955 Harbourside Drive, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7P 3S4, Canada
1279 Seaton Road, Sheffield & Lynden, Ontario, L0R 1Z0, Canada
1991
1996
560
179
8 to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Boarding, Homestay, Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Traditional
18 to 24
16
$26,000
$13,500
$29,000
No
Yes
0%
2%
None
JK to 8
$0
$14,000
112
16
86%
0%
60%
85%
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 8 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Bodwell began in 1991 with just six students, and has grown exponentially since then. It’s now one of the largest international boarding schools in the country. Throughout, the school has been developed to support learners arriving in Canada from overseas, including counsellors who can provide guidance on travel and visa requirements, and international credit equivalencies. The atmosphere in many ways in an expression of the surrounding city. Like Vancouver, the school is diverse, positioned to grant a global perspective. Graduates are encouraged to grow a sense of who they are in that wider world, both of the pacific rim and beyond. The ideal student is one preparing for university and, afterward, a professional engagement within an international context.
View full reportLee Academy has been committed to offering the finest elementary school experience in Ontario since its founding in 1996. This commitment is reflected in the school’s high academic standards, supportive environment, personalized education, and small class sizes. Attracting students from a broad range of communities, Lee Academy operates two campuses, both utilizing the outdoors as an integral part of education. The Lynden campus, placed amid 180 acres of farmland, trails, lake, and forest, provides a vibrant learning environment from JK to Grade 8. The Sheffield campus currently accepts students up to Grade 2 and is expanding each year, with the goal of becoming a full JK-8 school. In addition to core subjects and specialties like French, drama, physical education, and environmental studies, the school regularly organizes off-site field trips, including overnight trips for senior grades, and emphasizes a focus on creative and engaging learning experiences. Parents are drawn to Lee Academy for its combination of academic excellence, individual attention, immersive learning experiences, and its dedicated, qualified teaching staff.
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"The teachers are dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate about fostering a nurturing learning environment."
Tanatswa Chitenga - Alumnus (Oct 23, 2023)
Like any other person, change always makes one anxious as it is unknown what's to come. There is not...
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"Because of the lower number of students, there was always someone ready to assist anyone with anything."
Oleg Pak - Alumnus (Nov 27, 2023)
From the very first time I entered Bodwell High School and saw the glowing diverse faces of the stud...
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"The teaching and learning environment at Bodwell was very personal."
Danat Turakbayev - Alumnus (Jan 24, 2024)
I had a positive lifetime-changing experience at Bodwell High School. I believe it influenced most i...
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"I can't speak highly enough about the quality of the education here."
Jessica Law - Parent (Jan 25, 2024)
Our son just loves his school! All of his teachers are just wonderful and beyond kind. Each and ever...
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"The smaller size classrooms that are provided at Lee Academy (16 students) are wonderful."
Sarah Dailley - Parent (Jan 25, 2024)
My son started at Lee Academy in JK and is now halfway through GR. 1. From his very first day of sch...
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"The leadership team is extremely accessible and engaged."
Nasr Ali - Parent (Feb 20, 2024)
My son looks forward to going to school each morning and gets antsy every long weekend because he is...
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"Bodwell offers a rigorous academic program, including IB and AP components, and prepares students for university entrance. All students participate in extra-curriculars, with emphasis on sports, fine arts and life skills in the boarding program. We have a strong ESL program and our Saturday enrichment program allows students to expand their learning and to gain "real-world" knowledge. Our diverse environment enables students to become active learners and well-rounded citizens who contribute positively to the world."
"At Lee Academy, each child is given an academically challenging education based on reading, writing and arithmetic. Recognizing that ability varies from child to child, we teach these fundamental skills as early as possible, starting in kindergarten. Each student’s programme includes education in music, art, and specialty subjects such as French, drama, physical education, science, computer and digital studies and environmental studies for an engaging, well-rounded curriculum."
"We prioritize university preparation at Bodwell High School, reflected through our expansive multi-cultural counselling team. Our students benefit from well-supported and personalized learning opportunities through the IB Middle Years Program, AP courses, Academic English Preparation program, and a wide range of co-curricular courses (over 100) that provide academic support, skill-building and exploration of interests. Located close to the city, the Bodwell boarding program is fully on-campus."
"Lee Academy was founded on the belief that there is a need in our society for a school which has high expectations of the students, both academically and socially, to foster in the children confidence and high self-esteem. The education of our children must prepare each of them to develop into an intelligent, prosperous and productive member of society. We focus on the individual needs of our students, while also building community among our students, teachers and families."
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"Lee Academy was founded on the belief that there is a need in our society for a school which has high expectations of the students, both academically and socially, to foster in the children confidence and high self-esteem. The education of our children must prepare each of them to develop into an intelligent, prosperous and productive member of society.
Four kindergarten students were the only registrants that first September in 1996. Many people believed that with so few students and a leased facility that Lee Academy was not going to last.
The school was not built based on numbers and leases, however. It was built on a profound belief by its founders, Steven and Alison Will, that Lee Academy was the right thing to do. To build the finest academic elementary school in Ontario was, and remains, their goal. Each year the school has grown in its enrolment, in its programmes, in its staff and in its facilities."
