REVIEW OF Stanstead College BY parent, Lucy Himo

(5) Student Experience

Sending our son to Stanstead College has been one of the best decisions we've ever made. From the very first day, we felt an overwhelming sense of warmth, professionalism, and care. This isn’t just a school, it’s a second home that has supported, challenged, and inspired our son in every way imaginable. Academically, the rigour and personalized attention have helped him reach levels of confidence and achievement we hadn’t anticipated. The faculty are not only incredibly qualified but also deeply invested in the success and well-being of each student. They know our son, not just his grades, but who he is as a person. Beyond the classroom, Stanstead offers a rich and diverse extracurricular life that has truly helped our son grow. Whether it’s athletics, leadership opportunities, community service, or the strong sense of school spirit, he’s been able to explore his passions and develop skills that will serve him far beyond his high school years. The boarding experience has been nothing short of incredible. As parents, it’s hard to imagine being away from your child, but the care, structure, and sense of community at Stanstead quickly put our minds at ease. Our son has made amazing friendships that will last a lifetime and has become more independent, resilient, and mature than we could have ever imagined. Stanstead College has exceeded our expectations on every level—academically, socially, emotionally, and personally. It’s a place that truly understands how to nurture potential and bring out the best in young people. We are endlessly grateful for the experience and cannot recommend it highly enough.

(5) School Leadership

The leadership at Stanstead College is nothing short of exceptional. From the Head of School to the faculty and house staff, every leader is deeply committed to the growth, well-being, and success of each student. Their vision is clear: to provide a nurturing yet challenging environment where young people can thrive. Communication with families is consistent and thoughtful, and decisions are made with integrity, transparency, and the students’ best interests at heart. They lead with empathy, passion, and professionalism, setting a strong example for the entire school community and creating a culture of respect, accountability, and excellence.

(5) Teaching

The teachers at Stanstead College are truly exceptional. They are not only highly qualified and knowledgeable in their subjects, but also incredibly dedicated to the overall development of each student. What sets them apart is their ability to connect on a personal level, taking the time to understand individual learning styles, strengths, and areas for growth. They foster a supportive and engaging classroom environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a genuine love of learning. Beyond academics, many teachers are also coaches, advisors, and mentors, showing up for students in every aspect of school life. Their commitment extends far beyond the classroom, creating a strong sense of trust and respect. It’s clear they care deeply, and that care makes all the difference in helping students thrive both academically and personally.

(5) Academics

The academic program at Stanstead College is both rigorous and thoughtfully designed to challenge students while supporting their individual growth. With small class sizes and highly engaged teachers, students receive the personalized attention they need to excel. The curriculum is well-rounded, blending core academic subjects with opportunities for enrichment through electives, advanced courses, and international perspectives. Critical thinking, communication, and collaboration are emphasized, preparing students not just for university but for life beyond the classroom. There’s a strong focus on academic integrity, discipline, and accountability, balanced by a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity and confidence. Regular assessments, clear feedback, and open communication with families ensure students stay on track. Our son has grown tremendously—both intellectually and in his ability to manage responsibilities—thanks to Stanstead’s outstanding academic culture.

(5) Extracurriculars

Stanstead College offers a vibrant extracurricular program that allows students to explore their passions beyond the classroom. From competitive athletics and arts to leadership opportunities and community service, there's something for everyone. These activities play a key role in building confidence, teamwork, and life skills. Our son has truly thrived, discovering new interests and forming lasting friendships through his involvement.

(5) Students

The student body at Stanstead College is diverse, close-knit, and incredibly spirited. With a relatively small enrollment, every student is known by name, creating a strong sense of belonging and community. What stands out most is the genuine camaraderie among students—whether in academics, sports, or residence life, there’s a culture of mutual respect, encouragement, and inclusion. Students come from all over the world, bringing unique perspectives while embracing shared values of integrity, leadership, and kindness. The dynamic is refreshingly supportive rather than competitive; students lift each other up and celebrate one another’s successes. New students are welcomed with open arms, and friendships quickly grow into something that feels like family. The energy on campus is vibrant, positive, and driven by a collective spirit that truly defines the Stanstead experience.

(5) School Life

Our son absolutely loves his life at Stanstead College. Every time he comes home for a break, he’s full of stories, laughter, and a sense of pride about everything he’s experiencing. What speaks volumes to us as parents is how genuinely excited he is to return to school after holidays—he counts down the days! Stanstead has become a true home away from home for him, a place where he feels valued, challenged, and supported. He’s formed strong friendships, connected deeply with his teachers and mentors, and found a rhythm that brings out the best in him. The structure, independence, and sense of purpose he’s gained have been remarkable. His joy and enthusiasm for school life are constant reminders that he’s in the right place, growing in all the right ways.

(5) Community

The Stanstead College community is one of its greatest strengths. It’s a warm, welcoming, and tightly connected environment where every student, teacher, and staff member feels like part of an extended family. The sense of belonging is immediate and authentic—from the moment our son arrived, he was embraced by a community that genuinely cares. Parents are kept engaged and informed, and the communication from the school is thoughtful and consistent. Students support each other, teachers mentor beyond the classroom, and the house staff create a home-like atmosphere where everyone is seen and heard. There’s a shared pride and spirit that runs through everything, from school events to daily routines. It’s this strong, inclusive culture that creates such a positive foundation for students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

(5) School Location

Stanstead College’s tranquil location in Stanstead, Quebec, offers a peaceful environment away from distractions. Surrounded by the beauty of the Eastern Townships, the school provides a serene setting where students can focus on their academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth. Being far from the hustle of city life allows for a safe, supportive atmosphere free from external pressures, helping students thrive.

(5) Admissions

Being accepted into Stanstead College is truly a privilege and an incredible opportunity. If fortunate enough to join this exceptional community, students are welcomed into an environment that fosters growth, learning, and personal development. It’s not just about academics, but about becoming part of a supportive, close-knit family where every individual is valued. The chance to study at such a renowned school with outstanding teachers, a vibrant student body, and a beautiful, peaceful setting is a rare and wonderful experience.

(5) University placement and counselling

Miss Hechian has been an absolute blessing in guiding our son through his university application process. Her support has been invaluable, not only offering expert advice but also helping to clarify every step along the way. She took the time to understand his goals, strengths, and aspirations, ensuring the entire process was tailored to his unique needs. Her attention to detail and prompt communication made a stressful time feel manageable. As a parent, I am deeply grateful for how she has alleviated so much of the pressure. Her guidance gave us peace of mind, knowing that our son was receiving the best possible advice and support. Thanks to her, the journey has been much smoother, and we feel confident about the next steps in his academic future.