Students who attend and graduate from Hillfield Strathallan College (HSC) are eager for life. They’re ready to forge new friendships, make new discoveries and explore new ways of seeing and being in the world. Our students have a strong sense of self and know who they are and where they’re headed. They are children who come of age with a clear sense of purpose so that by the time they graduate, they are the best version of themselves and have the confidence gained from a lifetime of learning at one College
within a safe and welcoming community. Empowered by HSC’s rigorous academics, sound social and emotional development and student-centred, Project-Based Learning (PBL), our students have confidence to succeed and the tools to face failure head on. They are community builders who embrace and champion diversity because they value integrity and respect individuality. HSC students are change-makers who will take on the world and make a difference. Learn with
Our Joyful Journey
THE HSC DIFFERENCE
An HSC education is unlike any other. We nurture the individual learner, and tap into the passions and interests of every student to feed their curiosities and spark joy in learning.
From the moment a student walks onto our 50+ acre campus in Hamilton, Ontario, their journey begins. Our dedicated faculty deliver a curriculum that ignites curiosity, builds excitement about learning and encourages students to explore their potential.
Starting as early as 18 months in our Junior and Montessori Schools, students drive their desire to learn through inquiry and imagination. Our Middle School students in Grades 5 through 8 discover who they are and what their interests are in a positive and supportive environment. In our Senior School, students in Grades 9 through 12 expand their horizons and take ownership of the educational pathways leading them into promising futures.
The graduate who emerges from HSC is inspired with the skills needed to live—and lead—with purpose.
OUR CAMPUS
Places to learn and grow
Whether you’re 18 months or 18 years, our campus offers endless opportunities for experiential learning. Sitting atop the Niagara escarpment, HSC is conveniently located adjacent to Hamilton’s vibrant downtown and the sprawling beauty of the Dundas Valley. From academics to arts to athletics, our state-of-the-art facilities feature recently upgraded gymnasiums and fitness studios, expansive tennis courts, a multi-purpose auditorium as well as specialized classrooms such as science labs, robotics, visual art studios, student learning commons, numerous dedicated music rooms and a newly renovated community dining hall.
FENNELL AVENUE WEST
A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
FROM 18 MONTHS TO 18 YEARS
Our campus is more than just a place. It’s home to a community unlike any other. HSC families, faculty and staff create a welcoming and inviting learning environment where every student is met with care and respect. The continuity of care from toddler to teenager inspires the confidence that students need to thrive for life.
OUTDOOR LEARNING LANDSCAPE
50+ ACRES TO LEARN AND EXPLORE
When it comes to connecting with nature, our students don’t have far to go. Our expansive outdoor campus boasts an assortment of exterior classrooms and gathering spaces that connect students to the natural environment while allowing them to focus on the importance of sustainable living. Our students delight in natural playgrounds, an arboretum, bee hives, gardens and our many courts, quads and playing fields.
FITNESS AND ATHLETICS
STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES
Athletics at HSC go far beyond co-curriculars and physical education. Supporting the need for physical literacy, our athletic and sports programming offers a variety of ways for students of all ages to reap the benefits of an active lifestyle. Home to newly upgraded gyms, fitness studios and a fitness centre, our athletics facilities support our budding athletes, while promoting physical strength, coordination and teamwork.
ART AND MUSIC FACILITIES
FROM PAINT BRUSH TO PIANO TO PLAYBILLS
HSC is home to a thriving arts scene with premier art and music facilities that bolster creative expression of all forms. Learners have room to expand their artistic pursuits with designated creative spaces across the College, including a digital design lab, multiple music rooms, a photography darkroom, the Virtue-Fitzgerald Centre for the Arts and more.
MONTESSORI SCHOOL
Toddler to M9 18 Months to 9 Years
IT STARTS WITH EXPLORATION.
For more than 50 years, HSC has offered a Montessori program designed to develop the whole child: academically, socially and emotionally. Our highly trained Montessori educators are dedicated to observing and fostering each child’s characteristics, tendencies, innate talents and abilities. They don’t just teach, they ignite a lifelong journey of discovery.
Montessori classrooms are vibrant ecosystems of multiage learning where each child’s natural interests dictate their path. Whether exploring botany, decoding language through phonics, or mastering mathematical operations, students make purposeful work choices. By connecting personal choice to their daily studies, HSC students unlock deep engagement, lasting concentration, and an internal drive to succeed.
True learning requires tactile, real-world engagement. The youngest learners build logic, spatial skills, and critical thinking through concrete, sensory Montessori materials. By manipulating hands-on tools, children internalize the sequencing and order needed for advanced analytical thinking, seamlessly preparing them for the introduction of IT at age six.
