AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E. vs. Académie de la Capitale

one-to-one comparison:

View Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E.'s full report
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View Académie de la Capitale's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    12 Bond Crescent, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4E 3K2, Canada

    1010 Morrison Drive, Suite 200, Ottawa, Ontario, K2H 8K7, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1993

    1998

    Enrolment

    300

    65

    Grades

    1 to 8

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    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.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
    Standard-enriched
    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.

    Academic culture

    Rigorous
    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
    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.

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    8 to 15

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted school

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    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.
    Academic
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $18,500

    $20,075 to $24,158

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    6%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    1 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $6,500

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    38

    4

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    90%

    Day entry years

    SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    The PACE program was developed with gifted students in mind, based in an understanding of what they share—overall ability—as well as what they don't, such as specific talents, interests, and curiosities. The term of art is differentiated programming, though it's a term that can easily lend itself to misunderstanding. It doesn't mean that different students proceed through the curricula at different rates or are each given separate tasks based on their individual abilities. Rather, within a differentiated program all students proceed at the same pace through the material, while instructors provide multiple entry points that address the needs of individual students within the class. The ideal student is one who has been identified as gifted, and who requires challenge in order to succeed in academic work.

    View full report

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    It’s a big world out there and for the students who enroll here, AcadeCap is a window onto all of it. The attention to global education is underscored by the adoption of the IB PYP and MYP programs, and things continue from there. Collaborative learning, among peers as well as intergenerational, is an important aspect of the delivery of the curriculum, as is the provision of authentic learning experiences. There is of course a vast array of resources available within the capital region, and AcadeCap rightly makes the most of them. Class sizes are small, and instructional support is personal and individualized. The school casts a very wide net, and models an approach to learning based in curiosity, empathy, and active engagement. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a diverse, challenging, vibrant and social learning environment.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    "he administration and teaching staff truly want all students to succeed to their highest potential."
    Melanie Maresch - Parent   (Mar 09, 2023)
    Both of our kids love the culture and environment at PACE. They have many close friendships that hav... View full review

    "It offers a challenging, yet well-balanced curriculum in every grade."
    Yuliya M - Parent   (Mar 13, 2023)
    Our daughter's experience at the Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E. has been rewarding. She has ... View full review

    "The quality of teaching at PACE has always surpassed our expectations."
    Raminder Juneja - Parent   (Mar 22, 2023)
    Both of our children have had wonderful experiences at PACE. The collaborative, supportive learning ... View full review

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "The teacher was able to acknowledge his individual needs while exposing him to new experiences with a variety of new activities."
    Chandra Iyer - Parent   (Jun 22, 2020)
    Our son joined the school in Junior Kindergarten. It was our son's home away from home. The Kinderga... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    "P.A.C.E. provides a differentiated curriculum built on greater depth and breadth of instruction. Our primary goal is to identify and enhance the abilities of our students, while simultaneously addressing their social and emotional needs. P.A.C.E. is based on the premise that gifted children require high-powered learning experiences to challenge their minds and ensure intellectual growth and achievement. A fully balanced program, including Arts and Athletics, complements this specialized academic program."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale) provides a rigorous, tailored bilingual and/or English education. IB PYP students engage in experiential learning in i STEAM, International Languages and PSPE. The PSSP and the OSSD promote in-depth understanding of content, teaching students to work hard and make practical connections between subjects and the real world, preparing them for post-secondary education. Our proprietary 3-tier 21st Century Learning Curriculum is implemented from grade 7 to 12."

