BMO Financial Group Institute for Learning

Information Package

BMO Financial Group Institute for Learning opened in January of 1994 as a symbol of BMO’s commitment to lifelong learning. Designed by Ray Moriyama of Moriyama & Teshima Architects, the Institute for Learning is comprised of four major architectural components: Presentation Hall, Learning Centre, Guestrooms and the Grand Hall. Everything to the south of the Grand Hall is functional (very traditional in shape and symbolises the past), everything to the north of the Grand Hall represents the future.

The Grand Hall

The Grand Hall (commonly referred to as the Bow due to its shape) is the major artery linking all the components of the Institute. Unassumingly, the Bow supports an infrastructure capable of hosting multi-booth, highly technical tradeshows as well as receptions and dinners if so desired. The Bow also gives access to the English Garden.

The Learning Centre

The Learning Centre has 12 classrooms, 20 breakout rooms, 8 role play rooms (with video playback equipment) and four coffee break lounges. Its wide-open spaces, high ceilings, and natural light inspire imagination and enthusiasm.

The Presentation Hall

The Presentation Hall offers 3 high-resolution rear screens, for both video and data projection, as well as an enhanced sound system integrating the latest in digital technology. Oak paneling and fabric panels enhance the acoustics. Lighting, as well as most other equipment, can be controlled through touch screen technology.

The Guestrooms

All rooms are single occupancy and are equipped with double bed, coffee maker, analogue line, telephone with voicemail messaging, television, clock radio, iron, ironing board and hair dryer. Smoking is permitted in designated guestrooms only.

kCafé

The k café will be available at no charge to receive and send e-mails from 4:00-8:00 pm on Sunday and 8am-8pm on Monday and Tuesday.

Dining Hall

The Dining Hall was modelled after Hart House at the University of Toronto. It offers complete meal service. During the evening, the Social Centre offers hot and cold beverages and bar snacks.

Wellness Centre

The Wellness facility includes a twenty-meter indoor lap pool and whirlpool, a complete range of workout equipment in the exercise room and gymnasium for team sports such as basketball and volleyball. Locker rooms with towels and hairdryers are provided at no additional charge.

Social Centre

The Social Centre provides a relaxing lounge with a double fireplace, soft seating and a view of the Courtyard. There is a games area with two pool tables, dartboard, two shuffleboards, two TV lounges, Tuck Shop and Instabank machine.

Dress

Dress at the Institute is business casual. In the Wellness Centre, workout clothes and white-soled running shoes are considered the appropriate dress, as well as a bathing suit for the pool area.

Transportation

Transportation to the airport can be arranged by registering at the Front Desk 24 hours prior to departure. Local travel arrangements can also be booked at the Front Desk.

The Institute is between 30-45 minutes from Pearson Airport depending on traffic. It is approximately $45.00 by cab. No shuttles are available. Delegates are encouraged to share cabs to the extent possible.

Where is the Institute located?

The address is:

3550 Pharmacy Avenue, Toronto (Scarborough), Ontario M1W 3Z3

Should you have any difficulties locating the Institute, please call (416) 490-4300 or (416) 490-4450.

How to Get There

From West:

Follow the 401 eastbound to the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) exit. From this exit take the 404 north. Follow the 404 north to Steeles and Woodbine exit (Exit 22). Stay to the right of the exit, as you will be turning right on to Steeles. Once on Steeles, go to the third set of lights, which is Pharmacy Avenue, and turn right. Follow Pharmacy Avenue south to the first driveway and turn right. Follow the driveway to the parking lot, which is located on the West side of the building.

The 407 Express Toll Route is also an option (toll charges apply). Follow the 407 eastbound to the 404 exit. From this exit take the 404 south. Follow the 404 south to Steeles and go eastbound.

From East:

Follow the 401 westbound to the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) exit. From this exit take the 404 north. Follow the 404 north to Steeles and Woodbine exit (Exit 22). Stay to the right of the exit, as you will be turning right on to Steeles. Once on Steeles, go to the third set of lights, which is Pharmacy Avenue, and turn right. Follow Pharmacy Avenue south to the first driveway and turn right. Follow the driveway to the parking lot, which is located on the West side of the building. The 407 Express Toll Route is also an option (toll charges apply). Follow the 407 westbound to the 404 exit. From this exit take the 404 south. Follow the 404 south to Steeles and go eastbound.

From North:

Follow the 404 south to Steeles Avenue. Turn left on to Steeles and at the fourth set of lights, which is Pharmacy Avenue, turn right. Follow Pharmacy Avenue south to the first driveway and turn right. Follow the driveway to the parking lot, which is located on the West side of the building.

From South:

Follow the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) north and once you cross over the 401, it becomes the 404. Follow the 404 north to Steeles and Woodbine exit (Exit 22). Stay to the right of the exit, as you will be turning right on to Steeles. Once on Steeles, go to the fourth set of lights, which is Pharmacy Avenue, and turn right. Follow Pharmacy Avenue south to the first driveway and turn right. Follow the driveway to the parking lot, which is located on the West side of the building.

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BMO Information Package