7 Best High Schools in Orleans, Ottawa

When it comes to finding a place to call home, one of the most critical factors for families is access to quality education. In the vibrant community of Orleans, Ottawa, education plays a central role in shaping the future of our youth. As a leading real estate agency in the area, we understand the significance of exceptional public schools in influencing home-buying decisions. 

In this blog post, we aim to spotlight seven outstanding high schools in Orleans, Ottawa, providing invaluable insights for families seeking the perfect blend of education and location for their next home.”

This guide will provide valuable information about these schools, including attendance boundaries, school ratings, enrollment details, available facilities, programs, and services.

Table of Contents
Matthew High School

Address
6550 Bilberry Drive, Orléans K1C 2S9

Email: Matthew.High@ocsb.ca

Telephone: 613-837-3161

Attendance boundary Map

School Type Catholic High School
Motto United The Tiger
Founded 1981
Grades 7 to 12
Fraser Score 7.4
Ranking 149/739

Facilities and Resources

  • Learning Commons
  • Chapel 
  • Cafeteria
  • Atrium
  • Innovation Room
  • Resource Room
  • DE Room
  • Gym
  • Weight Room

Academic programs

  • Cooperative Education Program

This specially designed program gives students a chance to have practical experience in the workplace along with academic study. In this way, the students can easily complete their credit hours and can also have work experience. 

  • Dual Credit

This program is very beneficial for the students as they can easily work for their diploma and can also prepare themselves for their future pathway after graduation. 

  • E-Learning

E-learning program gives students access to a wide range of courses as compared to the ones available at the school. Moreover, these courses have flexible time schedules, so the students don’t face timetable issues, and they can even learn skills which can benefit them in all aspects of life.

  • Focus Programs

This program builds a foundation for the career sector. Focus programs include packages of courses that focus on particular fields, giving students the academic experience alongside the workplace experience.

  • Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program OYAP 

This program gives an opportunity for the students to begin their apprenticeship in trade before their high school ends.

Clubs and activities

  • Arts Club
  • Board Game Club
  • Drama Guild
  • Eco Team
  • Fashion Show
  • Grad Committee
  • Improv League
  • Intramurals
  • Knitting Club
  • Mathletes Club
  • Peer Helpers
  • Rise Team
  • Ski Club
  • Star Team
  • Student Council
  • Tutoring/Mentoring
  • White Pine Book Club
  • Yearbook Committee 

Pros

  • This school is an ideal choice for e-learning due to its extensive resources and commitment to modern education. 
  • The well-equipped library of the school, also known as Learning Commons, offers a variety of digital and printed resources. St. Matthew High School students can easily access research databases and the latest technology like iPads and Chromebooks. 
  • The E-learning courses have flexible schedules. The students can easily explore a wide range of subjects without timetable constraints, giving them lifetime benefits.
  • The other innovative programs at school, such as Cooperative Education and Focus Programs, impart practical knowledge to the students. This makes St. Matthew High School one of the best schools in Orleans for E-Learning.

Cons

  • It is compulsory for the students to wear uniforms in the school. If you can afford to buy uniforms for your children, only then send them here. 
  • Some children reported that the bathroom doors didn’t have any handles. 
Beatrice Desloges Catholic Secondary School

Address
1999 Provence Ave., Orléans, ON K4A 3Y6, Canada

Phone number: +16138203391

School Type Francophone Separate Catholic (publicly funded)
Motto I believe in success as hard as I can – Pride, Excellence, Respect.
Founded 1997
Grades 7-12
Fraser score 7.2
Ranking 180/739

Facilities and Resources

  • Financial aid
  • Scholarships
  • Student loans
  • Cafeteria for breakfasts and lunch
  • Chapel
  • Library
  • Construction Technology
  • Video Arts
  • Stage
  • Gymnasium
  • Main Office
  • Student Services
  • Computer labs

Academic programs

  • The OptiMax program

This program promotes critical thinking and creative skills. These skills are crucial for the development of individuals and promote leadership. This constructive collaboration between the school and community really proves to be very beneficial for the students as it promotes a range of activities. 

  • Focus Program

The focus program gives students the opportunity to take part in the focus program of another school or community. The students can select their desired field and then earn four to five credits along with the practical experience. The students of grades 11 and 12 can always select the field of their choice from the focus program.

