Barrydowne College opens doors for the future

Rainbow District School Board is calling on young people between the ages of 18 to 21 who have left school to come back and register at Barrydowne College.

“As educators, we know the benefit of having a Grade 12 diploma in today’s competitive world,” says Director of Education Bruce Bourget. “Some students thrive in an alternative setting which is what Barrydowne College provides.”

Located at Cambrian College, the secondary school within a college supports students in achieving an Ontario Secondary School Diploma through the setting, the smaller class sizes, individualized instruction and flexible timetable.

“Programming is designed to meet student needs,” says Principal Susan Kett. “Students earn credits, build soft skills and develop links to community college programs.” She adds: “We also focus on wellness which is important to student success.”

Barrydowne College offers a wide variety of courses including elective credits such as Art, Food and Nutrition, First Nations, Métis and Inuit Studies as well as a Specialist High Skills Major in Arts and Culture.

Dual Credits can be applied towards a secondary school diploma and post-secondary education, including apprenticeship certifications. Students also have the potential of earning paid Co-operative Education credits which provide hands-on experience in the workplace.

“Staff will tell you that what makes Barrydowne College so special are the students and the rapport that they build with them,” says Principal Kett. “Students will say that it is the staff that make the difference through their care, concern and commitment to helping them learn. I will tell you that it’s the students and the staff who come together to create a culture of mutual respect and a sense of belonging. We share a common goal – student success – and we work together to make it happen.”

Principal Kett says Barrydowne College has spawned many success stories since its inception in 2011. “Students who had fallen behind in school, whose life circumstances were not ideal or who never thought they could finish the courses needed to graduate are suddenly filled with a renewed sense of hope and optimism,” she says. “Graduations are a celebration of resilience and perseverance.”

She adds: “We are very proud of our students. They recognize the value of having a high school diploma and work hard to reach their goal. In the process, they gain confidence and open doors for their future.”

To learn more about Barrydowne College, please call Principal Susan Kett at 705.566.2302 or visit barrydowne.rainbowschools.ca.

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Media contact:
Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217