The 50-page review of Pickering College is part of our series of in-depth accounts of Canada's leading private schools. It provides a unique and objective perspective on the school's academics, programs, culture, and community.
"At Pickering College, our fully-integrated Global Leadership Program (JK to Gr 12) inspires students to become agents of courageous, ethical and positive change with the confidence, knowledge and skills to shape the future. Our co-educational day and boarding school of 550 students is a safe and respectful community, offering exceptional academic and co-curricular programs. Our graduates leave us to attend the university of their choice, prepared to make a difference in the world."
Founded in 1842, Canada's only Quaker-founded school
Global Leadership Program Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12
Global perspective with boarding students from around the world
Reggio-inspired JK to Grade 3
100% university placement
Extensive co-curricular program
Open House: Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 10:00 am (JK-grade 5) and 1:00 pm (grades 6-12)
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Our students experience a school that is intimate in size and global in perspective. The school is small enough that we are able to truly get to know each child, while welcoming a...(more)
"Our students experience a school that is intimate in size and global in perspective. The school is small enough that we are able to truly get to know each child, while welcoming a diverse and co-educational group of students both locally and from around the world. Along with our Global Leadership Program, this provides students with countless opportunities to consider the global context and discover their own place in the world."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"Pickering College consciously chose to offer its own Global Leadership Program diploma over the International Baccalaureate (IB) to provide greater flexibility in curriculum...(more)
"Pickering College consciously chose to offer its own Global Leadership Program diploma over the International Baccalaureate (IB) to provide greater flexibility in curriculum design and delivery. The Global Leadership Program allows the school to tailor its educational offerings to meet the unique needs of its students, emphasizing leadership development, critical thinking, and experiential learning opportunities.
While the IB is a well-regarded program, it operates within a standardized framework that can limit the ability to innovate or integrate local and global themes most relevant to our students. The Global Leadership Program reflects Pickering College's commitment to fostering global citizens who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society through a customized, mission-aligned curriculum that prioritizes creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving."
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
"Since its founding in 1842, Pickering College has proudly upheld its Quaker heritage, embracing values of integrity, community, and equality. As one of Canada’s oldest...(more)
"Since its founding in 1842, Pickering College has proudly upheld its Quaker heritage, embracing values of integrity, community, and equality. As one of Canada’s oldest co-educational schools—a rare and forward-thinking vision at the time—Pickering College has always been committed to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment where every student can thrive.
Our Quaker foundation is a cornerstone of who we are, guiding our mission to inspire individuals to be socially responsible leaders who make a positive impact on the world. Over the years, we have worked to deepen our connections with Quaker schools in the United States and globally, strengthening the shared values and traditions that unite our communities. These collaborations provide opportunities for our students and educators to engage in meaningful exchanges, embrace diverse perspectives, and learn from like-minded institutions dedicated to holistic education."
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
"A student who would benefit most from a Pickering College education is one who is curious, engaged, and eager to make a positive difference in the world. Pickering College thrives...(more)
"A student who would benefit most from a Pickering College education is one who is curious, engaged, and eager to make a positive difference in the world. Pickering College thrives on nurturing mission-appropriate students who align with our Quaker values of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship (SPICES). Our ideal student is not only academically motivated but also open to embracing new ideas, collaborating with peers, and participating fully in our inclusive, global-minded community. Whether exploring leadership opportunities, pursuing creative or athletic passions, or engaging in meaningful service initiatives, these students find a supportive environment where their unique strengths are celebrated, and their potential is fully realized."
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"At Pickering College, we believe every family deserves the opportunity to find the right educational environment for their child. While we would never advise a family against...(more)
"At Pickering College, we believe every family deserves the opportunity to find the right educational environment for their child. While we would never advise a family against choosing our school, we recognize that Pickering College is best suited for students who thrive in a rigorous academic setting, are self-motivated learners, and are inspired to make a meaningful difference in the world. Our mission-driven approach and commitment to fostering leadership, creativity, and global citizenship ensure that students who embrace these qualities will flourish in our supportive and enriching community."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"As a Pickering College parent once put it: “I would encourage other parents to enrol their child at Pickering College because quite simply, it is an oasis in the storm. A place...(more)
"As a Pickering College parent once put it: “I would encourage other parents to enrol their child at Pickering College because quite simply, it is an oasis in the storm. A place of safety, strong community, values-based education, and leadership training. As a parent, I too am relearning along the way in terms of the importance of servant leadership and responsibility to others in our community at large.”"