In multi-age classrooms, older students naturally step into roles as leaders and mentors, guiding younger peers while building their own self-esteem. Together, students learn to be cooperative citizens, caretakers of their environment and empathetic supporters of one another. The curriculum expands as a child’s world expands, fostering a deep respect for self, others, and the global community.
“Every time we are on campus, we’re reminded of what makes HSC so special. We know our children are learning in an environment where they are supported, challenged, and genuinely cared for.”
Stephanie Kulakowsky Montessori School Parent
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 4 18 Months to 9 Years
“I feel so lucky to be at HSC because the teachers really care about me. They listen to me and value my ideas and interests, which makes learning a lot more fun.”
Kennedy
Junior School Student
JUNIOR SCHOOL PROGRAM CORE FOCUS & EXPERIENCE
THE REGGIO-INSPIRED EARLY YEARS (PRE-K TO SK)
MIDDLE SCHOOL
GRADES 5 TO 8
IT STARTS WITH OPPORTUNITY.
When your child enters Middle School at HSC, they are stepping onto a launchpad for the future. This is the HSC +Vantage—a pivotal four-year journey where foundational curiosity evolves into self-driven inquiry, academic prestige and active self-realization. Every student enters an enriched environment designed to build a direct pathway to the rigours of Senior School and an unscripted world.
Our Middle School students are guided by a powerhouse team of educators who set exceptional standards for character growth, citizenship and academic excellence. Our faculty members are specialized subject experts who don’t just teach this transitional age group—they choose it. To maximize their potential, our academic model utilizes a fluid, interdisciplinary timetable and flexible student groupings that change in size and composition according to real-time needs and goals.
We leverage our proximity to world-class institutions like McMaster University to turn the region into a classroom. In teaching students to deconstruct complex, real-world dilemmas, we move away from rote memorization and train them to think like leading professionals today. Our Middle Schoolers are equipped with the acuity to adapt and the intellect to lead.
“HSC is a place where there is always someone ready to be your friend.”
Bruin Middle School Student
MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM
CORE FOCUS & EXPERIENCE
SENIOR SCHOOL
Grades 9 to 12
IT STARTS WITH PURPOSE.
“I’m so impressed by the amount of co-curricular clubs and activities that are offered at HSC. It means I don’t need to worry about signing my son up for activities elsewhere.”
Beverly
Chan
Senior School Parent
SENIOR SCHOOL PROGRAM
CORE FOCUS & EXPERIENCE
IT STARTS WITH AMBITION
THE ACADEMIC JOURNEY
One of the greatest benefits of attending HSC is the ability to take part in a seamless academic journey. This journey begins as a toddler and culminates when they graduate as a Grade 12 student. When one institution is charged with overseeing the care and development of a child throughout this extended period of time, the degree to which the College and its teachers become familiar with the individual needs, skills and passions of a student is remarkable.
Over time, the College is able to develop deep and meaningful relationships with students and their families as we work together to support the overall development of the student. As students move from grade to grade, or make the transition from one school division to the next, the knowledge and understanding about a child’s individual learning needs and preferences will move forward with them and be managed by teachers who are already attuned to the individual student.
We offer enriched academic programming for children throughout their HSC journey. We are committed to shifting practices and methodologies from a teacher-directed, content-oriented environment to one that is strongly influenced by student inquiry, creativity and innovation.
We develop our curriculum in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements and then enhance it to meet our own elevated standards. HSC’s enriched curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which offer rigorous, university-level studies to challenge our students and prepare them for higher education. Additionally, we provide the opportunity to earn the Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF), a certification of French-language proficiency recognized internationally. Our co-op placements enable students to gain real-world experience and professional skills in various fields, bridging the gap between classroom learning and career aspirations. Beyond these, we offer a wealth of specialized programs, interdisciplinary projects, and competitive academics such as Deca, HOSA and Model UN, all designed to foster intellectual growth, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning. HSC’s dynamic and comprehensive educational experience empowers our students to achieve their full potential.
ENRICHED CURRICULUM
EXCELLENCE IN ACTION
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING & STEAM/STEM
HSC’s Project-Based Learning approach gives students the opportunity to explore their passions. The curriculum is designed to make learning an engaging experience for students of all ages. Students shape their own personalized learning pathways by researching real-world scenarios or delving into personal interests. While all students share the same learning goals, their process of exploration is entirely unique. Additionally, the STEM/STEAM curriculum is integrated into our cohesive learning philosophy that engages the whole child in real-world examples that offer an authentic learning experience.
DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP
In a rapidly changing digital landscape, HSC is committed to ensuring students have the skills to navigate tomorrow’s technology safely and ethically. Our approach balances active digital empowerment with mindful restrictions, such as prohibiting cell phones during the school day unless required for a specific project. By bringing in digital experts to teach age-stage online safety and enforcing a rigorous AI policy, we protect student privacy and promote transparency. At HSC, technology isn’t a distraction; it is a tool we purposefully master for good.
VIRTUAL LEARNING PORTAL
HSC students remain connected to learning through myHSC, our online education hub and community portal. Students, teachers and parents use their unique login to stay informed on curriculum progress, class updates and more on this virtual database. In the event of a College closure due to inclement weather, students can continue their learning from home using this online tool.
PHYSICAL LITERACY
At HSC, we inspire a lifelong love for fitness and wellbeing by developing students’ physical, cognitive, and social skills. Through structured gym classes, diverse co-curriculars, and community engagement, students master fundamental movement and sportspecific skills. By building competence, confidence, and motivation, we ensure they gain the knowledge and enthusiasm needed to lead active, healthy lives.
1st and only DELF testing centre in a CAIS school
92% of Senior School students are on the honour roll myHSC dedicated student, staff and parent portal
1:18 is the average classroom teacher-tostudent ratio
#1
HSC was the first School to host a PBL conference in Canada 150+ AP exams are written each year in six different subject areas
WE’RE WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CENTRE
Our IT team is available to support students and parents in navigating our digital learning platforms. In addition to on-campus support, the IT department oversees myHSC, ensuring all faculty, staff, parents and students have the tools and systems needed to succeed.
STUDENT SUCCESS SERVICES
Student success support is available at every age and stage. In the Senior School, the Student Success Centre provides a hub for learning services and offers students resources to guide them through the post-secondary application process and prepare them for their next educational journey. Specialized guidance counsellors address the academic, career and personal goals of each student.
LEARNING SERVICES
In each school, dedicated Learning Services team members are available to provide additional resourcing and support to students from tailored learning plans that work to ensure each student reaches their full potential.
300+ dedicated and specialized faculty and staff
STUDENT WELLBEING
We support our students in a holistic way. The team of healthcare professionals who make up our Health and Counselling Services includes two Registered Nurses, an Athletic Therapist, a College Counsellor, and a College Social Worker.
SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING (SEL)
We are committed to nurturing the whole child and to addressing students’ social and emotional competencies in and out of the classroom. At HSC, SEL integrated academic instruction includes developing healthy identities, managing emotions and achieving personal and collective goals, feeling and showing empathy for others, establishing and maintaining supportive relationships, and making responsible and caring decisions.
REGISTERED NURSES
Every student has access to full-time registered nurses and first aid support. Health services supports the safety, health and wellbeing of all students. Some of their services include coordinated care, management plans for prevalent medical conditions, health promotion, and wellbeing initiatives.
ATHLETIC THERAPY
Students at HSC have access to first-class facilities and one of the leading athletic therapy clinics among independent schools in Canada. The clinic is open to all students with musculoskeletal injuries and is equipped with advanced treatment options, including ultrasound, laser therapy, interferential current therapy, TENS, and muscle stimulation. Our certified Athletic Therapist is also trained in concussion management and provides rehabilitation support within the clinic.
COUNSELLING SERVICES
HSC’s College Counsellor and College Social Worker work closely with faculty to support students and families across the College with emotional and social concerns. They provide workshops, along with resources on coping skills, stress management, and strategies for overcoming challenges.
2 full-time College Nurses and a Montessori Matron support student wellbeing
7 gymnasiums, 3 playgrounds and 2 black tops promote physical activity around the Campus
4 colours represent our House System: Birch/ Earn, Cedar/ More, Maple/Tay and Pine/Yre
2019 introduced the Chair of Student Wellbeing
2024 introduced a cell phone policy that limits device use during the school day
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM, BEYOND EXPECTATIONS
At HSC, we believe true learning happens by doing. We firmly believe that experiential learning is not just an addon, but the very foundation for preparing your child for success in post-secondary education and for thriving in life’s dynamic challenges. It’s about empowering them with hands-on discovery, real-world application, and purposeful engagement that builds essential skills and deep understanding.
From the foundational practical life activities in our Montessori program, where curiosity blossoms into concentration and mastery, to Junior School outdoor education, vibrant garden initiatives, and captivating inquirybased projects like raising chicks or exploring weather patterns, our youngest learners are immersed in their world, building confidence through direct experience. As students grow, they engage in dynamic programs like Middle School’s innovative problem-based learning (e.g., designing solutions in our Trojan Tank challenges) and Senior School’s advanced co-op placements, cutting-edge Vex IQ Robotics, a stateof-the-art culinary program and enriching international exchanges.