Clubs and activities

  • Cultural Entertainment

 The club works on the mission of promoting the personal, linguistic and cultural identity of the students.

  •  Pastoral Animation

This club works for the spiritual accompaniment (celebrations) and community development ( food collection). 

  • Kindness and Intimidation

 This is a forum where the students, parents and staff members can report all kinds of bullying behaviour to the management. The management, as a result, investigates and takes all the necessary action, protecting the identity of those who reported.

  • Student Government GDE
  • Sports Club

Pros

  • Béatrice-Desloges Catholic Secondary School is an institution which promotes critical thinking and creative skills. The school has such a positive and nurturing environment, which leads to success. 
  • The Optimax program offered at school promotes critical thinking and creative skills. Furthermore, the collaborative activities of this program promote leadership; the students explore their interests and gain practical experience while earning credits.
  •  Béatrice-Desloges not only has an art academy but also has special academic programs with Sports and Arts as major subjects. The school has a wide range of clubs offering diverse activities for all the students. 
  • There is a special emphasis on spiritual development. The school management has also taken anti-bullying initiatives. This institution truly champions holistic education.

Cons

  • The school came into the news spotlight after the “dress code blitz” when a principal forced students to follow a dress code. Although the higher authorities stepped in, the school is reported to have a few conservative rules. 
St. Peter Catholic High School

Address
750 Charlemagne Boulevard, Orléans, ON K4A 3M4 

Phone: 613-837-9377

Email: Peter.High@ocsb.ca

Attendance Boundary Map

School Type Catholic High School
Motto Dedicated to Excellence
Founded 1992
Grades 7 to 12
Fraser score 6.8
Ranking 261/739

Facilities and Resources

  • Atrium
  • Chapel
  • Learning Commons
  • Construction Technology
  • Video Arts
  • Stage
  • HS Gym / Spin Room
  • Main Office
  • Student Services

Academic programs

  • Cooperative Education Program
  • Dual Credit Program
  • E-learning Program
  • Focus Programs
  • Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program
  • SHSM Programs

Clubs and activities

  • Asian Student Association
  • Black Student Association (BSA)
  • Board Game Society (BGS)
  • Connecting Knights
  • Dance
  • Homework Club
  • Interact Club
  • Knights & Novels
  • Love is Louder
  • Paparazzi Knights
  • Patriots
  • Pirate Knitting Club
  • Prom Committee
  • Robotics
  • Ski Club
  • SPK Student Equity Committee
  • STEAM club
  • Student Council
  • The Tech Council Special Projects Team

Pros

  • St. Peter Catholic High School offers a wide range of programs. The school management is committed to giving the students an exceptional educational experience. 
  • The facilities and resources of the school include an atrium and learning commons with a well-equipped computer and science lab. 
  • The school has its own chapel for the teachers and students so that they can gather for daily prayer, religious ceremonies, and spiritual reflection.
  • The school offers some of the diverse academic programs such as Cooperative Education, Dual Credit, E-learning, and Focus Programs. These programs provide the students with practical experiences. The school has a multitude of clubs for the extracurricular activities of the students. 

Cons

  • The food in the cafeteria is horrible. Some students report that it is crusty and hard. The staff at the cafeteria don’t use gloves. One of the students reported that the fries were so hard that he almost broke a tooth and choked. 
  • Some white teachers use abusive language. 
  • It has also been reported that the third floor of the school smells bad. 
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Address
Garneau Catholic Secondary School
6588 rue Carrière
Ottawa (ON) K1C 1J4

Phone number: (613) 820-1750

Ecole secondaire catholique Garneau
School Type Francophone Separate Catholic (publicly funded
Motto Apprendre pour devenir (Learn to become)
Founded 1972
Grades 7-12
Language French
Principal Caroline Viau

Facilities and Resources

  • Transportation
  • Bistro
  • Computer labs
  • Library
  • Science labs

Academic programs

  • Sports Studies

This is a specifically designed three-part sports studies program for students who want to have a degree in sports major. The students can participate in a wide range of sports activities. The program focuses on students who are already into elite-level sports activities. Moreover, the special focus of this program is on training and coaching fellow players.

  • FX Center

This program offers a high pace of teaching for high-performing students. The students are given extensive training in logical and critical thinking, creative writing, and self-regulation. Global learning is supplemented by several educational activities, debates and interdisciplinary projects.

