Read more details about Ridley College on their 2026-27 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
At Ridley College, cadets is mandatory. Some may feel this is classifies Ridley as a "military school" or perhaps that it is archaic. To the contrary, cadets teaches the students teamwork, discipline, leadership and respect. Many enjoy the cadets program once involved, and most appreciate the opportunity to develop leadership skills and coach a squad.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
I discovered I had leadership skills that I never knew were there. I don't think I would have ever realized I had it in me to be a leader, had I not attended Ridley.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
Speak out, be vocal, be an extrovert.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
Everyone has a positive attitude, loves to have fun and loves to laugh
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Have an open mind, and don't be afraid to laugh at yourself - if you do you'll make friends with everyone
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
The class sizes are fairly small, and have a good mix of skills in each class. Those that wish to excel can choose to be placed in "advanced" classes, while those that wish to move at their own pace, or those who struggle will find a suitable academic environment regardless of their skill level. I found once I started university I was at an advantage compared to most students. The depth and personal style of Ridley ensured that I got the attention I needed in order to focus and develop the skills that I was passionate about. This gave me an advantage in post-secondary pursuits.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
Athletics is a major component of Ridley. Just about every sport is available, both on a competitive and recreational level. If a sport isn't available, as long as you can find a coach and other students interested, then the opportunity is there. For those who enjoy sports the school presents an excellent opportunity - there is a great deal of time and support set aside specifically for sporting events.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
I wasn't heavily involved in musicals or visual art, but the school is very supportive of students who pursue that direction. The school is always showcasing all of the arts (visual, musical, dramatic and otherwise) to the entire school for appreciation.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
Options! Just about every activity you can think of. And if you can think of it but its not available, find a teacher willing to support your idea and you have a new extra-curricular club
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
It was like a brotherhood. You immediately had 50+ friends because everyone in your dorm was automatically a friend. Senior students will recognize you and make you feel like you have a home, not just a dorm.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
Food was great, plenty of options and variety at every meal, and the cafeteria staff are excellent - accommodating, happy and open to suggestions.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
St. Catharines is kind of like a mini-Toronto. Its got lots of vibrant nightlife, nice streets and plenty of history. At the same time its clean, safe and never intimidating.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
Its diverse, as long as your friendly and open-minded, you can make lots of friends.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
7:00 AM
Breakfast
8:15 AM
Chapel
8:30 AM
Classes begin
12:00 AM
Lunch
1:00 PM
Sports
2:00 PM
Sports
3:00 PM
Sports
4:00 PM
Sports
5:00 PM
Sports
6:00 PM
Dinner
Weekend
7:00 AM
Breakfast
8:30 AM
Classes Begin
10:30 AM
Classes End
11:00 AM
Sports
6:00 PM
Dinner
7:00 PM
Social Time / Free Time
12:15 PM
Curfew / Lights Out
Read more details about Ridley College on their 2026-27 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Ridley is in St. Catharines, Ontario. About an hour from Toronto. Campus is huge. Ninety acres right near Lake Ontario. I was there for a good four years.
What makes it different is the house system. . .
Ridley is one of those places that feels like its own world. The campus is massive and beautiful, right on the lake and there's this sense of history everywhere you go. But what made it. . .
Ridley let me dive into service work in ways I didn't expect. Three years meant two major international trips that changed how I think about everything. Guatemala and Thailand weren't tourism or resume stuff. We. . .
Show more reviews (14 reviews)
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