540 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville, Ontario, L6K 3P1, Canada
55 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R3, Canada
Indirect Support:
540 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville, Ontario, L6K 3P1, Canada
55 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R3, Canada
1911
1980
785
250
7 to 12
K to 12
Coed
Coed
Boarding, Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts
Liberal Arts
12 to 16
10 to 16
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
$43,090 to $52,310
$20,600 to $26,350
$70,050 to $85,970
Yes
No
20%
0%
7 to 12
None
$31,250
$0
131
19
35%
0%
32%
100%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Oct 31, 2022
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
While boarding isn't as much of a focus as it once was—the day students now outnumber the boarders, as they have since 1980—Appleby's stance is nevertheless predicated on the benefits associated with a boarding school environment: independence, self-discipline, and responsibility. The school prides itself on a reputation for academic excellence and innovation, and the program is designed to prepare students for the world that they will move into after graduation, one where the primary skill necessary for success is an ability to engage productively with others. Diversity is viewed as a core strength, and the school has instituted a range of programs intended create and maintain a diverse academic, cultural, and economic student population. The ideal student is one who is forthright, active, confident, and self-directed, and predisposed to making the most of the wide range of opportunities that the school provides.
Read The Our Kids Review of Appleby College
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While boarding isn't as much of a focus as it once was—the day students now outnumber the boarders, as they have done for some time—Appleby's stance is nevertheless predicated on the benefits that boarding can afford: independence, self-discipline, and responsibility. The school prides itself on a reputation for academic innovation, one that it has rightly earned. The program is designed to prepare students for the world that they will move into after graduation, and indeed it is a leader in that regard. Diversity is seen as a core strength, and the school has instituted a range of programs intended maintain a diverse academic, cultural, and economic student population. The ideal student is one who is forthright, active, confident, and self-directed.
View full reportBy any measure, there’s a lot to love about WillowWood. The work of the school is dedicated to supporting learners who, for a range of reasons, need something different, and who, for whatever reason, aren’t adequately supported in other academic environments. Their personal needs are assessed, as are their strengths and interests, and instruction begins from that point, seeking to build on their abilities in order to grow engaged learners equipped with the confidence and the skills to establish a place in the community of the school and beyond.
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"They help the students create, then build work practices that will set them up for success not only for exams but for life moving forward."
Jonathan Landon - Parent (Oct 24, 2018)
In a word, transformational. Going from really disliking school in general to really wanting to go t...
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"Each teacher has been able to identify and address our child's unique learning style. Not only do they give her the push that she needs to achieve, they have instilled a belief in her own ability..."
Karen Snowdon-Steacy - Parent (Oct 24, 2018)
My child loves WillowWood and feels very safe at the school. She describes the day to day feeling a...
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"We are very pleased with the level of teaching support that our daughter has received."
Mary Yuan - Parent (Mar 09, 2022)
Our daughter came to WillowWood in Grade 9 after attending Toronto public schools since kindergarten...
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"Founded in 1911 and located on a picturesque 60-acre campus in Oakville, Ontario, Appleby College is a university preparatory, coeducational day/boarding school for students in Grades 7–12. At Appleby, we believe every student deserves an opportunity to pursue an education that excites and challenges them. An education that offers them the chance to discover and embrace their passions both inside and outside of the classroom. Hallmarks of the Appleby experience include our Grade 12 boarding programme; our extensive athletics, arts, service and clubs; our emphasis on global learning and cultural understanding with participation in a global learning experience as a core requirement of the Appleby College Diploma; our commitment to financial assistance with over $5.3 million in bursaries, loans and scholarships annually; and our experiential learning programme centred around the S. Bruce McLaughlin Northern Campus in Temagami which this year celebrates its 50th anniversary. This coming school year we will be introducing three new diploma specializations in Business, S.T.E.M., and the Creative Arts to complement the existing Global Leadership and AP Capstone programmes. To learn more about Appleby please visit us at www.appleby.on.ca. To arrange a tour, please contact Sophie Grossman, Executive Director, Admissions at [email protected]."
"AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR ALL LEARNERS. WillowWood has a culture that empowers students to thrive in a tech-driven world. Our friendly and supportive teachers create individualized learning plans and deliver them in a safe, respectful, and inclusive community. This individualized approach ensures that students are able to discover and embrace their strengths, address their weaknesses, and maintain their dignity."
"Differentiators for Appleby include; our emphasis on experiential learning - Grade 12 boarding; our northern campus and outdoor leadership programs; participation in an international learning experience. Our commitment to developing global competencies in our students by embedding cultural awareness and understanding in all aspects of the Appleby experience. Our caring and nurturing culture where students can thrive knowing that they are supported and belong."
