St. Jude's Academy offers bus transferring.
Service options offered are regular rider, regular rider AM only, regular rider PM only, door-to-door pickup.
The regions St. Jude's Academy offers busing from are:
Brampton
Milton
Mississauga
Additional notes: To ensure quality, St. Judes's Academy provides its own busing solution to our families.
SJA, notably an IB World School in Mississauga, offers the entire IB continuum for their students: PYP, MYP, and DP. Being a JK to Grade 12 school, families feel confident in knowing their child is at a school that will support them for their whole educational journey. St. Jude’s Academy emphasizes education as its core value, along with student life engagements, and athletics. SJA prides itself in encouraging its students to be global learners, communicators, and citizens; promoting diversity and inclusivity. The SJA culture is commonly described as “familial,” as their close-knit community thrives in encouraging one another for growth and success. SJA stands out in many ways as education is taken far beyond the classroom. Although students actively take part in their scheduled exams and class time, learning at SJA also happens through local and national field trips, student life activities, and more.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"St. Jude’s Academy (JK-Grade 12) is the leading private university preparatory and IB World School (PYP, MYP, DP) in Mississauga/GTA. Our experienced faculty are world leaders in IB education. The focus on fundamentals and individualized approach ensures 100% of our graduates are accepted into their chosen university while our Phys. Ed, Arts and Language specialists nurture the whole student. Supported by our community of faculty and parents, our students are prepared to confidently make their mark in the world. "
Leading private university preparatory and IB World School (PYP, MYP, DP) in Mississauga/GTA.
100% of SJA graduates are accepted into university of their choice
A personalized approach to education
A welcoming student body where children want to be
A vibrant student life that has families re-registering year after year
Excellent sports teams and an elite prep basketball program
An active student government
More clubs than we can mention
Local and international class trips that expose students to the world
University visits to help students make their best choice in post-secondary education
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"SJA was the first in Mississauga to offer a continuum of education for students aged 3 to 19. Our students’ experience, their stride and their goals will be helped by the care...(more)
"SJA was the first in Mississauga to offer a continuum of education for students aged 3 to 19. Our students’ experience, their stride and their goals will be helped by the care and expertise of faculty and staff. SJA offers a unique education experience that goes beyond academics and provides a careful balance of Student Life. This careful balance has proven to provide lasting, influential and significant changes in the lives of our students."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"Our commitment to doing what is best for the student means that we do not automatically conform to the trends of other schools (like using semesters, which are proven to hinder...(more)
"Our commitment to doing what is best for the student means that we do not automatically conform to the trends of other schools (like using semesters, which are proven to hinder students).
Our commitment to having our teachers really know the students means that teachers need to go above and beyond class time.
Our commitment to resourcefulness and keeping costs low means that we have to get creative in facilities and partnerships to give families more for less.
Our commitment to critical thinking means that we don’t get carried away with one side of a cultural issue or trend.
Our commitment to nonconformity means that our staff and students have to focus on what really matters versus satisfying people’s perceptions.
Our commitment to responsibility means that we risk turning people away who do not want to take ownership of their successes and failures."
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
"Founded in 2006, St. Jude's Academy has grown into a multi-campus institution serving students from 3 to 18 years old. Our ongoing expansion has enabled us to establish separate...(more)
"Founded in 2006, St. Jude's Academy has grown into a multi-campus institution serving students from 3 to 18 years old. Our ongoing expansion has enabled us to establish separate Lower and High School campuses, just minutes apart. Committed to meeting the evolving needs of our students and families, St. Jude's Academy will continue to grow and adapt to provide the best possible educational experience."
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
"• Families and students who are looking for the best, IB education.
• Families and students who want to start and finish their entire JK-Grade 12 IB education at the same...(more)
"• Families and students who are looking for the best, IB education.
• Families and students who want to start and finish their entire JK-Grade 12 IB education at the same school.
• Families who want their children to be challenged, encouraged, and respected in their educational journey.
• Families who are tired of the social agendas that replace learning in public schools.
• Families who can recognize exceptional values.
• Families who embrace traditional values like hard work and responsibility.
• Families who live in the northwestern GTA, especially Mississauga and surrounding areas.
• Families and students who like to think outside of the box, challenge conventional thinking and take risks.
• Students who are looking for elite sports experiences."
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"• SJA won’t be a good fit for parents who do not want to partner with a school to give their child the instruction and guidance they need to succeed.
• SJA won’t be a...(more)
"• SJA won’t be a good fit for parents who do not want to partner with a school to give their child the instruction and guidance they need to succeed.
• SJA won’t be a good fit for parents who are not willing to participate and be engaged in their child’s education, who see themselves as consumers more than members.
