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Merivale High School
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Merivale High School is an intermediate and secondary school serving approximately 1,900 students from grades 7 to 12. It offers a comprehensive range of academic pathways, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and a Specialist High Skills Major in Communication & Design.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Guided by the motto "Moniti Meliora" ("Having been advised, let us pursue better things"), the school is committed to providing mentoring, advice, and guidance to help students improve themselves and pursue a better future. It strives to create a safe, multicultural environment that fosters mutual respect, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for all students.
Programmes
The school provides an intermediate program (grades 7-8) featuring English and French Immersion, and a secondary program (grades 9-12) offering university, college, and workplace pathways. Specialized offerings include the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, French Immersion, Cooperative Education, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), and Dual Credit programs through Algonquin College. Additionally, the school hosts a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Communication & Design, alongside programs in personal fitness and outdoor education.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides inclusive learning support and student success initiatives to assist students across all academic pathways. Dedicated resources include a Learning Support Centre and guidance services to support student well-being and academic progress.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Merivale High School offer?
- Merivale High School offers IB Diploma.
- What accreditations does Merivale High School hold?
- Merivale High School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Merivale High School co-educational?
- Merivale High School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Merivale High School located?
- Merivale High School is an international school in Ottawa, Canada.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school accepts applications for its International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, with specific geographic boundaries determined by the student's home address. The digital application process for students in grades 8 and 9 requires submission of recent reporting documents, a teacher reference, an IB questionnaire, an English writing exercise, and a live mathematics task. Transfers from other IB World Schools are accommodated where space permits.
Calendar
The school operates on a two-semester system, with final evaluations and exams typically scheduled in January and June. The academic year includes various professional activity (PA) days, statutory holidays, and a scheduled March Break. Key annual events include IB information sessions, parent-teacher interviews, and seasonal athletic and music showcases.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus includes two full double gymnasiums, a fully equipped exercise and weight room, and two extensive playing fields with a track and a neighbouring hockey arena. Academic facilities feature a fully serviced Learning Commons with lendable technology, renewed science and computer labs, a nutrition lab, and specialized spaces for construction, transportation, and communication and design programs. Arts facilities include a drama studio, two arts studios, and music rooms with individual practice spaces.
Co-curriculars
Merivale High School offers a wide range of student-led clubs and activities, with a general list provided to families each September. The athletic program features three seasons of sports, including intramural programs and various team competitions. Students may also participate in the music program, which includes junior and senior bands, as well as drama and musical productions supported by dedicated music and drama councils.
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- Matt GagnierPrincipal
Matt Gagnier serves as the Principal of Merivale High School. He has overseen significant school and campus improvements over the past six years and emphasizes the school's commitment to academic diversity, community, and student success.
- Kim ElmerVice Principal (A - K)
Kim Elmer has served as a Vice-Principal at Merivale High School for four years and is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.
- Rohan HollingsworthVice Principal (L - Z)
Rohan Hollingsworth has served as a Vice-Principal at Merivale High School for 4.5 years. Following the 2025-2026 school year, he is moving to become a Vice-Principal at Frederick Banting Secondary Alternate Program.
- Alexandra McNaughtVice Principal (Intermediate)
Alexandra McNaught serves as a Vice-Principal at Merivale High School, specifically for the Intermediate (Grade 7-8) program. She is confirmed to continue in this role for the 2026-2027 school year.
IB Diploma