  • Concentration

This program gives students the opportunity to have an additional certificate for this course along with their secondary studies. The program focuses on communication, technology and business information.

Clubs and activities

  • Sports
  • Children in Difficulty EED
  • Social work services
  • SOS Homework
  • Student advice
  • Pastoral
  • Real friends

Pros

  • If your kid is interested in IT and computer science, this school is the best choice. The school offers a variety of programs in IT. One such cutting-edge program for intermediate and high school students is called Explore-IA. The main fields targeted through this program include computing, artificial intelligence, business, and innovation. 
  • The school management organizes workshops and has designed a curriculum that combines IT programs with business concentrations. This lays the foundation for a bright technological career and future for the students. 
  • Moreover, the school offers various other courses and programs along with other activities.

Cons

  • The building is quite dated and needs renovation. The bathrooms are quite unclean, too. 
  • They call it a Catholic school, but there isn’t enough time and resources dedicated to it. The students get to attend 2 half religion courses in grades 7-8 and 1 mandatory credit that must be acquired from ANY religion course in grade 10 or 11. 
  •  The students do not get enough time for their daily prayer. It lasts from 30 seconds to 4 minutes only. They also force students to attend church, which happens for every holiday (Thanksgiving, Remembrance Day, Christmas, and Easter). 
  • Most extracurricular activities are not very good. The good ones get disbanded for different reasons (the person running it left, underfunded, lack of interest)
  • Some students reported that the school authorities have no regard for those who struggle in school, whether it’s with attendance, grades, attitude, or anything personal. They make no effort in trying to keep students motivated. 
College Catholique Mer Bleue

Address
Mer Bleue Catholic College
6401, chemin Renaud
Orléans (ON) K1W 0H8

Email: orleans@ecolecatholique.ca
Telephone number: (613) 744-4022

PrincipalNjeuga, Nya
LanguagesEnglish and French
Founded2016
Grades7-12
Fraser Score7.2
Ranking180/739

Facilities and Resources

  • Transportation
  • Cafeteria service
  • Library services
  • Community services
  • Lighthouse
  • Interscholastic sports

Academic programs

  • Open days at secondary school
  • International Baccalaureate (IB)
  • Concentration
  • Enrichment program
  • Focus Programs
  • Interscholastic sports

Clubs and activities

  • Sports
  • Children in Difficulty EED
  • Social work services
  • SOS Homework
  • Student advice
  • Pastoral
  • Real friends
  • Kindness and Intimidation 

Pros

  • If you want your child to compete in sports, this school is the best choice. The school offers top-notch facilities and resources for sports. 
  • The students here at this school compete and actively take part in various athletic events. This promotes teamwork and physical fitness. As the school focuses on both physical and mental health, there are various other academic programs apart from sports. 
  • Mer Bleue Catholic College truly excels in nurturing well-rounded individuals.
  • The school has a comprehensive transportation system, cafeteria services, and library resources.

Cons

  • Some students and parents reported in online reviews that the teachers are not friendly. 
Sir Wilfred Laurier Secondary School

Address
1515 Tenth Line Rd, Orleans, ON K1E 3E8

Phone: 613- 834-4500 |
Email: sirwilfridlaurierss@ocdsb.ca

English and Immersion Attendance Boundary Map

School type High School
Motto We strive for the Highest
Founded 1966
Grades 9-12
Fraser score 6.7
Ranking 281/739

Facilities and Resources

  • Specified computer labs for Macintosh and PC platforms. 
  • The Tinker studio in the school is specified for arts, crafts and self-expression.
  •  The Thinker studio is for creative engineering products of the students.
  • A specifically designed Makerspace for arts and creativity.
  • Triple gym and weight room 
  • Recreation center for the community with meeting rooms, wave pool and ice rink.
  • Computer labs
  • Graphic media lab 
  • Field trips and workshops

Academic programs

  • Arts Programs
  • Business Studies
  • Canadian and World Studies
  • Computer Studies
  • English
  • French as a Second Language
  • Guidance and Career Education
  • Health and Physical Education
  • Native Studies
  • Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Technological Education
  • Arts programs in Music, Drama and Visual Arts
  • Core French and French Immersion program 
  •  Pre-Engineering program, including Robotics

