AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Aurora Preparatory Academy vs. Académie de la Capitale

one-to-one comparison:

View Aurora Preparatory Academy's full report
VS.
View Académie de la Capitale's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    81 Industrial Parkway North, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 4C4, Canada

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

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1979

    1998

    Enrolment

    120

    65

    Grades

    JK to 8

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Curriculum pace

    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

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    12 to 16

    8 to 15

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $15,200

    $20,075 to $24,158

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    6%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    1 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $6,500

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    11

    4

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    90%

    Day entry years

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    We all want to go where everyone knows our name, and while there is a strong academic program at APA, that sense of place is one of the primary draws for the families that enroll here. Students are known throughout the school, and their successes are routinely recognized, shared, and celebrated. For many students, that in itself can provide a transformative learning experience. The community of the school actively includes the parents and siblings of the students who attend, something that brings a welcome warmth and familiarity to the lived experience of the school. The size of the school also allows for faculty to approach each student individually, providing appropriate challenge and support to ensure that all reach their academic and social potentials. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a close-knit, personal, challenging academic setting.

    View full report

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    "...this school took me in with a smile and great attitude."
    François LeFantôme - Student   (Nov 06, 2018)
    I absolutely love Aurora Prep! It is a bit small but it comes with plenty of charm and smiles. It ha... View full review

    "They had high expectations with him and really encouraged him to rise to the level he was capable of."
    Patty Keele - Parent   (Nov 19, 2018)
    Both my children have had a fantastic experience at APA. The teachers and administration are very re... View full review

    "The academics are so relevant and well-applied. The kids know why they are learning something and are using this knowledge to relate to and understand real-life situations."
    Meave Mastracci - Parent   (Dec 10, 2018)
    Making the decision to switch my eldest to APA was literally one of the best decisions we have ever ... View full review

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    "Aurora Preparatory Academy is a small school that produces big results. With our smaller class sizes, teachers develop a meaningful connection with each child, facilitating higher academic performance and stronger overall development. Our welcoming, inclusive community ensures an environment where students, teachers and families work together for the success of every learner. By meeting and enhancing the Ontario curriculum, our approach to education promotes independence, responsibility and confidence."

    • Supported and Enriched Ontario Curriculum
    • Small Class Sizes (Average 12-16 Students)
    • Personalized Support From Our Team Of Dedicated Teachers
    • Full Sports Programme
    • All-Grade French, Art, Music, Phys. Ed. and Technology
    • Unrivalled School Community
    • Affordable Payment Options
    • 19,000 sq. ft. Facility

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

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

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    "At Aurora Prep, we provide a broad-based foundation that focuses, not only on exceptional academics, but also on athletic, artistic, social, emotional, and psychological development. We maintain a small, cohesive environment in which students are supported by a community to which they truly feel they belong. This approach allows them to explore and enhance their existing skills while simultaneously encouraging them to face and overcome challenges."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    "Aurora Prep chooses to remain small and affordable. Our tuition costs are among the lowest of all schools in York Region, making private education within reach for a greater number of families. In addition, we deliberately keep our community small, allowing it to retain its feeling of cohesiveness while providing a greater number of opportunities for students. It truly feels like a one-room schoolhouse that still provides an exceptional array of educational opportunities."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    "Although Aurora Prep is committed to being smaller in size, families sometimes believe our programming is limited. Nothing could be further from the truth. We enjoy a 19,000 sq-ft building and a generous yard. We introduce itinerant subjects - music, French, phys. ed, and art - immediately in Junior Kindergarten. We don't split grades. We also have charitable opportunities, school concerts, clubs and field trips, and a school musical. Aurora Preparatory is truly comprehensive in its offerings."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    "Aurora Prep espouses and embodies the belief that it takes a village to raise a child. Every member of our community plays an integral part to ensure the best possible experience for all our students. Our teaching staff works incredibly closely, supporting one another and contributing to each student, each class, and the school as a whole. Administrators are deeply involved in school life, often spending time with classes or individual students in order to foster connection and provide guidance."

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    We would like to introduce you to Aurora Preparatory Academy, an institution that offers an exceptional elementary education in York region at a surprisingly reasonable cost. Aurora Prep is owned and operated by a small, select group of teachers committed to continuing the unparalleled 35 years' success its predecessor, Foundations Private School, on the occasion of its principal's retirement. It has been an exciting year of transition and updates, honouring the past while embracing the future, and many of our current families are already registering in advance of the anticipated public interest.

