Our Secondary Panel

The Secondary years are where every part of the La Citadelle journey comes together. Students build on years of bilingual study, specialist instruction and independent learning, and they take on a program designed to make them exceptional university candidates, academically, socially and personally.

Every course we offer is a university bound credit, taught at the AP level. Students complete more courses than the Ontario Secondary School Diploma requires, maintain their linguistic edge in two first languages and take on real leadership throughout the school. The result is a rich and balanced educational portfolio that top universities and programs seek out.

The LCA Difference

• Every course a university bound credit, taught at the AP level
• More courses than the OSSD requires, for a broad and balanced academic portfolio
• The IB Middle Years Programme through Level II, culminating in the Personal Project, included in tuition
• AP courses in Levels III and IV, with one AP examination in Grade 11 and one in Grade 12 paid for by the school
• An academically advanced French program, with support for the DELF B2 and beyond
• Continuous leadership opportunities across the whole school
• Guidance and mentorship toward university and beyond
• Small classes, with a maximum of 16 students, and a full day until 4:30 p.m. with academic support included

An Education That Grows With Your Child

Levels I and II | Depth and Preparation
Students complete the IB Middle Years Programme, culminating in the Personal Project, an extended independent inquiry of their own choosing. Pre-AP courses build the knowledge, discipline and study habits that AP requires, and students develop the analytical, research and writing skills that university demands.

Levels III and IV | University Readiness
Students take AP courses in the subjects that shape their university plans. Each student writes one AP examination in Grade 11 and one in Grade 12, paid for by the school, with the option to write more. A strong AP result can earn university credit or an exemption from a first year course, giving students a head start before they arrive on campus.

A Balanced Academic Portfolio

La Citadelle requires a balanced program. Students study across languages, mathematics, the sciences, the humanities, technology and the arts, completing more courses than the Ontario Secondary School Diploma requires. Year round courses give each subject the depth it deserves, and Levels III and IV blend semestered and year round courses to support university planning. Examinations in every course build the preparation and composure that university requires. Graduates leave with an abundance of courses and a portfolio that opens doors to the most competitive universities and programs.

A Lasting Linguistic Edge

French and English continue as first languages at an advanced level, fulfilling the dual language requirements of the Secondary Panel through literary study, oral expression and formal writing. From Level II through Level IV, students are supported as they complete the DELF B2 and higher levels, the internationally recognized diploma of French proficiency awarded by France’s Ministry of Education. Students graduate with a bilingual command that distinguishes them in Canada and around the world.

Leadership Across the School

Secondary students lead the life of La Citadelle. They serve on the Student Council, act as House Heads, and support their peers as tutors, student ambassadors and guides for new students. Others assist in the school office and gain experience in the daily work of a school.

They also lead school wide events alongside their teachers and advisors: hosting the school showcase, judging the science fair, presenting research projects to Intermediary students and running school wide assemblies. Through DECA, senior robotics, mathematics competitions, athletics and optional international travel, they compete, collaborate and represent La Citadelle on a wider stage. Guided by our values of excellence, achievement, compassion, respect, discipline and harmony, they learn that leadership is service, and they graduate with a record of leadership that universities value.

Guidance & Preparation for University & Future Success

Our educators teach with expertise and mentor with care. Students receive guidance as they choose their courses, select their AP subjects and plan their path to university. With continuous access to leadership, students discover their strengths and interests, and each finds a direction that is truly their own.

La Citadelle prepares students for university in every dimension: academic rigour, linguistic strength, leadership experience and the social maturity to thrive in a new community. Our students excel, and universities recognize it. They graduate as capable scholars, compassionate leaders and young people ready for the world.

The Pathway Program

Students completing the final year offered at their current school may benefit from the Pathway Program Discount. Select schools are part of our Partnership Program. Inquire during your visit.