Georges Vanier Secondary School (GVSS) is a dynamic learning environment with a wide variety of opportunities to meet the needs of all students. We host a full range of courses in all areas of the Ontario Curriculum. We are the home of the STEM+ program, a grade 9 -12 enriched program in Mathematics and Science that takes a Global, Social Justice perspective in the delivery of the curriculum. As well, there are PROGRAM 2 ART, and three Specialist High Skills Major Programs (Aerospace, ADVANCE: Arts & Culture, and ICT) that attract students with different academic interests and passions. Vanier serves a highly diverse student population & we are dedicated to preparing students to be successful in the Global Economy.
SPECIALIST HIGH SKILLS MAJORS - CHOOSE FROM THREE
Students may choose from one of our three SHSM Programs; ADVANCE (Animation, Design, Visual Art & Creation Experience), ICT (Information Communication Technology), or AVIATION & AEROSPACE, and take advantage of the opportunity to focus on a career path that matches their skills & interests while allowing them to earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Students can earn valuable industry certifications including first aid/CPR and gain important practical skills through a co-operative education placement specific to their chosen SHSM.
Interesting Feature
STEM+
The STEM+ program provides an enriched learning opportunity for students interested in applying their knowledge in Science, Math and Computer Technology by offering an interdisciplinary methodology to deepen their critical thinking skills. The framework will encourage the application of a global perspective and active citizenship. The program will lead to the selection of AP (Advanced Placement in University) courses and AP examinations in the student's graduating year.
More Information about Georges Vanier Secondary School
PROGRAM 2 ART
Vanier offers a special intensive program for students thinking seriously about pursuing post-secondary studies and careers in Visual Arts. PROGRAM 2 ART covers many aspects of art creation including drawing, painting, sculpture, 2D & 3D design, computer graphics, animation, linear and atmospheric perspective, art history, typography, and printmaking.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
We are proud to serve a diverse student population and welcome English Language Learners (ELL) from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. We also welcome a large number of international students who enjoy calling Vanier their home away from home.
STUDIO MUSIC
Song writing and recording are at the core of what we do. We value modern music and song writing techniques that don’t rely on reading & writing of music notation. Students work in labs, rehearsal spaces and in one of the best recording studios in any high school! We do music, dance, poetry, graphics - about any kind of modern art and media you can imagine!
BSC@VAN
Students interested in pursuing post secondary studies and careers in the area of Business have the option of earning a Business Specialist Certificate @ Vanier. Students wishing to take advantage of this opportunity also benefit from participating in a number of enrichment activities which are designed to further develop and enhance their classroom learning.
Additional Features
- Drama Club and Innovation Club
- SAGE Business Club
- Duke of Edinburgh Leadership Club
- Character Education Club
- Vanier Ambassadors & Peer Tutors
- Breakfast Club
- Student, Athletics, & Arts Councils
- Gay Straight Alliance (GSA)
Student Life - Where You Belong
Students enjoy a vast array of co-curricular programs including clubs, leadership councils and sports teams. Some examples of these include: SAGE – Students for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship, Van Arts Council, monthly Coffee House (Musical Performances), Student Council, Van Radio and Vanier Photography Club. Vanier sports teams include: basketball, volleyball, soccer, cricket, baseball, badminton, water polo, ultimate Frisbee, cross country and more. Drama, music, visual arts, physical and health education contribute to our being a triple "A" school i.e. Academics, Arts and Athletics. Special events and assemblies could not happen without the excellent work of our skilled students who are part of the Vanier Stage Crew. Among the highlights of student life at Vanier are our prom nights, school plays and our participation in drama festivals. Of particular note is our annual Vanier International Big Event (VIBE) - a week long multicultural celebration, marked by motivated student leadership, excitement and lots of learning.
What Sets Us Apart
Our Music Studio is one of the world’s finest public school music creation and production facilities. Vanier proudly offers the only AVIATION & AEROSPACE SHSM in the TDSB. Vanier students are able to earn a Focus on Information Technology (FIT) Certificate which is granted by the Information Technology Software Association (ITSA) and recognized by the IT Industry across Canada. To date, all PROGRAM 2 ART graduates who have applied to Ontario College of Art and Design University have been accepted and gained early admission. Vanier is an Advance Placement (AP) certified testing centre and currently offers the AP Calculus course. Other AP courses will be added as the STEM+ students progress through their program.
Parent and Community Engagement
Our school council is active, knowledgeable and involved in school decision-making. The regular meetings feature a report from the principal, student leaders, a staff representative as well as discussions of school issues. The school council works with the principal on organizing parenting seminars and workshops for the community. Vanier encourages ongoing and regular contact with parents regarding attendance, grades, curriculum and important school-related topics.