Branksome Hall Overview
Branksome Hall is a leading all-girls school in Toronto, offering a globally focused International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The school promotes intellectual curiosity and problem-solving, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. With advanced facilities and a diverse, international faculty, Branksome provides a supportive environment for students to explore their potential. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact locally and globally.
History of Branksome Hall
Branksome Hall, established in 1903 by Margaret Scott, has grown from its modest beginnings to a renowned independent school for girls in Toronto’s Rosedale neighborhood. Originally located on Bloor Street, the school moved to its current location in 1912. Edith Read, a key figure in the school’s history, expanded the campus and introduced key traditions, like the Prefect and Clan systems. Branksome has continually modernized, becoming an IB World School in 2003 and opening Branksome Hall Asia in 2012, while still embracing its Scottish heritage and values.
Academics at Branksome Hall
At Branksome Hall, the goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in an ever-evolving world. Through the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and alignment with Ontario’s curriculum, the school fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration. With a focus on technology and global awareness, students are prepared to tackle complex problems. To explore the school’s IB approach, academic pathways, and detailed course offerings, students and families can access grade-specific information tailored to individual learning journeys.
Primary Years Programme (JK – Grade 6)
At Branksome Hall, the Primary Years Programme (PYP) creates a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Designed for students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6, the PYP encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a global mindset. The curriculum goes beyond traditional subjects, connecting disciplines like English, French, Science, and Math through inquiry-based learning. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, students build self-confidence and communication skills. The PYP emphasizes understanding how to learn, preparing students for the next stages of their academic journey.
Middle Years Programme (Grade 7 – 10)
The Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Branksome Hall caters to students in Grades 7 to 10, offering a well-rounded liberal arts curriculum. It not only covers core subjects like English, Math, and Science but also incorporates Arts, Technology, and Physical Education. This program emphasizes personal growth, critical thinking, and leadership skills, preparing students for the challenges of the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. Through a mix of academic and extracurricular activities, students develop teamwork, independence, and organizational skills.
Diploma Programme (Grade 11 – 12)
In Grades 11 and 12, students at Branksome Hall focus on independence and critical thinking, selecting from a diverse array of courses in English, languages, humanities, mathematics, and sciences. They can choose between the Full IB Diploma Programme, recognized for its rigor by selective universities, or the Branksome Hall IB Select Program, offering a more personalized approach. Both pathways emphasize international mindedness and intercultural understanding, with all students completing core components like Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), the Extended Essay, and Theory of Knowledge. External assessments enhance graduates’ university prospects.
Extracurricular Activities at Branksome Hall
At Branksome Hall, students have plenty of opportunities to dive into extracurricular activities that enrich their school experience. Clubs allow girls to connect with others who share similar interests, collaborating on projects and attending events together. Clans bring students from various grades together for friendly competition and community-building, creating a vibrant school spirit.
The Athletics Program focuses on developing teamwork, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for fitness. With top-notch facilities, including fields, courts, and a pool, athletes can hone their skills in various sports.
In the Arts, students unleash their creativity through a variety of classes and clubs. From visual arts to theatre, music, and dance, there are countless opportunities to create and perform. Students can showcase their talents in exhibitions, concerts, and performances, allowing them to share their artistic journeys with the community.
Overall, these extracurricular activities at Branksome Hall help students discover new passions, build friendships, and develop essential leadership skills, all while having a great time.
Branksome Hall Tuition Fees and Financial Support
Branksome Hall presents a structured tuition fee system for its educational offerings. For Day Students, the annual fees are $40,940 for Junior Kindergarten through Grade 10 and $44,640 for Grades 11-12. New students incur an Initial Registration Fee of $9,500 (or $6,500 if a sibling is already enrolled). Boarding tuition is $78,590 for Grades 7-10 and $82,290 for Grades 11-12.
To support families, Branksome offers financial assistance through bursaries and scholarships for new day or boarding students in Grades 7-11. Flexible payment plans include monthly payment options and early payment discounts, helping families manage costs effectively.
Sources
https://www.branksome.on.ca/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branksome_Hall
