Principal's Welcome

Thank you for your interest in The Sterling Hall School. As you consider schools for your son, you should know that at SHS we are committed to providing the highest quality education, aimed at developing the whole boy - mind, body and spirit - in an environment that is safe, nurturing and boy-friendly.

I am proud of the fact that SHS emphasizes academic excellence in the core curriculum as well as the skills and attitudes that are essential for the 21^st Century - examples being collaboration, creativity, communication, problem solving, flexibility, global awareness and public speaking. As experts in single-gender education, we have developed innovative, leading-edge programs that are sought after by institutions in Canada and abroad. These programs are available to all through The Sterling Institute - do have a look! In addition to the academic focus, SHS concentrates on students' personal growth using the four "ships" - leadership, mentorship, stewardship and citizenship - thus preparing the boys not just for higher education but for life.

At SHS, we teach boys in the ways that they learn best - through hands-on investigation, active learning, inquiry and discovery. Small classes and a student:teacher ratio of better than 8:1 ensure individual attention for each student. The beneficial variety of extra- and co-curricular activities, clubs, teams and trips allows for additional growth and our House System inspires a sense of belonging and school spirit.

I am also proud of our teachers. They are enthusiastic, dedicated and passionate educators who bring their subjects alive. Specialists in Science, Art, Music, French and Physical Education/Health complement the Home Room teachers and a generous Professional Development budget encourages research and thus curricular development which directly benefits boys and their learning. Parents are also a vital part of the community that is SHS. Our "open door" policy means that they always feel welcome here, whether volunteering, visiting a class, watching a game or speaking to a teacher, to me, or to some of their SHS friends.

Our results speak for themselves. More than 90% of our graduates are accepted at their first-choice secondary school - often the most demanding high schools in our province - and we receive glowing feedback from our alumni and their new teachers.

Whether you are a parent, an educator or you are just interested in SHS, I invite you to explore this web site. Or why not come and visit the school? There is no better way to experience the excitement about learning that is palpable in our halls every day. You will see that SHS is much more than a school - it is an experience. As such, it is filled with exciting potential, challenge and support - combined, they develop character and confidence and instill a curiosity about the world in the students. These qualities launch them on their journey to becoming young men and the leaders of tomorrow.

All schools are unique and SHS is no exception. So, if you have some time, do come and visit. I very much look forward to meeting you soon.

Ian Robinson
Principal