Families typically cite academics as an important driver when considering a school, and certainly they should be. That said, in the best school settings, a strong academic program is simply the baseline for what the program offers, and Fern Hill is a great example of that. Yes, numeracy and literacy are the core components, though confidence and self-esteem are too. Students are encouraged to grow in all literacies, including those of the arts and music and social interaction. The French language program has been augmented in recent years, driven principally by the needs of students and desire of parents. Administration has worked to create an environment of discovery across all curricular areas, and they’ve succeeded in that. Yes, academics are strong, though, rightly, that’s just the beginning of what Fern Hill is able to offer. It's perhaps the things over and above that which truly give strength to the overall program and distinguish the school.
We questioned the school administration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Established in 1981, Ottawa’s Fern Hill School offers an enriched curriculum for preschool, kindergarten and elementary grades 1-8, including Core & Advanced French and a variety of extracurricular activities. Fern Hill provides quality education in a warm, caring and nurturing environment, with a diverse international community. Guided by dedicated teachers, students enjoy a supportive community that instills a strong sense of self, responsibility and a lifelong love of learning. Located 10 minutes from downtown"
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
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3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
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4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
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5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
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6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
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7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
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8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
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9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
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10. What might families find surprising about your school?
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11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
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12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
