About Boarding Schools
Academics
Boarding schools are generally known to provide the best academic preparation available in North America. It is a demanding, engaging, and dynamic academic environment that equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to gain admission to distinguished colleges and instills a passion for discovery and unbounded thinking.
The programs at Consortium schools emphasize a liberal arts philosophy. Students are engaged equally in the arts and sciences; as they get older more opportunities for specialization and university-level are provided. Most schools emphasize learning through the use of information technology, with in-room access to the Internet, e-mail and fully networked classrooms. Students and teachers use laptops for web research, classroom assignments and presentations.
Class size (typically 15 or fewer students) guarantees that participation, interaction, and hands-on learning characterize the classroom experience.
The quality of teaching is excellent. Teachers are highly credentialed, with the vast majority holding advanced degrees in their field. Most are seasoned veterans, with an average of 10 years classroom experience. The majority of boarding school teachers (over 90% at many schools) live on campus. Their accessibility and the 7:1 student to faculty ratio guarantees plenty of access for extra help, informal advising, and mentoring.
University-Level Courses
Each Consortium school offers university level courses, called Advanced Placement or AP. Through AP Courses and Exams, students may earn credit or advanced standing at most colleges and universities. AP courses are offered in over 30 subjects including history, math, economics, foreign languages, arts, physics, psychology, biology, and music. Outside the U.S. and Canada, universities in more than 40 countries recognize AP in their admissions processes.
International Baccalaureate Program
Many Consortium schools offer the International Baccalaureate Program, which is a challenging two-year curriculum, primarily aimed at students in Grades 11 and 12. It offers challenges beyond the traditional high school curriculum, is well-rounded and designed to prepare students thoroughly for the rigorous demands of university. Students in this program are encouraged to be active learners, well-rounded individuals and engaged world citizens. Students who successfully complete the Diploma Program will be eligible to gain admission into the world’s leading universities.