Teaching can be one of the most rewarding professions in the world, but there is something uniquely fulfilling about teaching at an independent school. From the smaller class sizes to the sense of community, independent schools such as Appleby College in Oakville, Ontario, offer an environment where faculty can truly make a difference in students' lives. If you’ve ever wondered about the benefits of teaching at an independent school, perhaps this will inspire you!
With an average class size of 16 students, Appleby faculty have the opportunity to build strong relationships with their students. With smaller class sizes, teachers can give individualized attention and tailor their teaching to meet student’s learning styles. Coupled with an extensive co-curricular programme and the unique opportunity to accompany students on global experiential trips or an Outdoor Education excursion to the S. Bruce McLaughlin Northern Campus, faculty also get to know the strengths and passions of their students outside of the classroom. These unique opportunities foster a deeper connection and understanding, not only of their students’ academic strengths (and areas for improvement), but also of their emotional and social development, truly inspiring them to reach their full potential.
In the independent school environment, a collaborative culture is emphasized. Not only in curriculum design but also in the areas of professional growth and campus planning. Appleby faculty benefit from receiving personalized guidance from the school’s in-house coaching and mentorship programs – offering valuable feedback for classroom enhancement. Input on campus projects is also actively sought – from the design of the school’s recent 80,000 square foot A.W.B. Alumni Centre for Athletics and Student Life, to opportunities to support strategic initiatives stemming from the school’s climate action plan to DEIB strategy.
"At Appleby College, our focus is on providing employees with an environment that celebrates their creativity, curiosity and desire for collaboration. Our employees define who we are as a school and it is their commitment to excellence, innovation and student development that distinguishes our community from others."
MAJELLA HILLSDON - CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Independent schools are pioneering innovative programs, preparing students with the skills they deem essential for the future. Appleby has long had the reputation of being an innovator – of adopting new ways of thinking, and of embracing change. At Appleby, faculty are encouraged to integrate innovative methods and technologies such as GenAI, enabling them to experiment with new approaches to learning and generating exercises that can be adapted to a student’s performance, ensuring they are always challenged at an appropriate level while equipping them with the skills and understanding to prepare them for future careers.
For newly graduated teachers, independent schools offer unique opportunities for growth. As a day/boarding school, young faculty new to Appleby can explore boarding life don positions and associate teacher roles, with the most outstanding candidates moving into upcoming vacancies due to retirements. The journey provides new to teaching faculty with hands-on experience in teaching and school involvement while easing them into the responsibilities of a teaching role.
As every independent school is unique, so too are its benefits. Whether it’s having access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities, enjoying healthy eating options in the dining hall, receiving a competitive salary and group benefits plan, engaging in a robust professional development program to support your teaching career aspirations, or immersing yourself in the school environment by residing in on-campus housing. At Appleby, we offer all these things and much more!
If you’re looking for a teaching experience that is as fulfilling as it is inspiring, an independent school might be the perfect place for you to continue your educational journey.
Appleby College was founded in 1911 and is internationally recognized as one of the world’s leading independent schools. With 800 students from over 50 countries enrolled in Grades 7–12, Appleby offers an education that excites and challenges every student. Our curriculum combines rigorous academics with dynamic arts, athletics, community service, and boarding life programming, allowing students to discover and embrace their passions both inside and outside the classroom. Appleby College has also been named as one of Canada's Best Employers For Recent Graduates which speaks to the commitment to their staff.