Earlier in 2017, the old CDCI West school property was sold  (see link below for report) but there was no announcement as to what the building would be used for.  Mayor Gil Brocanier has now announced that it will be used by William Academy who already have schools in Toronto and Scarborough.  They plan to open in Cobourg in September 2017.  There will initially be 25 students although over time the number will grow. The property includes only the CDCI West building – the playing fields to the South were not up for sale and still belong to the School board.

The school is private and intended for International students who want to improve their English and get good marks. Each class is limited to 20 students and they say that 100% of graduates are accepted into postsecondary education.  Teachers would be hired locally although they would no doubt initially be part time with only 25 students.  I’d guess that initial students would come from a transfer/ overflow from the Toronto or Scarborough campus.

Local accommodation would need to be found for students although eventually the building may include accommodation facilities.  When asked about possible problems with asbestos in the building, Gil responded that while there are no renovations (that is the asbestos is not disturbed), the building is safe.  If there are future renovations, speciality remediation companies would look after any issues.

As well as the influx of students and some work for teachers, we could expect that parents would visit from overseas from time to time.

Gil said that Cobourg is attractive to this kind of operation due to our clean environment and presumably our proximity to Toronto. 

Looks like a perfect use for the building.

Links

• William Academy
• CDCI West sold but few details