394 Royal York Road, Etobicoke, Ontario, M8Y 2R3, Canada
2439 Tenth Sideroad, Milton-Campbellville, Ontario, L0P 1B0, Canada
2016
1991
60
100
JK to 8
Preschool to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, Reggio Emilia
Traditional
6 to 8
10 to 14
Learning
Learning, Developmental
Dedicated gifted school
In-class adaptations
$9,132 to $19,250
$13,600 to $16,100
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
5
8
0%
0%
0%
95%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes
No
No
information not available
information not available
Oak Learners is the very definition of a community-based, student-centered academic environment. Classes are small, personal, and lessons begin with the talents, interests, challenges and curiosities that the children bring with them into the room. An emphasis on the arts is used as entrée to the curriculum, underscoring a cross-curricular approach to instruction. Classroom spaces are bright, open, and adaptable to large group, small group, and tutorial-style learning. Founder Kelly Ferrell is rightly a draw, bringing a wealth of experience to the offering, as well as a proven track record as an educator, leader and entrepreneur. The faculty she’s attracted shares her enthusiasm for active, hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Still relatively young, Oak Learners has quickly established itself as a key offering within its catchment area.
View full reportAnn Scott founded Hitherfield in 1991 after a career within the Halton school board, and she remains at the head of the school today, giving a nice continuity to the development of the programs. The intention throughout has been to offer something that wasn’t offered in the public board, principally a more individualized, caring approach to learning. The school is small, and the size is one of its strengths. While it’s not a country school in name, the feel is comparable to schools that situate themselves within that movement—namely a learning environment that very much reflects the community that supports it. Parents are important to the life of the school, and are encouraged to take a role that will express their skills and interests. The ideal student is one looking for something more personal approach, one more attentive to the abilities, experience, and passion that students bring into the classroom.
View full report
"They work with children in small classes and create individualized plans for each child. I also receive regular updates about my son's strengths and areas that need to be worked on."
Asha Rampersad - Parent (Oct 16, 2018)
My 6 year old thrives at Oak Learners. He loves the staff who are attentive, responsive and makes l...
View full review
"They have a knack for connecting with children and their challenges ... adjusting both the curriculum and the approach to fit each child's needs"
Jana Machan - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
Our son loves the varied and fun activities at Oak Learners, which challenge him educationally while...
View full review
" ... our two kids love Oak Learners"
Jasmine Bush - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
For different reasons, our two kids love Oak Learners. The staff were very good at identifying skill...
View full review
"Hitherfield does feel like a home to me, like a second home actually."
Elena Di Tommaso - Student (Jun 30, 2021)
I love it at Hitherfield. On my first day, I went into my 2/3 three-room, with no idea what to do. M...
View full review
"Oak Learners inspires meaningful learning every day. Passionate teachers nurture children’s natural curiosity about their world with hands-on experiences. Students in Kindergarten through Grade Eight participate in an enriched interdisciplinary program, with a focus on Academic skills, the Arts & Outdoor Education. Academic excellence is enhanced with 30-50% of each school day being integrated with immersive outdoor learning, where academic subjects are explored and shared in an authentic way."
"Hitherfield is a co-ed, independent school for children in pre-school to grade 8. Hitherfield fosters high expectations of students, that are tempered by dedicated teachers and the individual support that they provide. Situated on 82 acres of pristine rolling countryside, 10 minutes from downtown Milton, Hitherfield School offers an array of outdoor activities and ample space to play. At Hitherfield traditional values go hand in hand with nurturing critical thinking, creativity and discovery."
"Our unique approach at Oak Learners inspires creativity, fosters academic skill-building and builds confidence in our students every day. Students of all ages are constantly encouraged to interact with the natural environment: to seek and explore experiential learning opportunities and to ask questions about the world around them. Academic excellence is enhanced with 30-50% of each school day being integrated with immersive outdoor learning."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"At Oak Learners, education does not follow a one-size-fits-all approach. We work as partners with families to ensure each child receives a personalized learning roapmap that supports and enriches their child(ren)'s individual learning style(s). We passionately believe that our small class sizes facilitate an attentive and adaptable learning environment that will continue to nurture our students with meaningful experiences."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"Every school day is integrated with immersive outdoor learning, where academic subjects are explored and shared in an authentic way. Small classes help facilitate opportunities for our students to get outside every single day, rain or shine, to explore and enrich the academic curriculum in a meaningful way. The result is happier and healthier children, teachers, and families."