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"We have proven success through high acceptance rates to top Canadian and global universities. Bodwell graduates enter post-secondary life with strong life-skills and English-language development gained through a strongly supportive multicultural community. With a safe and secure on-site boarding experience, students are equipped to focus on their learning. Our modern campus, located close to the city, also offers ample opportunities for engaging activities and exploration."
"Lee Academy supports our students, their families and our teaching staff so that all of us can contribute positively to a global community. We believe in the importance of academic excellence, experiential learning, volunteerism and the development of lifelong learners. We remain committed to our small class sizes of 16 because we fundamentally understand the importance of individual attention, fostering a love of learning and raising our students to be productive members of our society."
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"Something many families appreciate later in their relationship with Bodwell is the deep and continued commitment we have to open communication with parents. As many of our parents live in different countries, we truly embrace a philosophy that parents are our partners in education - and we work hard to make sure that parents feel their voices are heard."
"Our teachers are among the finest in Ontario. They go through a rigorous application process to ensure we are hiring intelligent, engaging, creative and committed teachers. We know that having a strong school begins and ends with our educators. They must be committed professionals who are "teachers of children, rather than teachers of subjects". Our teachers are dedicated individuals who value education and put our students first."
"Families might be surprised to learn that Bodwell's student body is almost entirely international. Because of this, we are able to customize our programming. Our community enjoys a modern campus, located close to the core of Vancouver. Students come together from around the world to enjoy a shared and supportive multi-cultural experience, with extra and co-curricular opportunities focused on addressing their needs as international students."
"At Lee Academy, our students have countless opportunities to learn in ways that foster engagement, creativity and excitement about learning. Through presentations, projects, science fairs, creative writing contests and more, our students are inspired learners. We participate in an off-site field trip experience at least once per month, including overnight trips in Grade 6, 7 & 8. Our students are exceptionally well prepared for high school and post-secondary school."
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"Lee Academy is a school that has never been like any other school. Our students receive a personalized education from teachers who are among the finest in Ontario. Our students and staff define us. Our families support us. We look forward to offering the best programmes to their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In late fall of 2022, Lee Academy purchased the former public school on Seaton Road, on the edge of Hamilton/Cambridge, in the village of Sheffield. In our newly renovated primary wing, we began offering Kindergarten and Grade One in the fall of 2023. Both campuses embrace all the foundations that make Lee Academy exceptional."
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"Our new campus, located in the village of Sheffield, opened in September 2023, with Kindergarten and Grade One in our newly renovated primary wing. We will continue to add one grade each year until we reach Grade 8, becoming a full JK-8 elementary school."
"A transformative education which helps young people ask big questions, expose common assumptions about the world, critically examine society, and cultivate empathy and responsibility is the ultimate goal. As an educator, a commitment to transformative education is my personal and professional mission."
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Traditional
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Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
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Bodwell's linear system gives students several advantages. Firstly, there are three entrance opportunities every year, in September, January, and July, giving students schedule flexibility. Secondly, the system allows a motivated student to complete one-and-a-half academic grades in each calendar year. This allows students to complete high school faster and begin their university studies sooner. ESL students also have an opportunity to join from November and April in addition to Fall, Spring & July intake.
Our mandate is to be the finest academic elementary school in Ontario. We follow the Ontario Ministry Guidelines as our minimum standards and then broaden our plans as well as introduce topics of study and projects that are unique to Lee Academy. We aim to ensure all students establish a strong academic foundation and at the same time are introduced to a wide variety of lessons so that all students discover their true strengths. Every teacher assesses each student carefully and individualizes lessons accordingly. Unless a particular modification must be made for a student with a specific learning profile, grades are earned against Lee Academy’s grade guidelines. We expect a lot from our students and they rise to that challenge.
Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Teachers at Bodwell use a mix of traditional versus discovery approaches depending on their own style, the familiarity of the students to the topic and the need for interaction in class. For example, one teacher stated 'I think it is important to introduce the topic, provide examples, then have students try some on their own'. Another teacher stated 'If it is a concept most students probably know, I try to create a mini, fun, "competition". Students get into teams and answer questions. The first team to get the answer gets a point." Another teacher concluded 'I choose a mix because some students thrive on inquiry and others are uncomfortable with problem solving without the "tools" first'.
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This varies from teacher to teacher however in general Bodwell permits the use of calculators according to the rules of BC Provincial Exams. In classrooms teachers do not permit the sharing of and use of the calculator on phones unless an activity requires this.
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Phonics-intensive
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
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No
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Information not available
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
In general teachers at Bodwell use the " equal balance" method for teaching science classes. If there is a concept that they feel students can figure out through inquiry, they choose the inquiry method. However, if a particular concept is challenging for most students, then they would use the expository method (direct instruction).
