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Getting a head start on your private school application

DENISE DEVEAU Postmedia Content Works

As acceptances for the 2022/23 school year start making their way to parents’ homes, it’s never too early for parents to start laying the groundwork for the next round of applications in the fall.

A key to any successful application process is doing your preliminary research before you begin, says Glen Hoffmann, editor/writer, Our Kids Media. “Before you start applying you should take the time to research multiple schools to see which school’s curriculum, culture and programs would be a fit for your child and your family.”

A good place to start is the Ourkids.net website, which provides a comprehensive overview of private schools in Canada. Hoffmann suggests creating a shortlist of three or four schools before starting the application process. “If you don’t prioritize your needs, that’s a mistake. You might think you want one school because of the prestige, but it may not be the right fit for your child or your family. If you have your heart set on a school that doesn’t have a high acceptance rate, there’s a chance you won’t get in.”

If your checklist is long and detailed, Hoffmann suggests focussing on schools that meet the most important criteria. “You won’t find a school that will fit 100 per cent of your criteria, but you might get 75 per cent of what you are looking for. If you want certain extracurricular activities they don’t offer, you may be able to find those outside of the school.”

Many schools, such as Holy Trinity School in Richmond Hill, begin accepting applications a full year in advance, says Richard Vissers, director of admissions. Activities begin in earnest in September, when schools start hosting open houses.

Even though the deadline for the first round of applications is Dec. 1 at Trinity College School, Vissers advises parents to apply as early as possible. “Applying in the fall allows schools time to meet everybody and get to know the families.”

If classes are not filled after the first round, schools may set a second-round application deadline until enrolment is complete.

A typical application may have to include the following items: a non-refundable application fee, recent photo, letter(s) of recommendation, copies of their most recent report cards, their latest transcript, and a copy of their birth certificate or passport. Details are available on the school’s website or by contacting the admissions office.

When applying to multiple schools, Hoffmann cautions parents to pay close attention to all deadline dates and requirements. “Each school might be different, so it can be extremely difficult to navigate multiple deadlines. Also, some schools might have specific requirements, such as a secondary school admission test (SSAT).”

Applicants that will require funding support should apply to Apple Financial for an assessment to determine their financial need prior to submitting their application.

Competition can be stiff depending on the grade level. Vissers notes that it’s not uncommon to see three to five applications for every opening at a school. “Entry level grades – Kindergarten and grades 1, 6 and 9 are typical entry points so have more open positions. Grade 9 is a big year of intake for all schools.”

Once the applications are processed, the school will then contact the family to set up an interview. This may be with the student alone or the family. “We always like to see families have done their research on the school before they come in to ensure the school aligns with their family values and goals,” he advises. “It helps to come in with questions and an understanding of why they are there. That goes for children as well as parents, because they have to be part of that school every day.”

Schools typically send acceptance letters along with a copy of the fee schedule in the first two months of the year. If the parents accept the offer, the next step is a meeting with the admissions office to go over details such as enrolment procedures, uniform, scholarship and financial aid programs, technology requirements, and other guidance.

The final part of the process is the orientation in the fall. These are typically held during the first few days or weeks of school in September. Vissers says orientation is an ideal way for students to connect with classmates. “For us it’s typically a camping trip. It’s a great way to integrate the new students.”

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

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2022-01-26T08:00:00.0000000Z

2022-01-26T08:00:00.0000000Z

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