AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Fort Erie International Academy vs. West Island College (Montreal)

one-to-one comparison:

View Fort Erie International Academy's full report
VS.
View West Island College (Montreal)'s full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    7 Tait Ave, Fort Erie, Ontario, L2A 0G1, Canada

    851 Tecumseh, Montreal (DDO), Quebec, H9B 2L2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    -2019

    1974

    Enrolment

    188

    485

    Grades

    6 to 12

    7 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Boarding, Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English, French, Mandarin

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Liberal Arts

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    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.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    5 to 15

    10 to 24

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $30,000

    $15,400

    Boarding Tuition

    $58,545

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    7 to 11

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $5,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    27

    81

    Percent in boarding

    81%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    96%

    0%

    Day entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11

    Boarding entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Oct 09, 2020

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 7 - 11

    SSAT required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    No

    English Language Eligibility Certificate Required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Though relatively new, FEIA has a lot to offer, beginning with extensive physical resources. The campus includes two academic buildings, with some structures dating to the 1920s, and others, modernist, constructed in the 1960s. Learning and living areas are varied, spacious, and developed in ways that you simply don’t find in international schools of this vintage. To build a campus this large and well-appointed would be a feat for any school in its first years. Also beginning construction is a boarding facility that, once finished, promises to be jewel of the property. To say the school is proximate to the Canada-US border risks understatement—Buffalo, New York, is just across the Niagara River, the shore of which is just a block from the FEIA campus. Also close by is the largest customs port between the two countries. As such, the school has access a considerable array of transportation hubs, including both the Toronto and Buffalo international airports. The academic program is rigorous, created for students intending to go on to post-secondary studies in North America. The co-curricular program adds dimension to student life, and is rightly a priority of faculty. Given that the school is relatively new, FEIA perhaps isn’t the first option that comes to mind, though that will surely change, particularly with the completion of the dormitory. It’s a strong option, to be sure, and definitely a school to watch.

    View full report

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    West Island College (WIC), in Montreal, is effectively two schools under one roof. It offers an enriched education for Grades 7 to 11 in two streams: one for native French language speakers and a separate French immersion program. Academic excellence is the main focus at WIC. The school also has strong athletics and arts programs, and offers a wide range of extracurriculars that includes musical theatre, debate, robotics, school newspaper work, and yoga. This helps unlock kids’ passions and nurtures their interests. After enrolment, kids enter one of three houses at WIC, creating instant camaraderie and community. Small class sizes, individualized learning, and whole-person development help kids thrive academically but also socially and emotionally. Kids at WIC are encouraged to grow into well-rounded, global-minded citizens who are actively engaged with their community both inside and outside of the school gates. 

     

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    "FEIA is a private boarding school in Fort Erie, ON with students from around the world in grades 6 - 12. FEIA provides enriched Ontario curriculum opportunities through experiential learning, global awareness and guides students to achieve personal, academic and athletic excellence. Offering elite, prep school basketball and hockey programs, FEIA has an elevated level of community spirit. Students are empowered to strive for their goals and to become agents of change, innovators and leaders on a global scale."

    • Our objective is to provide a well rounded education that addresses the whole student;
    • - Academia leverages project-based hands-on experiential learning opportunities;
    • - Personalized Learning and Growth plans are developed for each student to ensure success;
    • - Small class sizes ensure each student has the dedicated attention they need to flourish;
    • - Our mentoring program ensures success beyond the classroom with an added focus on mental health;
    • - Soft skills like critical thinking and problem-solving are integrated into learning opportunities;
    • - Community outreach and volunteer opportunities help students see beyond their own needs;
    • - Daily syncs, weekly check-ins and monthly reporting ensure Parents are always in the know;
    • - After school extended program including cultural arts, sports and culture;
    • At FEIA, We Are Making Tomorrow's Leaders, Today.

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    "West Island College (WIC) is two schools under the same roof: an entirely French school and an English school with a French immersion program. Both offer enriched studies. WIC students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies."

    • Experiential Education is a hallmark
    • Arts & Sciences are both encouraged and taught in tandem
    • Focus on student wellness
    • Close community nestled in a suburb of a metropolitan city
    • Leaders in technology infused learning
    • Students are encouraged to discover their passion
    • Teachers provide extra-help and support to ensure individual success
    • Our leadership program spans all grade levels
    • Balanced education inside and out of the classroom: extra-curricular activities & community service

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    "The WIC Difference

    The Pursuit of Personal Excellence
    Our vision is to be an inclusive community that continuously defines an innovative learning experience and cultivates multilingual, well-rounded, global-minded citizens who embrace change.

    By cultivating a culture of care and connecting the classroom to the curriculum of life, WIC empowers every student to have a positive impact in their communities and beyond."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    "Families choose West Island College for its established reputation (almost 50 years), close-knit community, bilingual environment, wide range of extra-curricular activities, enriched curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, inclusivity, and commitment to empowering students. These qualities create an educational experience that prepares students for academic success, while also equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    "WIC houses two schools in one building, allowing students to mingle together in all activities (meals are included in the fees at WIC). This integrated approach fosters unity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange among the student body. By going beyond language barriers, students develop strong communication skills, cultural competence, and a global perspective. It creates a unique and enriching environment where students can build lasting friendships and connections that extend beyond classrooms."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    I am honoured to serve as Fort Erie Academy's principal! This is my sixth year in educational leadership. Before becoming principal, I had many leadership experiences, including lead teacher, student life coordinator, and vice principal. Throughout these amazing experiences, teaching still remains central to my everyday practices. 

