201-2451 Dieppe Avenue SW, Building B1, Calgary, Alberta, T3E 7K1, Canada
99 Sheppard Avenue West, Unit A, North York, Ontario, M2N 1M4, Canada
Indirect Support:
201-2451 Dieppe Avenue SW, Building B1, Calgary, Alberta, T3E 7K1, Canada
99 Sheppard Avenue West, Unit A, North York, Ontario, M2N 1M4, Canada
1979
2001
150
75
JK to 12
Preschool to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate Candidate
Traditional
8 to 12
5 to 12
Behavioral
Dedicated gifted school
Dedicated gifted school
$16,800 to $18,800
$18,000 to $24,000
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
10
5
0%
0%
75%
100%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
“Despite its growth to over 100 students and the expansion of its teaching and leadership team, Banbury Crossroads has managed to maintain its comfortable atmosphere, which has always been a core feature of the school.”
“In line with a student-paced and tutorial style of instruction is the effort to remove any kind of academic competition between students: that’s why there are multi-age classrooms, no grades on report cards until Grade 9, and no external rewards for finishing an assignment, activity, or subject grade level.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Banbury Crossroads School
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Diane Swiatek founded Banbury Crossroads in 1980, and she remains the head of the school today. She has said that “parenting and mentoring children is a matter of choosing philosophy and principles, and acting so as to live out those principles.” Indeed, since its inception, Banbury has been an expression of that ideal. The academics are demonstrably strong, though the attention to values, including responsibility and character development, is a particular draw for the families that enroll here. So too is an academic approach founded in the curiosity and the interests that students bring with them to the classroom. We learn best when we learn for ourselves, rather than for external reward, and the Banbury environment has been created with that in mind.
View full reportThe student body at Wise Owl reflects the diversity of the surrounding community, and the school uses that as a foundation to encourage and celebrate a multicultural perspective. Wise Owl is small, which is a draw for the families that enrol, as is the program that runs from preschool through the primary and elementary years. There is a close, family feel, with an individual attention to the needs of the students. Likewise, there is an attention to building students’ emotional and social esteem within a values-based environment. The ideal student is one looking for something different, and who will thrive in a hands-on, community-based academic environment.
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"Our daughter has made leaps and bounds academically, and socially."
Hafeeza Atif - Parent (Dec 10, 2020)
Best school in Calgary. All teachers are very nice, kind and helpful. Guidance at all points. They t...
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"They teach the curriculum for her grade, but at her own pace and geared to her individual strengths and weaknesses."
Thalia Zelnik - Parent (Dec 10, 2020)
My daughter likes Banbury Crossroads School because of the very personal, family-oriented atmosphere...
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"While there is a structured program, teachers at the Little Owl Private School deliver content in an interactive way."
Kate Lebedeva - Parent (Jul 08, 2021)
My son is thriving academically and emotionally at Little Owl Private School. We came to Little Owl ...
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"... the school is putting an emphasis on teaching the children soft skills such as manners and being respectful to others in addition"
Rebecca Huang - Parent (Jul 08, 2021)
My daughter has been attending the kindergarten program at Little Owl. I can say confidently that my...
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"Teachers are also very open to communication with parents and plan individualized learning approaches..."
Igor Kaminsky - Parent (Jul 08, 2021)
Our kids have been attending Little Owl Private School for the past 9 years, and we had an amazing e...
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"Banbury Crossroads School has a truly unique learning environment. We teach students to mastery in class sizes averaging 10:1, in tutorial-style, multi-aged classrooms. Our collaborative, self-directed learning approach meets students' needs where they are, both academically as well as developmentally. Through extensive one-on-one guidance and attention, our students develop their own autonomy, resilience, communication, and time-management skills. Our graduates have confidence forged from self-competence."
"Founded in 2001 as Little Owl Private School and now known as Wise Owl Private School, we offer a multicultural, coeducational environment from preschool (age 2+) to Grade 12. Our devoted educators cultivate academic excellence, encouraging critical thinking and passion. Committed to fostering global citizenship, our holistic program prepares students for success in academics, arts, and athletics, empowering them to thrive in a diverse and dynamic world."
