Courses

We are a semestered high school offering a wide range of courses for Grade 9 to Grade 12 students. As a semestered high school, we divide the school year into two semesters. The first semester runs from September to January with final exams the last week of January. The second semester runs from February to June.

Under the semester system, students take fewer courses in a term but complete them in the shorter time frame. Some students are able to complete their required courses for graduation by January. This allows students the opportunity to get an early start on work or post secondary courses. Most post secondary institutions follow a semester system and our graduates make the transition without difficulty.

PCI offers a wide range of academic courses preparing students for life after high school, including the workplace, college and university. We also offer Advanced Placement courses at the Grade 12 level in English, Calculus, and Psychology.

PCI also offers various Technical-Educational/Vocational programs including Automotive Technology, Building Construction & Trades, Hairstyling, and Applied Commerce. These programs help prepare students for apprenticeship opportunities and/or a career in the industry.

Our resource team works collaboratively with teachers, counsellors, administration and educational assistants to help students achieve success. Our resource areas offer a quiet place for students to work independently or to receive support. Support may be offered directly by staff or through the use of technology.
 
Self-directed learning is a program designed to give students an opportunity to work individually on curriculum courses.  There are several different factors that need to be considered when deciding if SDL is a program that suits your academic and/or environmental needs:

• Withdrawing from a course and unable to complete the credit
• Moving from another school in mid-semester
• Experiencing an illness, injury, medical condition, or other circumstances that prevents regular class attendance

Counsellors are available to assist students in making course choices and to support students who are experiencing difficulties. Our Career Centre is an excellent place for information and career search opportunities.

Student involvement is important at Portage Collegiate. We have an experienced and enthusiastic staff willing to support students in a wide range of classroom or extra-curricular activities. School spirit is strong and we have great participation on school teams, organizations, and events.