House System
Merrick Preparatory School promotes a cohesive and inclusive family atmosphere. Our House System contributes to this by promoting teamwork, creative problem solving, and school spirit. Upon arrival at MPS, each student is placed into one of three Houses. Each month, Houses compete in fun activities to earn points towards the annual awarding of the House Cup.
Barnard House
Louis and Francois Barnard are the owners and founders of Merrick Preparatory School. Originally from South Africa, Louis and Francois came to Canada in the mid-2000s to establish educational organizations. In 2012 they established Merrick Preparatory School in Merrickville. Louis and Francois’ vision, strategic positioning, and diligent application of sound business practice have allowed Merrick Preparatory School to grow from its early beginnings into the highly regarded and rigorous academic institution it is now known for.
Rickers House
Don Rickers is the founding Headmaster at Merrick Preparatory School. Don worked at the school from September 2012 to September 2014. Don’s energy, vitality, and enthusiasm to lift the school off the ground were critical for the school’s success. His commitment and dedication to the school and its core values allowed it to blossom in its early years.
Clarke House
Gary Clarke was a visionary like our founders, Louis and Francois Barnard, and our namesake, William Merrick, who founded the village of Merrickville. Gary was, in many ways, the builder of our school campus. He re-habilitated the original 1861 stone building and added the dormitory, lobby, kitchen, and classrooms, along with the Kilmarnock classroom and science lab building in 1991.