Our unwavering commitment to experiential learning is a core pillar of our Strategic Plan. We are dedicated to expanding these transformative opportunities across all divisions, both here on our beautiful campus and far beyond. This includes our signature E-Week experiences, where students embark on immersive, off-campus trips meticulously designed to deepen curricular understanding, foster independence, and broaden their global perspectives.
E-WEEK: ADVENTURES IN LEARNING
Each year in September, E-Week takes students on unique, grade-specific adventures that bring curriculum to life. Middle School students bond and build trust while exploring outdoor living skills at various camps in Ontario. Grade 7 and 8 students spend the week at Camp Timberlane focusing on stepping out of their comfort zones, building independence, and fostering community through activities like canoeing, ziplining, and climbing, often mentored by Grade 12 leaders.
In Senior School, the options grow starting in Grade 9, with students delving into personal leadership styles and strengths through a variety of outdoor activities at Onondaga Camp. For Grades 10, 11, and 12, E-Week offers a diverse range of choice-based programs. These include challenging multi-day back-country camping trips, local, national, or international travel experiences, intensive innovation and writing workshops, hands-on science learning at labs and institutions, entrepreneurial experiences with industry leaders, and explorations into the business of beauty through local culture and cuisine. Our Grade 12 students also have the unique opportunity to serve as Camp Counsellors, providing invaluable mentorship to younger students at our Grade 7, 8, and 9 camps.
This dynamic approach ensures every HSC student develops crucial critical thinking, creative problem-solving, collaborative spirit, and unwavering resilience. We are not just preparing them for what’s next; we are nurturing lifelong learners ready for a future filled with joyful discovery and impactful contributions.
10+
Senior School E-Week Trip Offerings, including 4 international
GET A GLIMPSE OF THE E-WEEK CAMP EXPERIENCES FOR GRADES 5 TO 9
LEARN ABOUT OUR SENIOR SCHOOL CO-OP PROGRAM
2025 Outdoor Education program developed for Montessori & Junior Schools
20+ co-op program placements annually in law, finance and medicine 3 overnight excursions for Middle School 2023 introduced the Chair of Experiential Learning
GRADE 8 students have a dedicated leadership program
IT STARTS
STUDENT LIFE
By exposing students to a variety of enriching experiences, we afford them a greater opportunity to realize their potential. Beginning at age six, students have access to broad co-curricular programming which is included in student tuition.
414 seats are in the Virtue-Fitzgerald Centre for the Arts
ATHLETICS
Through sport and movement, student athletes develop the skills of leadership, sportsmanship and resilience. At the early education level, our athletic program provides a supportive introduction to teamwork and competition, while fostering developmental skill building and movement. In higher grades, we offer several varsity teams that are highly competitive in several sport leagues, including CISAA and OFSAA.
ARTS
Our students express artistic passion and develop creative abilities through a multitude of co-curricular offerings. Students can get involved with our major theatrical productions, visual arts committees or our award-winning choral groups and bands. Under the tutelage of distinguished instructors, our students earn numerous regional, national and international accolades.
LEADERSHIP
Student leaders model HSC’s ideals of integrity, respect, community, determination and individuality through both formal and informal leadership roles. Leaders take initiative and actively engage in events and activities to build community and unite people in a common cause. Identified student leadership programs exist in each of our four schools. We encourage every student to initiate programs that augment the spirit of our College and provide opportunities for others to become involved in school life.
SERVICE
Giving back to society betters the world for future generations. Every year, multiple student-led groups emerge to address local and global needs for service. Students embrace the responsibility to be lifelong contributing members of their communities.
75+ competitive athletic teams represent our College each year
15 Senior School students selected annually as College Prefects
3+ major student theatrical productions annually
100+ co-curricular activities are available each year
400+ students compete in inter-collegiate academic competitions each year
TRADITIONS
For more than a century, HSC students, faculty, staff and families have rallied around shared values and ideals, coming together to commemorate cherished traditions that capture the spirit of our two mottos: excelsior (ever higher) and velle est posse (where there’s a will, there’s a way). We continue to celebrate the legacy of this great institution and the moments that have contributed to our way of excellence. Events such as the Prefect Installation, Remembrance Day and Carol Service gatherings, Chapel assemblies every week, House games, Homecoming and Alumni reunions all serve as staples in the College calendar and traditions that bolster school spirit and reinforce HSC’s mission of joyful and engaged learning.
HOUSE SYSTEM
The House System is one of our oldest and most cherished traditions that we use to bring our community together. It provides a continuum for the purpose of mentoring, special activities, service and competition. Each House combination boasts its own colour and is named for a Canadian tree or Scottish river—a nod to HSC’s founders. Family members are placed in the same House across generations. Each House is supervised by staff members and student House officials. Upon their arrival, new students are assigned to a House. The CoCaptains for each House are then appointed through a collaborative process that includes input from both students and faculty. Students are awarded points for achievement in academics and activities. There are awards granted at various levels of point accumulation and several prizes awarded annually for the Houses contributing the most to College life.