    • IB ® World School offering the PYP Next in bilingual formats
    • Pre-Secondary School Programme (PSSP) (Grade 7 & 8)
    • Ontario-Inspected Secondary School (OSSD) (English)
    • 21st Century Core Competencies Cursus (Grade 7 to 12)
    • Scholarship Programme
    • Small class sizes
    • Expertise in differentiated learning and Reach-Ahead courses for talented and gifted learners
    • Inclusive community
    • Well-rounded education: DELF, iSTEAM/Coding, visual & performing arts, music, international language
    • Synchronous and asynchronous online learning with teachers and peers

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "Respecting a student’s potential by way of built-in differentiation maximizes each student’s learning and achievement. AcadeCap recognizes that no two students are the same nor do they learn the same. With differentiating, we ensure that students comprehensively learn and master the concepts and skills to be successful. Teachers adapt according to the individual abilities of each student. We get to know our students because of our small class sizes. Both factors support differentiation."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "AcadeCap offers the convenience of its one-stop-education offerings, from a top-notch bilingual IB PYP, the OSSD, the Orton-Gillingham dyslexia support, our enriched physical education programme, the after-school clubs and the summer camps. Academically, we stand out due to our successful teaching style differentiation, our skill-development-based learning, our enriched science instruction, and our accelerated math program."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "AcadeCap’s learning-to-learn approach translates into academic achievement, resilience, and an arsenal of problem-solving strategies when presented with challenges in learning, at work and in life. Contrary to popular belief, large social environments such as large schools do not develop social skills. We capitalize on small groups and across-the-ages interactions to actively teach social skills.
    AcadeCap students are confident in communicating with people of all ages, not only their peers."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    "The efficiency of across-the-ages collaborative learning in an open-concept setting. The open-space and the small class sizes at AcadeCap allow for a great deal of flexibility, opportunity, and time to differentiate. Solid social skills and long-lasting friendships develop in a small group setting, where children can interact with one another in a more approachable way. This allows children to develop their skills, and learn new skills from others while accomplishing any collaborative task."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    My journey at P.A.C.E. began in 1999 and in 2019 I was delighted to assume the role of Director/Principal. The most rewarding part of my job is interacting with the students. They are fun loving, witty and demonstrate an intellectual curiosity that is any educator's dream. The energy level in the building is very high, the questioning by the students is incessant, and there are a lot of laughs. The skills for succeeding at P.A.C.E., whether in the role of teacher or student, are the same: a love of learning, high motivation, an excellent work ethic and a sense of humour. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by excellent teachers and a strong administrative staff: Liana, the Assistant to the Director; our Vice Principals, Caroline Corbit and Joanne Abela; and our Administrative Assistant, Irina. Every September we look forward to yet another passionate and exciting year for all.

    Académie de la Capitale (AcadeCap) I am proud to say, is a unique bilingual IB World School where students want to stay, long after the school day is finished! Soon after its inception, it had the distinction of being the first school in the Ottawa/Outaouais region authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme. AcadeCap, still true to its roots, upholds its unique approach to education. Our students: construct learning according to their potential rather than their age and/or grade; engage easily in learning “beyond the classroom” as a result of the “pick-up and go” potential of the small class; participate in e-long-distance learning to support geographically mobile students; become totally bilingual, and even multilingual; develop collaborative social skills through interaction across the ages; learn to work respectfully alongside each other in an open-concept facility; participate in an AcadeCap developed Globalization, Leadership and Innovation course in middle school; At AcadeCap, we are convinced that real life learning and a lifelong love of learning occur when a child or a teenager engages in on-going personal interaction with adults as well as other children, and participates in relevant learning experiences such as going to Bamfield Marine Science Center and to Race Rocks at Lester B. Pearson United World College. To tailor such authentic learning experiences, to offer guidance throughout the experience, as well as to nourish this love of learning, it is essential for educators to have the time to interact with each and every student. Open-mindedness, flexibility and small class size, allow for such learning to take place at AcadeCap. Take the challenge: we invite you to enrol your child at AcadeCap and find out how engaged in learning your daughter or your son can be when inspired to transcend limits!

