GENERAL INFORMATION
HEALTH INSURANCE
It is mandatory for all international students studying in Canada to have an insurance policy valid for the entire duration of their program of study. Highland Academy offers a comprehensive health insurance policy through VHIP (Visa Students Health Insurance Plan). It is approximately $550/year. Canadian students must have OHIP.
DRESS CODE
Our school is a place of education with a focus on high standards of personal conduct in order to promote a positive, safe learning environment. There is no school uniform and our image of a Highland student is one whose manner of dress reflects responsible personal judgement, a positive attitude toward school, and respect for all others. Clothing should be suitable for active participation in school life. As we build the foundation for our future from our collective experiences, appropriate attire encourages a respectful learning environment.
BUDGETS
It is important to ensure you have enough funds to cover your expenses during your time in Canada before you arrive. A personal monthly budget will help you review your funds and spend within your means.Remember that the cost of books and school supplies depends on the courses you choose. On average students budget between $200-400 per month for expenses such as clothing, shopping, entertainment and personal supplies.
TRANSPORTATION
Public transit is a sustainable transportation mode, and includes buses, streetcars, subways and trains. Three transit systems are currently available in Vaughan: York Region Transit (YRT)/Viva – YRT/Viva offers local bus and rapid transit services in Vaughan and York Region. Students will easily be able to access these transportation facilities to ensure a smooth and safe ride to and from school.
COMMUNICATION
Free wireless internet will be made available to all students at the campus. Students are required to bring along a MAC book . Standardizing the laptop you bring to campus makes support and configuration issues easier for our IT Staff. This also allows IT staff to control the computers which are on the school's network. Our IT staff control every device which logs into the school’s network as the safety and security of our students are our top priority.
ONLINE STUDENT PORTAL
Highland is built around open communication between parents and administration. We make it our top priority to involve parents in their child’s success. Parents can log in through our online portal to receive frequent updates on grades, attendance and much more. Owlwise is an easy to use and secure system that allows parents to communicate and conveniently transact with all of their children’s schools, programs and sports clubs – all from one account. Family is an integral part of a child’s education and in addition to the online portal our administrative staff are available to provide parents with regular updates on their child’s progress.
SHOPPING
Our campus is 10 minutes away from one of the largest shopping malls in Canada - Vaughan Mills Mall. Easily accessible by public transit, you will be able to visit all 245 stores located at this mall.
For most stores in Canada, regular store hours are from 10.00 am until 6.00 pm. Hours depend on the shop's location and the day of the week. On Thursday and Friday nights, many stores are open late and most stores are open on Sundays. We also have several stores that are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week such as pharmacies, gas stations and some convenience stores where you can buy basic things like milk, eggs, and bread.
DRUGS, ALCOHOL, AND TOBACCO
Highland Academy has a very strict policy for drugs, alcohol, and tobacco consumption during our program. You must be over 19 years of age to drink alcohol in Canada. You must also be 19 years of age to purchase tobacco products. The Smoke-Free Ontario Act prohibits smoking in workplaces, enclosed public spaces and in cars when children under 16 are present. The use of illegal drugs or underage drinking will result in your return to your home country and can result in criminal charges.