ANNUAL HOUSE EVENTS
• House Cross Country
• Turkey Trot
• House Games Days
• Intramural Sports
• Spring Fair
• Morgan Mile Run
• Nancy Rocca Challenge Cup
• Spelling Bees
• Reach for the Top Trivia
• Math Contests
• Geo-Challenge
• House Track and Field
• House Soccer
• Co-Ed Recreational Games
IT STARTS WITH CARE
BRINGING HSC TO YOU
TRANSPORTATION
Included in tuition is our main-route bus transportation program. Our bus drivers cover 31 routes each day within a one-hour radius of our College. Students enjoy morning pick-up and can select from two afternoon drop-off times, departing at 3:30 or 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday (earlier run only on Friday’s), to accommodate family schedules and co-curricular community activities. See where our buses travel to at hsc.on.ca/transportationfaq and view a sample route.
SEAMLESS AND SAFE: A SMOOTH RIDE FOR EVERY STUDENT
Buses arrive on campus between 8:15 – 8:25 a.m. and depart at 3:30 p.m. daily, with a second late bus run at 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday (exceptions apply). Students from Early Education three-year-old programs (M3 or PK3) and older are eligible, with routes automatically assigned based on enrolment address. Families can view catchment areas and routes online at hsc.on.ca/busroutes, and a GPS application, Trackem, is recommended for real-time bus tracking.
HSC prioritizes student safety and wellbeing. All bus drivers are employees of the College and trained professionals. They are subject to regular Ministry of Transportation inspections, quarterly license checks, and ongoing safety workshops. To manage severe allergies, a strict zero-tolerance policy for eating on buses is enforced, and drivers are trained in first aid and EpiPen administration. On-duty teachers and transportation staff ensure safe boarding and disembarking, with clear drop-off protocols for younger students (Grade 4/M9 and under require an adult presence). For any route delays exceeding 10 minutes, the Transportation Department provides email notifications to impacted parents.
550+ years of safe driving has been accumulated by our experienced transportation staff 30+ available bus routes serving Hamilton and surrounding areas
2025 our new athletic charter bus was unveiled
2 afternoon bus runs are available from Monday to Thursday
1st CAIS school with a fully electric bus route
IT STARTS
NOURISHING MINDS AND BODIES
We believe positive food culture is linked to academic performance and a student’s wellbeing. As a College, we promote high standards of student nutrition. In Lawson Hall, students can choose from a variety of freshly prepared and hot lunch options in addition to our full salad bar and sandwich selections. All students have access to nutritious snacks throughout the day.
INGREDIENTS COUNT
Meals are prepared from scratch using local Ontario ingredients. All of the food we produce is high in whole grains, naturally low in sodium, prepared using healthy cooking techniques and portioned appropriately.
Healthy choices are of the utmost importance at HSC. Our culinary team ensures we are providing fresh, nutritious foods and continually evolving our recipes so they are meeting the Canadian standards for healthy eating.
CULINARY STANDARDS
Every day, the chefs in the HSC kitchen prepare great-tasting meals from scratch. Using fresh ingredients sourced from local Canadian farms and suppliers, our kitchen staff will ensure your children are being fed the best possible food.
HSC’S CULINARY STANDARDS INCLUDE:
• A variety of hot and cold daily menu selections
• Vegetarian, Halal and Vegan options
• Daily fresh salad bar offering a variety of legumes, seeds and protein add-ons
• No frozen, pre-packaged or processed entrees, or canned powdered or bagged soups—all meals are prepared from scratch using fresh ingredients
• Well-balanced menu including entrees, pizzas, paninis, sandwiches, salads, fruits and vegetable snacks
• No trans-fats are used in our cooking
• No MSG or peanut oil
ALLERGY AND LIFESTYLE ALTERNATIVES
We strive to ensure that every student eating in Lawson Hall has access to nutritious and safe food. As part of our allergy awareness program, common food allergens used in recipes are noted with every meal served. Junior and Montessori School students are also assisted by faculty members when making their meal choices at lunch time. We make every effort to meet any additional dietary requirements.
