School Leadership

Qualitative insights

These insights are based on conversations with parents, alumni, and school leadership. Handpicked and curated by our editor, they offer a close look at how the school is experienced and perceived by those who know it best.

Leadership provides exemplary communication and support.

Observations from parents and alumni indicate that Merrick Preparatory School excels in providing thorough and frequent communication, along with steadfast support, fostering an environment where students and families feel informed and cared for.

The staff at Merrick Preparatory School were vigilant and communicated regularly with my family about my academic, physical, and mental well-being. This constant support reassured my parents and ensured that any issues were promptly addressed. The school's commitment to student care extended to medical needs, demonstrating their dedication to students' overall success.

—Yazeed Al Adawi, alum (see full interview)

What stood out the most for me as a parent was that everyone was available all the time. You could reach everyone with questions, thoughts, and issues. Whatever arose, it was addressed immediately, and there was always someone to talk to.

—Daniela Swientek, parent (beginning in Gr. 11) (see full interview)

We receive weekly updates from the school, detailing what the students studied and accomplished that week. This frequent communication from the teachers, who provide specific details about each subject, is something we greatly appreciate. Sometimes, we just send a thank-you message to the teachers for their dedication. The professionalism and kindness of the staff, especially in handling our situation as a family making a long trip each day, are commendable. The way the school works with us and responds to our needs reinforces our decision to make the effort to get our daughter there.

—Ireen O., parent (see full interview)

All in all, it was just a life-changing experience for my son. The interactions between both administration and teachers were outstanding. We received weekly reports from all teachers in all subjects, and in between, there was always time and room for questions, which were answered immediately.

—Daniela Swientek, parent (beginning in Gr. 11) (see full interview)

My advice to new families is to look at the communication skills of the school. Is there a genuine interest in your child and the family? Do they look beyond grades and are interested in the skills, interests, and talents of your child? Do they include you as parents and siblings? Do they want to know something about you and your background? I think that is the most important thing, that there is good communication and a genuine interest in your child.

—Daniela Swientek, parent (beginning in Gr. 11) (see full interview)

The leadership in the school is excellent. We are kept informed as to what is happening in the school, and the school is also extremely responsive to any requests that we might have. Examples of the latter include the flexibility over course selection, the acceptance that our daughter takes classes such as life-saving outside of the school which requires an early departure, and her need to get to a part-time job a few days of the week. Even during these COVID-dominated times, the school is very welcoming, and as long as the proper precautions are taken the school welcomes us in at our convenience. The entire admissions and support program have been conducted in a truly efficient and professional manner and we feel that the needs of our daughter have been very well managed.

—John Hopkins, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

The school keeps communication with parents on a weekly basis for updates on students' progress. They also discuss concerns and work with parents towards solving them before evolving into a more serious matter. After the pandemic, the online learning was excellent my son had quality synchronous learning. In small classes, all students are forced to engage and participate in classes and live online class teaching if my son was late or absent I would be directly informed by email. The class is video recorded. The students can re-watch lessons if they need some more time to process. And during office hours they can ask for teacher support if needed. At MPS you get international education with students from around the globe and gain entry into world-ranked universities.

—Seem Pharaon, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

Having had the last year administered online, due to the pandemic, they had been limited with what they can do. Nonetheless, the after-school support and the caring communication and support that they adopt, has given MPS a special place in my child's life. They have done considerably well with virtual fun, games, fitness sessions, challenges and others when they could.

—Mustafa Tabba, parent (beginning 2020) (see full review)

The school leaders, really show professionalism, they are people who have great experience when it comes to manage an international school and deal with many of the situations that come with having so many nationalities interacting all at once. In my personal experience, I respect them as they respect me and all my classmates. They are really supportive with issues inside and out of the school. Also, by having staff that is mostly Canadian, it means that they give you a true sense of their customs and culture. Overall, they are exceptional, they are excellent at their job and are overqualified for it.