"Many private schools offer what might be called "traditional plus" models of lecture-based, teacher-paced education, with class sizes averaging 15:1 or more. Banbury Crossroads School has a truly unique approach, where our classrooms are tutorial-based, multi-aged, student-paced, and feature class sizes averaging 10:1. Students go on regular field trips, and we offer support for work experience placement, internships, and community volunteering. Our graduates excel in post-secondary and life!"
"Wise Owl Private School offers tailored programs from foreign languages to science, surpassing traditional learning. Emphasizing exploration, mastery of techniques, and skill acquisition, we provide a dynamic educational experience. Our commitment to a holistic learning environment inspires curiosity and creativity, making Wise Owl an innovative educational institution."
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"As a school with one of the lowest student to teacher ratios available, averaging 10:1, our students get unparalleled access to teachers for guidance, support, and mentoring. Students regularly schedule their own meetings with the School's Director to talk through challenges they're facing. With our self-directed curriculum delivery, students learn to thrive by making their own choices, leading to graduates with superlative self-management skills, and with confidence forged from competence."
"Parents prefer Wise Owl Private School due to our commitment to tailored, diverse programs that foster a holistic educational experience. Our focus on exploration, technique mastery, and skill acquisition ensures a dynamic and engaging learning environment, setting us apart. Additionally, our dedication to inspiring curiosity and creativity makes Wise Owl the preferred choice for parents seeking an innovative and comprehensive educational institution for their children."
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"We often stress that our class sizes are small, averaging 10:1. This is true and is a big factor for a lot of families when choosing our school. One fact that may be overlooked is our multi-age groupings. This allows for peer instruction, leadership, and collaboration. This is also more reflective of real-world situations and helps prepare students for university or college, and, later, their adult lives."
"The commitment of our teachers to every student's academic journey is often underestimated. Our educators tirelessly dedicate themselves to delivering high-quality lessons and customizing the learning experience to meet the unique needs of each student."
"We do not give out letter or number grades until grade 9. Instead, we encourage and help students set goals, self-assess and learn until mastery - only moving on to the next grade until both the student and their teacher feel as though the student fully understands the subject or topic they are learning."
"At Wise Owl Private School, we highly value transparent communication with parents, while our dedicated teachers focus on providing quality learning experiences to ensure students acquire essential skills for future academic success."
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Congratulations to us all! Banbury Crossroads School passed its 40th Anniversary mark on November 1st, 2019. The historical inertia represented in its continued existence warms my heart, because it means that the Banbury Crossroads way of learning is still available for children in the Calgary region. It has been my passionate dream for the entirety of my adulthood for children to have the opportunity to be respected as individual people, and to be happy, visible, and nurtured while they learn in a holistic fashion. Over the years, the thinking and writing that was done from the very beginning is still valid and relevant. Our philosophy and practices of self-directed learning from those early years have become richer and validated through practice, flourishing into our present ways of being. The inspired devotion and multitudinous efforts of teachers, students, and parents have all contributed to create the actual way we are now. We are a very unique school, with our own particular identity. By this time, it is common for me to tell children and young adults, “At Banbury, we…” while explaining our ways of relating to others, engaging in learning activities and interest-based projects, developing emotional intelligence and self-regulation, connecting with the real world outside our walls, and creating the school culture inside them.
Over the years, Banbury Crossroads has honed its mission to foster learning through self-empowerment, intrinsic motivation, management of time and resources, and active goal setting. Mutual respect is the foundational principle. So, all of us expect to have both rights and responsibilities. Some of the hallmarks of our school are the development of moral and logical reasoning, and competence in the soft skills that are crucial for smooth social functioning, We have developed expertise in developing communication and negotiation skills, and providing guided conflict resolution among willing participants.
Academics matter, because students have an innate impetus for intellectual growth. They need to learn about, and master, their environment. To be respectful to our students, we allow them to work on material that suits their true level of accomplishment, rather than pushing them ahead or holding them back within same-age cohorts. This requires personalized and individualized instruction. So, students set their own schedules and deadlines, and pace their academics, individually working to levels of mastery in accordance with their abilities and motivation. The Alberta Programs of Study are the baseline; students often go beyond that.
As a result, Banbury Crossroads offers very unique schooling. The first difference is shown in how we treat children. Since we respect them as persons, we value their development in autonomy and self-sufficiency, while at the same time emphasizing their interdependence with other people. They are important individually, and so is everyone else. So, we put energy into helping them develop self-leadership, confidence, empathy, compassion, and social responsiveness. We emphasize the need to contribute to their communities.
