Located in Ottawa’s dynamic east end in Orleans, this secondary school offers a rich educational experience combining strong academics, innovative programs, and diverse extracurricular activities. The campus on Tenth Line Road features facilities designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth for students from across the city. The school operates under the leadership of Principal Tim Hawes. Guided by the motto "We Strive for the Highest and Wil Power"—which is based on respect for self, respect for others, and respect for property and the environment—the dedicated staff fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
🎓 Academics and Language Programs
Committed to academic education, the school provides a comprehensive curriculum including advanced courses in sciences, mathematics, humanities, and arts. It offers language programs in English and French, featuring the opportunity for Grade 12 students to participate in the DELF (Diplôme d’études en langue française) exam. This internationally recognized certification validates proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing French, enhancing students’ global communication skills and post-secondary prospects. Additional academic pathways include French Immersion, Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs in Communication and Information Technology and Arts and Culture, cooperative education, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), and technology courses. Recognition as an Ontario scholar is common, with a high percentage of graduates pursuing university and college education or entering the workforce.
⚽ Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
An active sports culture thrives here as home to the Lancers athletic teams competing in the National Capital Secondary School Athletic Association, with student-athletes competing throughout the school year in a wide array of interscholastic teams. The athletics program includes volleyball, basketball, football, Nordic skiing, swimming, badminton, curling, baseball, soccer, tennis, and both boys’ and girls’ ice hockey. This broad selection promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and school spirit. Beyond sports, students participate in clubs such as "You Rock," which fosters inclusivity and unity, "Reach for the Top," and award-winning social initiatives through the “Free the Children” group, recognized for leadership and community engagement in Ottawa. Students also have access to leadership courses and LINK Crew.
🎵 Arts and Music Programs
The music department offers students the chance to join Junior and Concert Bands, multiple Jazz Bands, Vocal Connections, as well as Guitar and Percussion Ensembles. With frequent community performances, music festivals, and opportunities for international travel, the program nurtures both creative expression and artistic discipline. The school also offers arts programs in Drama and Visual Arts.
🏫 Facilities and Innovative Learning Spaces
As a community-based school located in Orleans, the campus is linked with the Ray Friel Recreation Complex, the Ottawa Public Library, the Eastern Ottawa Resource Centre, and the River Heights Children's Centre. Students have access to a full-service library and multiple technology labs, including both Macintosh and PC platforms, a graphic media lab, and a radio and television studio that supports a hands-on Communication Technologies program. Innovative learning spaces such as "The Thinker Studio" encourage creative arts, engineering projects, and problem-solving activities, alongside plans to establish a "Makers Space" on the main floor. Physical education benefits from a triple gymnasium, weight room, and adjacent Ray Friel Recreation Complex facilities including a wave pool, fitness center, ice rink, and meeting rooms. Additionally, specialized programs include Special Education featuring Learning Support, Learning Strategies, and the Blue Room, a Dual Support program, and Dual Credit opportunities with Algonquin College.
📈 Student Success and Community
Welcoming close to a thousand students, the school emphasizes individual achievement and community involvement. Over half of its recent graduates proceed to university, while many attend college or enter the workforce ready with practical skills. The balanced focus on academics, athletics, arts, and social responsibility helps students develop a foundational structure for future success.
📝 Admissions
Prospective students should call the school or visit the OCDSB Registration Page to obtain an appointment to register. Out-of-area students must apply for a cross-boundary transfer.
✨ Conclusion
This secondary school in Ottawa’s east end stands out for its commitment to empowering students through academic engagement in sports, the arts, and facilities supporting creativity and technology. It prepares students not only for post-secondary success but also for meaningful contributions to an increasingly interconnected world.
Participating in structured physical activity and interscholastic sports often plays a complementary role in a comprehensive educational experience by helping students develop valuable cognitive and personal habits. Regular engagement in athletic programs has been shown to support time management, as student-athletes learn to balance rigorous practice schedules with classroom commitments. Furthermore, the discipline required on the court, field, or ice often translates into improved focus, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and greater resilience when facing academic challenges. Team sports also provide practical settings for cultivating leadership, effective communication, and collaboration skills that benefit learners well beyond their secondary school years.