—Juan Carlos Uscanga, student (beginning 2019) (see full review)

Every time I ask something from the school, I receive an immediate response. They even go beyond my expectations to ensure that our needs are met. Recently I needed my daughter to take photos for the visa application, the principal arranged transportation for her. When it was time to send her passport to Toronto, the principal arranged for courier services and was even following up on my behalf. The fact that I have not heard my daughter talking about infighting at the school or giving me a sense that is being bullied, I know that the school is fostering a positive atmosphere

—Rachel Tlhole, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

The school clearly identifies with the important fact that parents are important stakeholders, and are as important as the children themselves. This is made clear right from the beginning, it be in the initial induction meetings or later during the school year. At every step of the way, parents are updated weekly on the class activities, in detail. Furthermore, a weekly progress report is sent explaining the progress of the child in every aspect of academia; it be his class work, class engagement, quizzes or exams. They also fully welcome parents and children to engage with teachers at any point and for any reason whatsoever. This provides us as parents with the confidence, knowledge and comfort to engage with the school at all levels and at all time.

—Mustafa Tabba, parent (beginning 2020) (see full review)

They're caring and approachable.

Testimonials reveal that the leadership at Merrick Preparatory School is both supportive and approachable, maintaining a balance between professionalism and a family-like atmosphere, which is central to the school's culture.

What surprised me the most was how informal and friendly the relationship was with the leadership team and the teachers. It is a highly regarded school with strong academics, but we also felt like family, and we are still in contact with most of the people from Merrick.

—Daniela Swientek, parent (beginning in Gr. 11) (see full interview)

The school's administration is also a highlight from my time at Merrick, as they were very involved and open with the students in a friendly way, but also in an academic way. For example, many members of the admin team hosted after-school activities and took us out on various trips and experiences in their own personal time. This is awesome as they are incredibly dedicated to the students as well as the school. They were always there for us and understanding of any situation where we needed help which was a really good support structure to have.

—Konstantin Swientek, alum (2020-2022) (see full review)

Again, I cant but give full praise to MPS here. Kevin leads the school as a tough CEO, but he also ensures that he is as caring as a parent where it matters, and as a mentor advisor when needed. The positive caring spirit filters throughout the whole MPS team in all that they do. Efficiency, caring and developmental impact is a guiding principle in all that they do, it be in dealing with issues, in their communications as well as teaching approaches. All teachers, (including the headmaster!) , give each student the right time they need to mature, to learn and to excel. Over the years, my 3 kids have attended over 8 different schools... nothing comes close to MPS. I say that with true and full conviction.

—Mustafa Tabba, parent (beginning 2020) (see full review)

They foster individualized attention and a sense of belonging.

Insider sources highlight that the small school setting at Merrick Preparatory School (MPS) creates an environment where students receive individualized attention and develop a strong sense of belonging and connectedness.

As mentioned, the small school setting allows MPS to provide a school life that cannot be replicated by others. They get to know the child and know exactly what type of help and support is needed. This makes the students feel close to the school, feel connected, and develop a true sense of belonging to MPS. The default setting is discipline, learning and caring. all of which made my son more committed to perform and attend every class. It also allowed him to feel a heightened sense of independence and more confidence, every month of the year it be while attending classes or working on assignments. And when in some cases he did slack off, it was identified right from the start, early on, addressed, analyzed and dealt with in a very professional and caring manner.

—Mustafa Tabba, parent (beginning 2020) (see full review)

They encourage leadership and foster personal growth.

Observations from students and parents highlight that the leadership at Merrick Preparatory School fosters a welcoming and supportive environment, encouraging students to explore diverse interests and grow both inside and outside the classroom.

The headmaster plays an excellent role in leading the school and mentoring the students towards their best achievements. He listens to both parent and student, deals with issues and problems in an effective, positive, fair way. Follow up with students and teachers, encourage students and provide guidance. It is a positive environment to learn and succeed. Both discipline and fun are achieved at MPS thanks to their leadership. At MPS they are like a big happy family. Both discipline and fun are achieved at MPS thanks to their leadership. At MPS they are like a big happy family.

