Enquire to study in the UK 
Founded in 1857, Albert College is Canada’s oldest independent co-ed boarding and day school. It has a long history of educating students from across the globe — and transforming them into future leaders.
Albert College is located in the safe and picturesque town of Belleville along the shores of the Bay of Quinte (Lake Ontario). Its campus is a blend of historic gothic-style architecture with innovative spaces set against an idyllic backdrop. Ensconced within such beauty, within and beyond campus, is over 160 years of experience and excellence in education.
This is clear to anyone who has spent any time here. It doesn’t take long before students and parents discover that Albert College is more than just a school. It’s a vibrant community where students discover their potential, embrace independence, and foster lifelong connections — preparing them to not just join some of the world’s best universities, but to lead their companies and communities.
For generations, AC has nurtured students to reach many levels and forms of success. Ask these graduates and many would credit Albert’s distinctive boarding offerings for making them the person they are today. It was their second home, one that came with a unique blend of experiences that extended far beyond the confines of typical academic institutions.
Source: Albert College
“Our teachers are our family as well, and each has made a significant impact on us,” says Natalie, Class of 2023 valedictorian. “They have invested their time and energy into helping us grow as learners and helping us grow as people as well. We would not be here today without them.”
The school believes in a holistic approach to education, focusing on the five pillars that form the foundation of a comprehensive learning experience: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Active Citizenship, and Adventure. The aim of these 5 ‘A’s? Graduates who are well-rounded global citizens set for success following the career and passions of their choice.
Boarding at this small family school plays a key role in making this possible. Here, students from Grades 7 to 12 can safely explore their independence alongside their peers and caring house directors. It’s a place where diverse cultures converge, allowing students to learn, respect, and appreciate the world around them — something Skye, a boarding student from Bermuda, values.
“I was ready for an adventure, independence and looking for a new experience. It’s diverse here, and I’m living with people who speak many different languages and share their cultures,” Skye says.
From day one, Albert College students embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery and exploration of the world’s many cultures. They study, work, play, and form long-lasting relationships with others. This is made much easier thanks to various academic and extracurricular opportunities. From basketball and Model United Nations to choir and drama club, there is something for every student to check out or compete in. Along the way, they connect with schoolmates from more than 15 countries.
Together, these students will discover their talents, refine them and cultivate more skills to match. Then, they often find they are capable of more — to become future leaders. AC is there for them at this turning point. Several opportunities are available for students to understand and develop their leadership abilities. For example, in Grade 12, students who showcase leadership qualities, such as being organised and motivated, are chosen as prefects by their fellow students and teachers. Prefects lead the school community, work together as a team, plan fun activities that boost school spirit, and set the tone for the whole year.
They become role models for younger students and their peers while keeping up with their studies. Mingbei, a Grade 12 student and Graham Hall prefect, juggled this balancing act and saw how it made him grow.
“As I got more involved at the school, my peers and teachers saw that I wanted to help make things better,” Mingbei says. “As a prefect, I’ve learned to balance academics with extracurriculars like soccer, mock trials, and presentations on global issues while organising house activities. I’ve honed my planning and time management skills, which is crucial for my future at university and beyond.”
Each prefect on the team contributes to a monthly blog on the school website showcasing their aspirations. For instance, Ben, a Development and Marketing prefect, introduced the 2023-24 Prefect team and what they hope to accomplish in their roles this year. Such initiatives serve as a means of fostering transparency and communication within the school community.
Albert College student leaders are aspiring stewards of the environment too. Recently, the school was certified as a Gold EcoSchool. Credit for this goes to its students who worked hard by leading initiatives such as community clean-ups, outdoor learning, fundraising and more.
Albert College’s boarding programme fosters lasting friendships, independence, and language skills in a safe, family school environment. Source: Albert College
With characters built and leadership potential harnessed, AC students often go on to impress recruiters at top universities in Canada and globally. Albert alumna Salime did just that and believes her daughter Estefi will follow in her footsteps.
Salime is an alumna from the Class of 1990, and she came to Albert College from Mexico with firm goals for her education. “My mum believed that the doors would open for me by attending AC, and it came true; I’m certain that it’ll be true for my daughter, too,” she says. Salime made lifelong friends and gained strong English skills which help her run her global business based out of Mexico. “Now, my daughter is at Albert, and she says it’s the perfect balance between responsibilities and fun,” Salime says. “She loves that the school keeps her busy with many different activities.”
Interested? Boarding options include full-time for international students and multi-day boarding (one to five days) for students in Canada. Click here to discover boarding at Albert College.
Follow Albert College on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube
