AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Albert College vs. Calgary Waldorf School

one-to-one comparison:

View Albert College's full report
VS.
View Calgary Waldorf School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    160 Dundas Street West, Belleville, Ontario, K8P 1A6, Canada

    515 Cougar Ridge Dr. SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3H 5G9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1857

    1985

    Enrolment

    300

    240

    Grades

    Preschool to 12

    JK to 9

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, Boarding

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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

    Waldorf

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    15

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
    Waldorf
    Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $21,400 to $40,300

    $6,170 to $12,130

    Boarding Tuition

    $49,000 to $85,500

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    15%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    JK to 12

    Preschool to 9

    Median FA package size

    $7,746

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    19

    20

    Percent in boarding

    32%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

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

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    “The focus on learning skills and core values extends beyond the classroom into every aspect of school life.” “The sentiment that teachers genuinely care about their students’ well-being was echoed throughout many of the interviews we did. And the culture of care extends to the students as well.” “Students leave Albert as global citizens ready to take on real-world challenges.”
    Read The Our Kids Review of Albert College

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    When Albert College was founded, British North America was a group of colonies—confederation was still decades away—and Prince Albert, for who the school is named, was still alive. The college has had, clearly, a very long life, something that grants a unique life to the school and a unique perspective on learning. When students study WWII, for example, they learn about Lloyd George Bishop, an alumni who was killed in action in the first full year of that war. When they gather at the holidays, they sing the “Boar’s Head Carol,” just as their predecessors have done for, literally, more than a century. Yes, those are just details, but what they suggest to students can be quite galvanizing, namely that they are participating in something far larger than themselves. Moreover, the school, throughout its life, has remained at the leading edge of education in the country—when it was founded, it was co-ed, which was unusual for the time—offering a robust liberal arts education, with a focus on citizenship and character, preparing students for post-secondary study. Classes are small, the feel is close knit. More than ever, the school attracts a diverse student population, drawn from across Canada and around the world. The campus is very well appointed, with access to outdoor athletics and recreational spaces, and host to a long list of co-curricular activities. In every way, there's a lot to love.
     

    View full report

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    The program is established and proven, having been founded in 1985. Facilities are frankly excellent, having been purpose built for the CWS program in 2002, and created through consultation and cooperation with the entire school community. Spaces are ample, well appointed, and naturally lit. The aesthetic throughout is energizing. A wealth of outdoor space is a plus, to with more than four acres combining multi-use fields, play spaces, and sports fields. The proximity to the Canada Olympic Park isn’t perhaps meaningful in any substantive way, but is nice all the same. In the creation of the facility, to the day-to-day experience of the school, the school prides itself on the community that it both serves and represents, and well it should. There’s a village feel throughout, which only amplifies the academic work being done. Parents feel as much a part of the school as the students, which supports the work of the school in lots of overt and subtle ways. Staff are dedicated and experienced, and the daily routines—from drop off to aftercare—are friendly and sympathetic to the needs of parents and everything that can pop up in the course of a day.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    "At Albert College, every student from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 experiences all 5 of the 'A’s that are integral to an AC education. Academics are our primary focus, but all students participate in Arts, Athletics, Active citizenship and Adventure programming. By inspiring excellence in the 5 'A’s, our students develop into well-rounded global citizens within our close family environment. Our students leave as confident and courageous graduates ready for post-secondary education."

    • Over 160 years of experience
    • Scholarships, bursaries and financial assistance available
    • Live-in, full time boarding staff
    • International student body from 20+ countries
    • Inclusive, welcoming and supportive family environment
    • Nutritious snacks and meals provided at no extra cost
    • Small classes, with an average of 15 students per class
    • 100% of graduates are accepted to post-secondary school
    • English as a Second Language (ESL) Summer School offered
    • Dedicated Health & Wellness Centre with 2 full-time Nurses and on-call Doctor

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Central to Waldorf education is a deep respect for childhood. Our enriched curriculum is designed to meet children where they are in their development. Movement and time in nature is built into every student’s daily rhythm. The Waldorf learning experience is hands-on, with unwired and low-tech classrooms. The arts — music, story, drawing, painting, and drama — are interwoven through all subjects. Students also learn two world languages, French and German."