• SJA won’t be a good fit for parents and students who don’t embrace a holistic approach to education, seeing every part of their SJA experience as working toward the same goal.
• SJA is not recommended for students who require modified learning support."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"SJA provides unparalleled value in the private, IB school category. Exceptional teaching, positive student life atmosphere, variety of opportunity and elite athletics are all...(more)
"SJA provides unparalleled value in the private, IB school category. Exceptional teaching, positive student life atmosphere, variety of opportunity and elite athletics are all offered at a competitive price. 100% of our graduates go on to attend the university of their choice. Furthermore, as parents often note, “There’s a different energy here.” Our staff have succeeded in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where every student feels a strong sense of belonging. Families that connect with SJA stick with SJA because they and their children are treated as individuals by our staff. Finally, St. Jude's Academy administration is a strong, unified and committed group who take pride in the school and strive to make it better every day. We are passionate about growing a school that families can be proud of. That difference can be seen and felt."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"• The first private school in Mississauga to have the IB Continuum program.
• Steady growth.
• Always improving.
• Largest private school in northern Mississauga....(more)
"• The first private school in Mississauga to have the IB Continuum program.
• Steady growth.
• Always improving.
• Largest private school in northern Mississauga.
• Quickest to adapt to unforeseen contingencies.
• Problem-solvers who overcome all challenges.
• 100% university acceptance.
• Longest tenured owner.
• Respected, US-style athletics.
• Pioneers in IB: Our DP Coordinator first brought the IB Program to the Peel Region.
• Leaders in IB: Our Head of School has been on the IBSO Board (International Baccalaureate Schools of Ontario) since 2015."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"In the caring and vibrant SJA community, students are motivated and guided to take ownership of their intellectual and moral growth and develop the self-esteem and courage. At St....(more)
"In the caring and vibrant SJA community, students are motivated and guided to take ownership of their intellectual and moral growth and develop the self-esteem and courage. At St. Jude's Academy they will need to deal successfully with the challenges and opportunities that high school and university hold. It is the only school that has a n educational experience designed to inspire and challenge students."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"At SJA, the student really does come first above everything else, and it is evident. Our decision-making begins with the question, “Is it good for the student?” The faculty...(more)
"At SJA, the student really does come first above everything else, and it is evident. Our decision-making begins with the question, “Is it good for the student?” The faculty and staff go above and beyond every day to prioritize students’ academics, confidence, strong work ethic, independence and effective learning habits. This personalized approach, delivered in the parameters of the IB programme and in the context of a caring and vibrant community, creates highly motivated students who take ownership of their success."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"We have continued to grow steadily at SJA. We have brought in many international IB educators to enhance our IB education. We have added new teachers to accommodate our growth. We...(more)
"We have continued to grow steadily at SJA. We have brought in many international IB educators to enhance our IB education. We have added new teachers to accommodate our growth. We have increased our presence on social media as a means of increasing communication and school spirit. We have added new marketing and communications staff. in addition, we have built a whole new High School Campus for our students that best accommodates their education journey and provides them the space to grow in their learning. Lastly, we have placed a new focus on our prep basketball program, balancing education with athletics."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"We are excited to announce that as of the fall of 2024, we have added a new 50,000 sq. ft. building right next door at 6745 Century Avenue which houses our high school (Grade...(more)
"We are excited to announce that as of the fall of 2024, we have added a new 50,000 sq. ft. building right next door at 6745 Century Avenue which houses our high school (Grade 9-12) students. This new facility includes a new Science Lab outfitted in new equipment, Cafeteria, a Performing Arts Studio and a Student Hub. This change has provided space and has made school more comfortable for our JK-Grade 8 students at our main location on Torquay Mews. We are excited to announce that as of Fall 2024 we have renovated our Athletics Dome into the best basketball facility in Southern Ontario. It has three separate basketball courts that can be used for various other applications as well, along with flexible seating for up to 450 spectators. We felt this was a fitting investment for our growing Athletics program and the best prep basketball program in Ontario. Lastly, our brand as a whole has changed to best suit SJA."
My kids enjoy the small, tight-knit community. Every teacher and faculty member knows them by name and knows who their siblings are in the school. They have made friendships at St. Jude's that will last them a lifetime. The kids enjoy teachers who allow them to express themselves and who listen to their ideas, even if it is different from their own. Encouraging my kids to think for themselves is what I appreciate the most from St. Jude's. The teachers who have really connected with my kids are the ones who look at them not as students, but as human beings that are going to change the world for the better.