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Not applicable

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      P.A.C.E. is a magnet school for students who have been identified as intellectually gifted by means of a psycho-educational assessment. The curriculum is differentiated through various methodologies and strategies i.e. compacting, identifying learning styles, creative problem solving, acceleration, inquiry-based learning, addressing the critical thinking skills, sophisticated field studies, greater depth and breadth of instruction, etc. in order to meet the special needs and characteristics of gifted kids. Our courses reflect high powered learning experiences for our gifted learners, including pre-AP courses offered in grade 8. To address the needs of the whole child, wonderful Fine Arts, Athletic, and Co-Instructional Programs complement our strong academic program. There is something truly special about being surrounded by people passionate about everything they do.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      At Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale), our students benefit from the philosophy, the approach, and the curricula of the Ontario Ministry of Education and the International Baccalaureate. Our younger students, from JK to grade 6, follow the IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), with classes taught 65% in French and 30% in English & 5% languages. Our grades 7 & 8 follow our own Pre-Secondary School Programme (PSSP) approach, with classes taught 50% in French and 50% in English. In grades 9 to 12, our students continue on with the English Ontario OSSD curriculum, taking full advantage of the higher-order thinking skills and rigorous preparation gleaned from completing the PSSP. At Acadecap, we are a community of learners, encouraging the mingling of different age groups, especially when it comes to daily subjects and intra-curricular activities like Math, STEM (iSTEAM), Coding, Jiu-Jitsu, Violin, Visual Arts, Waterpolo and Skiing, where ability and age do not necessarily follow in lock-step. The result is a convivial atmosphere that one might be hard-pressed to witness in other schools.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        P.A.C.E. is a blend of old and new, allowing for the mastery of basic skills while creating exciting new initiatives in how to learn mathematics. It's not all about numerical operations but the understanding of mathematical concepts and the application of mathematics to real world experiences.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        A number of different textbooks are used at the high school level. But, most importantly, we create Resources Booklets for our students which allows us to draw from many different sources.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Défi Mathématique


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        To foster the development of mental math students in grades 1-6 do not use calculators. Starting in grade 7 calculators are used for basic computational skills. Graphing calculators are taught and used in grades 8- 12, but only scientific calculators (without graphing capabilities) are used for evaluations.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Phonics-intensive

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Balanced Literacy


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Children entering in to grade 1 are reading at various levels; from one or two sentences with pictures, to chapter books. Therefore, often there are 2 or 3 reading groups each with different reading assignments. Typically, by January, all of the children have reached a comparable level in their reading fluency but not necessarily in their reading comprehension. By the end of grade one all of the children are reading the same novels.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available


        DIBELS testing

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
        We provide benchmark testing.

      • Writing


        Approach


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        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.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Our children love to write, and we begin to introduce analytical writing as well as creative writing in grade one; the sophistication of which increases as writing assignments are introduced into writing categories: poetry, short stories, essays, and dialogues/monologues.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        A variety of methodologies work best with our students. It is very important for our students to be exposed to the expert, to work effectively with their peers, and to creatively design their own scientific experiments.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Zoology

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Expanding Communities


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Through our broad-based issues and themes, students learn in a very holistic manner as opposed to learning content and facts in isolation. The exploration of the dynamic activities enhance the critical thinking skills and students learn how to apply, analyze and evaluate information. It is through these theme based assignments that our younger students learn to hone their research skills - both through written report and oral presentation.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Through our life skills course, civics, history, law, philosophy and classical civilization students develop their critical thinking skills through discussion, debate and analytical essay writing. Students enjoy discussing BIG IDEAS while respecting the opinions of their peers in a safe and open learning environment. Application to real life experiences remains an important aspect of any social science or humanities course.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Medium integration

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        All students use personally owned devices to enhance learning experiences and opportunities in various disciplines throughout the regular school day. Robotics plays a very large role in our technology program and the instruction of coding begins in grade four.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        The development of a healthy mind and body is critical to success.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        WELL-BALANCED P.H.E. Younger students, tweens and teens participate in activities that support self-knowledge and self-understanding; discover the capabilities of their bodies and the variety of ways in which they are able to use their bodies to solve problems, address physical challenges, function as part of a group, manipulate equipment or apparatus, and express themselves kinaesthetically in a range of situations. UNITS OF P.H.E Fitness conditioning and training (including yoga and pilates-inspired conditioning). Individual and team sports including; touch football, ultimate frisbee, baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, floor hockey, hockey, badminton and tennis. Gymnastics. Waterpolo and water fun. Jiu-jitsu instruction by a Renchi. Outdoor education such as cross-country skiing, hiking, downhill skiing/snowboarding. Track and field. Ballet and Jazz

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      The preschool age children benefit from the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) curriculum framework that enables 3 to 5 year old children to develop their full potential using guided inquiry and play as the best tools for exploring and studying mathematics, science and technology, languages, social studies, the arts, and personal, social, and physical education. We offer a 10 or 12 month inquiry-based programme for students.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      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.