    • Beginning in grade one children learn two world languages, French and German.
    • Handwork and Woodwork are part of the curriculum
    • Middle School students take part in a series of elective classes including wrestling, robotics, etc.
    • Independent School athletics program begins in grade seven with after school sports.

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    "Albert College provides opportunities for its students, which would be impossible in a larger school. With a focus on the 5 'A's: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Active Citizenship and Adventure, our students have a wide array of curricular and co-curricular opportunities in these areas. Our objective is to help students polish talents and discover new ones all within a caring and nurturing environment that values individuality, compassion, integrity, and inclusiveness."

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "This whole-child approach to education is rooted in the Waldorf concepts of "feeling, thinking, willing," and "heart, head, hands." These concepts are based on Dr. Rudolf Steiner's philosophies, and adapted for a changing world. We strive to honour, nurture, and protect the childhood of our students; to guide them into healthy adolescence; and to help them mature in ways that go beyond the simply material aspects of our nature and our world."

    Array

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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    "Albert College is a family that supports and encourages one another. Our school is small and everyone knows each other no matter what grade you are in. The faculty and staff are caring and supportive, and encourage students to be the very best they can be. Albert College is more than a school, it truly is a family."

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Our philosophy prioritizes the integration of arts, imagination, and movement into all academic disciplines. Our curriculum fosters intellectual flexibility and creative thinking, with an eye to ethics and morality. Knowledge is important, but understanding what to do with that knowledge is critical. We believe that becoming a successful human is a function of weaving together a rich tapestry of capacities and abilities."

    Array

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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    "The faculty and staff at Albert College truly care about each and every student. The boarding staff treat our boarding students like their very own children. We truly are a family that studies, plays and grows together. The connections that students make at Albert College, with the staff and with their fellow classmates from around the world are truly unique and shapes them into confident global citizens. Albert College students create friendships that lasts a lifetime."

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "The use of electronic media, particularly television, by young children is discouraged in Waldorf schools. So too is the over-emphasis of commercialism and busy extra-curricular schedules. The importance of a balanced and strong family life is emphasized, encouraged and supported at our school."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    "Albert College is steeped in history and tradition. Founded in 1857, Albert College celebrates its history through traditional events, songs and customs that have been celebrated for decades. From our 100 year old building to the beautiful and historic Memorial Chapel. And our traditional Candlelight Carol Service at Christmas, the Albert College hymn, and orientation camp in the fall where the whole school goes camping together. There are many Albert College traditions that make us who we are."

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Waldorf class teachers build strong relationships with their students. Our methodology is rooted in rhythm and routine, and supported by having a Class Teacher. The teacher stays with their class for several consecutive years, acting as mentor, role model, and guardian. A Class Teacher is better able to assess each individual's development needs, and fosters shared experience and a strong bond between the teacher and the students and their families."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Albert College is a wonderful day and international co-educational boarding school, steeped in history and tradition. Not only does it have a stellar reputation for preparing young people for university and for life, but Albert College is also recognized for developing global citizens within a close family environment. The international makeup of Albert College helps foster understanding and tolerance. As technological advances continue to make our world truly a global village, what better environment could there be in which to prepare students for the world that awaits them? 

    As a small Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 school, Albert provides opportunities for its students, which would be impossible in a larger school. With a focus on the 5 'A's: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Active Citizenship and Adventure, our students have an incredibly wide array of curricular and co-curricular opportunities in these areas. Our objective is to help students polish talents and discover new ones all within a caring and nurturing environment that values individuality, compassion, integrity, and inclusiveness.
     
    You can find our beautiful 25-acre campus in Belleville, Ontario. Belleville is located on Lake Ontario with easy access to Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. Words and pictures can only begin to tell the story. It is my hope that soon you can visit us in person; you’ll be glad that you did!
     

    information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Information not available

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      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.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Waldorf schools are available from preschool to Grade 12, though they are most popular at the younger ages. Waldorf schools are unmistakably "progressive". Rudolf Steiner, their intellectual forefather, believed the educator's first task should be to help students develop an aesthetic appreciation for life and learning. Sometimes incorrectly conflated with Montessori schools, Waldorf schools focus on developing the "whole child" - emphasizing collaborative, hands-on learning, along with the arts and music, which are integrated into other areas of study.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Albert College exceeds the standards set by the Ontario curriculum at every grade level. Students study with like-minded individuals who are encouraged to aim higher and succeed. Our graduates are well-prepared for post-secondary studies. Armed with knowledge and confidence, students graduate from Albert College determined and driven to take on the challenges that lie ahead in their post-secondary studies and beyond.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

