Balmoral Hall School

General Offerings

• Early Years
• Middle Years
• ESL Program
• Senior Years
• Diploma Program

Key Information

• Location: Balmoral Hall School (BH) is located on a 12 acre river-front campus in an urban setting.  The campus and residence buildings are located within walking distance of shopping, restaurants and theatres.

• Accommodation Options: Campus Residence

• Health Insurance Requirement: Mandatory for all boarding students.  Cost of insurance is included in the mandatory miscellaneous fees and is arranged by the School.

• Student Population: 2008/2009 - 452 total  (Day = Nursery to Grade 12  /  Boarding = Grades 6 - 12)

• Residence Students: 2008/2009 boarding students are from Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.

• Study Periods: School Year - September to June.

• Balmoral Hall School accepts applications on a continual basis throughout the school year. Late applicants for the current school year may be accepted depending upon space availability.

Institutional Profile

Balmoral Hall School - Founded in 1901, Balmoral Hall School (BH) enjoys a reputation as an academic leader, dedicated to helping girls and young women achieve their personal best. Programs for Nursery to Grade 12 challenge students to develop their intellectual, athletic, social, and artistic and leadership potential. A strong faculty delivers a rigorous curriculum in small classroom settings where students and teachers share a close relationship. Development of the whole child is addressed initially with Manitoba's only International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB-PYP) in Junior School.

Balmoral Hall School is currently in the Candidacy Stage of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB-MYP) for Grades 6 - 10.  Senior School culminates with the challenging Advanced Placement Program for Grades 11 & 12.

Balmoral Hall School supports a diverse performing arts and visual arts program. A strong integrated technology program, facilitated by a wireless school community, has resulted in many international award winning projects. Numerous opportunities to participate and compete in extracurricular clubs, athletic tournaments, international debating and public speaking competitions are actively promoted.   BH offers Manitoba's only University Preparatory AAA hockey program for elite student athletes.

All programs benefit from a campus that includes performing arts and athletic centres, science laboratories, greenhouse, media technology labs, Grades 2 to 12 laptop program, library, spacious classrooms, student common room, dining hall and residence.

Top Ten Reasons to Attend Balmoral Hall School

1. Canada's premiere independent school - specializing in education for girls.

2. Internationally acclaimed university preparatory girls only boarding school.

3. International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) is currently in the candidate stage for girls entering Grades 6 to 10.

4. Advanced Placement Program is available to girls entering Grades 11 and 12.

5. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is integrated into the academic program at all levels and includes TOEFL preparation.

6. Wireless environment with technology integrated into all subjects. Laptop program supplied and supported by BH.

7. Academy of Excellence offers exciting after-school, extra-curricular programming on campus.

8. BH residence provides a safe family environment with fully modernized facilities including private bathrooms and Internet in each room.

9. University preparation and career guidance ensures that BH graduates attend the university of their choice.

10. 98% of our graduates enter university, with more than 75% receiving scholarships

Academic Program

International Academic Program (full details on Course of Studies available on website at balmoralhall.com)

Middle School Curriculum (Grades 6 - 8)

The Middle School welcomes students from Grades 6, 7 and 8. This is a special time. The girls' lives are filled with developmental changes and new academic challenges. Our Middle School helps girls extend their knowledge of essential skills as they develop a sense of identity and become aware of their abilities and interests. Our academic program, athletics and the arts promote artistic and academic excellence.

In September 2008, Balmoral Hall School received "Candidate Status" to pursue the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) for Grades 6 - 10.

In today's demanding world, our girls need an internationally relevant education in order to become true global citizens. The MYP deepens and extends our emphasis on Global Education and service that is already central to the goals and philosophy of Balmoral Hall School.

International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) Mission Statement:

The MYP, aims to "develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect."

The fundamental concepts that organize and shape the MYP are: 

• holistic learning, which connects subject knowledge and  grade levels;
• effective communication, including second language acquisition;
• and intercultural and global awareness

Senior School Curriculum (Grades 9 -12)

At BH we provide our senior students with a comprehensive program of studies that facilitates the achievement of individual potential, and inspires a love of learning.  Our academic requirements encourage each student to design a rigorous program compatible with her abilities, interests and goals.

Students continue to achieve their personal best in a challenging curriculum with leadership and experiential educational opportunities that provide our graduates with worldwide access to the most prestigious universities and educational institutions.  In addition to a core program we are an MYP Candidate school and offer Advanced Placement courses in Grades 11 and 12. Balmoral Hall School's female-centered environment promotes self-reliance, confidence and the freedom to learn.  Our graduates are strong, independent women who have worked hard, formed lasting friendships and learned to care about the broader world.  They are destined to make a difference!

