Philosophy of Education
The liberal education provided by the Ashbury College Senior School teaches students to think, speak and write clearly, critically and creatively. It leads them to explore the core subjects that comprise our human heritage and are the hallmarks of an educated person. It develops a healthy body and illuminates the spirit by inspiring students to look beyond themselves towards the greater good.
Teaching at the College is characterized by meaningful and respectful relationships between faculty and students, the teachers' profound engagement with their disciplines, and a diverse range of pedagogical approaches.
Ashbury graduates enter university with the knowledge, skills, integrity and compassion born of careful scholarship, richly rewarding faculty contacts, physical activity and spiritual reflection.
To view the Academic Guide for an outline of courses offered please click here.
The IB Learner Profile
The International Baccalaureate Learner Profile is a set of student learning outcomes for the 21st century. At Ashbury College, we strive to develop the following ten characteristics in all of our students, in order to develop "internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world" (source: IB Learner Profile Booklet, IBO, 2006).
Inquirers
They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
Knowledgeable
They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
Thinkers
They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
Communicators
They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.
Principled
They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.
Open-minded
They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.
Caring
They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.
Risk-takers
They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.
Balanced
They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.
Reflective
They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.
The Academic Team
The Academic Team is dedicated to supporting students and faculty in maintaining the highest standard of academic excellence. This is provided through innovative attitudes, individualized attention, long-term planning, and coordinated efforts.
The Members of the Academic Team are:
- Malcolm Mousseau - Assistant Headmaster, Academics
- Sheila Robitaille - Director of Innovation and Learning
- Christine Tordon - Director, University Admissions
- Marilynne Sinclair - IB Coordinator
- Cathy Hodgins - Learning Strategist
- Kathleen Munro Collins - Grade 9 Academic Advisor and Administrative Assistant, Student Support
- Laura Miles - Administrative Assistant, Academic Office
- Sheryl Johnston - Assistant to the Director of University Admissions
- Paula Rizzuti - Attendance Officer/Administrative Assistant, Academic Office
The Academic Committee
The Academic Committee focuses on ways to improve teaching and learning in the Senior School. They are an advisory body to the Assistant Headmaster Academics and its members chair the bi-monthly meetings on a rotational basis.
The Members of the Academic Committee are:
- Malcolm Mousseau - Assistant Headmaster, Academics
- Sheila Robitaille - Director of Innovation and Learning
- Christine Tordon - Director, University Admissions
- Marilynne Sinclair - IB Coordinator
- Cathy Hodgins - Learning Strategist
- Sheri McCready - English Department Head
- Laura McNairn - French and International Languages Department Head
- Lisa Lewicki - Social Studies Department Head
- Susan Wall - Science Department Head
- Cindy Rust - Mathematics - Computer Science and Business Studies Department Head
- David Gueulette - Director of Music
- Eliza Jane Scott - Director - Theatre Ashbury
- Tamara Doleman - Visual Arts Department Head
- Michelle Holman - Physical and Health Education Department Head
- Donna Chan - Head Librarian
- Laura Miles - Administrative Assistant - Academic Office