    I also have more than ten years of classroom teaching experience in private boarding schools in Southeast Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Canada. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and History (University of Guelph), a Graduate Diploma in Education (University of Newcastle, Australia), a Teacher Leadership Specialist, a Guidance and Career Education Specialist, and an Ontario College of Teachers Principal qualification. 

    I am privileged to lead Fort Erie International Academy and the many talented teachers and students here! My goal is to continue to bring passion to education with a commitment to creating a supportive climate and culture at F.E.I.A. conducive to teaching the “Whole Child,” empowering staff & students by creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning, implementing meaningful initiatives, and inspiring life-long learning and well-being! I look forward to working with all stakeholders in our growing school community this year!

     

    It is a great pleasure and privilege to welcome you to West Island College Montréal!

    We are immensely proud of the reputation our school has established since its founding in 1974. WIC is an independent, non-denominational co-ed day school with more than 470 students from Grades 7 to 11 and 65 staff, all united by the joy of learning, personal excellence in achievement, and shared values. Our progressive attitude and technology-infused approach shape our unique bilingual learning environment.

    As you get to know us, you will see that WIC’s vision and mission are impactful, bringing together academic excellence and an inclusive learning community for all. The WIC difference builds on the school’s fantastic 46-year tradition to innovate and create meaningful opportunities for today’s young people, whether in the classroom, enriching experiential excursions or vibrant array of extracurriculars.

    Our bilingual learning community embraces change and engages with the curriculum of life beyond the school gates. We positively challenge students of all backgrounds and ignite every student’s innate love of learning. A focus on personalized learning and whole-person development enables WIC students to thrive and achieve excellent results – we have a proven track record of successful progression into post-secondary education in Québec and beyond.

    At the centre of every great school is an outstanding staff, and WIC is no exception. Whether inside the classroom or out, students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Together, our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies. Our students acquire the mindset and competencies to make a difference and succeed in the world of the future, actively contributing as well-rounded, global-minded citizens and deeply connected Montrealers.

    The best way to get to know our community is to visit and discover why WIC truly is an extraordinary school where ideas live and breathe. Please contact our Admissions team and join one of our virtual tours. We very much look forward to welcoming you!

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    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

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    • Life at FEIA extends beyond the classroom. We offer a wide variety of after-school activities including golf, traditional Chinese painting, martial arts, swimming and music lessons including travelling concert band and private lessons. FEIA also incorporates the STEM methodology into our extra curriculum to extend learning in math, science and technology with programs like First Lego League; an interactive science and robotics program.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 11

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $5,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    96%

    0%

    Day entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11

    Boarding entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Oct 09, 2020

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 7 - 11

    SSAT required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    English Language Eligibility Certificate Required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 7 - 11

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    In order for students to be ready to learn and develop to their highest potential, Fort Erie International Academy (FEIA) is committed to ensuring that our students and staff thrive in a safe and welcoming community that embodies mutual respect, inclusivity, and is equitable and caring.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

    The FEIA International Student Application Process includes four inclusive steps that must be completed in full before we can grant enrolment acceptance to any student applicant:

    1. Email the completed form and the confirmation code provided by your banking institution authenticating your $300CAD non-refundable application fee.
    2. Once received, our administrative office will contact you to set up an interview and assessment testing with a member of our Academic Leadership Team.
    3. After review of the results of the interview/assessment, successful students will receive an official invitation to join our FEIA Family. Within this acceptance letter, there will be a request to pay all applicable tuition, health insurance, residency, school uniform, banking and Study Permit/Visa application fees. If applicable, you will be assigned a registered FEIA immigration consultant to work with you to complete both a Canadian Study Permit and Visa application.
    4. When the Study Permit and Visa are granted and shared with FEIA, and all fees have been received, we will issue a letter of final acceptance and share further details about your school experience.

    WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL)

    Evaluation for French School on Sunday, October 4, 2020

    Evaluation for English School on Sunday, October 25, 2020

     

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Haotai (Daniel) Lui (2020)
    FEIA's premiere Grade 12 Grad, Daniel Lui , was accepted to 5 Canadian Universities along with a scholarship. We are pleased to share he will attend UofT's Management program in the fall of 2020

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Craig Hutchison (1992)
    Olympic swimmer - freestyle. Competed in Sydney in 2000.
    Joey Saputo (1981)
    Joey Saputo is the President of the Montreal Impact and Stade Saputo.
    Sasha Roiz (1990)
    Sasha is a Hollywood actor, best known for his portrayal of Captain Sean Renard in the American dark fantasy television series Grimm.
    Jeff Roop (1990)
    Hollywood actor

Compare:

FORT ERIE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

WEST ISLAND COLLEGE (MONTREAL):
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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