Students begin earning credits in Grade 9 towards a Manitoba high school graduation diploma for which a minimum of 30 credits is required.  BH students exceed this minimum level.  University counseling and academic support are also provided for each girl as she approaches university admission.

English as an Additional Language Program (EAL) - Balmoral Hall School's EAL Program provides instruction for students whose first language is not English. The goal is to integrate students into the regular English Program. Students will have their English language skills assessed upon arrival, using Canadian Language Benchmarks. They are then placed in one of four stages of language proficiency. Dependent upon the assessment, an individualized program will be developed to meet their specific needs.

• Stage 1: Students need to develop their skill in all areas of English. Students take EAL and participate where possible in regular classroom programs. Students receive intensive support from the EAL teacher and from an EAL paraprofessional who assists them in some of their classes.
• Stage 2: Students gain confidence with their English skills; however, they still have difficulty with listening, reading comprehension, and with their writing skills. They take EAL and participate where possible in regular classroom areas with support as needed. Students receive tailored instruction from the EAL teacher and may also have an n EAL paraprofessional support them in some of their classes.
• Stage 3: Students are comfortable reading and speaking in English; however, they need to further develop their skills to advance to the next stage. Students participate in all subject areas with support as needed. They receive tailored instruction from the EAL teacher and paraprofessional.
• Stage 4: Students are almost fluent in English. They make very few errors and are fully integrated into regular classes. Students receive tutorial support as needed. Extra help is available from the EAL teacher and the EAL paraprofessional.

English Language Learning Program (ELL) - Senior School Students (Grades 9-12) in Stages 3 and 4 participate in the English Language Learning (ELL) Program. Depending upon the grade level, instruction may involve the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Students participate in all subject areas with support as needed. They receive personalized instruction from the EAL teacher and extra help is available from the EAL paraprofessional. It is important to note that for most students where English is an additional language a TOEFL score for University is required. Upon EAL Teacher recommendation, students may earn course credits.

Please Note: all students who have previously studied in a non-English speaking country will be placed in the English as an Additional Language or English Language Learning program for the first year of study at Balmoral Hall School.

Regular English Program - In order to be in a regular program, students must have achieved a TOEFL iBT (Internet-based test) 80 score, with an academic average over 70% in each course taken, without subject to adaptation. These requirements must be met prior to June 30th. All placement decisions are made prior to this date for the next academic year.

Career Choices and Post Secondary

Students have a wide range of subjects to choose from for university and post secondary preparation. The University Guidance Counsellor supports students in their future planning.  Preparation for university is a high priority at BH ensuring that all graduating students are accepted into the university of their choice. At BH, we begin early to educate, encourage and empower our girls to discover all career avenues, from traditional to non-traditional opportunities.

Profile of Balmoral Hall Graduates

The success of the Balmoral Hall School for Girls education is evident.  The 2008 graduating class average was 84% with the majority of students obtaining an A average (80-100%).  Over 75% of the graduating class was offered university scholarships.  To date, the 2008/09 graduating class has received scholarship offers in excess of $500,000 from various universities and colleges in Canada and the United States.

On average over 98% of our graduates attend their first choice university.  In the past 10 years, Balmoral Hall School graduates have been accepted at the following universities and colleges:

Canada

• Acadia University, NS
• Brandon University, MB
• Brock University, ON
• Carleton University, ON
• Dalhousie University, NS
• Dawson College, QC
• Huron University College, ON
• McGill University, PQ
• McMaster University, ON
• Mount Allison University, NB
• Ontario College of Art and Design, ON
• Queen's University, ON
• Richard Ivey School of Business, ON
• Royal Military College, ON
• Ryerson University, ON
• Sheridan College, ON
• Simon Fraser University, BC
• University of Alberta, AB
• University of British Columbia, BC
• University of Calgary, AB
• University of Guelph, ON
• University of King's College, NS
• University of Manitoba, MB
• University of Ottawa, ON
• University of Saskatchewan, SK
• University of Toronto, ON
• University of Victoria, BC
• University of Waterloo, ON
• University of Western Ontario, ON
• University of Winnipeg, MB
• York University, ON

