Located within the vibrant Riverside Park neighborhood of Ottawa, this secondary school fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for a diverse student body. With a rich history dating back to 1962, the school has evolved into a dynamic educational hub supported by an engaged faculty and vibrant student organizations. The close-knit connections with local feeder schools such as Fielding Drive Public School and Carleton Heights Public School contribute to a strong sense of community, where over 80% of students live nearby and actively participate in school life.
Students have access to a broad array of extracurricular activities that encourage personal growth beyond the classroom. From spirited athletic competitions to creative clubs and cultural groups, the school promotes inclusive participation and leadership opportunities. Annual community initiatives like the Terry Fox Run and environmental clean-up projects strengthen students' commitment to social responsibility and local engagement.
📚 Academics & Programs
The academic offerings are thoughtfully designed to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and future careers. The curriculum balances traditional core subjects with specialized courses that cater to diverse interests and talents. Unique language programs including French immersion, Arabic, Spanish, and comprehensive ESL support accommodate multilingual learners and international students, enhancing global readiness.
Specialized pathways in design technology, communication systems, health sciences, and cooperative education provide experiential learning opportunities that bridge classroom knowledge with practical skills. The school is known for its robust co-operative education program and consistent participation in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), enabling students to gain valuable workplace experience across multiple fields.
Attention to diverse learning needs is a priority. A dedicated Special Education department offers tailored support including a low student-to-teacher ratio in specialized classes such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and learning difficulties, ensuring all students have access to meaningful educational pathways. Learning support teachers and educational assistants work closely with students to provide academic reinforcement and skill development guided by Individual Program Plans (IPPs) or Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
💡 Arts & Music Excellence
The school boasts a vibrant arts community enriched by award-winning music ensembles, theater productions, and visual arts programs extending through to grade 12. Students can participate in concert band, choir, jazz band, drama clubs, and visual arts workshops, with many receiving recognition at prestigious events such as MusicFest Canada and the Kiwanis Music Festival.
External collaborations and grants have further strengthened the arts department. Notably, the MusiCounts Band Aid Program awarded a significant grant supporting the music program’s growth. Opportunities to perform alongside professional musicians and participate in national drama festivals instill confidence and foster artistic excellence among students.
⚽ Athletics & Student Wellness
A well-established athletics program promotes physical health, teamwork, and school spirit. Offering numerous varsity teams across popular sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and more, the school regularly competes at municipal and provincial levels, achieving numerous championships. Recreational clubs, including Nordic skiing, golf, and ultimate frisbee, cater to varied interests and skill levels.
The active Athletic Society and Student Council play a pivotal role in organizing extracurricular programs, spirit events, and health initiatives that strengthen community bonds and student engagement. The school’s commitment to student wellness is evident through mentorship programs and dedicated transition support, helping newcomers and grade 9 students adjust successfully to high school life.
🌟 Notable Alumni & Legacy
Graduates of this school have gone on to excel in diverse fields ranging from professional sports and entertainment to the arts and media. Olympic athletes, celebrated animators, NHL players, and acclaimed journalists among the alumni serve as inspiring role models, highlighting the school’s ability to nurture talent and ambition.
🔍 Summary
With a well-rounded educational approach, this Ottawa high school stands out for its commitment to academic excellence, inclusive programs, and vibrant co-curricular opportunities. Its comprehensive language offerings, strong arts and music traditions, dedicated special education services, and competitive athletics combine to create an environment where students can thrive intellectually, socially, and personally. Emphasizing experiential learning and community involvement, the school equips learners with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