Information not available
"At Oak Learners, we believe every child can be successful when they belong to a supportive educational community and this is exactly what families who choose Oak Learners will discover. There are proven links between children's mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health with time spent outdoors in nature. Students at Oak Learners have gained increased focus, confidence, self-esteem and overall increased happiness and satisfaction with school."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
On behalf of the entire staff at Oak Learners, I want to welcome you and your family to our school this year. The global Covid-19 pandemic caused adversity and change. However, as a community, we have adapted by working together to support all the learners in our classrooms and, despite these circumstances, we have ensured that all students received the education and support they needed while remaining safe.
The 2022-2023 school year is no different, with a focus on equity, diversity, ingenuity, and inclusion. All the educators at Oak Learners will face the coming challenges and continue to adapt to create a caring and welcoming school environment.
Raising resilient and successful children certainly does take a village! I love working together with parents to support their child’s education; in a true partnership between the school and families. Communication between home and school is paramount to a child’s success and we strive to demonstrate this value on a daily basis.
At Oak Learners, we strive to create an engaging curriculum that is progressive, interdisciplinary, and most importantly student-driven. Not only are we an innovative not-for-profit learning centre, but we are also a team of leaders in the community, working to ensure all students are supported and cared for. I truly believe that every child has the capacity to excel and succeed and love school.
I am proud to welcome you to our 7th school year and look forward to working with the entire school community once again!
~Kelly Farrell
Kelly is an OCT certified teacher and has worked in classrooms and alternative learning environments since 1996 and as a certified teacher since 2004, working with students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Kelly has a passion for empowering students to develop confidence through building on their strengths to support their difficulties, particularly those with learning exceptionalities, including Learning Differences, ASD, social-emotional needs, and anxiety. Kelly subscribes to the tenants of Montessori, Reggio-Emilia and Constructivist methods of teaching and is always looking for ways to bring these strategies into the 21st Century through technology and environmental education.
Throughout her teaching career, Kelly has been teaching, leading, and connecting students and staff with a global community of educators leading the way in 21st century personalized learning. In 2014, Kelly was awarded “Project of the Year” at the Water Docs @School Film Festival for her Inquiry-Based Learning project, “Kids Against Road Salt“. This project has been used to train new teachers on the benefits and processes behind inquiry-based learning. Kelly’s teaching was also featured in Owl Magazine on the “Cool School” page in 2014 for a unique publishing project undertaken by her Grade 7/8 class that year.
Hitherfield students are happy, eager to learn, and proud of what they are able to accomplish. Our teachers are dedicated, willing to listen, and determined to help your child reach potential. I encourage you to participate in your child’s learning experience by communicating with teachers frequently, helping in the classroom or at special events, and by consistently nurturing a positive attitude toward the learning process and your child’s successes.
The interaction between parents, staff and students at Hitherfield is very important. Parent help, expertise and interest enable us to provide a broader scope of experiences than would otherwise be possible.
We are looking forward to the year ahead, to new as well as familiar faces, and to helping the children meet challenges and achieve excellence in whatever they do, according to their individual abilities.
Thank you for choosing Hitherfield for your children!
Ann Scott, Principal
Traditional
Information not available
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
Not applicable
Oak Learners offers progressive, interdisciplinary, inquiry-based programming in a student-driven, teacher-facilitated, alternative learning environment. Each learner goes through a cyclical process of identifying their unique strengths, needs, goals, and interests. Each day at Oak Learners brings new learning opportunities through an integrated and immersive approach to elementary education. Ontario Curriculum content and skill achievement guidelines are covered and enriched through a holistic approach to learning in a project-based inquiry model, leading to a much deeper and richer learning experience for the students.
We have high academic expectations of our students. Our aim is to prepare all students for high school, and for life. Hitherfield School offers a unique experience where your child can learn inside and outside the classroom. Class sizes average 14 students from JK-Grade 3 and 14 from grades 4-8. Small class sizes allow for more intimate interaction between teacher and student so that more effective learning can occur. Hitherfield is a private school for children in JK through Grade 8. Developing confidence, decision-making, and respect are key components of our school seen throughout daily activities as well as curriculum. Our curriculum is based on the belief that every child has the ability and that given the right environment, each child will achieve his or her potential.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Mathematics instruction at Oak Learners takes a very hands-on approach, using manipulatives as well as leveled workbooks to provide an enriched approach to learning Math.
Students all learn at different rates, have their own learning styles and come to us with vastly differing experiences and knowledge base. Fundamental to our approach is that all are given the opportunity to succeed, be confident in math and achieve optimum potential. An initial assessment on entry to the school allows us to understand the strengths and needs of each child and to program effectively for him or her. Individualized programing is a major component of math at Hitherfield.
