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LIVE TOGETHER. LEARN TOGETHER.

BRANKSOME HALL

RESIDENTIAL LIFE

“I love living in residence. I’ve made a lot of friends from around the world, and I’ve learned to be more independent.” — Jodi, Grade 11 student

OUR MISSION

OUR VISION

Each day, we challenge and inspire girls to love learning and to shape a better world.

To be the pre-eminent educational community of globally minded learners and leaders.

Your journey starts here Whether you’re coming from just outside Toronto or halfway around the world, choosing Branksome Hall as your new school and home away from home is the start of an exciting journey.

Along the way, you’ll meet teachers who care about their students and who are passionate about what they teach. Branksome Hall teachers will inspire you to develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

In addition, you’ll explore who you are and how you fit into this world. At the same time, you will learn about how you can make the world a better place.

At Branksome Hall, we offer a remarkable learning experience. What I love about my job is watching each student on her journey to finding her own unique passions, interests, skills and dreams—because, as exciting as a new city and a new school are, selfdiscovery is the most remarkable learning of all!

Sincerely, Karen Jurjevich Principal

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We set you up for success Your family wants you to get an outstanding education. That’s why they’ll be happy to know that living in residence at Branksome Hall actually makes it easier for you to focus on your studies. You will be supported by staff and tutors, and our structured study time makes learning easier, because you are surrounded by girls your own age who have a similar workload and a desire to succeed.

And, when studying is done, we make sure life in our residence is filled with a variety of evening and weekend activities that will stimulate your mind. That’s all good news for parents and for you.

The good news for our girls is that we have fun. From the moment you arrive at Branksome Hall, residence staff will get you involved in a whirlwind of activities that help us all get to know each other. This may include dinner at Toronto’s revolving CN Tower restaurant, where you have a great view of your new city— an exciting city that you can discover at your own pace throughout your stay with us. The fun continues throughout the year, with holiday dinners, cooking classes, Oscar night movies, and visits to museums, theatre, concerts and other special events. To help you make friends outside of residence, we have dinners, sleepovers and other activities with the day students.

So, tell your parents you think Branksome Hall would be a great place to study and learn. We’ll make sure that there’s time for fun.

We’re looking forward to meeting you!

Are you ready for a remarkable new experience?

Are you in search of an outstanding international educational experience—one in which you will be supported by caring staff? Then look no further than Branksome Hall, in Toronto, one of the world’s most exciting multicultural cities.

If you’re from outside Canada, then you’re sure to hear the sounds of home on our streets, because many of Toronto’s three million citizens are from different parts of the world and, in total, they speak more than 100 languages and dialects.

Branksome Hall’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Program will stretch your mind and equip you for the challenges of university and beyond. We will teach you the tools to become critical thinkers and effective communicators. Along the way, you’ll discover the importance of caring for others and the environment, as well ways to achieve balance in your life. You will continue to grow as a well-rounded, competent and committed person who will be able to make a difference in the world.

Branksome Hall, one of Canada’s top independent, non-denominational schools for girls: • offers an International Baccalaureate Program that is excellent university preparation • helps students develop good study and social skills • balances classroom life with a variety of clubs and athletic, artistic and leadership activities • offers accommodation in heritage buildings located on a scenic, 13-acre campus in the safe and beautiful residential neighbourhood of Rosedale, close to downtown Toronto • provides easy access to theatre, libraries, safe public transportation and many other benefits of living in an exciting, multicultural city.

If you decide to live and study at Branksome Hall, you’ll become part of a vibrant on-campus community that provides the following: • residence facilities for girls in Grades 7 through 12 • a warm, welcoming atmosphere in three charming heritage homes • supportive and caring residence staff to listen to you and guide you when you need help • a diverse group of fellow residents from more than 20 countries • state-of-the-art academic, athletic and dining facilities to nurture your mind and body • a wide array of social and cultural activities that will help you connect with other students and your new city.

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Making you feel at home from the moment you arrive At Branksome Hall, you will find professionals who will support you and a program designed to make you feel welcome throughout your stay with us.

YOUR FIRST WEEK AT BRANKSOME HALL In late August, before school begins, you’ll participate in a week-long orientation program that eases you comfortably into residence life with • strategies for academic success at Branksome Hall • activities and outings to help you get to know your fellow residence students and your new city • assessment of your speaking, listening and writing skills • personalized, intensive practice in English communication, if needed.

STAFF WHO CARE ABOUT YOU You’ll live and study in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment, supervised by caring residence staff who • are on duty each day from the time you arrive home from school until the time you leave for class the next morning

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• are university graduates and certified teachers, who can help you with your studies after school • supervise homework, curfews, bedtimes and social outings • are experts in the educational and social needs of girls your age • help you learn to juggle your academic, co-curricular and social commitments • encourage your fitness and well-being • foster an atmosphere where all cultural backgrounds are respected and appreciated • keep in touch with your subject teachers, as well as with guidance counsellors and international language teachers • communicate regularly with your parents to ease their concerns.