"WillowWood staff employ a team-based approach to teaching and conduct regular educational strategy meetings to discuss how best to deliver the curriculum to individual students. These meetings occur bi-weekly and their aim is to discuss teaching methods that worked or did not work with certain students. The meetings are also an opportunity to share insights and information about our various students that will hopefully provide our staff with a better understanding of our learners."
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"Families choose Appleby for multiple reasons including; the rigor of our academic programme and the fact our graduates attend some of the finest universities in the world. Our emphasis on global and cultural understanding and the diverse/welcoming character of our school community. The breadth of our athletic, arts and service co-curricular programmes. Experiential education is also a key consideration - our norther campus, boarding and global experiences."
"Word of mouth has been our primary source of referrals for as long as WillowWood has been open. Parents often decide to enroll their child with us upon hearing positive anectodes and reviews from neighbours, friends an alumni. The primary reason for choosing us is often because of the warmth, friendliness, and individual care students receive at WillowWood."
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"At Appleby we are fortunate to have a community that recognizes, appreciates and celebrates all of the elements that contribute to an Appleby College education. From our caring and nurturing culture to the growth experiences embedded in our boarding, experiential global education programmes to the incredible support the school receives from our Parents Association and Alumni, we have been able to build a legacy that speaks to the enduring nature of the Appleby experience."
"When parents visit WillowWood, they are often shocked by how large the school is and surprised by the range of amenities we offer. Many schools that have small class sizes are not full facilities. WillowWood features a full-sized gymnasium, a fitness room, a media arts room, an art studio, a sound-proofed music room, a fully-equipped science lab, and a film studio. Our playground has giant board games, checkers/chess tables, table tennis tables, and a full-sized basketball court."
"At Appleby, we want to make sure that prospective students and their families fully understand what the Appleby experience is truly all about so that when it comes to them choosing Appleby there are no surprises. If there is one area that some families find surprising it is the size and global reach of our Alumni community. We are fortunate to have an active and engaged network of 8,000+ Blue Dogs living around the world, many of whom are still very involved in our community as mentors."
"Some parents are surprised by the fact that students address teachers by their first names at WillowWood. We do this to make students feel more comfortable in their classroom engagements with their teachers. We want students to feel less anxious when addressing their instructors or when they ask for help. We want to convey the feeling that teachers and students at WillowWood are on the same team."
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Deciding where to go to school is one of those choices that feels more profound looking at it in the rear-view mirror than it does over your dashboard. When you make the right choice, it can change the direction of your life in amazing ways. Ways that only become clear after the journey.
When you speak with Appleby graduates – those who graduated last year to those who left 70 years ago, those who live across Canada and those who live around the world – they talk about the enduring nature of the Appleby experience. They talk about powerful bonds of friendship and preparedness for leadership that stay with them. Experiences that help define who they are.
Breadth, excellence, innovation and caring – this is what defines the essence of the Appleby College experience.
We challenge our students to develop high levels of capabilities across a wide range of activities – academics, athletics, the arts, service, global education, outdoor education, as well as living and working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds and perspectives. This broad experience is all-encompassing and, we believe, the right approach to prepare our graduates to be major contributors to their local, national and international communities in the fast-changing, globally-connected world of today and tomorrow.
Over the last couple of decades, we have garnered an international reputation for innovation, be it in the use of technology or global education or teaching methods. Today, we are in the midst of another exciting development as we look forward to enhancing the Appleby experience with the construction of a new athletics and student life space - the A.W.B. Alumni Centre for Athletics and Student Life. Designed to transform our capacity for indoor athletics and training programmes, the new facility will also support our expanding academic and co-curricular aspirations.
Great school culture must be central to a great student experience. We take pride in creating an environment where students know that they belong, where they find areas that they love, and where they both experience and contribute to a community that cares. We believe in growth through challenge. But equally, we believe that supporting young people is the best way to empower them to succeed in the face of that challenge.
Appleby is not for everyone. But if breadth, excellence, innovation and caring are appealing, look through this prospectus, come on a campus tour, speak with our students and faculty, and find out whether Appleby is the right place for you. Decide for yourself whether Appleby is the kind of launch pad that you want as you look down the road at your future.
I look forward to welcoming you!
Innes van Nostrand
Principal
When visitors walk into the building for the first time they often remark on the special feeling the school has.
That feeling (which I call magical) is a combination of the history and philosophy of the school, the energy of the staff, and the spirit of the students.