USA & International

• Art Institute of California, USA
• Boston University, USA
• Cardiff University, UK
• Colgate University, USA
• College of St. Benedict, USA
• Cornell University, USA
• Duke University, USA
• Emory University, USA
• George Washington University, USA
• Georgetown University, USA
• Hamilton College, USA
• Mercyhurst College, USA
• Niagara University, USA
• Princeton University, USA
• Quinnipiac University, USA
• Smith College, USA
• St. Cloud State University, USA
• Stanford University, USA
• Universidad de las Américas, MX
• University of Arizona, USA
• University of Greenwich, UK
• University of Michigan, USA
• University of Minnesota, USA
• University of North Dakota, USA
• University of Southern California, USA
• University of Vermont, USA
• University of Virginia, USA
• University of Washington, USA
• University of Wisconsin - Superior, USA
• Yale University, USA

Facilities

• 12-acre river front campus with running track
• Prendiville Family Library equipped with CD-ROMs, Internet, computer access to libraries and over 14,000 books
• Wireless Internet access in all classrooms, offices and atrium
• School-wide IBM laptop initiative
• Two computer science centers (IBM and MAC)
• Moffat Communications Technology Resource Centre (iMac)
• State-of-the-art Physics, Chemistry, Biology laboratories and greenhouse
• Richardson Hall Athletic Centre complete with fitness room
• Performing Arts Centre (Sifton Family Theatre and dance studio)
• Sharfe Family Music Room
• Private music lesson rooms
• Art Studios
• Dining Hall
• Kozminski Common Room for Senior School students
• Residence (Grades 6 - 12)
  • The residence has 18 apartment-style dorm rooms for boarding students in Middle and Senior School
  • Each dorm room is fully furnished and has its own full bathroom
  • Each dorm room is shared by two to four students
  • All rooms have telephone and Internet access
  • Students can enjoy a spacious common room with TVs, DVDs, computers, a Playstation and a DVD library with over 100 titles
  • All meals are prepared at the school by a first rate kitchen staff and served in the school Dining Hall
  • All boarding students are members of the Winnipeg Winter Club, which provides extensive recreational programs. Facilities include: badminton, squash, tennis courts, full size indoor skating rink, swimming pool and many other amenities.

Residence Life

The BH Family - A warm and welcoming atmosphere

Living, working and playing together is what Balmoral Hall School (BH) Residence is all about.  Experienced residence staff and faculty strive to create a sense of community - the BH Family.  They are friends, role models and disciplinarians and ensure that each boarder's experience is happy and fulfilling.  This feeling of connection and family characterizes the school and is especially evident among the young women who make the residence their home.  BH welcomes boarders from around the world.  Life in residence is stimulating and fun, as the "rezzies" experience first hand the pleasures of sharing diverse cultures and traditions, and the importance of building mutual understanding and respect.  It is a treasured time in their lives, a time for expanding their horizons and forging lifelong friendships.

It's all part of life at BH

Our goal is to teach students how to find a balance in their lives. By creating a supportive environment based on mutual respect, students achieve academic and personal success.  Study Hall is held on Sundays from 8:00-9:00 pm and Monday to Thursday from 3:45-4:45 pm. Teaching faculty are available from 3:30-4:00 pm on Monday to Friday for extra help in all subjects.

Residence Staff encourage participation in after school activities including the Blazers Athletic Program featuring basketball, volleyball, hockey, badminton, golf and much more.  Likewise, the residence students can take advantage of the Academy of Excellence after school program. Classes are offered at BH in dance, music, visual arts, science and technology. All residence students also receive memberships to the Winnipeg Winter Club premiere fitness facility. Students have access to tennis, badminton, swimming, ice-skating, squash and fitness equipment. Students are encouraged to take private music instruction, dance or equestrian. 

Experience it all

Every weekend the student elected Prefect works with the Residence Assistants to plan optional activities such as attending the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, playing paintball, snowboarding or rock climbing. Other students may opt to go to the movies or attend a friend's hockey game. Weekends can be cultural, educational, busy or quiet but mostly they are time to have fun and relax.

The world comes together at BH

Girls from diverse nations share their customs, cultures and religions, their opinions and their unique traditions. Students who are learning English as their second language are provided ongoing mentoring and support to make certain they experience a smooth transition, both linguistically and culturally. There are many opportunities to experience the Canadian way of life.

Guardianship, Residence Supervision & Faculty

The Head of School and Director of Residence assume guardianship for all Residence students.

Residence supervision is provided by the Director of Residence as well as 3 assistants who live in the building. There is security on site.

