1279 Seaton Road, Sheffield, Ontario, L0R 1Z0, Canada
1921 Snake Road, Burlington, Ontario, L7P 4Y2, Canada
1996
2012
179
92
JK to 8
9 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day, eSchool, Boarding
English
English
Academic
Arts
Traditional
Liberal Arts
16
6 to 12
In-class adaptations
$13,500
$15,800 to $23,800
$44,800
Yes
No
2%
0%
JK to 8
None
$14,000
$0
16
23
0%
13%
85%
85%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 9 - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
Lee 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.
View full reportA personalized focus on learning sets Laureate College apart as an option for Grades 9 through 12. With a blended learning model that allows students to gain their Ontario Secondary School Diploma as well as ESL (English as a Second Language) and EAP (English for Academic Purpose) certifications if needed, Laureate College prepares kids for higher education success no matter where they end up. Laureate College also offers a complete online learning model that runs parallel to its in-class programs. Class sizes are kept small, and an inclusive culture helps kids feel like they belong there. Specialized arts, science and engineering, and international business programs offer unique opportunities for students. And, Laureate’s partnerships with schools around the globe give kids the opportunity to study abroad for Grade 12.
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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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"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, physical education, science, computers, and environmental studies for an engaging, well-rounded curriculum."
"Our experienced faculty will lead Laureate College to give all students equitable opportunity to pursue their interests, nurture their strengths by establishing sustainable learning as well as finding their potential through academic and personal investigation. S.T.E.A.M. are embedded in our Specialized pathways in International Business, Science and Engineering, and the Arts and Design. Located on a magnificent campus of natural expansion, the learning environment promotes student engagement and focused learning."
"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."
"Laureate College is located on a spectacular campus that has access to the Niagara Escarpment creating a learning environment where students feel safe and engaged by its surroundings and interactive learning spaces. Where every student can succeed, they receive personalized learning, student-centred activities, and an inclusive environment. Students can select specialized pathways such as the arts, international business, or science & engineering using project-based learning."
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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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"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."
"Choosing Laureate will give students choices and opportunities to advance their learning to receive multiple offers from top colleges and universities. Students will be prepared for their next stages of growth where learning is forever. Their growth is developed through grit, curiosity, and imagination. Every Laureate student will understand the importance of research to substantiate their opinions but also value acts of kindness, gratitude, and setting goals."
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"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."
"Laureate College is designed to be affordable and deliver quality programs and provide excellent teachers. Students need to be encouraged to take ownership of their learning and develop their strengths through inquiry-based learning and student-centred activities. Laureate's reputation is defined by the people who work, live, and learn together on this beautiful campus or virtually through our on-line learning platforms."
"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."
"To ensure every student is able to achieve success, learning is a shared process among staff and students where Laureate instills the belief of forever learning for all. Learning doesn't just happen in the classroom but learning is a state of mind to continuously expand our knowledge, understanding, and critical-thinking for students, staff, and other partners Becoming a self-directed learner and being excited about discovery will enrich our lives to be an active contributor in our communities."
"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."
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Laureate College offers multi-dimensional learning that is essential for students to develop the global competency skills through student-centred activities, inquiry-based learning, and differentiated instruction. Students excel and reach their potential when learning is personalized and focus on deeper learning. Student engagement comes when they understand the purpose of learning, develop the mastery of a concept, recognize the connections to our communities, and become self-directed learners.
Liberal Arts
Information not available
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.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
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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.
Laureate College was founded on the belief that every student is unique and possesses an inherent yearning for learning, growth, and the ability to acquire knowledge, creating a meaningful pathway for life purposefully. At Laureate, every student actively shapes their learning experiences within an inclusive environment characterized by innovative teaching, personalized learning, abundant resources, and global connections. Through our vision, mission, and values, we aspire to create a transformative learning experience that empowers students to embrace opportunities and challenges with confidence, leveraging the knowledge and skill sets they acquire throughout their Laureate journeys.
Traditional Math
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.
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.
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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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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.
Not applicable
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Expository
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.
Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.
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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
Physiology
Traditional
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
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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
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Information not available
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
Information not available
Creative
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Creative: Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is to use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos. Expressive: Creativity is inherently subjective. Our goal is to create an open and non-judgmental environment for students to experiment, innovate, and find the artist within"
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
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Technology is heavily integrated. Students are taught to be digital citizens and to understand the responsibilities of being online. With our learning management system, Moodle, and Microsoft Teams, students are able to access and submit assignments at all times throughout the course. Students are required to have a laptop or computer with access to the Internet in all classes.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Information not available
Physical Education at Laureate College is characterized as a fun reprieve from learning during the course of the day. Students get to take a break from their studies and participate in games and activities working on teamwork, coordination, and strength that help them grow as students outside of the classroom. A relaxed environment not only gives students a break from classes but allows them to release stress and get good exercise.
Not applicable
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.
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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.
Information not available
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.
Teachers will cover all the required expectations and meet the individual needs of the students because of the small class size.
Supportive
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 “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.
Laureate focuses on providing students with quality education, small class sizes, and opportunities to be successful in and out of the classroom. We are committed to whole student development, allowing students to meet their educational goals and ultimately be successful as a human being outside of their education.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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.
First and foremost we are an educational institution committed to meeting the intellectual needs of our students. However, we firmly believe that students need more than just a strong academic portfolio, meaning we also focus on their social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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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
9 - 12
2%
0%
$14,000
$0
85%
85%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 9 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
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.
All students may apply to Laureate College as long as they strive to do their very best, attend and participate in all their classes, complete their course work including homework and wish to become a continuous learner.
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.
The following steps are required for admissions:
1. Complete the student application form with an application fee payment of $250 CAD.