We use a variety of textbooks as well as computer programs throughout the school
Students are allowed to use calculators in grades 7/8, for repetitive work where understanding of process is more important than taking time to do lengthy calculations. Students need to be able to calculate mentally, estimate proficiently and truly understand the relationships between decimals, fractions, money, per cent etc.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Students are immersed in literacy opportunities through our "Integrated Literacy" programming as well as receiving a multi-sensory approach to learning English phonetics as well as leveled reading activities to build confidence and scaffold literacy skills.
Children are all very different and will learn to read at different rates. We introduce phonics skills, word families, interest or them-based sentences and small reading books in Junior Kindergarten. Our teachers utilize two reading programs as well as RAZ in our computer lab. We nurture a love of reading through ongoing individual help and encouragement. Many of our SK children are reading fluently before they enter Grade One.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
At Oak Learners, we approach Literacy through an Integrated approach, which means that Reading and Writing skills are taught within other subject areas, such as Science or Social Studies. Children develop strong literacy habits and communication skills through meaningful experiences with text.
Our younger children are excited about learning to write! Again, our program is considerably individualized. As spelling is integral to being able to write, our students are introduced to lists of very basic words in SK. These lists, very much individualized, continue up to Grade 8. Students are encouraged to share their work; they are given feedback by their peers and their teachers. They gain in confidence and find satisfaction in expressing themselves in written form. Grammar skills, vocabulary development, and reading quality literature all contribute to their skill in writing poems, stories and a solid 5- paragraph essay by Grade 8.
Equal Balance
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science in the Elementary Years is all about understanding and respecting the world around us. At Oak Learners, we explore our neighbourhood daily and use the students' own questions and observations to form units of study.
All children are naturally inquisitive and eager to understand the wonders of the world around them. Wherever and whenever possible, a class commences with an experiment, a presentation of something tangible, or a video that is stimulating and raises questions. As our class sizes are small, every student is included and feels included in what is going on; no-one is afraid to offer his/her opinions, to seek further clarity or to challenge something that someone else is saying. All students in Grade 4-8 are required to participate in our Science Fair held in Term 2 of each year.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
At Oak Learners, we approach Literacy through an Integrated approach, which means that Reading and Writing skills are taught within other subject areas, such as Science or Social Studies. Children develop strong literacy habits and communication skills through meaningful experiences with text.
The world is changing rapidly, and with it the type of literature everyone is reading. Literature from the past as well as the present enables us to appreciate and understand the world we live in- to see changing societal values, to understand historical and present day influences and to experience the richness of language in classical literature as well as the imaginative/fantasy ideas of many contemporary works. Each year we consider anew the works to use throughout the school.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
Social Studies becomes part of everyday conversation at Oak Learners. Students and teachers may discuss community, family or school related topics and through inquiry, students learn about how they see themselves as part of the larger community.
At Hitherfield, we are interested in helping students to learn and providing them an opportunity to be thoughtful inquirers. We focus on effective teaching that brings the principles to life in social sciences subjects. This pedagogy includes an understanding of important social studies concepts or ideas, an awareness of and an understanding of personal identity and its multi-layered nature, skilled use of methods and techniques necessary for the development and expression of an understanding of the social studies, the ability to participate, interact, engage in dialogue and contribute, the disposition to learn, the ability to explore and analyse their own and other people’s values, and commitment to values such as social justice and equity.
Equal Balance
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
At Oak Learners, we believe that Humanities Education plays a very important role in providing young leaders with 21st Century learning, problem-solving, collaboration and critical thinking skills. The more students can observe, explore, question and design the world around themselves, the more they have the opportunity to construct true understanding of new concepts.
Students experience a strong core foundation in history and geography and are also very much involved in present day events, conflicts, and problems through our weekly "Around the World" discussions, projects and essays. They sit exams 3 times each year,in all subject areas, so that understanding can be measured.
Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
We offer enrichment opportunities for students interested in learning new languages through technology and guest-teachers. These decisions are made through consultation with parents and teachers.
Much of our program is focused on students acting out different scenarios so that they feel the language and come to terms with it as a means of expression. Students learn the vocabulary needed for these presentations, they listen to and react to each other, they perform for parents. Additionally, students do have set times for learning how to conjugate verbs, write sentences and short paragraphs, and respond to questions -according to ability.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
We believe that Arts Education plays a very important role in educating young learners. We make sure to integrate Art, Music, Drama and Dance throughout our days, throughout every subject area. The Arts is what brings learning to life and provides a context for deep emotional and social learning.