Faculty and staff directly involved with Residence students also include: the Head of School; Principal of Middle or Senior School; EAL/ESL Teachers; Homeroom & Subject Teachers; University Guidance Counsellor and the Coordinator of Student Activities. Together, this team supervises all aspects of Residence students' daily lives including each student's academic progress and involvement in co-curricular activities.

Residence Orientation

At the start of the school year, all new Residence students participate in an orientation designed specifically to introduce them to the Faculty, the School, and to Winnipeg. Parents are invited to spend the first two days. Students travelling to Winnipeg alone, will be met at the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport by a School representative. The week provides many opportunities for students to select their courses and co-curricular activities.

International Fees

International 2009/2010 Fees		CDN Funds
Academic and Residences Fees		$37,230
Academic fees cover tuition including academic program, textbooks, novels, school agendas, portfolio binders, athletic and sports fees and school publications. English as an Additional Language (EAL), English Second Language (ESL), English Language Learning (ELL) and/or curriculum support are included as needed. Residence fees also include meals, accommodations and boarding, transportation to and from airport and school-related or extra-curricular activities, membership to the Winnipeg Winter Club (recreation, sport and fitness facility only) and the non-Manitoba residence surcharge.
International Mandatory Miscellaneous Fees:		$1,610
Mandatory miscellaneous fees are in addition to the academic and residence fees and include the cost of the basic school uniform, combination lock, International Student Health Insurance and the Parent Association Membership. Additional expenses may include, but are not limited to: Optional school uniform and accessories (rings/pictures/jackets), athletic or sports equipment; art and school supplies; BH yearbook; school organized projects, special trips or other excursions organized by the School or Residence personnel; tutoring, private lessons, external examinations: i.e. AP, PSAT, SAT, TOEFL; Dining Hall or Student Store purchases, Tuition Refund Plan; personal boarding expenses: i.e. allowance, long distance, or local taxi charges. Payment of the International Fees in Canadian funds is required prior to official acceptance for the 2009/2010 school year.

Admissions Procedure

How to Apply

The admissions process is designed to assist applicants, parents and Balmoral Hall School to make informed and appropriate decisions regarding enrolment.  Balmoral Hall School accepts applications on a continual basis throughout the school year.  Late applicants for the current school year may be accepted depending upon space availability.

Step 1

Complete and return the following:

• International Application Form, Educational Plans, applicant's picture and copy of passport identification page.
• Copy of final report of transcript from previous year and most recent report card.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or a Second Language Proficiency (SLEP) scores, if available.
• Letters of Recommendation from English and Mathematics teachers.
• Non-refundable application and assessment fee of $150 CDN funds.
• Composition: Applicants are to write an English composition on a separate page in their own handwriting. Applicants are to compose and write this assignment by themselves, and answer the following questions:
  
  • Why do you want to come to Canada?
  • What are your hobbies and interests that you want to continue while in Canada?
  • What is the one main goal you hope to accomplish this year at Balmoral Hall School?
  Please attach finished composition assignment to the completed application.
• All application documents may be faxed to 204-774-5534 for immediate review for acceptance. Original documents including transcripts and a recent photograph are required to be sent to the school prior to entry.

Step 2

• Balmoral Hall School will immediately review all documentation received.  If acceptable, a letter, fax or email will be sent offering a place at Balmoral Hall School.  Upon receipt of informal acceptance, payment of the 2009/2010 fees is required.

Step 3

• Upon receipt of the 2009/2010 fees an official "Letter of Acceptance", "Notarized Custodianship Declaration - Custodian" and "Letter of Responsibility" (Guardianship) along with other registration documentation will be couriered for Visa and/or Study Permit purposes.  For Residence and School excursions, students should obtain a U.S. Visitors Visa prior to attending Balmoral Hall School.

Visa refusal - If a student is unable to obtain a Visa, all fees except for the application and assessment fee of $150 CDN will be refunded. Official proof of refusal will be required for refund.

Withdrawal: Unless the Head of School receives written notification of the withdrawal prior to Tuesday, June 30, 2009, parents/guardians are responsible for the full academic year's tuition. No reduction or remission of the academic tuition fees, residence fees or any additional miscellaneous fees or charges for the full academic year will be allowed by the School for any reason, including, without limitation, absence, withdrawal (including medical reasons) or dismissal of the student.

Contact Information

Pamela K. McGhie
Director of Admissions
Tel: 204-784-1621
Fax: 204-774-5534
E-mail: pmcghie@balmoralhall.com
Website: www.balmoralhall.com

Balmoral Hall School
630 Westminster Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba,
Canada R3C 3S1