In order to enable such individualized mentoring, the student-teacher ratio averages 8 to 1. This allows students to receive the visibility, attention, and nurturance necessary for optimal learning. Our choice of this small ratio allows the school atmosphere to be peaceful, comfortable, trusting, and optimistic. Joy happens here. Within these small classes, in order to allow students to work at their true levels of competence, we have chosen multi-aged groupings. This is not unique in the world at large—indeed, this describes the world at large—however, it is certainly unique in schools. This multi-aged approach fosters peer learning, and trust and comfort between people of various ages. As well, it does not socially penalize those students who are working either ahead or behind their peers.
Therefore, teachers need to use tutorial instruction, rather than lecture-based, teacher-paced instruction. This facilitates academic mentoring, with students being able to ask questions and receive assistance in answering them. In academic pursuits, students are encouraged to compete with themselves, to surpass their historical achievements, and work towards their current, personal goals. They may participate in designing their assignments and projects in line with their interests, and they use manipulative materials to carry them out. They participate in the community for real-world learning. In non-COVID years, we do this through field trips, volunteerism, internships, and international travel. Since it is a COVID year, because we have small class sizes, we are able to socially distance our students, and when we need to engage in remote learning, we contact our students daily. Banbury Crossroads is the school when students may experience learning activities that are impossible in large institutions. Banbury Crossroads is a fine example of unique, innovative schooling!
Welcome to Wise Owl Private School, where our guiding motto is "Teach Your Children Well."
From Pre-K (age 3) to 12th grade, we offer meticulously crafted, well-rounded academic programs. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to elevate the student experience, providing abundant opportunities for honing creativity and exploring individual interests.
Dedicated to excellence, we are committed to furnishing an educational, secure, and enriching environment. Our mission is to challenge students towards academic prowess while cultivating a balanced, passionate, and open-minded approach. We aspire to shape critical thinkers who embody respect and responsibility, fostering global citizenship.
Join us on the journey of education that goes beyond, preparing students for a future of success and significance.
Sincerely,
Natalia Galinskaya
Traditional
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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.
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.
IB Candidate School is an official term used to identify schools that have applied to IBO for permission to teach one or more of the IB Programmes.
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Banbury's unique Self-Directed philosophy offers an individualized learning environment for children ages 3 through 18. Banbury is founded on mutual respect; thus, it enables students to achieve the academic mastery appropriate to their own interests, abilities and motivation. The combination of a low-ratio class size averaging 8 students per teacher, our student-paced program exists within a multi-aged setting. Our program diffuses competition between peers, because students are all at their own pace and progression through their curricular material. Students are closely mentored to take responsibility for their own education through inquiry-based and kinesthetic projects, and community-focused learning. They devise their own schedules, develop intrinsic motivation, and learn skills in time management, goal setting and self assessment. Banbury Crossroads' well-balanced approach creates an enriching and inspiring school experience that promotes the development of autonomy and confidence. These two elements are necessary for students' engagement in the academic, emotional and social aspects of post-secondary education and adult life.
Wise Owl's Elementary and Middle School program, aligned with the Ontario Curriculum, prioritizes a well-rounded academic approach, fostering creativity and individuality in small classes. The curriculum not only equips students with essential skills and knowledge but also promotes leadership development, good manners, and effective learning habits through independent and collaborative work. Furthermore, our holistic approach includes regular physical activities, visual arts, drama, and music programs, providing students with a comprehensive education that enhances physical coordination, artistic expression, and emotional intelligence.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Banbury has both "Traditional Math" and "Discovery Math" teaching methods.
Wise Owl adheres to the Ontario curriculum as the cornerstone for our mathematics education. Our comprehensive methodology integrates in-class activities to reinforce concepts, adapting approaches to developmental stages. The intricately tailored program focuses on numeration, algebra, measurement, geometry, data management, and probability, stimulating dynamic problem-solving and logical reasoning. Emphasizing cognitive expansion, we instill precise terminology usage, mental math proficiency, and practical application skills. Our commitment to nurturing holistic mathematical comprehension equips students with analytical thinking and a robust foundation, fostering well-rounded mastery for real-world applications.