When I founded this school it was based on the belief that learning can and should be fun and that school should be a positive and rewarding experience.
We know that one size does not fit all and that students flourish when their school embraces their strengths, addresses their needs and respects their dignity. My staff and I have been successfully delivering student-centred, individualized education in a warm and caring environment for over 30 years.
That's the magic we make at WillowWood.
If your family is seeking a new style of school with a strong history of inspiring students, come by for a visit. I'd love to meet you.
- Joy Kurtz, Director
Liberal Arts
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Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
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Appleby offers a distinguished curriculum. A diverse range of required components provides students with stimulating challenges and the opportunity to acquire knowledge, skills and values. Our progressive curriculum provides students with the opportunity to discover and research topics of interest through inquiry-based learning, and focuses on critical-thinking, individual potential, self-discipline, respect, responsibility and commitment, spiritual and moral development, democratic principles, personal health and fitness, environmental awareness and stewardship, the role of gender, ethnicity, race and culture in building rich, diverse communities, and student-centred experiences creating leadership opportunities. Students are exposed to a rich variety of developmental experiences which serve to prepare them for futures in which they will be valued leaders and contributors to global communities. The defining characteristic of an Appleby education is the mandatory participation in each of its core curricular components, leading to an Appleby College Diploma and Ontario Secondary School Diploma upon graduation. Appleby develops young men and women of personal integrity, who are prepared for university, societal change, responsible involvement and leadership in their local, national and global communities.
WillowWood was founded on the idea that all students deserve to learn with dignity. We individualize our teaching to meet the needs and talents of each student, so they can find and achieve their potential. WillowWood is a family-style school. Students and teachers enjoy friendly, genuine interactions in and out of classes. Students at WillowWood find a remarkable lack of clique-competition and bullying, as students internalize the family feeling. Conflict is dealt with quickly and fairly, with understanding and through communication whenever possible. Students are given agency and encouraged to set personal goals, to develop self-advocacy and communication skills - all while knowing that help is available for the asking and that assistance provided will respect their dignity. All of this makes WillowWood a great school for a wide variety of students.
Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
The mathematics program at Appleby College provides a solid foundation for the study of mathematics at the university level. Students develop fundamental skills and an understanding of applied mathematical concepts utilizing a variety of tablet-based software applications, preparing them to further explore and visualize mathematical relationships. From a common enriched curriculum at the Middle One level, students follow a path that prepares them for the diverse mathematics courses they may encounter in university. For students interested in taking Advanced Placement courses in Calculus (AB and BC) or Statistics in their senior years, a vertically integrated Advanced Placement stream of courses is available.
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All students are required to have a non-graphing, scientific calculator. The required model is the CASIO fx-991MS. Note: Phones and other hand-held electronic devices that have calculator applications and calculators with graphical displays are not a substitute as they are not allowed in tests and examinations.
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Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
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Process approach
The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.
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Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science 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.
The study of science allows a student to make a personal search for the logical patterns that explain the behaviour of the universe. Scientific study also develops skills in thinking and problem-solving, developing the overall academic abilities of each student. Lessons on the scientific method can also be applied to other areas of study and to many aspects of life. Appleby’s Science and Technology program provides students with the opportunity to develop the attitudes and skills of scientific thinking, helping them make sense of the rapidly expanding technological world. These skills enable students to understand the major concepts of science, how the concepts were developed and how they are used to explain the behaviour of the natural world.
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physiology
Traditional
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
The Appleby English program prepares students for the study of university English and develops competence in speaking, written expression and reading that is instrumental in the pursuit of other disciplines. Students follow a structured curriculum from Middle One to Senior Two. The Appleby program is literature-based, with emphasis on the integration of a critical awareness of language and media. Thus, the aim is to achieve a balance of these elements in the student’s oral and written expression. All courses concentrate on developing the students’ abilities to understand and convey information; to evaluate and present facts and opinions; to express experience, emotions and imagination; to manipulate conventions such as paragraphing, sentence structure, punctuation and spelling; to recognize implicit meaning; and to cultivate an awareness of style.
We encourage practice and critical thinking about literature and communication of all forms. We use a mixture of traditional materials and popular and modern works.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
The study of Social Sciences is an integral part of the Appleby curriculum. In the early years, classes aim to develop an awareness of the wider community, an imaginative interest in the past and a respect for the relationship between people and their environments. Progressively, the student is introduced to Canadian heritage and geography, religion and spirituality, and a host of optional subjects. Students may choose from courses in geography, history and religion, as well as accounting, economics, philosophy and political science. Students are taught increasingly sophisticated analytical and critical-thinking skills, with particular emphasis on integrating modern educational technologies and effective research methods into all levels of study. Programs place a particular emphasis on teaching an appreciation for each student’s role and responsibilities in Canadian life and the development of a strong global perspective.