—Seem Pharaon, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

I really love the school leaders, they maintain an air of professionalism whilst also being able to be playful with students and amongst one another; they have standards and values that they adhere to. Schools are meant to help students grow and become the best versions of themselves in my opinion, so being the best school leader isn't about doing only one thing or a couple of things that are "good", but it's about first knowing themselves and then conducting students. I've witnessed lots of teachers crushing students from doing better by telling them to focus on only one thing is general studies, this school and its teachers encourage much more from their students. They encourage us to branch out and try a bit of everything and remind us that studies are good, but that's not all we should be focusing on. They are also always there for us and are really supportive with issues inside and outside of school; they are understanding. MPS isn't teacher-oriented and the school is molded to where the teachers and students have an equal say in everything that happens in the school.

—Helen Phan, student (beginning 2021) (see full review)

The admissions process is engaging and supportive.

Feedback from families and alumni underscores the responsive and informative nature of Merrick Preparatory School’s admissions process, ensuring that prospective students and their families feel welcomed and well-prepared from their initial contact with the school.

From the beginning of our application process, the administration was very accommodating and reassuring. Our interactions with the headmaster and teachers have been amazing. The consistent updates and the dedication of the staff to our child's well-being earn them an easy A-plus from us. We are grateful for the quality education and the supportive environment Merrick provides.

—Ireen O., parent (see full interview)

The town is small and people are very nice to each other in the school and around the town. It's very safe. The teachers and staff are very supportive. That's why I was able to improve my English a lot. One of my teachers helped me with my applications so that I could get into a university. Everyone is there and working so hard for us.

—Deren Toredi, alum (see full interview)

We got a smooth easy admission process both parents and student were interviewed online and my son had an evaluation test he had to complete then he had a long friendly conversation with the headmaster. After our meeting I felt it was the right choice for my son and I had the recommendation of other parents to the school. The students are selected to a specific criteria and that is to ensure it’s all up to standard, at the end both parents and the school will work as a team towards the benefit and support of the students. I don’t think I would change anything about the admission process I was happy about it and all was explained very well during our meeting with the headmaster.

—Seem Pharaon, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

I know that both my parents and I were very impressed with Merrick Preparatory School's admissions team. We were made to feel welcome and respected from our first interaction, and all of our questions were answered very quickly and honestly. Their website had answers for almost everything I needed to know, and that which it didn't was quickly answered. It was a lovely introduction to Merrick, and it made me very excited to attend. The student and parent testimonials and reviews on their website are very helpful and promising, and I have not yet found anything that contradicts the information we were given. The admissions process was also very smooth and easy to navigate. I think that any student can agree with me when I say that there is a lot to be said in a positive nature about the Merrick admissions team.

—Elisa Hopkins, student (beginning 2021) (see full review)

The application process was very smooth with great communication between not only parents and admissions but also the student applying. During my application process, I had talked to pretty much all the staff before I had even attended the school which helped a lot with getting to know everyone and feeling comfortable when entering a new environment. The admissions team is very responsive and helpful with guiding families on how to apply, what they can expect, and ensuring the process is easy. The admissions team is very knowledgeable and diverse in terms of international experience and helps ensure students have a good experience. Furthermore, everything was clear and explained very well. The admissions process was very relaxed and manageable which was great for me!

—Konstantin Swientek, alum (2020-2022) (see full review)

I would say apply, and hope that you are accepted. They are fair, yet demanding in terms of ensuring that only those students that they believe can commit will be accepted and offered admission. They don't only look for those who might excel, but those who can commit to a rigorous learning process. And here, when I say "those", I also include the parents and not just the children. As mentioned, MPS views parents as an integral part required for the success of their learning approach. While some paperwork is needed, as normal, its an efficient, friendly process. They are fully hands-on and really make you feel cared for. They advise on every step of the way, to make sure the process is user-friendly, clear and transparent. The one aspect I would modify is their need to focus on the benefits of a small school, and the value of such to the kids. I was a bit apprehensive at the beginning, but I am now a preacher of that approach. One key aspect they dwelt on was to ensure that my son himself was happy to move to MPS. This is exactly what happened with my son.