    Aurora Prep is a small school that produces big results, currently boasting a student population that allows us to provide exceptional individualized support to each of our students. Teachers and students enjoy a strong rapport that facilitates higher academic performance and stronger emotional development. In addition, we encourage our families to get involved in school life, and we provide many opportunities to do so. Together, our approach produces a welcoming, cohesive community that creates the best environment possible in which elementary students can thrive. While many schools may speak of foundation, community, and excellence, Aurora Prep espouses them as its fundamental, governing principles.

    Our students are encouraged to do their best at all times, achieving excellence in every subject and activity. We promote responsibility, independence and effort, recognizing the inherent importance of the learning process and not just the final result. Aurora Prep students develop the courage to try new things and the mindset that they are capable of anything. They recognize that striving for academic excellence must be complemented by striving for excellence in all other aspects of life. A committed involvement in athletic, artistic or altruistic pursuits is an essential component of our students’ lives.

    If you have any questions about our school, our approach, or our programmes, we invite you to contact me personlly and I would be happy to provide you additional information.

    Sincerely,
    Rhonda Vissers

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

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Aurora Preparatory Academy’s curriculum is aligned to the Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines, resulting in a student’s seamless transition into secondary school. We introduce all areas of study, including French, Music, Art and technology, at the Junior Kindergarten level and recognize the inherent value of traditional areas of study, such as grammar, spelling and hands-on math. Our instructor–to–student ratio is purposely kept low to ensure that every student receives the assistance, supervision and direction that he or she needs. We provide a platform for high-achieving learners who require a more challenging curriculum and are capable of completing enriched work in multiple areas of study. We are also able to supplement in-class lessons with additional support for those who may be currently working below grade-level. In each case, we make sure our students meet or surpass curriculum benchmarks set forth by the Ministry. Our goal is to give our students the skills and the confidence needed to be successful in the next phase of education and for the rest of their lives.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

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

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Physiology

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Expanding Communities


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Medium integration

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

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

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach


      Our Take

      Our Take

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      At Aurora Prep, we offer a strong academic programme right from Junior Kindergarten. We integrate reading, writing, math, and social studies, in addition to supplemental programmes in technology, music, French, physical education and art. Our teachers also balance the need for social development, discovery and exploration. Young children are eager to learn and we are happy to be partners in their academic and emotional growth. We believe students must be provided a solid foundation to experience optimal success in later grades, and this groundwork begins with our youngest learners. Without exception, they thrive in any subsequent academic environment.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      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.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Our instructor–to–student ratio is purposely kept low to ensure that every student receives the assistance, supervision and direction that he or she needs. We provide a platform for high-achieving learners who require a more challenging curriculum and are capable of completing enriched work in multiple areas of study. We are also able to supplement in-class lessons with additional support for those who may be currently working slightly below grade level. Our goal is to give our students the skills and confidence needed to be successful in the next phase of education and for the rest of their lives.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

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

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

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

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      We espouse a balance of academic pursuits, athletic participation, artistic expression and community service, the goal of which is to provide the most well-rounded, engaging and comprehensive education possible. No one gets lost in the shuffle at APA, and we are exceptionally proud of the success stories that resonate through our halls. Our students are challenged, encouraged and guided, and they become academically successful and socially responsible, exceptionally well-prepared for future studies and for life.

      ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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


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

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    As a result of our small class sizes and dedicated teachers, we are able to provide some accommodation for students with exceptionalities. Students receive additional support to help experience success, either in class, before or after school, or during free time. We also incorporate the modifications contained in any pre-existing Individual Education Plan; however, we often find many of these modifications are either not necessary or can be significantly reduced in our learning environment. Students incorporate strategies and skills to overcome any academic challenges, and the result is often a greater degree of success than in other environments.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    1 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    6%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $6,500

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    90%

    Day entry years

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    First and foremost, it comes down to “The Right Fit”. You want a school that feels like a family, a place where teachers are behind your child every step of the way, an environment that nurtures, supports, challenges and cares. Aurora Prep is that school. The best way to determine if APA is the right fit for your family is to experience it by having your son or daughter join us for a Trial Day. Spending a day at Aurora Prep allows you and your child to gain a sense of the way our school operates, the breadth of our academic programme and the strength of our community. This visit also allows us to assess your child to ensure he/she can develop at APA, academically, emotionally, creatively, and socially.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    What the school says

    What the school says

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Once a child has completed a Trial Day and been accepted to our programme, the following documents are required:

    • Completed Application Form
    • A copy of the Applicant’s birth certificate
    • Copies of the Applicant’s three most recent report cards (not applicable for kindergarten registration)

    A non-refundable deposit is required in order to secure placement. Please see our Tuition Schedule for further details regarding fees and payment options.

    ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE

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

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Rachel Parent (2013)
    Rachel is an activist who has become the face for the GMO labelling debate in Canada.
    information not available

Compare:

AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

ACADéMIE DE LA CAPITALE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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