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AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Quo Vadis Elementary School vs. The Hill Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Quo Vadis Elementary School's full report
VS.
View The Hill Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    4258 Bloor Street West, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9C 1Z7, Canada

    20490 Porterfield Road, Caledon, Ontario, L7K1T2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2020

    2006

    Enrolment

    40

    235

    Grades

    JK to 8

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day, Homestay, Boarding

    Language of instruction

    English, Polish

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Sports

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Physical
    The goal is to cultivate "strong, ?exible - bodied and active individuals, in tune with the joys of movement, sport and wellness."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
    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

    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”.
    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

    8 to 16

    6 to 18

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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.
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $12,900

    $13,500 to $22,100

    Boarding Tuition

    $44,600 to $49,600

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    40%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    7 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $2,500

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    4

    16

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    32%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    100%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    When it opened in 2020, Quo Vadis at a stroke added a new dimension to the educational mosaic in Toronto, particularly around language instruction. It’s the first to offer an intensive bilingual Polish-English program at the elementary level. Bilingual, in their meaning, is as good as it gets, namely a Polish and an English teacher together, at all times, in every classroom. The language curriculum based on that used in schools in Poland. The cultural piece is here too, widening the students’ perspective on the Polish community in Toronto, Canada, and around the world. The school is itself an expression of that community, founded to meet the needs of parents who were looking for a student-oriented school, one that would start at the early grades and continue adding grades as they grow. Quo Vadis checks those boxes and then some. Academics are rigorous, and delivered through a Catholic lens.

    View full report

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    It’s perhaps easy to wonder why Hill Academy isn’t more widely known, though perhaps for those involved in high school sports in Canada and the US, it is. Which, frankly, is appropriate. It’s a high school program based in the values, dedication, and energy associated with sport, with the daily schedule organized in order to allow students to excel in both academics and athletics. The lessons overlap, and students compete in math contests as successfully as they do sporting events. The ideal student is one looking to grow in both areas, and to do it alongside peers of a like mind, approach, and ability. The school’s success is evident in the careers—again, both academic and athletic—of its alumni, who operate at the top of their fields not only on Ontario, but throughout North America.  

    View full report

  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "My daughter just completed grade 8 and said it was the best year of her life.
    Caren Morrison (Elson) - Parent   (Jun 22, 2023)
    My daughter just completed grade 8 and said it was "The best year of her life". Being part of a scho... View full review

    "For any young person who is willing to put in the hard work and take full advantage of the opportunities by attending The Hill Academy, it is the perfect fit."
    Brenda Burman - Parent   (Aug 28, 2023)
    Both our sons have had a terrific experience since starting at The Hill Academy. The opportunity for... View full review

    "The quality of instruction at The Hill Academy is very high."
    Sam Kane - Parent   (Feb 29, 2024)
    Our Son Matt, recalls his experience at The Hill Academy as a moulding experience but in a spectacul... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    "Quo Vadis Elementary School is a one-of-a-kind independent Catholic day school offering a fully bilingual Polish-English academic program for Kindergarten through Grade 8. We are currently accepting students to JK through Grade 5. Quo Vadis provides a well-balanced education at a high academic level combined with the teaching of Polish language and culture, and Catholic values in an environment that will help and encourage each student to develop to his or her full potential."

    • Academic excellence, by providing an education that exceeds curriculum standards
    • Promoting a strong understanding of the Polish language and an appreciation for Polish heritage
    • Nurturing character development by cultivating respect, responsibility, and self discipline
    • Fostering the spiritual development of students in keeping with the values of the Catholic faith
    • Hot lunch program available
    • Before & after school care available from 8:15 to 5:30
    • Polish language immersion summer camp for kids aged 4-10

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "The Hill Academy is Canada's premier independent school for students in JK- Grade 12/Post Graduate. The 134-acre Caledon campus offers outdoor education, bright classrooms & elite training facilities. The Hill provides a transformational experience and exceptional academic/athletic programs that focus on individual attention, character growth, leadership development & physical literacy. With small class sizes & dedicated staff, our Graduates are prepared for the demands & rigor of post secondary education."

    • Full Day Kindergarten in quaint log cabin with maximum 1 teacher to 8 student ratio
    • Number One Lacrosse Program in the Country
    • 100% Graduation Rate
    • Small Class Sizes with Dedicated, Passionate Teachers
    • Expansive campus allowing for extensive Outdoor Education opportunities
    • Boarding, Homestay and Day Student options
    • Transportation available

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "Our forest campus, offers day/boarding/homestay students a serene environment to excel academically with our small class sizes, dedicated, caring staff & bright classrooms. Daily character development & outdoor education benefits students physically, emotionally, and socially as they set the foundation for lifelong wellness & good health. Access to physical education backed by Sports Science, ensures athletes can reach their post secondary aspirations of playing a sport at the next level."