The time I spent at St. Jude's Academy was unforgettable. When I came to St. Jude's Academy I was a newly arrived immigrant from Egypt, where I had a very different educational and cultural background than my friends, and so the fear of not fitting in was quite frightening. However, the very welcoming environment and diverse community of St. Jude's Academy demolished any possibility of being left out in every aspect (Academically and socially). The year that I spent at St. Jude's Academy was one of the best years that I have ever experienced. St. Jude's Academy helped me expand my thinking, recognize my strengths and interests and, lastly, I become a better person. It taught me a lot of valuable lessons that prepared and assisted me in a lot of ways that without, I would have struggled with what life has to offer. Prospective students should expect to find a community that will become their extended family and their second home. They will find caring and supportive teachers, friendships that will last a lifetime, academic excellence, and they will have memories of being part of the SJA family.
I have never felt so accepted and part of a community before; St. Jude’s Academy has provided that feeling for me! When I first came to the school in grade eleven I was scared about not fitting in and starting at a new school. However, I felt very accepted and welcomed by the warm, smiling faces from teachers and students. I was worried about not being able to catch up to the academic level all the students were already at but the teachers seemed more than happy to help me get there. St. Jude’s has a very diverse, bilingual environment. For a student like me that has never been exposed to such things, it was a very fun learning experience. Walking into the school on the first day of school, I looked around and all the teachers were smiling and saying hello and good morning, asking how I was doing. Students were coming up to me welcoming me to St. Jude’s. I felt like I already belonged. I remember thinking to myself “Why didn’t I come here before?”
St. Jude’s Academy encompasses a warm and friendly atmosphere; from the moment you walk through their doors. Two years ago we attended their open house, and immediately we knew this was the school for our children. The diverse and highly-qualified staff are always greeting you with warm-hearted smiles, and are continuously willing to go above and beyond their job descriptions. The morning school-wide assemblies nurture the friendly school environment while challenging the students to do their best through their technique of positive reinforcement, called “house points.” The entire school is divided into three “Houses”, and students are encouraged to achieve points for their house group. Points are attained through good behaviour, aiding fellow schoolmates, and by the ever so exciting “House games,” that both students and teachers take part in. The strong International Baccalaureate curriculum encourages students to be inquisitive, and prepares them for the collaborative nature of the work place. St. Jude’s Academy and its’ staff have instilled a love of learning in my child, making him a lifelong learner.
My child has told me that he really enjoys St. Jude’s Academy. I believe that what he likes the most about St. Jude’s is their arts program. From the beginning, students take both French and music classes. I am also very fond of this as speaking both of Canada’s official languages will definitely give my child more self-confidence and opportunities later in life. This is a great advantage compared to public school where students do not even start to learn French until grade 4 and where music is taught to a very limited extent compared to St. Jude's.
Our son has just started in Junior Kindergarten at St. Jude’s Academy, and his favorite subjects are French and Music and his main teacher is supported by a number of ‘specialists’ (in physical education, music and French). He clearly benefits from the structure of the program and shows a lot of pride in his learning – he often wants to explain and demonstrate what he’s learned at school. He is a sensitive child and has found the change in his routine (new school, new expectations) a little bit challenging but over the course of his first term, he has developed a good rapport with a few key teachers, made new friends and is now comfortable with his new school and its systems and expectations.
My time at St.Jude's Academy has been exceptional. I have been in the school for four months already and there is nothing that I would think of changing in any way! I am beyond grateful to have found such a welcoming and accepting community. I will never forget how quickly I made friends at St. Jude's. People were amiable and understanding from the minute that I walked in. Talking about my fondness of the school won't be enough to convey how deeply I respect and admire it. Being a new member of the school, I wonder about the different opportunities and experiences that I can acquire from it. In four months, I have already developed more confidence, knowledge, and open-mindedness than at any other school I’ve attended in my life. I owe that growth to the supportive teachers and staff as well as the diverse students that have created a secure and safe environment. I am lucky enough to have joined an environment where I am proud to refer to my school-mates as my extended family.
As soon as I walked through the St. Jude's Academy doors I knew it was a community I wanted to be a part of. I was greeted by a very friendly and welcoming admissions team. My grade 10 academic year taught me a lot about the school, but one thing stood out to me—community. As a K-12 school, the St. Jude's community is very integrated. All members staff and students connect with each other, assisting each other in every way possible. There is also a very diverse and multicultural student population, allowing students to connect and learn about different cultures. I am now in my senior year at St. Jude's Academy and I couldn't be more pleased with my progress since enrolling. The teachers are very well-learned and motivated, giving every student the feeling they genuinely care about his/her education and well being. I have been recognized as an academically gifted student at the schools I attended before I arrived at St. Jude's, and I expected a challenging curriculum. I certainly have not been disappointed here in that regard. The school has equipped me with all the tools I need for the next chapter of my life and I have met several lifelong friends.