Interview with Hillfield Strathallan College Alum, Anna Robertson

One of the main things that I can really appreciate about Hillfield is the tight-knit community. I felt a great sense of belonging all the way from Montessori Junior School up to Grade 12, and I really felt as if I was a part of something and I belonged at Hillfield. I think this really stemmed from the support from the faculty. I think my teachers got to know me not only as a student but also as a person, and this really affected the way I view relationships and the importance of mentorship.

Something else I can really appreciate about Hillfield is all the opportunities to get involved and the kind of holistic education approach. Hillfield offered various opportunities from creativity, arts, sports, and leadership roles within these different realms. This really allowed me to find my path and what I was passionate about and what I am actually pursuing right now.

One thing that really sticks out to me that differentiates Hillfield from other schools is the all-in-one campus. We have Montessori, Junior, Middle, and Senior School all in one campus, and I think this creates a strong sense of community and a seamless transition from each of the different schools within our campus. It is super cool and unique, and I think it is really rare to have that kind of all-in-one campus feel.

Something else that I can really appreciate that is unique about Hillfield is the unique opportunities that Hillfield has to offer. It is so normal to be super involved. When I first came to Hillfield in Grade 8, I joined the field hockey team right away because I had never played before and everyone was telling me I would love it, and I had a great time. It was something I never would have discovered as a passion of mine before coming to Hillfield.

I think one of the big things that really stands out to me for connecting with students at Hillfield is the school spirit and traditions, and specifically the house system. When you start at Hillfield, you are placed into one of four houses, and between these houses we have a lot of competitions throughout the year. From academics and athletics to arts, there are different activities and competitions that give you that sense of belonging and community right when you start, and it continues throughout your whole career at Hillfield. It fosters a lot of school spirit and connection.

From students to teachers as well as classmates, it is clear that kindness and integrity are at the heart of how the community operates at Hillfield. Students are taught to look out for one another, get involved, and support the community, whether internally or externally in the Hamilton or greater community. Another value that I can really appreciate is leadership. I think it is taught really early on and encouraged whether through formal roles or everyday actions. I think there is a quiet expectation to lead by example as a student of Hillfield.

I think something that is really unique about Hillfield is chapel. Everyone from Junior Montessori to Middle and Senior School, including the teachers, attends this every Friday, and it is not just a tradition—it is a moment each week where the school comes together, creating a sense of community and reflecting on things. It is also non-denominational, so it is inclusive for everyone. Sometimes we have student speeches, a musical performance, a message about gratitude, or a story about kindness. It builds a strong sense of unity and shares important values throughout Hillfield, and it reminded me of what it is like to be part of the Hillfield community.

Hillfield really gave me the space to explore my interests and what I was passionate about, ultimately finding my passion for kinesiology. Whether it was through athletics, biology class, or learning about the human body, I was always encouraged to dive deeper and learn more. I think it really stemmed from the support of my teachers and the opportunities I was given that allowed me to get involved and find my passion.

I think the first reason that I would recommend Hillfield is the unmatched sense of community. I felt very seen, supported, and part of something. The second reason is that the school focuses on the whole student rather than just academics. It helps students grow as leaders and find their unique passion. The third reason is the endless opportunities Hillfield has to offer. When I started in Grade 8, I was able to try so many new things, and it really allowed me to find my unique interests and pathway.