—Mustafa Tabba, parent (beginning 2020) (see full review)

The admission process was seamless. Mrs. Ziegler was helpful, knowledgeable, interested and eager to explain and anticipate all the steps needed to make to process easier for both parents and students. She, as well as the headmaster, was always available to answer any questions, from the mundane to the very intricate. If I could give any practical advice, it would be to embrace the process and ask any question, no matter how insignificant it seems, to make sure that when your child arrives at the school, they feel comfortable and ready to embrace life away from their immediate family and to thrive. The organized way in which they manage the process gives you a glimpse of what you may expect overall from the school.

—Rossana de Fabrega, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

We were made to feel extremely welcome from our very first inquiry. The courteous way in which we were dealt with is a credit to the school and each and every one of our questions was answered fully and honestly. We were provided with all the information that we required, we were given a tour of the school and, had it been during the school terms, I am sure that we would have been able to meet with the students to hear their points of view. The written information was well presented and thorough and the website gave us a very accurate picture of what life would be like at the school. The school deserves a very high level of commendation for its admissions procedures.

—John Hopkins, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

From what I remember about the admissions process, my dad first found the school through the newspaper and told me I should try to get one of the scholarships the school was offering. I had to ask an old teacher (I chose my favourite teacher) for a referral, write a three hundred word essay on who I was, did an interview with the headmaster, and do an English literacy test. Then I got a tour of the school and later an email on me getting the scholarship. I don't remember much else since my parents mostly dealt with the whole application but in my opinion, I think it was pretty easy and that the admission team was really good at answering our questions. Word of advice though, don't do what I did when I had to write the 300-word essay and write the essay on some kind of digital thing that can count your words so you won't have to rewrite it later...

—Helen Phan, student (beginning 2021) (see full review)

Parents are actively involved.

Insights from parents suggest that Merrick Preparatory School values and encourages parental involvement, aiming to integrate parents as a vital part of the school community and tapping into their resources and support.

What stands out is the warmth and the friendliness of Merrick Prep parents. I have not physically met them, but my daughter has been invited for sleepovers, of course with my permission and the permission of the principal. I have telephone contacts of some of them and we sometimes assist each other. Parents are welcome to be involved in the school, however, distance could be an issue as parents are coming from all over the world. It could be good if the school could arrange a virtual parents' day, however, I am not sure if it can work with different time zones. Also, parents can be involved in school projects. In general, I have a sense that the parents are committed to the school.

—Rachel Tlhole, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

It has, of course, been an unusual year due to the COVID pandemic and therefore the school has not been able to incorporate parents into the routines and life of the school quite as much as they would have hoped. Had it been a normal year we would have been more involved and we would have been able to attend events such as a winter concert and a talent show. The school is very open to parental involvement and the parents of day students are seen as an additional resource that can be called upon when there is a need. I am sure that when things return to normal the parental community will be quite visible within the school as they will have a great deal to offer.

—John Hopkins, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

There's a commitment to student and family support.

Observations from parents and students highlight the school's dedication to going above and beyond in supporting both students and their families, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience.

School leaders know the students and their families, and are always polite and willing to go the extra mile to help fulfill all needs. Students are well known and attention is given to their different backgrounds, health issues, abilities, strengths and particularities. They are always available and knowledgeable. They keep students and families informed of the student’s progress. I have been in contact with the Headmaster regarding various subjects and he has always been gracious and eager to help.

—Rossana de Fabrega, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

My daughter's experience is meeting other learners from other countries, making new friends, and learning about Canada as a country. She appreciates the support she is receiving from the teachers and the principal. She just misses home food which is understandable. The weekend activities are something she is looking forward to. The Canadian schooling system is different, she is enjoying the long summer break, and the fact that the school starts at 9 am instead of 7:30 am back at home, so she can sleep till late. It is her first time being at boarding school and Merrick Prep gave her that experience without her being overwhelmed. She has the comfort of her own double bed and ensuite toilet, which makes a huge difference because it does not feel like she is squashed in a hostel.

—Rachel Tlhole, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

The community is warm and inclusive.

Anecdotes from parents and students indicate that the school fosters close-knit relationships and a welcoming atmosphere, promoting student camaraderie and parental involvement.

