Sacred Heart School offers bus transferring.
Service options offered are regular rider, regular rider AM only, regular rider PM only.
The regions Sacred Heart School offers busing from are:
Laval
Montreal
Saint-Laurent
Additional notes: Sacred Heart offers its students 3 shared bus services, in conjunction with other QAIS (Quebec Association of Independent Schools) private high schools, in the West Island / Ville St-Laurent, Laval / TMR and South Shore.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: The Sacred Heart School of Montreal
The big picture on The Sacred Heart School of Montreal
We summarized the school ourselves
The Sacred Heart School of Montreal was founded in 1861, and built around the principles that were at the core of the Society of the Sacred Heart, which was begun by Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat in 1800. Among those principles was to educate girls to take part in society beyond the home or the church. Barat sought to encourage girls to take a transformative role in their communities, something that, it perhaps goes without say, was a unique perspective for the time. Sacred Heart continues to follow that ideal, expressing it within modern curricular and extracurricular programing, including the integration of 21st century literacies and online tutoring. An international gaze, too, is used to inform the program, seen specifically in service trips and international exchanges. The school was unique when it was formed, and it remains at the cutting edge of education today.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Since 1861, we have been dedicated to graduating confident and brave women, full of potential and prepared to take on the world. The school is committed to developing young women of intellect, conviction, compassion and with a sense of justice for all; leading to the MEES Secondary-School Diploma. An all-girls grade 12 program, and boarding, are also available. Choose Sacred Heart to accompany and encourage your daughter on this journey of personal and developmental growth. Certificate of Eligibility is not required."
Small class sizes (low student/teacher ratio)
The only All-Girls English Catholic High School in Montreal
Caring, family-style learning environment
Intensive French program (optional)
Accelerated math program (optional)
Rich arts curriculum, with drama, music, and visual arts
Several after-school clubs & Competitive robotics team
Advanced placement (AP) courses
Competitive and Challenging Sports Programs
Certificate of Eligibility not required.
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Sacred Heart encourages its students to thrive academically as well as socially, and to strive for greatness, all of which are part of Sacred Heart’s fundamentals and core...(more)
"Sacred Heart encourages its students to thrive academically as well as socially, and to strive for greatness, all of which are part of Sacred Heart’s fundamentals and core values. The school teaches its students to feel empowered and brave enough to take on a world that will challenge them in many different ways over the course of a lifetime, but also feel safe enough to rely on their Sacred Heart community for support and encouragement.
Sacred Heart creates a space for students to cultivate a deep sense of empathy and compassion and learn the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the world around them. Encouraged to embrace diversity and inclusivity, they develop the skills to navigate and appreciate the complexities of our interconnected global society. This holistic approach to education equips students with the tools they need to not only succeed in their personal and professional endeavors but also to become responsible and empathetic citizens of the world."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"In adapting to the evolving needs of the student body, Sacred Heart transformed its approach to education and faith. While its roots may have been deeply Catholic, the institution...(more)
"In adapting to the evolving needs of the student body, Sacred Heart transformed its approach to education and faith. While its roots may have been deeply Catholic, the institution recognized the importance of embracing diversity and fostering inclusion among its students. While Catholic values remain a part of the school's ethos, there has been a shift towards prioritizing faith in a broader sense. This shift reflects a recognition that in today's world, fostering understanding, empathy, and respect for all individuals regardless of their religious affiliation or background is paramount. By promoting a culture of inclusivity and openness, Sacred Heart empowers its students to navigate the complexities of the modern world with compassion, empathy, and a deep sense of faith in themselves and in humanity as a whole. In this way, Sacred Heart remains rooted in its Catholic heritage while also embracing a broader vision of faith that values diversity and inclusion as central tenets."