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"When people think about Pickering College, several defining attributes come to mind. With a proud history spanning over 180 years, Pickering College is recognized for its enduring...(more)
"When people think about Pickering College, several defining attributes come to mind. With a proud history spanning over 180 years, Pickering College is recognized for its enduring commitment to academic excellence and values-based education rooted in its Quaker heritage. Our school is known for its warm and supportive community, where students, staff, and families work together to foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect. Graduates of Pickering College emerge as compassionate, confident, and capable leaders, prepared to make a positive impact in the world. Our alumni, who have achieved success across diverse fields, are a testament to the transformative power of a Pickering College education."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"We often say “The People are Pickering.” When you choose a school for your child, you are choosing more than a formal education, but the community of caring faculty and staff...(more)
"We often say “The People are Pickering.” When you choose a school for your child, you are choosing more than a formal education, but the community of caring faculty and staff that will empower and inspire them. We refer to this as “finding the light” within each child - that inner potential that is waiting to shine upon the world. It is important to find a school that shares your family’s values, and we hope the welcoming and inclusive nature of our community will be that place."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Retaining a close relationship with our Quaker heritage provides a solid philosophical, moral and operational framework for our school. Our Morning Meetings play a fundamental...(more)
"Retaining a close relationship with our Quaker heritage provides a solid philosophical, moral and operational framework for our school. Our Morning Meetings play a fundamental role in the life of the school as a time that we join together in an atmosphere of respect, listening, trust, integrity, compassion and silence. The silence in Morning Meeting provides us time to reflect and take comfort, strength and joy from being in the presence of friends and find a sense of power and enlightenment."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"When people think about Pickering College, several defining attributes come to mind. With a proud history spanning over 180 years, Pickering College is recognized for its enduring...(more)
"When people think about Pickering College, several defining attributes come to mind. With a proud history spanning over 180 years, Pickering College is recognized for its enduring commitment to academic excellence and values-based education rooted in its Quaker heritage. Our school is known for its warm and supportive community, where students, staff, and families work together to foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect. Graduates of Pickering College emerge as compassionate, confident, and capable leaders, prepared to make a positive impact in the world. Our alumni, who have achieved success across diverse fields, are a testament to the transformative power of a Pickering College education."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"Over the next five years, Pickering College will continue to evolve as a leader in innovative, values-driven education. We are deeply committed to integrating advanced technology...(more)
"Over the next five years, Pickering College will continue to evolve as a leader in innovative, values-driven education. We are deeply committed to integrating advanced technology and fostering innovation to help students address real-world challenges, making learning both meaningful and impactful. Our focus is on enabling students to identify their passions, dive deeply into their studies, and develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
We will also expand and enhance our outdoor education property, Blue & Silver Farm, to offer more diverse and enriching programming, allowing students to engage with nature and build critical skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability.
Additionally, we are dedicated to growing our unique community radio station, the only CRTC-licensed K-12 school station in Canada.
Through these initiatives, Pickering College will continue to prepare students for the future while remaining grounded in our mission and values."
My daughter and son started their studies at Pickering College in grades 7 and 9. My daughter's joy for attending school and her confidence returned upon joining Pickering College. She describes her school experience as much better, fun and that she is really happy at school. My son was anxious about starting high school and joining a new cohort of peers, yet within a day he felt right at home and he was surprised by the ease of the transition. Both of my children felt accepted and at home immediately. The school provides a secure environment and age appropriate independence enabling students to co-create their school experience as well as opportunities to mature, develop and demonstrate ownership, accountability, and responsibility. The school motto is Bene Provisa Principia Ponantur or "Let foundations be well planned". For my children their student experience at Pickering College has been extremely positive and nurturing for their development as a whole person.
As of writing this review, I am currently a grade 10 student at Pickering College. I began my journey with Pickering College in grade 9 as my parents and I wanted to shift to an educational path that would help best prepare me for university. From my first day to now, the student experience has been great. The school is filled to the brim with opportunities for any interest, from sports teams to math club there truly is something for everyone. The students were extremely welcoming and I had no trouble making new friends. The teachers are extremely helpful and it is very clearly evident that they enjoy teaching and working with the students. When I first came to the school, I wasn't sure about the concept of uniform. I love sneakers and clothes and I thought I would hate them. It took a little getting used to, but I am now thankful for the lack of thought required in the morning to get ready. I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Pickering College thus far and I look forward to continuing my high school journey.
My sons are always happy in the school. They have got the teachers’ help on their academics and made a lot progress. Both of them love the their co-curriculum program the most. Pickering College provides high quality education and a safe environment. I am satisfied with the Quakers value as well. The teachers are very friendly and helpful. The school helped students develop their ability in many ways. My children like their Global leadership Program and some courses outside the campus as well. They are encouraged by their teachers to develop their learning skills. The teachers can give them advice and help them overcome their problem.
The lunch is a little bit disappointing since they have already eaten for 3 years. They could update the menu.
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