7410 Blackfoot Trail SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2H 1M5, Canada
200 Karolie Rd, Riverview, New Brunswick, E1B 1R1, Canada
1982
2020
640
33
7 to 12
K to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English, French
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
18 to 22
Varies
$21,596 to $28,186
$15,900
No
Yes
0%
0%
None
6 to 8
$0
$0
107
4
0%
0%
0%
0%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 11
Yes: grades 2 - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
West Island College was founded in Montreal in 1974, and was intended to provide a strong bilingual option for families living on Montreal’s West Island. The program there provided a foundation, and a name, for West Island College in Calgary when it was established in 1982. That said, the school quickly established its own independent operations and identity. As such, it was free to build and grow to meet the needs of its students, and it certainly has. The international programs are robust, as are the language programs, all of which contribute to the overall culture of the school. It’s a very interactive, engaging environment, one that requires a lot of the students who attend while also providing the support they need to succeed. The ideal student is one who shares the school’s foundational values and can thrive in a very active and engaging student environment.
View full reportEastgate Academy is the first Moncton school to offer the International Baccalaureate Programme to students from Kindergarten to Grade 7. Students graduate with an internationally recognized diploma that’s highly regarded by universities in Canada and across the world.
Eastgate Academy structures the curriculum around themes to help students make sense of the world around them and to provide them with opportunities to build skills and understanding that can be transferred to various situations. The school tailors the learning experience to every student, allowing students the freedom to pursue their interests, while balancing academic and intellectual growth with physical and mental well-being.
"...the teachers at WIC are effective communicators inside and outside of their classrooms"
Jing Li - Parent (May 22, 2020)
We have two sons in WIC, both of whom started from grade seven. My older son is graduating in June 2...
View full review
"WIC provided me with a very balanced set of opportunities that helped me thrive academically in university"
Adam Broniewski - Alumnus (May 29, 2020)
My time at West Island College (WIC) was incredibly memorable and has been influential in shaping me...
View full review
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"West Island College (WIC) in Calgary, Alberta is a Gr. 7-12 independent university preparatory school offering English and French Immersion programming. The College has a diverse school community that encourages unity, collaboration and holistic student development. With comprehensive support, students are nurtured in academic and physical wellness along with emotional well-being. International Studies, Outdoor Education and the Institute Program enhance learning so students can succeed in an ever-changing world."
"Focusing on balancing academic and intellectual growth with physical and mental well-being, we offer a tailored learning experience to every student. Eastgate Academy is a Candidate School for the Primary Years Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education that Eastgate Academy believes is important for our students."
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"A central feature of our program is wellness. Our community believes in the importance of providing students with opportunities to learn more about personal and collective wellness. We frequently connect with local experts, practitioners, and community members, and our teachers intentionally build strong relationships with students. We provide our students with various experiences to explore tools and strategies to support their physical, social, and emotional wellness."
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"Eastgate Academy offers learners opportunities to grow in a safe, collaborative environment. Students are put at the center of learning and given voice, choice, and ownership in their learning journey. The educational experience at Eastgate is student-centred, inquiry-based, and focuses on developing the whole child. This allows students to develop attributes and skills to independently and collaboratively solve problems and create change in their local and global communities."
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"Our Eastgate Explorers program allows our students to arrive at school an hour before our day begins or stay up to two hours after the school day ends. During these times, our learners can engage in explorations that connect with their interests or try something new. These explorations rotate throughout the year and support our learners in becoming balanced, open-minded, and collaborative. Explorations range from active (soccer, pickleball) to creative (stop motion, drama, yearbook)."
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"While students' learning journeys are the top priority, educating our families on our programme offering and how best to support learning at home is essential. Of course, we see our families as partners and consistently communicate. However, we also offer parent workshops in the evening and provide childcare. These hands-on workshops give families a glimpse into how their child(ren) learns while exploring the central features of our program."
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New messaging coming soon.
Welcome To Eastgate Academy
We are, first and foremost, a community of students, educators and families committed to nurturing young people as they find their purpose and grow into their potential.
Our goal is to create a stimulating and supportive environment where our learners can grow through an iterative inquiry, action and reflection process. A culture of courage and curiosity encourages our learners to push the boundaries of their social, intellectual and physical comfort zones, while a culture of collaboration and community creates a system of support from which our learners draw the confidence to learn from successes and setbacks.
I am filled with gratitude to be part of such a special community. I feel fortunate to work alongside incredibly talented educators and staff and look forward to supporting Eastgate Academy’s continued growth as principal.
Progressive
International Baccalaureate
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.
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.
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.
