Harbord Collegiate Institute's Mission Statement
Since 1892, Harbord Collegiate Institute has had a long tradition of academic excellence and a faculty committed to equity, achievement and well-being. The school has a current enrolment of 900+ students (this includes virtual students) and a staff of over 50. Harbord offers many university and college preparation courses leading to a wide range of postsecondary destinations. Our focus on social justice, equity and the environment sets the framework for a dynamic education. Staff and students work together to promote a safe and nurturing environment.
Harbord Collegiate Institute offers a diverse range in programming including a Specialist High Skills Major (non-profit), a LAWs program, French (including immersion French). Harbord was awarded the TDSB Anne Hope Award for Social Justice and Equity and has earned Platinum certification as an Eco-School.
Harbord Club
The school is fortunate in having the Harbord Club, which is a strong alumni body, providing a link to the school for many graduates and former staff members. The club is very supportive of school activities and funds a large number of scholarships and awards for students.
More Information About Harbord Collegiate Institute
French Immersion Programmes
In French Immersion, students will receive their certificate if they complete 10 courses in French and an Honours certificate for 11 courses. In Extended French, students will be awarded their certificate if they complete 7 courses and an Honours certificate for 8 courses.
In addition to our French Immersion programmes, we offer instruction in French and Spanish studies. We offer courses for each language starting in Grade 9. You do not need previous knowledge of these languages to enrol in our courses. Advanced level students will be assessed by the members of the languages department and placed at the appropriate level. Core French starts in Grade 9 and is offered every year. There is an introductory level French course for students without previous knowledge.
Facilities
We have excellent technology and a state of the art multi-functional learning commons with comprehensive online references. Our swimming pool is one of the best in the city. Double and single gyms and a weight room encourage our students to stay fit. Visit our auditorium or our museum and you will feel the history and tradition that are so much a part of Harbord.
Special Education Programme
Our special education teachers and educational assistants work collaboratively with other teachers to assist students to develop effective learning strategies. They emphasize student self-advocacy so students can be a bigger part of their own success stories. Students also acquire high-level study skills.
Peer Leaders
The Harbord Peer Leader Program is a mentorship opportunity for select students in Grades 10 -12. Through a series of workshops, Peer Leaders are trained to develop and facilitate discussions on a range of topics for our Grade 9 students.
Due to COVID-19 and guidelines that have been established by the TDSB, the program has pivoted online.
Additional Features
- Co-operative Education Programme
- Social Justice Initiatives
- Tutoring Programmes
- Full Range of Clubs & Sports Teams
- Gender Equity and Rights
- Platinum Certified Eco-School
- Active Queer/Gay-Straight Alliance
Student Life - Where You Belong
GO TEAM
We have great school spirit and offer a large number of student-run clubs, including the Athletic Association, Students Leading Initiative for Change, Creative Arts Council, Robotics, Eco-team, Debating, Student Activity Council, Super Council, and cultural clubs. The KEY Club is involved in numerous volunteer opportunities, giving well over 2,000 hours of community service annually.
Harbord supports equity and inclusion through curricular and cross-curricular activities, including Indigenous Education Month, Lunar New Year, and African, Asian, Portuguese, and Spanish Heritage Months.
Our music programme includes band, strings and vocal classes as well as co-curricular activities. Our dynamic visual arts programme incorporates mediums from print and digital to paint and ceramics. Students in the Arts programme actively participate in a variety of events, performances and competitions.
Our full range of sports teams include cross-country running, basketball, baseball, softball, hockey, field hockey, rugby, wrestling, soccer, swimming, volleyball, ultimate Frisbee and tennis. An active intramurals programme ensures there are athletic opportunities for all.
WHAT SETS US APART
Our graduates have excelled in many fields and have gained international attention in areas including medicine, law, business and the performing arts. Alumni formed the Harbord Club, and through their generosity, offer over 50 awards to our students that recognize academic, athletic and extracurricular excellence.
The majority of our students are accepted into their programme of choice at universities and colleges across Ontario. A significant number of our graduates are Ontario Scholars and are frequently offered entrance scholarships to postsecondary destinations.
Communication is key at our school. Our teachers and administration believe in strong communication between home and school. We welcome parent/guardian participation in our school council and we enjoy a positive relationship with our community.
PARENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Our School Council holds regular meetings throughout the year and is always welcoming new parents and guardians to take an active role in their student's education. We communicate with our parents and guardians through Curriculum Night, School Newsletters, Emails, Parent/Guardian-Teacher Conferences, Grade 8 Information Night, Postsecondary Information Night and Course Selection Information Night.