Departments

Excellence Across the Curriculum

At Forest Hill Collegiate Institute, our faculty departments are dedicated to providing a rigorous and engaging academic experience that prepares students for post-secondary success and lifelong learning. From the creative arts to advanced sciences, our educators foster an environment of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.

Each department offers a diverse range of courses designed to meet the unique needs and interests of our student body. Whether you are exploring the complexities of human history, mastering a new language, or solving intricate mathematical problems, our staff is committed to supporting your academic journey.

A brief description of our departments can be found below and detailed departmental information can be found by linking to the departments in the left side bar.

Arts - Digital, Drama, Music & Visual


Creativity knows no bounds here. Immerse yourself in the vibrant connections between visual arts, music, drama, digital arts, and beyond within our multi-disciplinary Arts Department. 


 

  • Digital arts, film and photography students learn their crafts using Adobe Creative Cloud in our Mac lab.
  • Drama: Playwriting opportunities, live performances, production and stagecraft are on offer each year. 
  • Music: Specialized and accessible courses such as: choir, alternative music. Variety of extra-curricular opportunities: School Choir, Rock Bands, Taiko Drumming, Steel Pan Ensemble
  • Visual Arts: our students explore a variety of mediums including acrylics, ceramics, collage, and watercolours across all grade levels. 
Business, Experiential Learning & Computer Science

A dynamic hub where innovation meets opportunity!  We proudly offer a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Business, giving students a focused pathway to explore entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and leadership. With committed educators and real-world experiences, students gain the tools, confidence, and mindset to thrive in high school, post-secondary education, and the professional world.

  • Business Studies Program: More than just textbooks—this program is a launchpad for success, equipping students with practical knowledge and transferable skills for life, learning, and leadership.
  • Cooperative Education Program: Designed to engage and support all learners, this program connects students with diverse, rigorous placements in fields such as law, healthcare, trades, engineering, business, and technology.
  • Technological Education Program: Empowers students to master emerging technologies while fostering creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application.
Canadian & World Studies


Curious about the forces shaping Canada and the globe?

You’re a global citizen in the making. We'll show you how to read between the lines, challenge what you hear, and uncover the real stories behind the headlines.

 

Why it Matters

In a world of constant change and endless information, knowing how to think critically is your superpower. Our courses give you the tools to:

  • Become a Detective of Information: Learn to spot bias, check facts, and piece together clues from different sources—just like a real investigator.
  • Build Your Own Arguments: Don't just repeat what others say. You’ll learn to form your own evidence-based opinions on complex issues, from climate change to international conflicts.
  • See the Big Picture: Discover how the past shapes the present. You'll connect historical events to today's challenges and understand how global forces impact your local community.
  • Experiential education is paramount to our program with mock trials, role plays, gamification, and field trips to such places as the Art Gallery of Ontario, Holocaust Museum, ROM, Ontario courts, and more!  We even offer an international travel opportunity every second year - with the next planned for March 2027!
English

Our English department is a cornerstone of academic excellence, led by a team of passionate and committed educators who inspire students daily. Through thoughtful instruction and a rich curriculum, teachers cultivate a love of language, literature, and critical inquiry. Their dedication ensures that every student is empowered to think deeply, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully with the world.

  • Guest Speakers: The department regularly hosts writers, poets, and Indigenous storytellers, offering students authentic voices and perspectives that enrich classroom learning.

  • Trips to Stratford Theatre: Students experience live Shakespearean performances at the renowned Stratford Festival, deepening their understanding of dramatic literature and theatrical interpretation.

  • Toronto Public Library Visits: Students explore one of the world’s largest public library systems to develop research skills, discover new texts, and connect with literary resources beyond the classroom.

  • Crawford Lake Conservation Area Trip: Students engage in experiential learning about Indigenous history, culture, and storytelling through visits to reconstructed longhouses and interpretive trails, fostering respect and understanding of Indigenous worldviews.