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
"Since its inauguration in 1861, Sacred Heart opened its doors to any girl, regardless of circumstance, who desired a Sacred Heart education. One of its major differentiators is...(more)
"Since its inauguration in 1861, Sacred Heart opened its doors to any girl, regardless of circumstance, who desired a Sacred Heart education. One of its major differentiators is that Sacred Heart has an extremely rich history with many significant traditions and milestones, but one of the most significant moments has recently taken place when the school announced it is becoming fully independent of government subsidies effective September 2024. This change has been planned for several years, and the decision is the result of a thorough and thoughtful decision making process that was guided by the best interest of our Sacred Heart community. With this change, Sacred Heart will be able to stand by its dedication to welcome more young women, both domestic and international, seeking a Sacred Heart education without the need for an English Language Education Eligibility certificate. This is an inspiring new chapter in Sacred Heart’s history."
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
"A Sacred Heart student embodies a genuine enthusiasm for learning and approaches their studies with curiosity and dedication, eager to explore new ideas and values teamwork....(more)
"A Sacred Heart student embodies a genuine enthusiasm for learning and approaches their studies with curiosity and dedication, eager to explore new ideas and values teamwork. Empathy and supportiveness are also essential qualities, as everyone at Sacred Heart, faculty and staff included, demonstrate compassion and kindness towards others, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Respect for others and effective communication skills are important for meaningful interactions, while adaptability and flexibility enable students to thrive in an environment that offers personalized instruction and learning experiences. Ultimately, the Sacred Heart student has a strong desire for personal growth, embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and self-improvement within the nurturing environment of an all-girls high school."
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"If a student is seeking a large high school experience characterized by a bustling campus, the close-knit environment of Sacred Heart may not be the ideal fit. Due to its smaller...(more)
"If a student is seeking a large high school experience characterized by a bustling campus, the close-knit environment of Sacred Heart may not be the ideal fit. Due to its smaller size, the school offers a more intimate and unified community where students and faculty often have closer relationships. This can foster a sense of belonging and support, as students may feel more connected to their peers and have more personalized interactions with teachers and staff. For students who thrive in larger environments, the personal atmosphere Sacred Heart may feel constraining or lacking in opportunities for growth and exploration. Ultimately, the decision of whether Sacred Heart is the right environment for a student depends on their individual preferences, priorities, and goals for their high school experience. While some students may thrive in the intimate setting and supportive community of a smaller school, others may prefer the opportunities and diversity offered by a larger institution."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Students at all-girls schools have higher aspirations and greater motivation than their female peers at coed schools because all-girls’ schools are specifically dedicated to the...(more)
"Students at all-girls schools have higher aspirations and greater motivation than their female peers at coed schools because all-girls’ schools are specifically dedicated to the ways girls learn. Our dedicated, highly qualified faculty understand that girls learn differently than boys and all-girls’ schools are able to focus on girls’ unique learning styles. Our students are then inspired to become informed, engaged global citizens who lead with determination, competence, and empathy."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"The most prominent feature of The Sacred heart school of Montreal, as perceived by the public, is its rich history within Montreal’s fabric intertwined with the expansive...(more)
"The most prominent feature of The Sacred heart school of Montreal, as perceived by the public, is its rich history within Montreal’s fabric intertwined with the expansive nationwide Sacred Heart network. Our network not only provides a deep-rooted historical foundation but also offers unique student exchange opportunities, enriching the educational experience for students. Moreover, the school is widely recognized for its warm and caring environment, characterized by small class sizes that foster personalized attention and support. This reputation for nurturing students in a family-like community sets the school apart, making it a beacon of superiority in education renowned for its commitment to holistic development, individualized learning and academic excellence."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"Access to a worldwide Network of Sacred Heart Schools
Upon enrolment, your daughter becomes part of a worldwide network of sister schools which includes over 150 schools in 41...(more)
"Access to a worldwide Network of Sacred Heart Schools
Upon enrolment, your daughter becomes part of a worldwide network of sister schools which includes over 150 schools in 41 countries. This network allows us the unique opportunity to offer a diverse and far reaching student exchange program. Access to a worldwide network of sister schools opens up a multitude of enriching opportunities for your daughter's educational journey. Through student exchange programs, she can immerse herself in different cultures, languages, and perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the global community. These exchanges not only broaden her horizons but also cultivate lifelong friendships and invaluable cross-cultural communication skills. Additionally, the Sacred Heart network provides access to collaborative projects, joint academic initiatives, and shared resources, further enhancing the educational experience and preparing her to thrive in an interconnected world."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"The importance of our Sacred Heart Community
When joining Sacred Heart, you develop a common goal with the faculty, staff, parents and alumnae. That goal is to come together and...(more)
"The importance of our Sacred Heart Community
When joining Sacred Heart, you develop a common goal with the faculty, staff, parents and alumnae. That goal is to come together and encourage its students to follow their ambitions while supporting them each step of the way, because Sacred Heart is not just a school, at its core, it's a community."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"Its commitment to improvement of its infrastructure to optimize the educational landscape can be demonstrated by the recent opening of a state of the art Auditorium (2020) and...(more)
"Its commitment to improvement of its infrastructure to optimize the educational landscape can be demonstrated by the recent opening of a state of the art Auditorium (2020) and Julia Cianci Wellness Centre (2022).
