Our School
Morning Meeting
One of the defining qualities of Pickering College is Morning Meeting. It is a time to gather collectively - as a school and as a community - in a spirit of friendship and shared purpose. It is an opportunity to celebrate our achievements, announce upcoming events, and engage in meaningful conversations about important issues—whether they are global in scope or directly relevant to our students and staff.
Morning Meeting is also a time for reflection, where we consider who we are as a school and what it means to live by our core values. Much like our Quaker founders, we approach this time with a commitment to respect, listening, trust, integrity, and compassion. Through these gatherings, we continuously nurture and strengthen the bonds that define our community.
Pickering College holds four traditional Meetings for Worship each year: Opening, Remembrance Day, Christmas, and Closing.
The Four Pillars
The four pillars at the main entrance of Pickering College stand as powerful symbols of strength, tradition, endurance, and simplicity. Their design and elegance capture the essence of our school’s values, beautifully embodying the ideals of Faith, Freedom, Friendship, and Fun. These pillars serve as both a gateway for those entering the school and a passage for graduates embarking on their journeys into the world. They are a lasting tribute to the spirit of all who have walked these grounds before us, constantly reminding us of the legacy and community that shape our shared experience.
Faith – In the potential of our students, the strength of our friendships, the values of our school, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Freedom – To express ourselves, to follow our convictions, and to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with taking bold steps.
Friendship – The foundation of our cherished community, where bonds are formed and nurtured with kindness and trust.
Fun – A vital part of our daily experience, where joy and enthusiasm are celebrated as we learn, grow, and connect.
Motto
Our school’s motto, "Bene provisa principia ponantur," translated freely means, “Let foundations be well planned.”
Houses
At Pickering College, every student is assigned to one of four Houses—Blue, Silver, Gold, or Red—upon entering the school. This longstanding tradition dates back to 1929, when the first annual Sports Day (then called "Field Day") introduced the concept of colour teams.
By the 1950s, these colour teams evolved into what we now know as "Houses," which compete year-round, earning points for achievements in sports, co-curricular activities, and other school events in pursuit of the prestigious House Cup. In recent years, additional challenges have been added to foster community involvement, such as collecting donations for the Newmarket Food Pantry as part of the competition for House points.
With a spirit of friendly rivalry, sportsmanship, and vibrant displays of school pride—complete with cheers, colours, and celebrations—House teams remain a cornerstone of student life at Pickering College. This tradition continues to unite us, build school spirit, and create lasting memories for all.