Math text books used are part of the Alberta Curriculum.
Text books include Nelson Mathematics, Carson Dellosa Spectrum,. Worksheets from K5 learning, Math Salamanders, Teachers Pay Teachers
Calculators are used in our math programs, as a useful skill and resource.
Calculators are incorporated into our math program beginning in grade 6.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Banbury has a balanced literacy program. We teach children to read when they are ready, which could be any time from age 3 through age 7. We offer individual reading lessons, and teach story writing through dictated stories, as well as their own journalling and writing to accompany relevant activities. Phonics is taught as a strategy to de-code words.
Wise Owl prioritizes a comprehensive approach to early literacy. Our students initiate their reading journey with a phonics-intensive program, gradually transitioning to a whole language approach as their language proficiency develops. The process is deliberate and gradual, allowing students to grow comfortably and fluently in their language skills. We recognize the significance of both phonics-based learning and context clues in the early reading process. This dual emphasis ensures that students encounter a diverse range of words, integrating structured phonics instruction with the ability to infer meaning from context. By combining these methods, we create a balanced and effective foundation, fostering a love for reading and empowering students to confidently navigate the intricacies of language acquisition.
No
Wise Owl employs tests, guides strategies, and emphasizes evidence for literacy.
Equal balance
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.
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.
Banbury has a balanced approach to writing. Writing occurs in relevant and meaningful situations. Students are assisted individually, and encouraged to write independently as well. There is a huge focus on writing, all through the grades, as there is always a teacher available to assist students in their writing. Writing is only as good as a person's thinking. We assist students in clarifying their thoughts, organizing their points logically and reasonably, making linking statements and suitable introductions and conclusions. All students need to be shown how to "cut and paste" in the literal sense. This means that all students need instruction at some point of their lives in creating quality written work. We have had students write essays for diploma exams in which they receive 100%. Of course, individual talent is a huge contributor to this. However, we tend to increase students' skill in writing.
At Wise Owl, our students embark on a structured writing journey, commencing with an emphasis on fundamental grammar rules, sentence structure, and punctuation. As their writing proficiency develops, students transition towards more personalized expression. Our approach encourages them to delve into nuanced aspects of writing, including word choice for mood and conveying specific ideas. Beyond traditional paragraph-based stories, our curriculum explores diverse writing mediums, fostering a holistic understanding of written expression. Throughout this process, students not only compose sentences and stories but also cultivate an awareness of the broader role of writing in various contexts. This comprehensive approach nurtures their ability to articulate thoughts with precision, creativity, and adaptability across different writing styles and mediums.
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Banbury has a balanced approach to the Sciences. We include field trips, experiments and hands-on project work as fundamental means of making science come alive for our students.
At Wise Owl, we foster a solid foundation in Science through a harmonious blend of inquiry and balanced instructional practices. Students explore a diverse range of materials, including textbooks, books, videos, and hands-on inquiry, gaining a comprehensive understanding of scientific concepts. Our approach extends beyond traditional learning, offering collaborative opportunities through engaging experiments and research projects. Hands-on experiments are integral to our methodology, allowing students to observe and test scientific facts in a fun and immersive manner. For instance, our Living Things module involves charting and observing seed-to-plant growth, while in Seasonal and Earth changes, students build and compare animal homes based on various environmental factors. Through these activities, we seamlessly integrate creativity with the scientific inquiry process, providing students with a dynamic and enriching Science education.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Banbury has a balanced approach to literature. We follow the Alberta Programs of Study, and give students much leeway in choice of novels, plays, poetry, and so on, for their chosen assignments. We utilize projects with an interdisciplinary focus.
In our English classes at Wise Owl, children undergo a gradual progression in text analysis and creation. For younger learners, literature serves as a valuable learning tool, nurturing foundational language skills. As students progress, the focus evolves towards decoding the mechanics of plot, characterization, and themes in basic texts. This developmental approach ensures that children not only engage with literature as a source of knowledge but also acquire the analytical skills needed for deeper comprehension. The curriculum encourages creative expression, prompting students to craft their own texts as they advance. By blending foundational learning with more advanced literary analysis, we aim to cultivate a well-rounded understanding of English language arts, fostering both appreciation and critical thinking skills in our students.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Expanding Communities
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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.