MEDICAL STAFF TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY Branksome Hall is committed to your well-being and has an on-site Health Centre.

• If you are unwell, you can seek help any time of the day or night.

• Staffed by a registered nurse, with a school doctor available as needed, the Health Centre is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays.

• At all other times, a nurse is on-call and ready to help you.

• The school doctor comes to Branksome Hall every week for an oncampus clinic.

• We also have a school Social Worker, who specializes in girls’ social-emotional needs.

Residence: A remarkable place to discover yourself!

Branksome Hall will become your home away from home. In residence, you’ll be living with about 65 students from more than 20 countries, including Canada.

Your home will be in one of our three historic buildings: Ainslie House, Sherborne House, or Principal’s House (don’t worry, the principal no longer lives there!).

Each of these historic houses is equipped with the following: • single, double, and a few triple bedrooms, with roommates assigned based on age, grade and interests • a communal lounge area with comfortable couches, cable television, DVD players and digital games • Internet access in every bedroom and full access to email and a variety of software programs • a music area with a piano • a kitchen for preparing snacks in two of the houses • laundry facilities.

COMFORT FOOD FOR THOUGHT Our meals are nutritious, varied and international in scope, appealing to global tastes. Most important, there is a student committee that offers input into meal choices. Rest assured, your voice—and preferences—will be heard.

Residence students come together for nutritious and delicious breakfasts and dinners in our bright, spacious dining room. For lunch, residence students join the day students on campus in one of two cafeterias. Students are required to attend dinner and are joined by staff for a family-style meal.

A BALANCED AND SUPPORTIVE SCHEDULE WEEKDAYS 7:30 a.m.–8:15 a.m.

Breakfast in the dining room.

8:25 a.m.–3:35 p.m.

Attend classes.

Eat lunch with the day students.

3:35 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

Participate in co-curricular activities.

Study in the school Resource Centre or at the residence.

Relax before dinner.

6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Enjoy family-style dinner with fellow residents and staff; share news and ideas.

7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.

Supervised study.

9:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.

Free time.

WEEKENDS Relax, study and participate in community service and a variety of recreational, leisure and cultural activities in Toronto and beyond. For details, just turn the page!

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Fun at Branksome Hall Branksome Hall’s location puts you at the centre of everything Toronto has to offer. From any of our three residences, you are just steps away from all the on-campus fun, and many Toronto attractions are within walking distance or a short subway ride away.

Our Weekend Program will keep you busy with outings to the city’s rich social and cultural scene, including museums, libraries, galleries, shops and theatrical productions such as Cirque du Soleil. You’ll also get to visit famous landmarks outside Toronto, such as Niagara Falls, the largest waterfall in North America. There are also opportunities for volunteering to enrich your educational experience.

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1 Intersection of Yonge and Bloor 2 Toronto Reference Library 3 Varsity Cinema 4 Royal Ontario Museum 5 University of Toronto 6 Eaton Centre Shopping Mall 7 Art Gallery of Ontario 8 Royal Alexandra Theatre and the Princess of Wales Theatre 9 Roy Thomson Hall 10 Union Station 11 Air Canada Centre 12 Rogers Centre 13 Harbourfront Centre 14 Ontario Science Centre Subway stop M

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• Special themed holiday dinners

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FUN ON CAMPUS

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clubs, residence council and student government

• A state-of-the-art Athletics and Wellness Centre

• Dozens of sports teams, an

indoor pool, a rock-climbing wall, tennis courts and large playing fields

• Evening fitness and aquatics programs

• A fitness centre with weights,

balance balls, yoga mats, training bikes and treadmills

• Places to stroll and explore

nature on our forested 13-acre campus

Discover our IB advantage Inquiry-based learning and skill development in the IB Program prepare students for success in post-secondary studies. All of our graduates go on to attend a university of their choice in Canada, the United States, Europe or other parts of the world.

All students work towards the same goal—graduating with their Ontario Secondary School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Our program will help you develop your skills in research, inquiry, critical thinking and integrative thinking.

Our Residence Program begins in Grade 7 with students attending the Middle School. Grades 9 to 12 attend our Senior School, located in a separate building.

Grades 7 to 10 complete the IB Middle Years Program, which builds on your learning skills, prepares you for advanced studies, and helps you make connections between your academic subjects and the real world.

Grades 11 and 12 complete the IB Diploma Program, which is excellent preparation for university. It is considered the gold standard in education around the world.

All students in Grades 7 to 12 have opportunities for experiential learning or gaining knowledge through amazing activities outside the classroom. These activities can include everything from creative projects in the arts, adventurous outings, fitness and sports to volunteer work.

INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGES PROGRAM English is the main language of instruction for students at Branksome Hall, and a basic understanding of English is required for admission to the school. If you are still developing your

English skills, be assured that Branksome Hall supports English Language Learners (ELLs) as you read, write, listen and speak English. Our program can also improve your social and cultural understanding and your confidence.

