Ashbury’s financial assistance program is designed to support student recipients throughout their time at the school.
Most of our donor-supported bursaries are invested in the Ashbury Endowment, which currently stands at over $14 million, where it will exist in perpetuity. The principle sum is invested in the Endowment and the investment income is awarded to students. Currently, one out of every ten students receives financial assistance. The average award is 50% of tuition fees.
“ALL OF THE EXPERIENCES, FRIENDSHIPS, AND OPPORTUNITIES I HAVE GAINED BY COMING TO ASHBURY COLLEGE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED AT ANY OTHER SCHOOL. THIS IS WHY I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL TO HAVE BEEN A STUDENT AT ASHBURY.”
Noah, Class of 2017, former recipient of financial assistance
Harvard University Graduate, Class of 2022
Required Forms and Information
Online Application: Available at ashbury.ca/admissions.
Online Application Fee: Payable by credit card with the online application.
School Reports: Upload the previous year’s final report card and any current report cards as they become available.
Confidential Reference: As an important part of our application process the Confidential Reference Form, found in the Online application, is completed by the student’s mathematics or English teacher or school Principal. The completed form is received directly by the Admissions Office.
Student Personal Profile: A 300-word letter of introduction, written by the applicant, and attentive to the prompt, provides the following details: academic interests and achievements, extracurricular activities, areas of distinction, and community involvement. Candidates applying to Grades 7 through 12 are expected to write the profile themselves. Parents may assist their child with the writing of the profile for candidates applying to Grades 4 through 6.
Day Visit: Applicants are hosted for the day by an Ashbury Student Ambassador with lunch provided in Maclaren Hall. Day visits may be scheduled at any time during the admissions process. Please contact the Admissions Office for an appointment. Day visits are not mandatory for students applying from afar; however, we are happy to accommodate all those who wish to travel to Ashbury to spend the day with us.
Admissions Interview: Junior School and Senior School day student interviews take place during the applicant’s day visit to Ashbury. The informal interview with an Admissions Team member is approximately 25 to 40 minutes in length. Boarding student interviews will take place online at a mutually-agreed time.
Junior School and Grade 9, 10, and 11 Entrance Examination, The Canadian Achievement Test (CAT): All applicants must write our online standardized, multiple-choice entrance examination which assesses skills in English and mathematics at the student’s previous grade level.
Students in Grades 5 to 11 may also choose to write the SSAT exam in place of the CAT exam. More information can be found at ssat.org.
admissions@ashbury.ca 613-749-5954
362 Mariposa Avenue Ottawa, Ontario K1M 0T3 | CANADA
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