Ridley College

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Overview
Founded in 1889, Ridley College is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious coeducational boarding schools. Set on a beautiful 90-acre campus in St. Catharines, Ontario, Ridley offers a transformative education that prepares students to lead flourishing lives. Our mission is grounded in the habits of mind, body and spirit, and guided by our motto Terar Dum Prosim — “May I be consumed in service.” Ridley hosts the largest CAIS boarding program in Ontario, with over 375 boarding students representing more than 60 countries. Our community is welcoming and global, yet deeply rooted in Canadian values. The campus is easily accessible from Toronto Pearson International Airport and Buffalo Niagara International Airport, making travel straightforward for families.

Academic Excellence
Ridley offers the full IB Continuum. Students engage in the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme, developing inquiry, critical thinking and a global outlook. All students in Grades 9 to 12 complete the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Many students choose to earn both the IB Diploma and the OSSD, expanding their postsecondary options worldwide.

Summer Programmes
Ridley offers a range of summer learning opportunities for day and boarding students, including an English as an Additional Language (EAL) credit course, enrichment experiences and leadership development. Summer programmes provide a gentle on-ramp for new students and a chance for current students to explore new interests or advance in core subjects.

Co-Curriculars
Ridley students pursue interests beyond the classroom in the arts, athletics, leadership and service. With more than 75 activities, opportunities include orchestra and jazz band, theatre and film, robotics and Model UN, debating and entrepreneurship. Athletics range from sport for life development to elite pathways in basketball, hockey, rowing and figure skating. Students are encouraged to start new clubs and lead initiatives that reflect their passions and interests.

Boarding Life
Ridley’s traditional House system is a defining feature of our community. Ten boarding Houses bring together boarding and local day students, each with its own identity and deep sense of belonging. Heads of House and boarding teams provide mentorship, structure, and care, enabling students to develop independence and accountability in a safe and supportive environment. Integrating day students into the boarding experience enables every Ridleian to learn from global perspectives while enjoying a uniquely Canadian school experience.

Student Support and Wellbeing
Ridley is Canada’s leader in Positive Education and the first Visible Wellbeing Foundational School in North America. Wellbeing is woven into daily routines through advisory, counselling and a broad circle of care that includes dedicated social-emotional counsellors across Lower, Middle and Upper School. Students build habits that support happiness, connection and purpose, which in turn elevate academic growth.

Global Citizenship and Service
Service and global engagement are central at Ridley. Students participate in local initiatives and international service-learning opportunities that have included Malawi, Guatemala, the Canary Islands and Thailand. Through Round Square exchanges and global partnerships, Ridleians broaden their worldview, develop leadership and practice compassion.

Facilities
Ridley’s 90-acre campus combines heritage architecture with modern learning environments. Students benefit from bright classrooms, subject-specific science and technology labs, and dedicated performance spaces. The Evans Athletic Centre supports daily fitness and competitive athletics, while the Iggulden Building and Mandeville Theatre host concerts, plays and exhibitions. Community life thrives in the historic Memorial Chapel, and health and wellness services are available on campus 24/7.

University Placement
Ridleians matriculate to many of the leading universities around the world and earn significant scholarships each year. In recent years, graduates have enrolled at institutions such as Harvard University, Yale University, Princeton University, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, Berklee College of Music, the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, the University of Hong Kong, the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia and the University of Waterloo.

Fast Facts

• Founded in 1889 on a 90-acre campus in the Niagara Region
• JK to Grade 12 with a postgraduate option
• 375+ boarding students within a student body of over 870
• 60+ countries represented and an 8:1 student teacher ratio
• IB Continuum World School plus OSSD in Grades 9 to 12
• More than $3.5 million in tuition assistance and scholarships is awarded annually
• First Visible Wellbeing Foundational School in North America
• 75+ co-curriculars spanning arts, athletics, leadership and service
• Dedicated to campus health and wellness care
• IB outcomes above the international world standard

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