History

In 1978, Audrey Hadfield took a small space above a storefront on Lakeshore Road in downtown Oakville. With only eight students she began what would become one of the truly exceptional private schools anywhere. One year later MacLachlan College moved a few streets east to Donessle Drive and the enrolment grew to 35 girls and boys.

The 350 students now populating the school on Trafalgar Road continue learning in an environment inspired by the founder's original vision.

Her vision was "to provide a continuum of highly personalized education as an alternative to the regular school system. MacLachlan responds to the uniqueness of every child in its care."

Audrey realized that providing life-changing education required a sound structure in terms of the physical environment, curriculum and societal relationships.

In 1980, MacLachlan evolved into a family partnership when Audrey's husband Colin, retired after 20 years with the Attorney General's Office, five years of which were as a Boundary Court Judge, to contribute to the establishment of the school. In particular, Colin was instrumental in converting the 1856 mansion, historically known as the "Grand Old Lady of Trafalgar", into the much larger institution we now call home.

Approaching 45 years of operation, MacLachlan has come to the forefront bringing design thinking, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit to its classrooms. From the very start above that little Lakeshore storefront, MAC has re-imagined possibilities.