AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Aurora Preparatory Academy vs. Chisholm Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Aurora Preparatory Academy's full report
VS.
View Chisholm Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

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

    1484 Cornwall Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 7W5, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1979

    1970

    Enrolment

    120

    120

    Grades

    JK to 8

    7 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional

    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.
    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    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 10

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $15,200

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    10%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    7 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $5,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    11

    20

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    40%

    Day entry years

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

    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 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    “[Chisholm Academy] provides an individualized, structured education in a highly supportive environment designed to rebuild students’ confidence and nurture their abilities.” “The wide variety of inclusive extracurricular activities are part of the school’s broad efforts to cultivate emotional resilience and self-esteem in students—and to show kids who have previously had a negative school experiences that school can be joyful.” “It was obvious to us that Chisholm parents can rely on the school to go the extra mile for them and their children.”
    Read The Our Kids Review of Chisholm Academy

    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

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Chisholm was created to address the needs of the kinds of learners who are prone to falling through the cracks of a traditional education. Special needs is the term we might use, though the definition used at Chisholm admits a broader understanding than we typically grant, including students from across the entire academic spectrum. What they share is a need for a more structured academic experience. The school is headed by Dr. Howard Bernstein and Dr. Shirley Bryntwick, both clinical psychologists. The ideal student is one who requires more than they are able to get from a traditional academic setting, and who benefits from a very structured, personal, planned approach to their education. A robust interface between parents and the school is encouraged, and close communication is ongoing throughout the academic year.

    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

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    information not available

  • 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

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    "Our students have learning disabilities, ADHD, and anxiety but they're also regular kids who have struggled in school and who deserve to learn in an environment where they feel understood, respected, and heard. Chisholm Academy assists students reach their potential and gain confidence through a structured and supportive teaching style. The multi-disciplinary staff includes special education trained Ontario certified teachers, teaching assistants, child and youth workers, and a consulting psychology practice."

    • Grades 7 - 12
    • Every Student is Unique
    • Individual Education Plans For All Students
    • Classes of 3 - 12 Students
    • After School Support
    • Smart Boards in Every Classroom
    • Extra curriculars specifically designed for our students
    • College or University bound kids

    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."

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    "Chisholm Academy (1971) is the first specialized school in Ontario for students with learning or personal concerns. We created a "typical" school for those who require individual educational plans, taught in small groups. While we do not accept students with behavioural issues, we are plaesed to accept studenst with LD, ADHD, anxiety or depression. 100% of our students attend post secondary institutions. Our relationships with our students and parents is always supportive and long-lasting."

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    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."

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    "The Executive Director is a doctoral psychologist with expertise in clinical & educational psychology. Our principal & vice-principals hold specialist degrees & teaching staff are required to complete special education training. We employ counsellors, child & youth workers, recreation leadership staff and specialists in art & drama. There is very little staff turn over, which attests to the atmosphere. At Chisholm, comfort, personal growth & development, are as important as curriculum."

    Array

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

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    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."

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    "No one is bullied at Chisholm. Some of our kids had difficulty in previous schools. We facilitate personal relationships & activities to ensure all students are accepted. Our staff is committed to extra-curricular activities & we required that every student participates in at least 2 acticities. As students make friends & become increasingly confident, learning becomes easier. Our guidance department ensures post-secondary choices are appropriate & we consult with each student's new school."

    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."

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    "The "normalized" environment we create, allows us to function as a traditional school yet employ all the aspects of individual educational plans. New students are immediately accepted and feel part of our family within days of starting at Chisholm. Our kids are are regular students who need that extra support in order to go on to college or university & lead successful independent lives. Moms & Dads quickly understand that their input is encouraged and appreciated."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Information not available

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    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

    It is incredibly satisfying to know that we created Chisholm Academy with the help of thousands of parents, students and staff.  I believe that we are the premier private school, for students who need support based on their learning or emotional needs.  Success has been demonstarted in the amount of time that our staff stays with our school, the acceptance rate into college and university and our students success in the work force and with their family.  You can only imagine the joy we all feel when students visit Chisholm Acaedemy, to "show off" their success and their families with young children.  Parents "lend us" the children with the hope and excectation that we will nurture them and teach them the lessons they require academically and to ensure they are the fine citizens that we want our chidren to become.  It continues to ne an honour to lead Chisholm Academy with the help of so many supporters.  Best wishes, Dr. B.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Traditional

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Information not available

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Information not available


      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.

      CHISHOLM 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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      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.

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Chisholm Academy, as the IEP school, writes individual education plans for every student. Academy staff always follows the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum but are able to accommodate students as according to their individual plans. This approach allows all students to move towards reaching a level playing field with those students not experiencing learning difficulties. Extra support is always available in a kind and supportive manner. We attempt to provide many alternatives to mastering the Ontario curriculum. In addition, with help to minimize multiple test and assignments at the same time. Students are allowed to repeats assignmenst and tests for issues related to their IEP.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      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.

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      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.

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      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.

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Information not available

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      All students learn differently so it is our goal to taech differently. Our teachers thoroughly know the IEP of each student and pace them accordingly to their needs.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

      Supportive

      CHISHOLM 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.

      CHISHOLM 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.


      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.

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Without question, Chisholm Academy is one of the most supportive environments for students with learning weaknesses or emotional concerns. We expect all students to do their best but we minimize cempetition. Awards are given for academic performance but also for determination, working with others, sports, drama, art etc. When kids feel good, they learn better!


      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."

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

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

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Social
      The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."


      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."

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

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


      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.

      CHISHOLM ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

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

    Additional support

    Additional support

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    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

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    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

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Information not available


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

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

    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.

    CHISHOLM ACADEMY

    Chisholm Academy is known as, and is proud to call itself, the IEP School. Individual Education Plans are written for every single student who attends our school. The Academy is equipped with Smart Boards in all classrooms, assisstive technology, laptops for all students, and teachers with special education training.

  • 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

    CHISHOLM 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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    AURORA PREPARATORY ACADEMY

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    10%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $5,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    40%

    Day entry years

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

    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 7 - 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.

    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.

  • 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  

CHISHOLM ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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