Located in the vibrant Westdale Village of Hamilton, Ontario, this historic public secondary school has been fostering academic excellence and diverse talents since 1931. As the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board’s largest high school, it offers a rich blend of traditional values and innovative programs designed to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and future careers worldwide.
🎓 Academics & Programs
Renowned as HWDSB’s first International World School, it proudly offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program, which challenges students with a rigorous and globally recognized curriculum. Alongside, students can explore two Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) streams in Construction and Arts & Culture, enabling career-focused skill development.
A wide variety of courses support diverse interests, including a unique Music Strings program, and enrichment classes in English and Mathematics that cater to advanced learners. The school also boasts an extensive Immersion program in French and offers second language studies in French, Spanish, Latin, Ancient Greek, and Korean, promoting cross-cultural understanding and global citizenship.
🎭 Arts & Music
Creativity flourishes across numerous music ensembles such as the Junior and Senior Bands, Marching Band, Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Bands, and Choir. The music department has a strong competitive presence, regularly earning awards at local and international festivals including the prestigious Golden Horseshoe Music Festival. Students enjoy frequent performance opportunities, fostering confidence and musical excellence.
The Drama Department stages major productions each year, engaging students in theatre arts from acting to technical production. Dance and theatre clubs also provide enriched extracurricular outlets for the creative community.
🏫 History & Legacy
With origins as one of the largest collegiate schools across the British Commonwealth, the school once uniquely housed three separate collegiate, technical, and commercial divisions under one roof, reflecting a historic commitment to diverse learning pathways. Over its long history, it has evolved while maintaining deep roots in the Hamilton community.
🤝 Community, Values & Leadership
Guided by the Latin motto “Alius Alia Via Ad Astra Ascendit” (“Everyone finds his or her own way to the stars”), students are encouraged to pursue individual success with support from dedicated educators who foster a respectful and inclusive environment. Collaboration among staff, students, and families is prioritized to enhance student achievement and well-being.
Students actively participate in community initiatives, notably the annual Terry Fox Run, raising funds and awareness for cancer research through engaging runs and walks within Westdale Village.
⚽ Extracurricular Activities & Clubs
A vibrant array of before and after school programs enrich student life. Music ensembles, sports teams, drama productions, and academic clubs offer abundant opportunities to grow skills and leadership. Clubs span a wide range of interests including Environmental Club, Latin Club, Debating, Science Club, Improv, Students for Political Action (SPA), and more, fostering school spirit and student engagement.
🌟 Notable Alumni
This institution boasts an impressive roster of alumni who have excelled across various fields, including Emmy-winning actor and comedian Eugene Levy, Nobel Laureate in Economics Myron Scholes, NHL star Tie Domi, Broadway actress Caissie Levy, and distinguished architect Raymond Moriyama. Their achievements highlight the school’s legacy of nurturing diverse talents and leadership.
✨ Conclusion
With its blend of academic rigor, rich arts programs, strong community values, and legacy of distinguished alumni, this West Hamilton school continues to inspire students to find their own path to the stars. It remains a beacon of opportunity, empowering learners to excel in a globally connected world while fostering well-rounded growth in mind, body, and spirit.
