Collège Ville-Marie

Founded in 1962, the school follows a project-based educational philosophy that prioritizes human development, social inclusion, and the cultivation of autonomy and responsibility. It aims to form engaged citizens by balancing intellectual, physical, and social growth. The school maintains a family-like atmosphere where staff members are actively involved in the success and well-being of each student.

The school offers four distinct pedagogical pathways: the 'Régulier+' program, the 'Initiative' enrichment program, the 'Sport plein air' concentration, and the 'Régulier avec soutien pédagogique' program. Students can personalize their education with elective courses such as digital arts, culinary arts, communications and media, 20th-century history, psychology, and a third language. Additionally, an accelerated English enrichment program is available, allowing students to complete advanced credits by the 5th year of secondary school.

The school provides comprehensive support measures for students facing academic or personal difficulties. This includes dedicated pedagogical support, orthopedagogy, and guidance from specialized educators. The school emphasizes a smooth transition from primary to secondary school through adapted scheduling and class organization for the first cycle.

The school limits admissions to 168 students per grade level, capping total applications at 700 to maintain a human-scale environment. The process replaces traditional entrance exams with collaborative workshops and a review of 4th and 5th-grade report cards. Applications for the 1st year of secondary school typically open in March, with selection rounds occurring in October and November. Financial aid is available through the Fondation Aurèle-Daoust for families experiencing exceptional circumstances.

The school operates on a standard academic calendar, with administrative offices open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 to 16:30 and Friday until 14:00. Specific dates for the 2026-2027 school year are available via a downloadable PDF on the school's website. Open house events are held annually, typically in the spring, to welcome prospective families.

The campus, located in Montreal, features a main building and a new pavilion scheduled for completion in 2025/2026. Facilities include a modern gymnasium (renovated in 2020), a library, science laboratories, a dedicated e-sports technology lab, and a cafeteria. The new pavilion adds a rooftop sports plateau, a multifunctional hall with retractable seating for 238 people, and a palestre for physical training.

Students participate in a variety of activities including e-sports, a ski and snowboard club, and student involvement initiatives. The school also organizes enriching trips and maintains various student sports teams. These activities are designed to complement the academic curriculum and foster personal development.