Banbury teaches core knowledge of history and geography.
At Wise Owl, students embark on a comprehensive journey, commencing with an exploration of their own lives and gradually expanding their studies to encompass local communities and the global landscape. This progressive approach allows students to delve into both local and foreign cultures and histories. Through carefully curated readings and exercises, we aim to instill in them an appreciation for the complexities of diverse people and cultures worldwide. The curriculum encourages critical analysis, guiding students to connect these insights to their daily lives. By fostering a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of the world, we empower students with the knowledge and perspective needed to navigate the complexities of our global society and contribute meaningfully to a diverse and interconnected world.
Equal Balance
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Banbury has a more pragmatic approach to social sciences in Grade 7 and higher.
Wise Owl Private School takes a holistic approach to humanities and social sciences, fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a profound understanding of historical and societal contexts. Our curriculum employs diverse methods such as interactive discussions, project-based learning, and real-world applications. In humanities, literature cultivates empathy and analytical skills, delving into historical events and philosophical concepts. Social studies integrates current affairs, bridging theoretical knowledge with contemporary issues. Utilizing multimedia resources, guest speakers, and field trips, our educators create a multi-dimensional learning experience. We prioritize developing research and communication skills, equipping students for active engagement in their communities and the global context. By nurturing a love for learning and encouraging critical inquiry, Wise Owl empowers students to be well-informed, responsible, and compassionate citizens.
Equal Balance
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Banbury uses the communicative method for teaching foreign languages.
In our French program at Wise Owl, we prioritize proper pronunciation and delve into the intricacies of the language compared to English. Emphasizing the richness of the language, we encourage students to extend their learning beyond the classroom, applying their structured knowledge in real-world contexts. By focusing on pronunciation and language rules, we aim to provide a foundation that empowers students to explore French with confidence outside the classroom. This approach allows them to appreciate the language's nuances at their own pace without self-consciousness about their proficiency level. We believe that this comprehensive strategy not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deeper connection to and appreciation for the French language and culture.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Banbury has an expressive approach in our visual studio program.
At Wise Owl, we hold the belief that the creative theatrical process is as significant as the final outcome. Our students not only learn performance skills but also delve into the entire process, from early brainstorming to script-writing and improvisation. Emphasizing that theatrical elements extend beyond the stage, students discover the relevance of discipline and freedom in both their artistic pursuits and daily lives. In our fine arts program, the objective is to cultivate students' artistic potential. Exposure to various mediums, application styles, and art history forms the foundation. We strive to foster a non-judgmental environment where students feel confident expressing themselves through their art. By encouraging exploration and self-expression, our approach aims to empower students to embrace their creativity and recognize the broader applications of the arts in their personal and academic lives.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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.
Banbury includes the role of computers and technology in our curriculum.
At Wise Owl, we view computers as valuable supplementary tools for lessons, providing access to a wealth of teaching materials and media through the internet. However, our pedagogical focus prioritizes the direct teacher-student relationship. We believe that immediate communication between teacher and student allows for nuanced understanding and tailored guidance without reliance on technology. While technology is pervasive in children's lives beyond school, we emphasize maintaining a space for interpersonal interaction at Wise Owl. We value the unique insights, mentorship, and guidance that result from in-person engagement, recognizing the irreplaceable role of direct teacher-student interaction in fostering a comprehensive and enriching learning experience. This approach ensures a balanced and effective integration of technology within the broader context of meaningful human connection in our educational environment.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Physcial Education at Banbury, has an extensive outdoor component, including horseback riding, skiing, archery, golf, hiking, and canoeing. Many of our indoor activities such as volleyball, basketball, badminton and wall-climbing are conducted off-site in recreation centres. Other indoor activities include swimming, bowling, and yoga. Many games are played on the fields and grounds near our school.
Wise Owl Private School's physical education program is a structured and engaging initiative that collaborates with a specialized company every Friday, ensuring a consistent schedule for sports activities. Students benefit from diverse sports exploration, including team sports, individual activities, and recreational games, fostering a well-rounded understanding of physical activity. Our focus extends to skill development, tailoring activities for different age groups to enhance fundamental motor skills and sports-specific techniques. We prioritize physical fitness and overall well-being, integrating activities that promote cardiovascular health, flexibility, and strength. Emphasizing values such as teamwork and sportsmanship, our program encourages fair play, respect for opponents, and collaborative activities. We embrace inclusivity, creating an environment where every student feels valued. Recognizing the role of physical education in holistic development, we connect activities to broader life skills.