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Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The Language and Culture Department consists of French, German, Mandarin, Spanish and Arabic. French is a compulsory subject from Middle One to Upper Two (2D or 3U) and students are required to take an additional international language of their choice in Upper One. A highlight of the program is the Middle Two International Languages course. Students explore a round robin comprised of Mandarin, German, Spanish, and Arabic while also continuing the French program. This introductory program focuses on the cultural aspects of the languages through the use of basic conversational skills. Exchanges - Students studying modern languages have the exceptional opportunity to participate in language-based exchange programs to Québec, France, Spain, South America, China, and Germany. While totally immersing themselves in the language and the culture of the country, students follow a full program of studies at the host school. These exchanges greatly enhance the students’ fluency and comprehension.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
The performing arts - dance, drama, and music - present opportunity and challenge as individual academic courses. In conjunction with the visual and media arts, students, teachers, the school, and the community benefit from creative, expressive, and performance opportunities. Music and Visual Arts are required courses of study in the Middle School, and students must choose at least one credit in Music, Visual Arts, or Drama in Upper One. Students pursuing elective courses in all four streams have the opportunity to take History of the Arts, a university-level AP course. Each of the disciplines involve practical, theoretical, and presentation elements and the courses are designed for a wide range of student interests and abilities, including those students who wish to pursue university arts programs.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
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.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Appleby’s classrooms are designed to enable exceptional teaching and engaged learning, seamlessly integrating wireless capabilities with EPSON projectors and interactive televisions in the classroom. Appleby classrooms provide a modern integrated learning and lecture environment complete with audio, video, and programmable lighting all controlled through a touch panel. While faculty can teach from anywhere in the classroom, mobile seating allows for flexible seating arrangements, supporting collaborative learning, as well as independent, student-centred lesson design. Innovation plays a key role in the Appleby experience. Today, the majority of student school work is accessed, completed and submitted on their pen-based Fujitsu tablet. Using Microsoft OneNote, teachers and students are able to write, sketch, organize and edit information in their own digital “binder”. While teachers can “see” each student’s section, students can only access their own section or that of their group (if working on a collaborative project).
We encourage teachers to use tech as needed, and to model healthy use of technology (balanced). We use assistive technology everywhere it can be used, and encourage students to find and use any that work for them.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
The Health and Physical Education Department combines the Physical Education and Northward Bound programs. The aim of the department is to ensure Appleby students have healthy minds and bodies. Health and Physical Education gives students a platform with which to develop lifelong health and fitness learning. The Health and Physical Education program provides students with opportunities to improve their personal fitness, sport skills and an understanding of healthy living principles and is compulsory for Middle One to Upper One students. Students enjoy access to Appleby’s athletic facilities including the playing fields, gymnasium, squash courts, tennis courts, weight training room, cardio room, pool and arena. The Northward Bound program is mandatory in Upper One and Upper Two. The program’s emphasis on outdoor skills, fitness and leadership skills complements and enriches the students’ Physical Education studies.
We encourage healthy active living, along with team-work, communication and individual goal-setting and personal development.
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.
WillowWood’s new and innovative SK program offers advanced Early Learning through a multi-sensory, holistic, and technology-driven model. Our nurturing approach with a strong emphasis on play-based discovery leads the child to an enhanced understanding of our enriched curriculum. • Play-based discovery learning • Best practices technology-driven curriculum • Emphasis on reading, writing, and math readiness skills • Social Skills and executive function instruction • Introduction to French
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.
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.
Learning is individualized at WillowWood. As such, pacing can be determined by course teachers in accordance with students' IEPs.
Supportive
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”.
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.
Academics at Appleby are based on a rigorous university preparatory curriculum. A diverse range of required components provides students with stimulating challenges and the opportunity to acquire knowledge, skills and values. The achievement: preparation for university and life. Upon graduation students earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and the Appleby College Diploma. In addition to the OSSD requirements, the Appleby College Diploma has even more rigorous academic and significant co-curricular requirements. Appleby is also the first boarding school in North America to offer an integrated global education programme culminating with the Appleby College Diploma with Distinction in Global Leadership.
