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Trusted by families since 1998.
Peoples Christian Academy (PCA) logo
OUR KIDS REPORT:

Peoples Christian Academy (PCA)

Grades Preschool — 12 — Markham, ON (Map)
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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Peoples Christian Academy (PCA)
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • Grades
    Preschool — 12
  • Gender
    Coed
  • Class Size
    20 — 26 students
  • Tuition
    $15,166 to 26,187/year
  • Language of instruction
    English
  • Special Needs Support
    No support
  • Enrolment
    820 day students
  • Curriculum
    Traditional
  • Associations
    ACSI, AP, CSI
  • LOCATION
    Markham, ON (View address)

The big picture on Peoples Christian Academy (PCA)

We summarized the school ourselves

There is a great range of approach within Christian education, from those that have chapel in the morning and little more, to those that weave Christian teaching and principles throughout the curriculum and the life of the school. PCA is very much the latter, a place where Christianity informs the entire school experience, and the delivery and the content of the curriculum. This is the school for students for whom the veracity of their faith is tantamount to who they are and the way the wish to learn; faith and fidelity to scripture are at the fore within PCA. The strength of the academic program is evident through decades of academic success. The school is on the larger side of the mean in Canada, and the benefits of that size are seen in the breadth of curricular and extracurricular programs that are on offer. The ideal student is one who is able to thrive in a challenging environment, and who is preparing to advance to university.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"Nurture + Challenge. Leadership + Stewardship. Integrity + Creativity. Truth + Faith. PCA students in Grades 3 and 7 consistently score a grade or two above national norms on Canadian Achievement Tests (CAT). For the Ontario Grade 10 Literacy Tests, 96% were successful. Join us as we celebrate our 55th anniversary with our dedicated and caring Christian faculty, building an educational environment that inspires wisdom, clarity and purpose. Please contact us for a school tour and discover why our students excel!"

  • 50-year history
  • Emphasis on high-level academics.
  • Exceptional music, drama, visual arts and French programs
  • Multiple computer labs
  • Extensive sports program
  • Dynamic student council
  • Central location
  • 100 per cent post-secondary acceptance
  • Christ-centred learning based on Biblical truths taught by committed Christian teachers.

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

At Peoples Christian Academy, we excel in fostering holistic development within a Christian framework, nurturing students spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Our curriculum integrates academic excellence with character development, preparing students not just for university success but also for lives of service and leadership in their communities. Our vibrant student culture promotes lifelong friendships and effective study habits, while our mission initiatives and Bible classes cultivate spiritual growth. Our dedicated faculty, all committed Christians and Ontario certified teachers, serve as role models and mentors, ensuring that Christian values are lived and taught daily. The combination of these elements creates a unique educational experience that empowers students to serve God's purpose and make a positive impact globally.

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

To maintain our focus on holistic development and Christian values, we prioritize hiring faculty who are devoted Christians and align with our mission. This commitment may limit our hiring pool, but it ensures that our educators embody the principles we teach. We have chosen to integrate spiritual education alongside academics, which might not align with every family's educational preferences. Additionally, in order to protect the Christian curriculums instilled in the programs, we choose not to participate in government subsidies or sponsorship that do not align with our mission. While these choices may not cater to every family's desires, they are integral to fulfilling our mission of nurturing students to serve and lead as Christians in their communities and beyond.

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

Peoples Christian Academy's journey began in 1971 as an elementary school, inspired by Dr. Paul B. Smith of The Peoples Church. This foundational phase focused on providing a Christian education rooted in spiritual and academic excellence. Essentially, our focus is on the missional aspect of Christian education, aligning with Rev. Paul Smith’s vision to equip and train future missionaries. As we expanded to serve the Markham and Greater Toronto Area, we broadened our curriculum to meet the Ontario Ministry of Education standards while maintaining our Christian focus. Our commitment to nurturing students' holistic growth led to the establishment of our Early Learning Centre, which set the stage for academic and spiritual development. A significant milestone came with the achievement of a 100% nine-year university acceptance rate, reinforcing our dedication to academic excellence. These key developments have shaped PCA into a beacon of quality Christian education with a mission focus, w

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

A student who thrives at Peoples Christian Academy is one who embraces our holistic approach, engaging with both academic and spiritual growth. We welcome students who are open to learning in a Christian environment, whether from Christian or non-Christian backgrounds, provided they agree with our Statement of Faith and Core Family Values. Ideal candidates are those eager to participate in our vibrant student culture, mission initiatives, and diverse extracurricular activities. They should be willing to develop leadership, teamwork, and study skills, and have a desire to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

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

While we welcome families from diverse backgrounds, we advise against choosing Peoples Christian Academy if a family does not align with our core Christian values and educational philosophy. Our curriculum and school culture are deeply rooted in Christian teachings, and our mission is to nurture students spiritually alongside their academic journey. If a family is seeking an education devoid of religious influence or their values are in conflict with our Statement of Faith, PCA may not be the right fit. Additionally, our focus on holistic development and mission initiatives requires a commitment to engaging in spiritual growth and community service, which may not resonate with every family. We recommend that families carefully consider whether our approach aligns with their expectations and educational goals before applying.