Joining Merrick Preparatory School changed my son into a responsible young man. Academically he improved so much with the small number of students it felt like one-to-one teaching. My son is so happy at MPS it’s like a second family to him. He made friends with different age groups and multinational students had fun and played different sports from ice hockey to rafting...etc He worked on developing himself by listening to teachers and headmaster on ways to improve himself academically and personally. He became a more confident caring, responsible, discipline, honest, independent and mature person. MPS is a safe caring environment with strong core values supporting students all the way to university. A balanced life between fun, sports and achieving good grades and challenges. MPS was the best opportunity my son could ever get.

—Seem Pharaon, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

As an international student first arriving to Ontario, the school helped me a lot in overcoming the culture shock that comes with being a foreigner. Due to the fact that the students in the school are mainly international, you truly live the experience of meeting people all around the world. Getting to know the staff and the students and to feel comfortable with them is a must for the school, and they achieve this by having school activities throughout the school year. Out-of-school life is pretty good as well, the facility is perfectly suited for all students, the dining area is big enough for everyone, the Wi-Fi works well, the school counts with recreation areas such as a basketball court, a gym, ping pong table, etc. So you won't get bored that easily. Overall, the school exceeds in ensuring a top academic level and great social life. It is worth mentioning that for the school, responsibility is important, so, the student has to be responsible for their times, the rules and overall for their life throughout the school year.

—Juan Carlos Uscanga, student (beginning 2019) (see full review)

The school has learners who act as leaders for the week, which my daughter enjoys. This has given her the opportunity to lead and to be led. The students get along very well, they help each other, for example, when going out on activities, to style each other's hair, etc. They celebrate birthdays. I see that even though my daughter is at home for the holidays, she still continues to chat with her friends at school and catch up. This shows that they have developed special bonds between them beyond the school walls. The general mood at the school is happiness, from what I see with my daughter and her friends. What stands out for me with this school is the family environment that it provides for the learners.

—Rachel Tlhole, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

Personally, I respect all teachers and the headmaster in addition to the staff and friends. The headmaster is one of the best I have met as last time I was in Lebanon and our headmaster was not the best. The teachers are the supporters and they help explain and make it easy to understand the language and the course, plus I really like the feedback they give which in my case was helpful to improve. Everyone in the school either a teacher staff or student they are the absolute best.

—Suzan Aljasem, student (beginning 2022) (see full review)

I would take them to the reception area, not because it is the first room accessed from the front door, but because there is always someone to receive you with a smile, open arms, and an open heart. Arriving at the school for the first time, and taking in the atmosphere of the school, our decision to choose this school felt right. The richness of the school is in its people, being part of the teaching, administrative or student body. Or I could take you to the Headmaster’s Office, whose door is always open to welcome everyone. Of course, the students would be more amenable to see their rooms and to find out who their roommate would be, and where they would be spending time relaxing.

—Rossana de Fabrega, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

There's a focus on excellence in education and effective communication.

Feedback from students and parents suggests that the school’s rigorous academic program, combined with transparent teacher communication, equips learners with the confidence and skills necessary for higher education.

The teachers are sending feedback to parents on what the learners did for the week and the following week's look ahead. So as a parent at any given time I am aware of what my daughter is learning at school. The quality of education is excellent because even as an engineer, some of the questions that my daughter asked me, I used YouTube to figure them out. I had the privilege of sitting on the online classes while she was still waiting for her visa, and I was impressed with the content of the work. The assignments they are given are the correct tools to prepare them for tertiary life. I see that my daughter is not afraid to ask questions to the teachers if she does not understand and she receives the support

—Rachel Tlhole, parent (beginning 2022) (see full review)

Within the school, there are a number of forms of leadership, and everybody plays their own part. As would be expected, the leaders that we come into contact with the most are our teachers, all of whom do a brilliant job at making their classrooms feel welcoming and safe, especially during the COVID pandemic era that we are living in. I know my parents are also very happy with the leadership, and especially like how they get to know about what is going on in our classes through the weekly emails the teachers send.

—Elisa Hopkins, student (beginning 2021) (see full review)

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