Directions
Located directly on the TTC Bloor line
Departments
Math Department
Science Department
English Department
Music Department
Phys. Ed. Department
French Department
Art Department
Geography Department
Family Studies Department
TOPS on Bloor Program
What is TOPS on Bloor?
TOPS on Bloor, or Talented Offerings in the Programmes of Sciences is an enriched High School experience pioneered by the staff of Marc Garneau Collegiate Institute and available to qualified students at both Marc Garneau C.I. and Bloor C.I. Students need not be recognized as “gifted” to enrol. TOPS on Bloor students are highly motivated and have a broad range of interests. Students in the programme are grouped together for most of their classes over their four years of secondary education and benefit from being surrounded by individuals with interests and goals similar to their own. Course work is enriched in a variety of ways depending on the strengths and interests of students and teachers.
Download our TOPS on Bloor Flyer (PDF)
TOPS on Bloor is a four year program. Twenty courses are required.
| Grade 9 |
Science Mathematics English Geography Careers & Civics |
| Grade 10 |
Science 2 Maths Computer Studies English History |
| Grade 11 |
Biology Chemistry &/or Physics English Technological Design Mathematics |
| Grade 12 |
Biology Chemistry &/or Physics English Mathematics |
The Ontario Secondary School Graduation Diploma specifies additional required courses. Together these requirements limit the opportunities for some students to explore electives. However, students may choose to spread their courses over five years to accommodate interests in the arts, languages, co-operative education and humanities.
Who can apply to TOPS on Bloor?
Current grade 8 students living within the greater Toronto Area are invited to apply.
How does one apply to TOPS on Bloor?
Entrance to the programme is determined using several criteria:
- • An exam that has three sections, the exam contains a mathematics, science and written component. The written component is a one page essay on a topic chosen by the student from a list. The selection committee takes into account students whose first language is not English when evaluating the written component. The examination is traditionally written on a Saturday in December. An alternate date is available for those observing a religious holy day.
- • Two teacher recommendations are required of students not currently enrolled in TDSB schools and must be submitted with the application package on the exam date. Teacher recommendation forms will be included in the application package available each November at the TOPS on Bloor information evening.
- • A copy of the most recent report card
- • A student profile. Students are asked to elaborate on their interests and hobbies.
- • Registration is required for the entrance exam. A completed form must be returned to the school no later than one week in advance.
The Outdoor Retreat
Each fall TOPS on Bloor students attend a residential camp. Students have fun, get to know their teachers, develop leadership skills and develop a network of support with senior students.
Advanced Placement
TOPS students are encouraged and supported towards success on Advanced Placement examinations in grade 12. Please visit the AP Canada website for a description of this program (www.ap.ca)
Fees
The TOPS on Bloor enrichment fee is $400.00. This amount includes all core field trips and classroom materials beyond the Ontario curriculum. It is Bloor ’s practice to accept all qualified candidates regardless of financial status. Contact the principle if these fees pose a hardship.