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Trusted by families since 1998.
MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus logo

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus









School Busing:

MacLachlan College offers bus transferring. Service options offered are regular rider, regular rider AM only, regular rider PM only, door-to-door pickup.

The regions MacLachlan College offers busing from are:

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

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at the Expo

Halton-Peel (Oct 19)

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School overview

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The big picture on MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus

We summarized the school ourselves

“MacLachlan prides itself on being at the cutting edge of innovation in teaching and learning theory,” says Michael Piening, head of school. “This generation of learner, and the world they are growing up in, is very engaged, social and interactive. We looked internally at how we could best respond and adapt to enhance student exploration, creativity and knowledge.” That’s quite a mouthful, to be sure, but it’s a good one nevertheless. Schools are challenged to adapt their programs to the needs of students, and there are a lot of red herrings out there, such as an over-emphasis on digital literacy, for example. To be a 21st century learner can mean many things, though at McLachlan it means engagement with ideas, peers, and community. The annual Word Fest is a great example of that, in that case using the language arts program as a starting point for an engagement with issues and topics that require students to think creatively, empathize, and communicate their ideas. Earlier this year the grade one classes took part in a workshop with the Hamilton Children’s museum, roll-playing a shipwreck, stuck on coral in the midst of a storm. That, and indeed many programs at MacLachlan, can rightly turn heads. They provide telling examples of how the school expresses its dedication to engagement, exploration, and social interactivity, all of it as charming as it is impressive. The ideal student is one who can thrive in a diverse, active, and challenging academic environment. 

We questioned the school adminstration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"MacLachlan College’s Lower School Campus is tailored for JK to Grade 6 students. Our co-ed IB Primary Years Programme fosters international-mindedness, inquiry skills, creativity and collaboration . Our highly skilled teachers cultivate a love for learning, laying the foundation for academic success. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, promoting a profound sense of belonging. Students embrace learning, developing confidence, and finding their voice in a supportive, safe, and nurturing environment."

  • IB World School Primary Years Programme
  • Round Square Leadership
  • Innovation & Future Ready Programs
  • Wellness & Emotional Intelligence
  • Field Trips and Outdoor Learning
  • Small Class Sizes
  • Character Education
  • Safe and Supportive Community
  • Technology Integration
  • Hot lunch program

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

"MacLachlan's academic program offers a transitional approach of two globally recognized programs beginning with the International Baccaulaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP)...(more)

3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

Information not yet available.

4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

Information not yet available.

5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?

Information not yet available.

6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

Information not yet available.

7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

"Families choose MAC because of our highly respected academic programs and co-educational learning environment. What families quickly appreciate is MacLachlan’s high level of...(more)

8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

Information not yet available.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

"MacLachlan is an incredibly tight-knit community. It quickly becomes obvious to prospective families that staff have an impressive connection to students, knowing virtually all...(more)

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

"MacLachlan is committed to creating successful and innovative approaches to learning by promoting and developing skills that transcend the classroom environment. MacLachlan is a...(more)

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

"MacLachlan College has recently made significant updates to its Lower School Campus, enhancing the learning environment and community spaces. The improvements include a brand-new...(more)

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

"In the coming years, MacLachlan College envisions continuing its journey of growth and innovation. We plan to further enhance our outdoor recreation spaces, providing more...(more)


We got insight from alumni, parents, and students

MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus: Alumni Review from Haider Ishtiaq

Watch our alum interview with Haider Ishtiaq to learn about the unique experience of attending MacLachlan College.

Parent, Tatiana Memos (2021)

(4.9)

Our son started attending MacLachlan in grade 7 and is currently in grade 10. The choice was between MacLachlan and another private school and after touring and shadowing both, he chose MacLachlan. As he put it at the time: "Mom, it's so quiet! I can think." My husband and I were extremely relieved and happy because our son's choice was congruent with ours. Meaning his character was, and is, in alignment with the overall nature of the school. As a small school, it allows for significant personal attention to each student. As an introvert, our son feels very comfortable, safe and supported by the staff as well as his peers. This has allowed him to grow and develop his confidence which is reflected in all aspects of his life. Our decision was especially reaffirmed with the school's response to the pandemic which was exceptional. While teaching was immediately and seamlessly shifted online in real time (due to the school's existing and ongoing online platform), swift action was being taken to prepare the school building which included cleaning protocols, outfitting it with new, state of the art filtration system, plexiglass barriers as well as PPE equipment). The overall response to the ongoing crisis demonstrates a level of care and concern for the entire staff and student body that quite frankly I believe is unparalleled. It is emblematic of the overall ethos and facilitated in large part due to the small and intimate nature of the school.
 

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