WillowWood has a long tradition of delivering targeted, personal education that considers each student's needs, inclinations and strengths. This individualized approach ensures that students are able to discover and embrace their strengths, address their weaknesses, and maintain their dignity. Classes are small, the atmosphere is warm, and the pedagogical approach is holistic. Our effective teaching strategies, enthusiastic staff members, innovative programs and friendly environment bring out the best in students, build self-confidence and inspire a love of learning.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
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.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Appleby College develops students of personal integrity, who are prepared for university, societal change, responsible involvement and leadership in their local, national and global communities. Joining Appleby from more than 50 countries, our students explore the meaning of character and leadership in the context of our global society as demonstrated in hallmark programmes such as the Global Leadership Diploma, Intercultural and Service Learning, and Residential Life. The defining characteristic of an Appleby education is the mandatory participation in each of its core curricular components, leading to an Appleby College Diploma upon graduation.
WillowWood has a long tradition of delivering targeted, personal education that considers each student's needs, inclinations and strengths. This individualized approach ensures that students are able to discover and embrace their strengths, address their weaknesses, and maintain their dignity. Classes are small, the atmosphere is warm, and the pedagogical approach is holistic. Our effective teaching strategies, enthusiastic staff members, innovative programs and friendly environment bring out the best in students, build self-confidence and inspire a love of learning.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| 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.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
| Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
| Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. | ||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Modifications
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
We accommodate students in collaboration with them, their parents, teachers and our school therapist.
Appleby College is dedicated to providing supports and accommodations to students who have received a medical diagnosis related to their learning exceptionalities and/or mental health and wellness. The focal point of these supports is the school’s Student Success Centre (SSC) which provides the necessary supports for those students to have access to official accommodations: those with a Learning Difference (LD) in Reading, Writing or Mathematics, Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Stress and Anxiety, Executive Functioning, English Language Learners (ELL) and other medical conditions. The SSC also supports those students who have suffered head traumas or concussions and are on Appleby’s Return to Learn (RTL) Protocol.
WillowWood is ideal for students with learning disabilities, due to our individualized programming and trained staff. We excel in this area. Our teachers regularly attend workshops to hone their teaching skills and to learn new ways of delivering course curricula.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
7 - 12
20%
0%
$31,250
$0
32%
100%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Oct 31, 2022
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Students who are passionate about learning, inquisitive, energetic, engaged, and who get involved. Current students and alumni quite often say that “you can’t be a passive by-stander at Appleby. The faculty and your peers won’t let you. Appleby offers students incredible learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom but in return it demands a lot.”
We are looking for students who want to succeed, want a supportive environment, and hope to discover and uncover their full potential in school.
Online Application Form
As the first step in the application process please complete the online application form (https://appleby.myschoolapp.com/app#login/apply). Please note, new applicants will be asked to create an account before proceeding to the application form. If you are a returning applicant, the login method previously used when submitting your Appleby College application has changed as Blackbaud - Appleby's education management system (BBK12) provider, has phased out its existing login method. Returning applicants are asked to contact [email protected] and a member of the Appleby Technology Team will be happy to assist you.
It should take you approximately 5-10 minutes to complete the online form. Once you have completed the form you will be asked to pay the school's non-refundable application fee. For Canadian residents the fee is $200, for International residents the fee is $300.
As part of the application process, please have the following information and documents available for submission:
EDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENT (IF APPLICABLE): To help us ensure that the applicant (upon condition of acceptance) receives the appropriate support needed to have a successful experience at Appleby, a copy of their last assessment is appreciated if available.
ESL LANGUAGE ASSESSMENT (IF APPLICABLE): If the applicant is a non-native English speaker applying for grades 10 through 12 please provide your TOEFL, or IELTS test date. For non-native English speakers applying for grades 7 through 9 please provide your TOEFL Jr or iTEP test date. Please note that, for those who are unable to access one of the above English Language Assessments, we are currently accepting Duolingo as an alternative.
WillowWood admissions involve determining the fit between the student and school. Our process involves several steps:
Domestic Applications
1. An information interview with the parent(s) or guardian(s)
2. In Lower and Middle Schools (gr.1-8), the prospective student usually visits a classroom for a morning. In Upper School, (grade 9-12), the prospective student comes in for an interview with a member of the admissions team, and a tour.
3. A review of documentation is conducted by the admissions team.
4. Placement is offered.
International Applications
1. A parent, guardian or agent contacts the school and receives a list of necessary information.
2. The information is assessed by our admissions team.
3. An interview meeting (in person or via telephone/ Skype) is held with the prospective student's parent(s)/guardian(s)/agent, our admissions team, and the student.
4. Placement is offered.
Admissions are welcome all year.To contact WillowWood with regard to enrolling a student, please call 416 444 7644, or email [email protected].