We believe that all students should have the opportunity to express themselves in as many ways as possible. Building self-confidence is an integral component of our program and encouraging each child to do his/her best, especially in our May Plays, has had significant impact on our student population over the years. The"Plays" are the #1 highlight of our school year, according to a recent parent survey. For Visual Arts, the emphasis is on doing one's best. In Music, students are exposed to theory, history and playing of the instrument. We have two teachers with Art Specialist Qualifications.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Technology integration is personalized for each learner. We offer a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option for students and encourage the learning of typing and internet navigation skills as an integral part of our 21st Century Curriculum.
Our computer lab is equipped with 16 I-Macs, as well as a mobile cabinet that houses 16 I-Pads. Additionally, we have one Smart Board that can be moved from class-to -class. Teachers use the lab according to their own programs, interests and student initiatives. Our Kindergarten teacher uses the lab for the RAZ reading program and basic numeracy skill development. Our Grade 7/8 teacher uses the lab for individual math programs, research and writing assignments.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Outdoor Education is at the core of everything we do at Oak Learners and facilitates a robust Physical Education experience that incorporates everything from hiking and sports to yoga and fitness.
The emphasis is on trying one's best, developing skills, and sportsmanship. We have two teachers in the school with Phys Ed Specialist Qualifications.
Academic
Reggio Emilia programs aim to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of “projects”, (as opposed to “activities” or “lessons”). Teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. Projects can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. A high degree of parent involvement is also encouraged, particularly when forming curriculums and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Our Kindergarten program follows a skill-based curriculum through a cross-curricular and arts-based approach with a unique focus on outdoor education. Spending time in our community and in nature provides our students with unique opportunities to engage in a meaningful way with their environment and their peers.
Children learn and are ready to learn at different stages. Our program looks at the individual child- readiness, maturity and happiness in the class environment. When children are ready, they are introduced to math and reading skills. Art, community awareness, circle time, play and social skills are integral components of this class.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Information not available
Supportive
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
We believe that all students have ability and that it is our job to determine how to work with each one so that he/she is able to reach potential. When students are able, we push them beyond grade level expectations; when they need support, we find weaker areas and offer support and individual help. Many of our students have gone on to be accepted at prestigious, private high schools.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
We aim to shape our students into kind, caring individuals with high moral standards, who are willing and able to apply themselves to be the best possible adults in every way - hard working, determined, able to face adversity, ready to meet challenge, and accepting of others.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
| ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
| ||||
Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
All additional support programs are offered through CCAC.
All learning programs are personalized at Oak Learners. We work in a close proximity with parents when planning for appropriate learning goals and strategies for their children.
We often have children with ADHD in the school. For some of these, their difficulties are less pronounced because they are able to receive the attention they require in our small classes. The best way for us to determine if a child will benefit from being in our school is for the parents to bring him/her to the school for a "try-out" day.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
Badminton |
||||
Baseball |
||||
Basketball |
||||
Canoeing/Kayaking |
||||
Cricket |
||||
Cross-country skiing |
||||
Cycling |
||||
Downhill skiing |
||||
Equestrian |
||||
Fencing |
||||
Field Hockey |
||||
Figure Skating |
||||
Football |
||||
Golf |
||||
Gymnastics |
||||
Ice Hockey |
||||
Ice Skating |
||||
Lacrosse |
||||
Martial Arts |
||||
Mountain biking |
||||
Racquet Ball |
||||
Rowing |
||||
Rugby |
||||
Running |
||||
Sailing |
||||
Skateboarding |
||||
Snowboarding |
||||
Soccer |
||||
Softball |
||||
Squash |
||||
Swimming |
||||
Tennis |
||||
Track & Field |
||||
Volleyball |
||||
Weightlifting |
||||
Wrestling |
||||
Archery |
||||
Curling |
||||
Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
0%
0%
$0
$0
0%
95%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
We are looking for students and their parents, who are willing and able to adhere to the school's philosophies regarding respect for self, one's peers, teachers, and belongings; who have high academic expectations and who are determined to promote these, with the help of the teacher, in all ways possible.
The admission process is personalized, just like most aspects of our programming. Your journey at Oak Learners begins with a personalized tour and meeting with our Director. If it is determined through this interview that Oak Learners may be an appropriate fit for your child, we will then book a trial-day where your child will spend the day as part of our classroom. Following the trial day, there will be a second in-person meeting to determine next steps and registration.
The success of every student plays a role in the admission process. Decisions may be made on several factors, including (but not limited to), student-teacher ratio, academic needs, classroom make-up and social needs.
1) Parents are invited for a tour. Child is welcome to attend as well. Time for questions is given.
2)Child comes for a try out day(1/2 day for child in pre-school -SK) Parents are allotted time to talk with teacher at end of day.
3) Deposit is required