    Array

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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "While students are engaged in an outstanding academic program, they are working at a level of athletic training normally available only at the College/University level. The Hill provides the foundation for academic, athletic, & personal development enabling each individual to maximize their full potential to succeed at the next level. Athletic & academic scheduling is completely integrated to ensure that each student-athlete is achieving excellence academically & athletically all under one roof"

    Array

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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "The relationships formed between our teachers/coaches & students is something we pride our school on. It is these bonds and family connections truly make The Hill Academy a FAMILY and make a difference in the lives, and experience that our students have during their time at The Hill."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    "Teachers, Coaches & Staff at The Hill truly care about every Hill student & family. With intimate class sizes & direct one-on-one communication, meaningful relationships are formed that last a lifetime. It is these relationships that help students excel academically & athletically through daily accountability, social-emotional development, leadership opportunities, and high expectations for every member of The Hill Community."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    information not available

    THE HILL ACADEMY

     

    The Hill Academy is a unique academic and athletic platform to enable dedicated student athletes to get to the next level. Respect and Prepare are the core values of this platform, and are enforced on a daily basis in order to achieve academic excellence, athletic excellence and personal growth. In an athlete-centered approach, every phase of the student-athlete’s experience at the school is designed to fully prepare them to succeed at the next level.

    The Hill Academy student-athletes pursue their dreams and goals with the full support of classmates, teachers, coaches and administrative staff. Our goal is to help student-athletes reach their academic and athletic goals as well as experience personal growth. The Hill Academy dedicates all of its resources to ensuring the success of its student-athletes, in a positive and energizing environment. 

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM

      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Traditional

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Traditional

      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Information not available

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      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.

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      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.

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Not applicable

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      The Hill Academy is in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Education and as such follows the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. The Hill Academy is a unique independent school that offers a program specifically designed for dedicated student-athletes. While students are engaged in an outstanding academic program, they are working at a level of athletic training normally available only at the College/University level. The Hill provides the foundation for academic, athletic, and personal development enabling each individual to maximize his or her full potential and ultimately reach and succeed at the next level. The athletic and academic scheduling is completely integrated and complementary to ensure that each student-athlete is achieving excellence both academically and athletically. Students at The Hill Academy can earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma and will be supported by a broad range of courses, post-secondary counselling, SAT/ACT preparation and college scholarship services, ensuring the student has access to the best post secondary opportunity.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM

      Approach

      Approach

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Academic

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Academic

      Our Take

      Our Take

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      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.

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      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.

      What the school says

      What the school says

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE

      Pace

      Pace

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Accelerated

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched

      Our Take

      Our Take

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      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.

      What the school says

      What the school says

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE

      Culture

      Culture

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Rigorous

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Rigorous

      Our Take

      Our Take

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      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”.

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      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”.

      What the school says

      What the school says

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      Information not available

      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

      Information not available

      THE HILL ACADEMY

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

  • 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

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    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

    THE HILL 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

    What the school says

    What the school says

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    • Quo Vadis will offer a selection of unique and fun extra curricular activities and clubs. All clubs and extra-curricular activities will take place at lunchtime and after school.

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    • 2023 National Prep Highschool Lacrosse Champions

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    40%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $2,500

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    100%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    No

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    Hill students are curious, driven, passionate and want to be at The Hill. They want to be surrounded by likeminded peers and want to succeed at every level in anything they do. They understand that they must put in hard work in order to see results both in the classroom and in sport/physical fitness. Hill students are kind, thoughtful, and want to leave a positive legacy in their school, the community and the world. They are challenged to be accountable and hold high expectations for themselves. Hill students want to be active for life through physical fitness and mental wellbeing.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

    THE HILL ACADEMY

    The Hill Academy offers admission on a rolling basis however with limited positions available and small class sizes, enrollment can close at any time. It is recommended that you apply early. The application is completed and submitted online.

    Before you begin please have the following items ready to upload:

    • Most recent report card (For Grade 2 and higher)
    • Valid Passport or Status Card (For Grade 7 and higher)
    • Health Card (Kindergarten +)

    http://www.thehillacademy.com/admissions/application-process/

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Justin Inacio (2017)
    Masters Degree

Compare:

QUO VADIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

THE HILL ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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