Getting a high school diploma is within reach at Barrydowne College

A recent graduate of Barrydowne College has an important message for young people:
It doesn’t matter when you finish, be proud you crossed the finish line.

“Barrydowne College helped me accomplish things that I never thought possible,” says Nicholas Robichaud. “With the amazing support system Barrydowne has given me, I realized I could do whatever I put my mind to.”

Barrydowne College is a re-engagement school for students ages 18 to 21 located at Cambrian College. Secondary school credit courses are taught by teachers from Rainbow Schools.

Students can also access dual credit courses taught by professors at Cambrian College. This combination, along with the alternative learning environment in a college setting, supports students in their goal of graduating.

“I started at Barrydowne College with four credits to complete,” says Malary Czerkas, the Class of 2025 valedictorian. “Coming to Barrydowne was the best academic and personal decision I’ve made for myself. I highly recommend it to any young adult who is looking to not only finish their schooling but to be part of a wonderful community where you will thrive.”

Rainbow District School Board’s school within a college celebrated a milestone during the last school year – 1,000 graduates since its inception in the fall of 2011. “Many young people in our community have gone back to school and realized their dream of obtaining a secondary school diploma,” says Bruce Bourget, Director of Education for Rainbow District School Board.

He adds: “These graduates are certainly a testament to what we believe to be true. Young people who have left school before graduating have tremendous potential and can flourish in the unique learning environment offered at Barrydowne College.”

Barrydowne College has continuous intake which means that a student can register and start their courses at any time during the school year. All learning is individualized so students work at their own pace. With individualized learning, students can finish credits before the end of a semester and begin another.

The school offers a wide variety of courses including elective credits such as Art, Food and Nutrition, First Nations, Métis and Inuit Studies as well as a Specialist High Skills Major in Arts and Culture. Students earn credits, build soft skills and develop links to community college programs including Dual Credits.

Students have the potential to earn paid Co-operative Education credits. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), a formal evaluation and credit-granting process for mature students, is available.

To learn more about Barrydowne College, please call 705.566.2302 or visit barrydowne.rainbowschools.ca to register.