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

Families choose Peoples Christian Academy for its unique blend of academic excellence and Christian values. They appreciate our commitment to holistic development, where their children grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and physically in a nurturing environment. Our strong track record of university acceptance, especially to prestigious institutions, reassures families of our academic rigour. The vibrant student culture and diverse extracurricular activities foster essential life skills and lifelong friendships. Parents value the dedication of our faculty, who serve as role models and mentors, guiding students in their spiritual and academic journeys. Our mission initiatives and Bible classes provide opportunities for students to live out their faith and make a positive impact in the world. This comprehensive approach resonates with families seeking an education that prepares their children to serve and lead with Christian values.

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

Peoples Christian Academy is viewed as a beacon of quality Christian education in the Markham and Greater Toronto Area. Our reputation is built on a foundation of academic excellence, strong Christian values, and a commitment to nurturing students' holistic development. The public recognizes us for our impressive university acceptance rates and the success of our alumni, who often attribute their achievements to the grounding they received at PCA. Our vibrant community, dedicated faculty, and mission initiatives further enhance our image as a school that prepares students to serve and lead with integrity. Families see us as a safe and nurturing environment where their children can grow spiritually and academically, making PCA a respected and valued choice for Christian education.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

One underappreciated aspect of Peoples Christian Academy is the profound impact of our mission initiatives on students' personal growth. While our academic achievements and university acceptance rates are well recognized, the transformative experiences gained through local and global missions are equally valuable. These initiatives foster empathy, resilience, and a sense of purpose, encouraging students to live out their faith in meaningful ways. The skills and perspectives gained from building houses in Mexico or engaging in street evangelism in Spain contribute significantly to students' development as compassionate, responsible leaders committed to serving their communities and making a difference in the world.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

Families are often amazed with how smooth everything runs on a daily basis! In fact, there are numerous programs across all divisions, from the Early Learning Centre to Grade 12. Each division requires its own time and space, but thanks to meticulous planning, strong communication among all divisions, and thoughtful organization, everything runs smoothly—like pieces of a puzzle fitting perfectly together. As a result, students of all ages thrive here in a harmonious and well-coordinated environment.

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

We recently added a Junior School Library, giving our younger students a dedicated space to read and enjoy themselves. We have enhanced our educational offerings by integrating more technology (e.g. new 3D printers) into the classroom to better prepare students for future academic and professional challenges. We have expanded our extracurricular activities to include more diverse options in arts, athletics, and academic classes, catering to a wider range of interests and talents. Additionally, our mission initiative program has been strengthened with new partnerships and opportunities for students to engage in meaningful service projects locally and globally. These improvements reflect our commitment to providing a comprehensive education that nurtures every aspect of our students' development. Not to mention we have a brand new play structure in our playground and newly renovated sinks and cabinets for art rooms and junior school homerooms!

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

In the next five years, Peoples Christian Academy will continue to adapt and grow to meet the evolving needs of our students and families. We plan to further integrate technology into our curriculum, ensuring our students are equipped for the digital age. Our mission initiatives will expand, offering more diverse and impactful opportunities for service. We'll continue to enhance our extracurricular programs, fostering a wider range of talents and interests. These changes will reinforce our commitment to holistic education, preparing the whole person to reach the whole world for Christ!


We got insight from alumni, parents, and students

Peoples Christian Academy (PCA): Alumni Review from Alex Ghobrial

Watch our alum interview with Alex Ghobrial to learn about the unique experience of attending Peoples Christian Academy (PCA).
Peoples Christian Academy (PCA), Alumnus Video Review from Alex Ghobrial

Peoples Christian Academy (PCA): Alumni Review from Allison Lam

Watch our alum interview with Allison Lam to learn about the unique experience of attending Peoples Christian Academy (PCA).
Peoples Christian Academy (PCA), Alumnus Video Review from Allison Lam

Parent, LS Ho (2021)

(4.8)

We came to PCA on the recommendation of good church friends. It has been the best schooling decision we have made for our 3 kids, and we recommend PCA wholeheartedly. Our children are not just learning but thriving. Our children unanimously say that the one thing they appreciate most about PCA is their teachers who are kind, caring, funny, and engaging. Teachers are always available to help without judgment, and they always find very creative and FUN ways to teach the material and engage the kids. We have experienced ELC right up until Middle School (at the time this review is written). In all the years my eldest has been at PCA, she has fostered deep friendships and relationships with her classmates and teachers. Her SK teacher still greets her with a warm smile and remembers her name. My daughter feels like her teachers are not just figures of authority, but people she looks up to, and consider as friends. Alumni parents have accounted to me the ways their childrens' teachers have purposefully set aside time outside of school to ask how they are doing and have walked alongside them during extremely difficult family situations, and even just through tough teenage times - this is outside of their already very busy day. My children feel loved at PCA.

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