VIEW OUR ALLERGY AWARENESS LABELS
400 person seating community dining capacity in Lawson Hall
19,000 litres of milk from local dairy farm, Summit Station, consumed annually
80 km is the maximum distance that Ontario farm produce travels to HSC 8 types of common food allergens are included in our Allergy Awareness Program
235,000 meals are served in Lawson Hall each year
NATURAL PLAY SPACES
EARLY EDUCATION GARDEN CURRICULUM
HSC GREEN ROOF
ELECTRIC BUS
40+ ACRES OF GREEN SPACE
SUSTAINABILITY
HSC is committed to environmental sustainability, integrating it into every aspect of College life as a core pillar of our Strategic Plan. Recognizing the importance of our environment and the challenges of the global climate crisis, we aim to be a leader in Canadian education for practicing, learning, and teaching sustainability.
Since 2019, HSC has tracked and reported its greenhouse gas emissions with the ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030 and carbon negative by 2050. Our participation in the Climate Action Accelerator Program brings together facilities staff, educators and students to create and maintain a robust sustainability program.
Our campus is a living laboratory for sustainability, featuring cutting-edge initiatives that benefit both our environment and our learning. From innovative stormwater management systems like our Green Roof and Rain Gardens, to significant investments in green energy such as solar panels and electric vehicles, we are actively reducing our environmental footprint.
At HSC, a K-12 curriculum continuum integrates regeneration and biodiversity, along with dedicated learning time for sustainable practices. Sustainability is deeply embedded in our curriculum, fostering environmental leadership from an early age through hands-on programs like our Honeybee Hives, Food Forest, and partnerships with organizations like WWF. We are continuously evolving our practices, including a new focus on waste reduction and a comprehensive tree inventory, to ensure HSC remains at the forefront of environmental stewardship. We’re empowering students to be environmental leaders, equipped with the knowledge and passion to create a more sustainable world.
CERTIFIED platinum rated Eco School ACHIEVED a 10.47% reduction in emissions intensity and 6.37% reduction in overall energy use intensity since 2019 2021 joined the Climate Action Accelerator Program
550 000 KW hours of solar energy is produced per year through rooftop panels
2024 became home to the largest solar panel array in Hamilton
2.5 KM on-campus biodiversity trail walk ON TRACK to be Carbon Neutral by 2030 and Carbon Negative by 2050
SOLAR PANELS
CAMPUS BEE HIVES
IT STARTS WITH CONNECTION
OUR FAMILY
At HSC, each child is known. They are challenged to do their best and supported in that pursuit. Our community is further supported by the contributions of several key groups.
PARENTS’ GUILD
The Parents’ Guild (PG) proudly supports our vibrant College community and provides opportunities to gather and enjoy time together. They plan and host events that build school spirit while raising funds that directly enhance the educational experience at the College.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Our Alumni Association provides a lifelong connection to the HSC family. This vital network of former HSC students offers a wealth of experience and networking that gives graduates opportunities for growth beyond our campus walls. Even when students leave our College, they remain an integral part of our community.
HSC GOVERNANCE
HSC is a registered not-for-profit independent school and a member of the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS). The College is governed by a Board of Governors and Trustees, a group of elected individuals dedicated to the school’s success. Members are chosen for their proven ability and commitment to guiding the College in a positive direction.
FACULTY AND STAFF
The majority of our faculty members are specialists in the subjects they teach. Many hold master’s degrees, doctoral degrees or additional qualifications in their area of teaching. Our teachers bring learning to life and are devoted to meeting each student’s needs. Our community also includes over 100 skilled kitchen, transportation and administrative staff.
STUDENTS
More than 1,300 students from 18 months to 18 years make up our diverse student body, with each student admitted to HSC offering something unique. Our non-denominational school offers a robust learning environment where our students can truly explore their interests from day one. Our students exemplify what it means to have a joyful, engaged and inclusive community.
PLURALISM AND BELONGING
HSC is a College made up of people with a variety of identities, abilities, backgrounds, cultures, skills, perspectives and experiences. We recognize, celebrate, and honour our diversity, and we actively focus on institutionalizing equitable and inclusive practices and programs to ensure HSC is a place where diversity is celebrated and thrives. This includes ensuring that all members of our community feel safe and welcome.
9,000+ graduates make up our alumni
1,250+ students make up our student body
300+ employees make up our faculty and staff
12 DAYS are allocated annually to faculty and staff professional development 900+ alumni are members of our mentorship program, HSC Connect 2021 HSC embarks on a new strategic plan centred around a joyful, engaged and inclusive communitiy
OUR ALUMNI
Graduates of HSC are highly sought after, and traditionally our students receive more than $500,000 in post-secondary scholarships annually. We are proud that students at HSC follow their realized potential, along with their individual passions and interests as they move onto their postsecondary schools of choice.
Our Alumni represent a staggering breadth and depth of accomplishments. As a community, our students never really leave HSC, and that’s where today’s HSC students benefit. Our graduates come back as speakers, mentors and role models. Our Alumni share their gifts of time, talent and treasure ensuring to give back in the way that their predecessors had to them.