Clubs and activities

  • Anime Club 
  • Art Club 
  • Board Games Club 
  • Cappies Critics 
  • Creative Communications Club – 
  • Basketball club
  • Badminton club
  • Cross Country Skiing
  • Snowboard Club
  • Girls Rugby 
  • Girls Soccer 
  • Girls Touch Football 
  • Boys Rugby 

Pros

  • Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School stands as a beacon for the brightest and best students. With a motto of “We strive for the Highest,” this high school, founded in 1966, is dedicated to academic excellence. 
  • The school offers some of the best facilities and resources to its students. These include a well-equipped library, specified computer labs for Macintosh and PC platforms, creative spaces like the Tinker and Thinker studios, and even a Makerspace for arts and creativity. 
  • The academic programs offered here cover a wide range of disciplines. Some of the programs offered at school include arts programs and pre-engineering programs. Moreover, a diverse range of clubs and activities, along with sports teams, contribute to an enriched educational experience.

Cons

  • None 
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Cairine Wilson Secondary School

Address
975 Orleans Boulevard, Orleans, ON K1C 2Z5

Phone: (613) 824-4411
Email: cairinewilsonss@ocdsb.ca

English and Immersion attendance boundary map

Motto Carpe Diem” (Seize the Day)
Founded 1975
Grades 9-12
Campus Suburban
Principal Andrew Cumberland
Fraser ranking  7.3
Enrollment 792

Facilities and Resources

  • Library
  • Computer lab
  • Transportation
  • Virtual after-school tutoring program
  • Orleans Homework Club

Academic programs

  • Advanced Placement Courses

This program offers an extensive academic curriculum for the students of grades 11 and 12. It not only fulfills the requirement of a secondary school graduation diploma but can also serve the purpose of first-year university credits. 

  • International Certificate Program

The main focus of the program is to make students informed, engaged and active global citizens. 

  • French Immersion
  • Cooperative Education
  • Outdoor Education
  • Fine Arts (Drama, Visual Arts, Music)
  • Food & Nutrition
  • Transportation Technology 
  • Computer Technology
  • Entrepreneurial Studies
  • Remedial support and educational assessments.

Clubs and activities

  • Culinary Club
  • Cairine Wilson Photo Album Club
  •  Athletic club
  • Student Council

Pros

  • The school is well known for its commitment to both academic and athletic excellence. The students get loads of resources, which include a well-equipped library, computer labs, and a virtual after-school tutoring program. 
  • The specialized Triple A Program offered here creates a balance between academics, athletics, and activity. The school also offers Advanced Placement Courses and the International Certificate Program for global citizenship. 
  • The school has a Distress Centre for the students who need support after a tragedy. The school also offers special education support for students in grades 9 to 11. 

Cons

  • Some students complain that the bathrooms are quite damaged, and stall doors are broken. 
  • Students frequently vape in the bathrooms. 
  • You must pay a fee (around $100) to be accepted on one of the teams in sports. 

Conclusion

Orleans, Ottawa, has some of the most impressive high schools. The top priority of these schools is academic excellence, personal growth, and a supportive learning environment. Each of the seven schools highlighted in this blog post offers unique strengths and opportunities for students. If you want your child to have a well-rounded educational experience, then do visit the list of high schools in Orleans mentioned above and make the best choice.

Are you looking forward to buying a house close to any of the above-mentioned schools? Book a consultation with an expert real estate agent like Labrosse. 

FAQS

According to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board website, there are 117 elementary schools, 25 high schools, and 5 secondary alternative sites.

The Ottawa Catholic School Board (also known as Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE)) and the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) are two separate school boards in the Ottawa area, and they differ primarily in their religious affiliations, governance, and the type of education they offer. 

The compulsory subjects taught in high school in Canada include English, mathematics, natural sciences, Canadian history, Canadian geography, arts, health and physical education, French, vocational studies, citizenship courses

Ottawa Carleton District Board offers a variety of special education programs. These include: 

  1. Regular class with specialized support
  2. Regular class with learning support teacher or learning resource teacher monitoring
  3. Regular class with a learning support teacher or learning resource teacher support
  4. Specialized program
  5. Special education school

Find out the details here. 

The two official languages of Canada taught at schools in Ottawa include English and French. You always have the option when you are deciding on schooling. In an English school, most of the syllabus will be taught in English. In a French Immersion school, the syllabus will be in both languages, i.e. French and English.

According to the school records, 1,143 students are enrolled in Nepean High School. 

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