A well-designed auditorium provides a dedicated space for showcasing drama productions, musical performances, and other artistic endeavors. This not only allows students to showcase their talents but also encourages participation in extracurricular activities related to the performing arts, fostering creativity and self-expression.
The Julia Cianci Wellness Center cultivates the well-being of the students in addition to the staff and educators alike. This space offers an opportunity to participate, engage and communicate freely while putting one’s physical and mental health as a priority.
Investing in such facilities demonstrates Sacred Heart's dedication to providing students with access to high-quality resources and opportunities for growth and development."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"Sacred Heart’s commitment to excellence in education can be demonstrated through various goals that focus on enhancing student learning, fostering a positive learning...(more)
"Sacred Heart’s commitment to excellence in education can be demonstrated through various goals that focus on enhancing student learning, fostering a positive learning environment, and promoting continuous improvement. The Leadership Team encourages and supports teachers in adopting innovative and effective teaching methods, such as project-based learning and technology integration. It provides PD opportunities for educators to stay current with best practices in teaching and learning. The school continually invests in technology infrastructure and resources to enhance the learning experience, including providing access to educational software and interactive learning tools. Facility enhancements which will further enhance teaching and learning are on the horizon."
My time at Sacred Heart was brief but memorable. Following the closure of my past high school, Sacred presented itself as the perfect option for me. What stands out for me from that time is the quality of the academics, the sense of community and the friendships made. Sacred Heart helped me develop leadership skills and communication skills which have proven incredibly useful years later. I also feel as though the school prepared me thoroughly for what CEGEP had to offer, and I felt ahead in all of my CEGEP classes. When a girl embarks on a Sacred Heart education, she should expect to develop a strong sense of self, make close bonds and feel prepared for the challenges that may come her way in adult life.
Attending Sacred Heart was the best decision I ever made! The teachers were friendly, approachable, intelligent and caring individuals, who really had the students' best interest at heart. At Sacred Heart, you're not just a number, you are a person. Each teacher and member of the staff knows you by name, even after you graduate. When you return as an alumna, you're greeted with open arms and the teachers speak to you as if they just saw you yesterday, reminiscing on their fondest memory of you while you were a student. Sacred Heart allowed me to reach my full potential, which is likely one of the primary reasons why I am who and where I am today. The teachers helped me every step of the way and were the first to offer extra help to any student who needed it. I also had so many opportunities to join extracurricular activities as there was no lack of them at Sacred Heart. There was something for everyone! Overall a great school that provided me with skills and tools to prepare me for "the real world".
The SHS of Montreal has been an incredible experience for my daughter. As parents of a special needs' child, we were quite concerned with our fit. Turns out that the staff has surpassed all of our expectations and succeeded in helping my daughter feel welcome, and appreciated. Above all, loved for who she is. Love is abundant at Sacred Heart, in the forms the student requires.
I regularly congratulate staff on the warm atmosphere and extraordinary teaching staff who perform above and beyond the call of regular teaching duty. They are positive, inclusive and encourage performance. Teachers are approachable, candid, and work with families in the best interest of the child. Keeping in mind high-school students may experience a plethora of issues outside the academic realm, the staff on-hand works closely together to address and anticipate issues, behind the scenes, as well as directly with the students.
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