Dr. Chethan Sathya ’03, a pediatric trauma surgeon, directs the Center for Gun Violence Prevention at Northwell Health, New York’s largest healthcare system. He launched the center in 2020 and secured a $1.4 million NIH grant to research gun violence. Chethan, an HSC Lifer, is a powerful voice in discussions about firearm deaths, frequently supporting survivors and advocating for change. Chethan completed his medical training at McGill and the University of Toronto, where he also earned a master’s degree in clinical epidemiology. His articles have appeared in top publications, and he has spoken on prominent platforms, including Chelsea Clinton’s podcast. Dedicated to nuanced understanding and prevention of gun violence, Chethan is a sought-after expert, leading panels for the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, and attending key events like the announcement of President Biden’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
Lauren Jackson ’03, Chief Administrative Officer and Civilian Deputy Chief (Corporate Services) at Peel Regional Police (PRP), is a trailblazer in Canadian policing. As PRP’s first civilian deputy chief, she is one of a minority of women in senior policing roles in the country, and as a queer woman, she champions diversity and inclusion within the force. Lauren joined PRP in 2023, drawn by its commitment to progressive, community-focused policing. An HSC Lifer, Lauren excelled in athletics and academics, crediting HSC with shaping her interpersonal skills and encouraging her to explore her passions. She holds an Honours BA from Acadia University and an MA from Aberystwyth University in Wales.
Patty Meza ’20 is pursuing a Master’s in robotics at Northeastern University with a concentration in mechanical engineering. Her lifelong dream of working at NASA came to fruition during her undergraduate studies at Cornell University, when she worked at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory on lunar rovers and advanced critical testing for the Mars Sample Return Mission. She expanded her global reach as a robotics intern at CERN in Switzerland, designing parts for tele-operated robots in hazardous environments, and is currently completing a co-op as a test engineer for Boston Dynamics. Patty routinely bridges the technical and the creative, using her artistic skills to design figures for academic papers while also running Patty’s Customs, a side business that has fulfilled over 40 unique commissions for hand-painted shoes.
PATTY MEZA ’20: ROBOTICS
CHETHAN SATHYA ’03: DOCTOR
LAUREN JACKSON ’03: CAO DEPUTY POLICE CHIEF
WHERE OUR GRADS GO
Our recent graduates from 2021 – 2026 have gone on to study at top institutions in North America and the world.
CANADA
Acadia University
Bishop's University
Brock University*
Carleton University*
Concordia University*
Dalhousie University*
Fanshawe College
George Brown College
Georgian College
Guelph-Humber University
HEC Montréal
Humber Polytechnic*
Huron University College*
Lakehead University
McMaster University*
McGill University*
Mohawk College
Mount Allison University
Niagara College
Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD)
OCAD University
Ontario Tech University
Queen's University*
Royal Military College
Seneca Polytechnic*
Sheridan College*
Thompson Rivers University
Toronto Metropolitan University*
Trent University*
University of Alberta*
University of British Columbia*
University of Calgary
University of Guelph*
University of Ottawa
University of Toronto*
University of Victoria
University of Waterloo*
100% of HSC graduates recieve a post-secondary offer
University of Windsor*
Western University*
Wilfrid Laurier University*
York University*
USA
Adrian College
Boston University*
Carnegie Mellon University
Case Western Reserve University
Columbia University*
Cornell University
Emory University
Franklin and Marshall College
Georgia Institute of Technology
Hofstra University
Johns Hopkins University
Laguna College of Art and Design
Life University
New York University*
Penn State University
Purdue University
Rhode Island School of Design
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
St. Lawrence University
St. Mary's University, Texas
Syracuse University
The New School
Thomas College
Tufts University
Tulane University
University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA)
University of California - San Diego*
University of California - Santa Barbara
University of Colorado - Boulder
University of Illinois
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign*
University of Miami
95+% of HSC graduates are Ontario scholars
*post-secondary information for the Class of 2026
University of Michigan*
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Dakota
University of San Diego*
University of Southern California
University of Washington in Seattle
Wake Forest University
Washington University in St. Louis
UK & INT’L
Bond University
Durham University
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
IE University*
King's College London
Loughborough University
Nagoya University
National University of Ireland Galway
Northumbria University
Queen Mary University of London
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland*
St. George’s University*
University of Birmingham
University of Bristol*
University of Buckingham*
University of Cambridge
University of Debrecen
University of Durham*
University of Edinburgh
University of Exeter
University of Lancashire*
University of Leeds
University of Southampton
University of St. Andrews*
University of Sussex
University College Dublin
University College London
425+ university and college offers for the class of 2026
20+ annual post-secondary information events hosted by HSC
AREAS OF STUDY*
34%
20%
16%
13%
6%
1%
5 experienced Senior Student Success Staff support the post-secondary process
35+ hours spent per year with a dedicated tutorial leader
12:1 ratio of students to teachers in each tutorial group
Social Sciences & Humanities & Law & Education: Encompasses Arts, Social Science, Humanities, Psychology, English, History, Geography, Criminology, Sociology, International Studies, Journalism, Communications, Education, Recreation, Leisure Studies, Media Information, Law, Anthropology, Social Science, and Urban Development.