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

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        At Albert College, students are provided with the traditional skills through both a procedural approach as well as inquiry-based learning. They expand upon their understandings of concepts through collaborative discussions in 'thinking classrooms.' Teachers are keen on making sure that students have the necessary tools to show their understandings by using appropriate assessment techniques to ensure greater appreciation for metacognitive processes.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Elementary school students use Jump Math as well as other online resources. We also use Nelson Mathematics throughout the Middle School. Teachers in the Senior School provide instruction based on a wide variety of resources tailored to the students' needs.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Graphing calculators are required throughout Grades 9 to 12.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Phonics-intensive

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        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.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        At Albert College, we provide a phonics-intensive program, specifically at the younger ages (JK to Grade 1). We then switch to a balanced literacy approach. We supplement our already rich offerings with carefully selected programs that cater to various age levels in a differentiated manner.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        DIBELS testing

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        No

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        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.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Our phonics-intensive program goes hand-in-hand with our writing program. As students learn to read, they also practice writing with a kinaesthetic approach that transfers to pen and paper writing. More formal lessons in printing and cursive writing continue into the elementary grades where students are exposed to writing in various genres. They are also provided with many opportunities to cultivate their creative writing skills through imaginative free-writing.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        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.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Teachers favour an inquiry-based approach for teaching most curricula, including the sciences, as Albert College provides the necessary equipment to perform a deep/hands-on investigation into questions based around scientific concepts.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ALBERT COLLEGE

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

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Zoology

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Being a school that emphasizes an academic stream, Albert College makes a concerted effort to ensure that students build the skills necessary to critically think about literature and write well-formulated essays on a variety topics.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Expanding Communities

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        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.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Our social studies program consistently focusses on the value of understanding various types of communities—from local community organizations to examining Canada's impact in the global community. We use the Ontario curriculum as a guide to direct inquiry-based learning opportunities but we often diverge to explore topics that are related to the students' interests.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

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

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        At Albert College our teachers strive to build a passion for Social Studies through telling vivid stories that also build an appreciation for diverse perspectives. One topic will be looked at through a variety of lenses and visible thinking tools are used extensively along the way to help students create a working template to negotiate material.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        In our Junior School students are first introduced to French in our Kindergarten program to foster a curiosity and love for learning another language. Starting from Grade 1, the AIM method is utilized to help students build French mastery through song, drama, and movement. This approach blends nicely into the neurolinguistic approach that is offered our Middle and Senior School. We also have an extensive ESL program for students requiring support in their English Language Development from Grades 7 to 12.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Information not available

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        THE ARTS PROGRAM ENABLES STUDENTS TO BECOME CREATIVE, CONFIDENT INDIVIDUALS. Students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 participate and engage in artistic instruction. All classes are led by faculty, specialized artists and instructors and are tailored to each student’s abilities to ensure a challenging program. Specialized courses are offered at the Senior School for credit. School-wide events and drama productions, musical performance opportunities and art exhibits provide students the opportunity to share their talents and build their confidence in all areas of the arts. Students are exposed to the arts either in class or during Arts Period - a unique program that is offered three times per week, in addition to regular arts classes.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Medium integration

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ALBERT COLLEGE

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

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        At Albert College, we have online working expectations through which students can seamlessly shift from being in-person to being at a distance as a learner. Digital citizenship concepts and understandings are integrated into our offerings as required for various age groups. The understandings are developed through class-wide and school-wide expectations and discussions.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        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

        ALBERT COLLEGE

        Our athletes are coached by a dedicated group of staff and faculty members that are highly certified in their respective sports and tireless in their dedication and enthusiasm. Students are given the opportunity to play on a team, refine their skills, try new things and develop a healthy, active lifestyle. Our athletes compete regularly against teams from the Conference of Independent Schools and those in our local associations. Each term there is a wide range of athletic opportunities. Some are competitive, some developmental and some simply recreational. Specialized courses at the Senior School provide the students with an academic credit.

        CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      In Pre-Kindergarten children need a warm, inviting, accepting and supervised program that will stimulate their growth and development and maintain their curiosity about learning. Pre-K students experience active, experiential learning through play and a comprehensive, integrated curriculum of carefully-planned and child-centred daily activities. The purpose of the Pre-K program is to focus on the development of the whole child – physical, social, emotional, and intellectual – in preparation for early and ongoing success in our formal Junior and Senior Kindergarten.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Standard-enriched

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      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.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      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

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Albert College uses learning platforms that provide the students with the opportunity to explore the curriculum and monitor their learning progress at their own pace under the guidance and support of their teachers.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Rigorous

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      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”.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Our focus is on an academic curriculum with the ultimate goal that students obtain an acceptance to a post-secondary program of their choice. Students are regularly recognized for their outstanding academic achievements.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ALBERT COLLEGE

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

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ALBERT COLLEGE

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

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ALBERT COLLEGE

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

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ALBERT COLLEGE

      Albert College grads are global citizens who are confident, open minded leaders of character and are prepared for post secondary education and life. Albert College grads are creative, inquisitive and innovative thinkers with a love and excitement for learning. Albert College grads are collaborative learners with a strong foundation for their ongoing educational journey. Albert College grads are sensitive to the needs and feelings of others, exhibiting empathy and humility in their dealings with one another and with the world around them. Albert College grads are self-motivated problem solvers, aware of issues both locally and globally, who honour others similarities and differences and act with honesty and integrity while striving for a safe and welcoming community for all.

      CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

  • 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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available


    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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    We work with families to assess the needs of our students and we follow up on the recommendations and accommodations to provide the best support possible.

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • 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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    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

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    • Our School is a member of the I.S.A.A. (Independent Schools’ Athletic Association), a league of independent schools in Calgary that coordinates the sporting season for its students.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    JK - 12

    Preschool - 9

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    15%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $7,746

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

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

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    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

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ALBERT COLLEGE

    In order to complete the admission process the applicant is required to:

    • Complete our on line application ($100 CAN fee applies)
    • Provide past two-years academic reports*
    • Submit our teacher's evaluation*
    • Write our entrance test and complete an in person or video call interview (for students in Grades 7-12)
    • If the applicant's first language is not English they may be required to provide language test results (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo)

    *IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE THESE DOCUMENTS AT THE TIME OF SUBMITTING THE ONLINE APPLICATION, PLEASE EMAIL THE DOCUMENTS IN PDF FORMAT TO [email protected]

    If you are not ready to apply, but would like to learn more about Albert College please submit an online inquiry and one of our Enrolment Associates will be in touch with you shortly.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Prescott F. Cogswell (1882)
    Born in Thamesford, Ontario on October 23, 1859, Prescott moved to El Monte, California in 1882. Here he would distinguish himself in public service, business and industry.
    Herbert Norman (1929)
    Born on September 1, 1909 in Karuizawa, Japan to Methodist missionary parents, Herbert was to become a scholar, author, foreign service officer and a career diplomat.
    Alfred W. Purdie (1932)
    Born in Wooler, Ontario in 1918, Alfred (Al) is best known (along with Milton Acorn, Alden Nowlan and Patrick Lane) as a “working class” or “poet of the people” writer.
    Jean Pigott (1943)
    Born on June 3, 1924, Jean is a woman whose career has spanned business, government, education and politics.
    Lois M.R. Perinchief (1944)
    Ms. Perinchief, who was born and raised in St George’s, Bermuda made history in 1968 when she became Common Councillor for the Corporation of St George’s — the first woman to attain the position.
    Walter D. Baker (1950)
    Born in Ottawa, Ontario in 1930, Walter was a Canadian parliamentarian and a lawyer. He was first elected to the Canadian House of Commons in 1972 and was re-elected three times.
    Thomas A. Buell (1951)
    Born in Toronto, Ontario in 1931, Thomas was a highly respected businessman and environmentalist.
    Cornelius F. Burk (1952)
    Born in Sarnia, Ontario in 1933, Cornelius (Neil) was employed by the Public Service of Canada as a geological research scientist.
    Paul D. Fleck (1952)
    Born in Montreal, Quebec in 1934, Paul became an English professor at the University of Western Ontario and later Head of the English Department.
    David S. Scott (1955)
    Born in Quebec City, Quebec, David joined the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Toronto in 1966 where he later became Department Chair in 1976.
    View all
    information not available

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THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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