      What the school says

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      At Acadecap International School, we believe that education needs to be grounded in evidenced practice, while nonetheless accounting for forward thinking and change. We encourage learners of all ages to acquire holistic thinking, to seek answers, to use critical thinking, and to act. The Acadecap syllabus is structured to combine the age-banded stages of the Ontario Ministry of Education, with the developmental phases of the International Baccalaureate programmes. This combination takes any pre-conceived limitations away from the scope and depth of students' learning. The result is a constantly motivated and challenged student body, who are passionate about learning.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Addressing the needs of gifted children through a well balanced education that attends to the cognitive as well as social emotional needs of the children allows for us to groom good people who will be productive citizens in society.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      The Acadecap student is unlike any other. He or she not only develops the ability to think and to question critically, ethically, and divergently, but also the ability to create design and build. It is our aim to develop academically successful students, who also have the gumption to take risks, to innovate, and to tackle the unknown.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect 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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Acadecap International School offers support on a case-by-case basis upon meeting with parents and assessing the child's needs.


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    P.A.C.E. is able to provide limited accommodations for students with learning disabilities i.e. extra time on tests and exams.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    At Acadecap International School, differentiation is acknowledged as a sound teaching practice applicable to all students. Our small classes and open-concept space allow for a great deal of flexibility, opportunity and time to differentiate, giving every student the varying levels of support needed. Tutoring and one-on-one instruction can also be provided, such as Orton-Gillingham-based multisensory teaching. Specialists are also called in to provide additional support, if required. Before admission, all potential students are required to spend a visit day with a class, where he or she will be evaluated.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    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


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    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

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    • Our students participate in many extracurricular competitions, most notably in drama and improv, robotics, reach for the top, model UN, chess and athletics.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    • After school Programming Clubs: JAVA script, HTML/CSS, Ruby, Python
    • Lunch period clubs: drama, newspaper, TEDed Talk, and much more
    • After school Math enrichment
    • After school RC Club
    • Master Chess
    • Jiu-jitsu and Water Polo as part of P.E. units
    • Downhill skiing/snowboarding and snow shoeing in the winter
    • Group violin lessons and concerts as part of music education
    • Extra language classes: Mandarin and Spanish
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    1 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    6%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $6,500

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    90%

    Day entry years

    SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    The first critierion for P.A.C.E. is that the student is identified as intellectual gifted. We are looking for bright individuals who are passionate about learning and are productive citizens within the school.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    At AcadeCap, we strive to create a culture of academic excellence driven by the ideal of a community that embraces differences and risk taking; and the belief that education does not only stem from a place, but also an attitude. This is why, in addition to all the admission requirements, the day students spend at AcadeCap helps the students and parents decide whether or not they feel our community is the ideal setting for them to continue their education. It also helps us take note of their ability to contribute and to excel both independently and cooperatively.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    All students are required to have a psycho-educational assessment (WISC V).  If the student scores in the 95th percentile or higher in verbal reasoning and visual perception, on paper, that child would qualify for P.A.C.E.  The next step would be to have a meeting with the family and for the student to visit for the day. Feedback regarding the child's visit is provided. 

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    • The student must spend one day at the school to be evaluated in terms of willingness and ability to participate.
    • A copy of the student’s last report card
    • Any report impacting on the teaching and learning of your child
    • Students entering Grade 4 and up must submit a recommendation from the previous homeroom teacher, subject teachers, counselor and/or director
  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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