Business & Management: Includes Business, Commerce, Management, Hospitality, Tourism, and Culinary Arts.
Engineering & Computer Science & Architecture: Includes all Engineering specializations, Computer Science, and Architecture.
Life Sciences & Health: Includes Life Sciences, Health, Medicine, Kinesiology, Nursing, and Sport and Exercise Science.
Sciences: Includes general Science, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Science, Mathematics, and 'Arts & Science' (assuming a strong science component).
Visual Arts & Design & Film & Music: Includes Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Design, Fashion, Performance, Film, Media, and Music.
Other/Unspecified & GAP Year: Includes categories that are not academic majors, such as 'GAP year', or unspecified fields.
$1M in scholarship opportunities
10% of ’26 grads attending international postsecondary schools
IT STARTS
YOUR INVESTMENT IN AN EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION
UNDERSTANDING TUITION, FINANCIAL AID, AND SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AT HSC
As a not-for-profit independent school and registered charity, HSC sets its fees annually to cover operating costs, from classroom and building maintenance to grounds upkeep. Your tuition is comprehensive, including daily hot lunch, bus services, extensive student support, professional counselling, and health services. We also offer various payment plans, subject to credit approval, to help families manage expenses.
FINANCIAL AID AND BURSARIES
HSC’s financial bursary program makes our exceptional education accessible by providing awards based on demonstrated need for students in Junior Kindergarten (M4) through Grade 12. We partner with Apple Financial Services, an independent firm, for an objective assessment of financial resources. These are one-year, non-renewable bursaries; families must reapply each school year, with awards available for a maximum of four years. Learn more at hsc.on.ca/financialaid.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
We believe in supporting students with exceptional academic, athletic, artistic, and philanthropic achievements. We’re also proud to offer several merit and needs-based scholarships and bursaries annually. Explore your options at hsc.on.ca/meritawards. HSC offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students entering Grades 7 and 9, applied directly to tuition. Additionally, the Morgan Family Scholarship, a needs-based bursary generously established by Nigel Morgan ’86, helps exceptional students attend who might otherwise be unable to.
$500,000+ is awarded each year through our scholarship program.
YOUR CHILD’S PATH TO LIFELONG SUCCESS STARTS HERE!
READY TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY AT HSC? APPLYING IS SIMPLE WITH THESE STEPS:
To learn more about applying to HSC, visit hsc.on.ca/ admissionsprocess.
STEP 1: DISCOVER AND CONNECT
Learn more about what makes HSC special! Visit hsc.on.ca/ learnmore to register for an upcoming open house, or book a personalized 1:1 meeting with an enrolment officer.
STEP 2: CHECK AVAILABILITY
Curious about spot availability? Visit hsc.on.ca/admissions/ enrolment-opportunities to view the current enrolment status for each school, or email admissions@hsc.on.ca for details on waitlists. Even if your desired grade or school is full, we encourage you to apply now; accepted applicants will be added to a wait pool!
STEP 3: APPLY TODAY!
Spots are limited, so apply today to avoid disappointment! Visit hsc.on.ca/admissions to request your application. An HSC admissions officer will guide you through our admissions process every step of the way.
STEP 4: BOOK A VISIT DAY
Once your full application has been submitted at myHSC along with all supporting documentation, a representative from the HSC Admissions Office will contact you to support the next step in our admissions process, a visit day here at HSC!
HAVE QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please contact a member of our admissions team by calling 905-389-1367 or emailing admissions@hsc.on.ca.
HILLFIELD STRATHALLAN COLLEGE VIEWBOOK
HILLFIELD STRATHALLAN COLLEGE
299 Fennell Avenue West
Hamilton, ON L9C 1G3
905-389-1367
hsc.on.ca
admissions@hsc.on.ca
Our core mission is to develop joyful and engaged students who live life with purpose.
The best learning happens when students are happy to come to school, have opportunities to follow their passions, and participate in deep learning experiences that challenge them.
Joyful, engaged students develop strong relationships with their peers and with the caring adults who spark and support their learning both inside the classroom and beyond.
Their journey at HSC prepares students to live with purpose— to understand their world, inspire, lead, act, and make a difference in their own unique ways.