We have an English as a Second Language (ESL) Department, where our qualified teachers can help you develop your English language skills for success in secondary school and university. You will receive individualized support to help you achieve your language goals.

As an IB World School, Branksome Hall also offers a structured program for studying mother tongue international languages.

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So many ways to soar at Branksome We offer a wide variety of co-curricular opportunities in the arts, athletics, clubs and community service to help you discover and explore your passion: THE ARTS 7/8 Singers BH Dance Crew Chamber Choir Jazz Choir Senior Choir Chamber Strings Concert Band Symphony Orchestra Stage Band Creative Outlet Middle School Drama Grade 9 Drama Senior Drama The Kilt Press Writers’ Guild/Perennial CLUBS & SOCIETIES Animal Rights Club Astronomy Club Branksome Business Club Classics Club Culinary Club Debating Society Duke of Edinburgh Fashion Club Forensics Club Games IB Student League

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Innovation and Robotics IT Club Knitting Club Middle School Creative Writing Public Affairs Cabinet Red Maple Reading Rock Climbing Club Round Table Society Yearbook (SLOGAN) Social Justice Club Sustainability Club World Affairs Conference ATHLETICS Fall Basketball Cross Country Field Hockey Learn-to-Row Soccer Swimming Winter Alpine Skiing Badminton Ice Hockey Rowing Swimming Volleyball

Spring Rowing Rugby Softball Track and Field Tennis LEADERSHIP Alumnae/Parents’ Association Representative Assembly Committee (Gr. 8) Clan Chieftains (Gr. 10 and 12) Clan Representatives (Gr. 8) Community Service Council Heads of Clubs and Societies Middle Years CAS Representatives Our House Committee (Gr. 7 to 8) Residence Heads of House Residence Junior Dons Rowing Captains School Prefects (Gr. 12) Student Life Committee (Gr. 7 to 12) Sustainability Council

COMMUNITY SERVICE Local Best Buddies Homework Club with Rose Avenue Public School Horizons Tutoring Program at Church Street and Sprucecourt Public Schools JUMP Math Tutoring with Rose Avenue Public School Peer Support International Costa Rica Service Trip Queenstown Get Ahead Project (QGAP) School “Triangle of Hope” Partnership, South Africa EXCHANGES Grade 9 students have the opportunity to visit Branksome Hall Asia, on Jeju Island, South Korea. This may include activities such as horseback riding, golf, sea kayaking and scuba diving.

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13 Read Walk Overpass 14 10 Elm Avenue: Senior School 15 Sime Wing and School Office 16 Buccleuch House 17 16 Elm Avenue 18 Senior Gym 19 Middle School 20 C. Robyn Younger Science Wing 21 Music Wing 22 Waldie Gates

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Athletics and Wellness Centre Coach House Principal’s House Read Acres Sue Bett House: Junior School Outdoor Classroom Ribbit’s Path Lower Field Tennis Courts Ainslie House Sherborne House Potting Shed

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All students in our Middle and Senior Schools benefit from…

• A rich array of course choices that

• A tablet laptop program, enabling

allow you to develop individualized programs that meet your unique interests and needs

you to use your laptop as a digital notebook

• A mixture of heritage and modern

buildings, all with state-of-the-art technology and comfortable, inviting workspaces • Extended library and computer lab

hours, with access to extensive print and digital collections • Technological skills that support 21st

century learning in every grade

• Individualized guidance counselling

and resources that prepare you for university • Committed and caring teachers • A challenging and interesting IB pro-

gram at every level • Extra help and support when you

need it, both during and after class

• Access to our Learning Strategies

Centre, where skilled professionals will help you figure out study methods that work for you and your way of learning • Small advisor groups that meet

weekly • Stimulating visual and performing

arts programs • ESL and International Language

programs, including any support you may need to feel comfortable if you are learning in a new English-speaking environment

Our promise to you…

When you decide to come to Branksome Hall, our priority is to help you become the best that you can be. That’s why we provide a place where you can discover your interests, learn to understand the world around you and make friends for life. Our teachers are committed to helping you learn and succeed, academically and socially. We want to ensure you and every other Branksome Hall girl graduates well-rounded, confident and ready to take on the world!

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Apply to Branksome Hall in six easy steps: 1 Apply online: www.branksome.on.ca/admissions 2 Submit an application fee of $200.

3 Submit your most recent report card plus the final report cards from the two previous years.

4 Submit any other important educational information that will help us understand your needs (e.g., an educational assessment).

5 We will arrange an interview for you in Toronto, in your community or via Skype.

6 Complete the Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT). Students unable to write the SSAT will write Branksome Hall’s own entrance tests.

QUESTIONS? For more information on our Residence Program, please check out www.branksome.on.ca/residence or feel free to contact us by: Phone: 416.920.6265, ext. 268 email: admissions@branksome.on.ca Our Admissions staff have a wealth of Branksome experience. Don’t hesitate to contact us with your questions.

10 Elm Avenue Toronto, ON Canada M4W 1N4 416.920.9741 ext. 268 www.branksome.on.ca