Havergal College

09/30/2026

We had a busy first month of Prayers at the Junior School this September! Dr. Samson visited our youngest learners for Principal Prayers, sharing a story about courage and encouraging students to be brave. We learned all about the Terry Fox Run and about Havergal’s own Community Partner organizations. At Jewish High Holidays Prayers, we heard more about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur celebrations from the students' own experiences. Earlier this week, we marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, learning about what reconciliation means and Orange Shirt Day. And today, we welcomed Water Guardian Taylor Gavin, who spoke about her work and gave students the opportunity to meet her travelling sturgeon.

09/30/2026

Today is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, which we observed at both the Junior and Upper School in meaningful ways. On Monday, Upper School students and faculty engaged in a half-day of Truth and Reconciliation programming, stepping outside their regular schedules to extend their learning and reflection, while Junior School students learned about what reconciliation means and about Orange Shirt Day at Prayers. On Tuesday, Junior School students revisited the interactive Orange Shirt art installation from last year, while Upper School students reflected on the meaning of Truth and Reconciliation at Prayers and our commitment to reconciliation at Havergal. Today we marked Orange Shirt Day together as a school, with students, faculty and staff invited to wear orange shirts, and we welcomed Indigenous scholar, storyteller and water guardian, Taylor Gavin, at Junior School Prayers. We are grateful to our Indigenous partners and workshop leaders who supported us during these sessions, allowing us to deepen our understanding of Indigenous experiences, history and traditions, and ways of thinking and knowing.

09/29/2026

We invite parents to attend an informative session on having meaningful conversations with children about AI, featuring strategic advisor Eric Hudson on Tues. Oct. 6. Eric returns to Havergal to explore ways parents can engage their children in open, non-judgmental discussions about AI and the practical steps we can take together to support thoughtful, purposeful learning in this rapidly changing space. Eric will also spend time with students and faculty throughout the day to talk about how AI can be used to strengthen student thinking and learning. To register, check your Veracross homepage on the parent portal.

09/29/2026

This month launched a new year of Prayers at the Upper School, kicking off September with Principal Prayers. We heard from Dr. Samson, who welcomed everyone back to campus and challenged students to find ways to connect with one another. Rev. Ruch explored “What is Prayers?”, noting how this special community-building time allows us space to share memories, laugh, rest and reflect. We marked the Jewish High Holidays with Prayers and a reception, participating in Tashlich and learning about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Our Community Partnerships were highlighted, and students shared their incredible experiences from a recent Round Square trip to South Africa. Lastly, we reflected on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, its meaning and our commitment to reconciliation at Havergal.

09/28/2026

Last Friday, our U20 Soccer team faced Bishop Strachan School under the lights on Ratcliffe Field for Friday Night Lights! Fans brought the green and gold and cheered on the Gators throughout an exciting match. Congratulations to Bishop Strachan School on this year’s win, and thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate women in sport!

09/28/2026

We enjoyed a sunny fall afternoon for Celebration Day last Friday! Students, families, faculty, staff, Old Girls/Alums and community members joined us for games, snacks, art and shopping in support of our Community Partners. Thank you to everyone who came out and made the day so special!

09/28/2026

09/24/2026

We welcomed over 60 universities to campus this week for our International University Fair, hosted by our incredible Guidance Department. Students had the opportunity to speak with university representatives, discover interesting programs and learn about campus life. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped our students explore a world of possibilities that awaits them!

09/24/2026

We held our annual Community Fest earlier this week to showcase the wide variety of clubs, Community Partnerships, affinity groups and alliances available for students to engage with this year. These co-curricular experiences allow students to explore their interests, give back, connect with peers across grade levels and learn something new!

09/23/2026

During last night’s Annual General Meeting, we officially welcomed Kate Horton (Class of 1994) as the new Chair of the Board of Governors. Ms. Horton has a special connection with Havergal as a former student, and now as an Old Girl/Alum and current parent. She is the President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Canada, where she oversees the funding and implementation of 37 program locations across the country, and has dedicated her career to advancing the wellbeing of children and families through cross-sector collaboration and strategic leadership. Ms. Horton is a passionate leader and lifelong learner, as well as a Queen’s and TMU graduate with executive training from Harvard, Kellogg, and Rotman.

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to outgoing Chair Jill Fraser (Class of 1987) for her time and dedication to Havergal as Board Chair since September 2023. Her governance lens, open communication and guidance in launching the strategic plan and our outdoor athletic campaign have been pivotal to our success. Ms. Fraser remains on the Board of Governors in the role of Past Chair.