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
The literature program is vertically aligned to build on critical skills from grade level to grade level. Through inquiry based methods, students are asked to make personal and world view connections to the literature. A mix of modern and classical literature is explored. Across a wide range of genres, the literature chosen is thematic, focusing on: identity, social issues, cultural diversity, community and self-awareness. Traditional, academic essay writing is taught, but students also demonstrate comprehension and critical thinking by completing projects such as a film, work of art, comic strip, and/or original poetry. Cooperative learning activities including debates, skits, pair work and group discussions are an integral part of daily lessons.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Not applicable
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Not applicable
Bodwell adopts a balanced approach to social studies methodology. Students are exposed to knowledge of both major historical events, and of contemporary news. Our additional focus is towards global affairs. As a school that is highly diverse, we prioritize an awareness of international interactions and critical thinking in our humanities curriculum.
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Not applicable
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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Both methods are taught in French class. At the start of a unit it might be more audio-lingual as the students are introduced to new vocabulary or grammar structures. As their language skills develop we break out into group games, go around and do interviews in French, create little skits, read short texts in French and use new vocabulary in conversation and class routines, and even give short presentations where the other students ask the presenter questions in French to further work on understanding/ and responding.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Not applicable
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Not applicable
We offer Fine Arts for Grades 8 to 12, with Advanced Placement Visual Art 12 through submission of Art portfolios to the College Board. All Fine Arts courses follow BC Ministry current curriculum focus on core competency and connection to real life. The art teachers use a variety of medium. We are lucky to be on the North Shore with many boutique art galleries and studios with specialties plus the Vancouver Art Gallery and local art destinations that students go. We have increasing contact and join projects with community partners. Our students are also outdoor and active getting inspirations for art work. They also participate in art competitions and events regularly.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Not applicable
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Not applicable
Bodwell is well equipped with cutting-edge network infrastructure, equipment, software applications, and databases. Apart from in ICT, teachers are free to utilize technology in their classrooms or not. We have a Bodwell standardized laptop that is used for academics only. The goal is to enhance learning and improve communications between staff and students. In addition, Bodwell students have a professional license to Office 365 which provides all Microsoft Office apps online and locally on their laptop. Students also have access to lynda.com and all major Adobe products. 7 smart boards (SB685 series and SB885 series) have been installed in different classrooms to enhance student learning—targeting various subject areas (Math, science, English, Humanities, ESL).
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Physical Education is offered in grades 8-12 and follows the BC Ministry current curriculum with the aim of providing opportunities for students to experience a variety of activities and promote lifelong, healthy living. Our Physical Education program encompasses two specific aspects: fitness and sports. The fitness component of the program is a progressive program emphasizing cardio-respiratory development. One of the goals of the program is to teach and instill the skills necessary to live an active lifestyle that promotes health and physical literacy. The sport component of the program consists of activities from a variety of sports and games. A holistic approach is followed with mental, social, and physical domains addressed. The program is intended to allow the student to develop an appreciation of sport and an understanding of the strategies, skills and basic rules involved, encouraging a lifetime of participation.
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Academic
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Students must be educated in all the core subjects and learn to love school and the work associated with it. They must also be trained in working as a group and respecting those around them. Our Junior Kindergarten programme is designed to give children a balanced programme of stimulating work and fun play to develop key social and academic skills.
Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
The LAP (Language Acceleration Program) is a specialized English as a Second Language (ESL) program for students who are becoming proficient in English.
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Rigorous
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Bodwell offers a university preparatory program. When many of our students are from overseas and some are recent immigrant children, we offer a custom-designed Academic and English Preparation for them to improve their English skills before regular courses. Students succeed in the Language Arts, and are equally successful in provincial exams and in grade 12 academic averages to qualify for students’ choice universities. We provide additional formal learning Saturday mornings for specialized language courses, outdoor education, career exposure and community service projects. 80% of our 650 students are boarding on-site and our day and boarding programs are well integrated.
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"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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Not applicable
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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Not applicable
Our philosophy is to develop “active learners and well-rounded citizens who contribute positively to the world”. We emphasize equally on intellectual, social-emotional and physical development, the latter especially in terms of active living, health and fitness. 80% of our 650 students are boards and we make good use of the time resources and campus facilities to support these developmental goals. In addition to academic excellence, our students strive towards to a variety of athletic events (competing to provincial levels) and extra-curricular events including life skill workshops, career orientation and community services, local and international.
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RecreationalRec. |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
JK - 8
0%
2%
$0
$14,000
60%
85%
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 8 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
We are looking for students who can actively and positively impact on our school student community by giving their best at both academics and student life. Prospective students must demonstrate this in their application, submitted transcripts, references and interview. All new students will start in our Boarding Program. Upon completion of the Boarding Program, students may apply to move to a Bodwell homestay.
It is our job to challenge and support all our students so that the programmes work for them. All students are assessed before entering the school and every opportunity is taken to help your child thrive at Lee Academy.
To enroll your child is a simple process. Please know that because we maintain small classes (at 16 students maximum), you are wise to apply as early as possible. The application does not require a fee until you have visited Lee Academy and placement is arranged.
We are currently accepting applications for both campuses. On the application, please indicate which campus you are applying to:
South Campus at 1978 2nd Concession West in Lynden
North Campus at 1279 Seaton Road in Sheffield
Fill out the application and background information form available, either by downloading them or contacting the school. Please ensure that you provide all the information requested.