St. John's-Kilmarnock School

a world of learning

When you visit this incredible school you'll likely recall your own days of learning and marvel at how incredibly different St. John's-Kilmarnock feels and how exciting it must be for all who enter.

Beyond its doors you'll feel the energy of a school community committed to a vision to engage students in an unparalleled educational journey as innovative leaders in knowledge, creativity and global action. Head of School Norman Southward explains, "Everyone is challenged to achieve here. The bar is raised by our dedicated, engaged teachers and our students from JK to 12. Our focus on 'preparing for life' is reflected in all subjects and activities."

Global Edge

Everything is relevant here ...connected ... and that sets St. John's-Kilmarnock apart from other schools. It's a vibrant and innovative world of learning on a 36 acre campus with a large central pond and many sports fields. The passion for learning and positive collaboration that are foundations of the school community combine with creativity, action and service, three key elements of the International Baccalaureate Diploma program (IB). With an emphasis on university preparation and leadership, the IB curriculum exceeds Ontario standards, adding a global point of view that helps to develop the intellectual, emotional and social skills required for students to live, learn and work in an increasingly connected world. Service trips to Kenya, India, Ecuador, Galapagos Islands and a 10-year partnership with schools in Himalayan Nepal provide a treasured opportunity to broaden perspective. Recent partnerships in China established a Sino-Canadian exchange, an affiliation with a new Canadian International School near Shanghai and Mandarin classes offered right here at St. John's-Kilmarnock.

Five Worlds Focus

Learning is continually set in the context of our world, concentrating on the lessons of Canada's north, the ecosystems of Central and South America, the developing countries of Africa, the traditions of China, India and the Pacific Rim, and the historical perspectives of Western Europe.

"We make their world bigger", Norman explains., "so that each of our students is prepared to not merely survive but to contribute; to lead.

Our teachers and staff are conscious of the value of collaboration to that end. It's heartening to see how well it works … for everyone."

Being a not-for-profit and fee-dependant school sets a good example of community service. Funds are directed toward growing and greening the campus, improving teaching facilities and offering scholarships and bursaries to continue to attract the best and the brightest.

Local initiatives engage the students in important causes like KidsAbility and We Day/Free the Children. There's an emphasis on balancing scholastic achievements with co-curricular challenges in arts, athletics and community support. "We're fortunate to be part of Waterloo Region", Norman points out, "with its long and proud history of innovation and energizing current of technology. The region offers a spirit and a zest for learning that encourages our students to take advantage of connections and resources within the universities, the college and the strong business community. This is an exciting and fun place to learn and to grow. One such connection will be made this year as the school joins local tech companies and post-secondary institutions in the Communitech Hub, immersing our students in the accelerated world of app development and technological innovation."

As you leave St. John's-Kilmarnock you'll feel a comfort that the future is in good hands; the hands of students who are already eagerly committed to building community; students who embraced the idea that "learning doesn't stop at the school door".