At Whitby School, student success is one of our top priorities. From Nursery through 8th grade, our goal is make sure our students are thriving in their learning environments. However, our picture of a successful student is not limited to their time at Whitby. We consider the preparation for further education to be an integral part of how we evaluate student success.
So what does preparing students for secondary school success look like at Whitby?
Secondary School Counseling Process
The goal of our Secondary School Counseling Program at Whitby School is to help each individual student succeed in finding the best fit school for his or her next academic environment. Students are strategically matched with schools that will empower them to learn effectively, enjoy and contribute to their communities, and reach their full potential.
Consistent with the overall approach to education at Whitby, Secondary School Counseling is highly individualized. The school works in close partnership with students and their parents to explore each student's academic strengths, extracurricular interests and optimal school community, size, and location. Students collaborate with the Director of Secondary School Placement, teachers and advisors to write essays, prepare for interviews, and submit their applications.
The low student-teacher ratio at Whitby means the teachers are able to write very personal and knowledgeable letters of recommendation which are an invaluable component of a student's application packet. Whitby also prepares its students for success in the admissions process through practice interviews and preparation courses for standardized admissions tests.
Annual Secondary School Fair
Each fall, Whitby co-hosts a Secondary School Fair open to the public, attracting numerous leading secondary schools. This fair is a great opportunity for schools to promote their programs and for students and families to meet representatives from some of their Secondary School options.
Overall, the result is that students are prepared with the necessary knowledge to make good decisions and submit high-quality applications, reflecting each student's unique character and strengths. Whitby students have a successful track record of acceptance and performance at leading independent boarding and day schools as well as local public schools, with more than 90% accepted at their first choice schools.