At West Island College incredible opportunities happen every day, in an environment where learning is tailored to each individual student; where relationships are nurtured through effective teamwork and collaboration; and where students are immersed in a community of enthusiastic learners. West Island College emphasizes respect, responsibility and citizenship. We believe that inspiring our students to pursue excellence in academics, leadership, athletics and global awareness prepares them for success in the 21st century. In addition to exceptional teachers, an Advanced Placement Program, Fine Arts Certificate, outstanding athletics, small class sizes and an extensive co-curricular program with leadership opportunities, WIC offers courses in French (Immersion or Second Language) and Spanish and an International Languages Certificate. From our International Studies program and authentic student leadership opportunities to Outdoor Education and WIC’s Business, Health Sciences and Engineering Institutes, students are challenged to go beyond their comfort zones and discover what experiential learning really means.
Eastgate Academy's programme offering takes an inquiry-based approach to learning and teaching. As such, students are active participants in their learning and frequently collaborate with their peers and teacher to construct their understanding. Using the British Columbia curriculum and the International Baccalaureate framework, students develop attributes and skills, allowing them to become internationally minded.
Equal Balance
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.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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Through inquiry, students independently and collaboratively construct their understanding of mathematical concepts. There is a balance between exploring mathematical concepts and processes and problem-solving. Students engage in investigations and are given opportunities to apply their mathematical understanding in real-life contexts.
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Learners build conceptual understanding and numeracy fluency in the Primary Years (K-5) and early Middle Years. Calculators will not come until later grades unless decided by the teacher for a specific learning engagement/purpose.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
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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.
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Inquiry
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.
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
WIC has a full time Science technician on hand to assist the teachers with preparing experiments. Thus ensuring steady hands on activities at all grade levels.
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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.
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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
Thematic
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
20% of the school is a French Immersion track. Offering 60% French language classes in the Junior School and 40% in the Senior School. We also offer 125 hours of French or Spanish second Language instruction yearly to the Junior school students. French and Spanish language instruction (along with French immersion) is offered through Grade 12 Most students also complete the DELE or DELF A and B levels.
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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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Equal Balance
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.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Technology is available in most non movement classes. Including Ipads, Macbooks and PCs. All classes have wireless and teaching presentation stations. Technology is used as a tool in most classrooms, courses. Specific technology units taught at various grades, in multimedia, programming, app development, 3D design and printing, game design, html, website development.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Daily phys ed is provided in the Junior School. Mandatory phys ed to Grade 10. We also provide PE 20 30, Sports Performance and Sports Med classes.
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Play-based
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
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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.
Independent and accelerated studies are offered on a case by case basis.
Currently, at Eastgate Academy, three grades are combined into one homeroom class: K-2, 3-5, 6-8.
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.
The academic culture at Eastgate is both rigorous and supportive. There are high expectations and a challenging curriculum as students progress through the grades. However, at the heart of the culture is support to support student wellness, inspire curiosity, and cultivate a love of the pursuit of learning. Students are heavily involved in creating norms and expectations that guide the academic culture, and educators are seen as facilitators that create learning engagements that meet students where they are and challenge them.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
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.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Eastgate Academy focuses on balancing academic and intellectual growth with physical and mental wellbeing to offer a tailored learning experience to every student.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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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
6 - 8
0%
0%
$0
$0
0%
0%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 11
Yes: grades 2 - 8
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades K - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
At WIC, we strive to attract and retain students who consistently demonstrate character, have strong morals and will uphold our values. As a university preparatory school, WIC offers challenging curricula that encourages students to explore their passions and work to their full potential. While we consider every applicant’s academic performance, WIC seeks out well-rounded students who are prepared to contribute to school life and the greater community. WIC encourages applications from students ready to embrace the College’s motto: Be Brave. Be Bold. Be Ready.
WIC administers the CCAT (Canadian Cognitive Abilities Test), which is a 90-minute standardized test for students entering Gr. 7 – 12. Parents and students must understand that test results are only one part of the admissions process. Spending huge amounts of time and money preparing for the standardized test is not recommended.
Please note, we will accept the SSAT instead of our locally offered entrance exams. Choose West Island College as a recipient in the SSAT online tool.
Application fee:
$100 per student (non-refundable), paid at the time of online application submission. This covers the cost of the admissions assessment.
Registration deposit:
$1000 per student, due upon enrollment to secure a place at the school. This amount is non-refundable but will be applied towards tuition.
Bond:
$10,000 per family, paid upon enrollment. The bond is an investment in the growth and development of the school. It is reimbursed to the family at the end of the school year in which the last child leaves the school.