Academic
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
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.
Banbury Crossroads has a Self-Directed Kindergarten and Pre-school program. The structure is based on the Modern British Infant System, from which came our modern ideas around "centers" and "integrated project work", as well as "constructivism" in the learning process. Our school follows this structure and philosophy from junior kindergarten through Grade Twelve. It involves multi-aged grouping, individualized instruction, mastery learning, kinesthetic projects, teacher mentorship, free play and contact with the community.
The preschool program at Wise Owl is designed to instill essential skills for success in Junior and Senior Kindergarten. Through interactive activities, students build foundational abilities, such as developing Number Sense and exploring various counting methods. In Junior Kindergarten, they delve into Measurement, Geometry, Data Management, and Probability. Senior Kindergarten fosters creativity, challenging students to think innovatively and apply classroom learning practically, preparing them for future academic pursuits with adaptable thinking.
Standard-enriched
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.
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.
Wise Owl Private School adopts multi-age classrooms, cultivating collaboration among students of varying ages. High school students benefit from guided independent study, fostering self-directed learning and autonomy. Our instructional strategy emphasizes differentiated instruction, tailoring teaching methods to meet individual needs, ensuring a personalized and effective learning experience for all students.
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.
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.
Self-Directed Learning is the norm at Banbury Crossroads School. We have a very supportive environment for academics at the school. The students have an attitude towards accomplishment more like that at university. There is no teasing for being "a brain" here.
Wise Owl Private School provides a structured framework for children while fostering opportunities for exploration and cultivating a love of learning. Our students follow both the Ontario curriculum and our enriched Wise Owl curriculum, particularly focusing on the arts. Embracing and nurturing children's innate curiosity about the world, we are committed to guiding them along their academic journey with a blend of creativity and academic excellence. Our approach encourages a holistic development that not only adheres to educational standards but also sparks a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom, preparing students for a lifelong journey of intellectual exploration.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
We know that learning happens in all realms at once: physical, emotional, intellectual, creative, social. Banbury\'s well balanced approach creates an enriching and inspiring school experience that promotes the development of autonomy and confidence. These two elements are necessary for students\' engagement in the academic, emotional and social aspects of post secondary education and adult life.
At Wise Owl Private School, our goal is to mold well-rounded, healthy individuals equipped with robust problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Recognizing the potential impact of certain teaching methods on individuality, we actively support each student's unique identity and self-expression. Fostering a strong sense of self is paramount, and our commitment to honing both intellectual and emotional facets ensures students emerge as confident and talented individuals. By instilling this self-assurance, we aim to empower students with the drive to not only succeed personally but also to create success in the broader world outside the classroom. Our holistic approach nurtures the development of individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially adept and resilient in facing real-world challenges.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
| Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
| Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
| Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. | ||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
We are not a special needs school. We can accommodate students with mild needs, as long as they can function within our self-directed learning classes.
Banbury can offer accommodations for children with mild learning disabilities.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
1 - 12
5%
0%
$4,000
$0
75%
100%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
We are looking for students who are able to work independently, as well as willing to work individually with a teacher. Students need to be willing to try new learning experiences, open to instruction, willing to attend, socially adept and responsive, mutually respectful, and pleasant and able to be responsible for their own behaviour. We are able to celebrate differences in abilities, interests and passions, motivation, and personalities. We simply want students who are motivated to learn, empathetic and caring, and able to not distract others. If they are self-directed to begin with, that is great. If not, they may learn how to be, here.
At Wise Owl Private School, we seek students who embody a commitment to academic excellence, a passion for learning, and a collaborative spirit. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong communication skills, a curiosity to explore beyond conventional boundaries, and a positive attitude towards diverse perspectives. We value individuals who are open-minded, resilient, and eager to contribute to a vibrant school community. While academic achievements are considered, we also appreciate students who exhibit a willingness to engage in extracurricular activities, showcase leadership potential, and embrace the values of integrity, respect, and empathy. Our admissions process aims to identify students who align with our commitment to holistic education and personal growth.
An interview and tour of the school is encouraged. School records and assessments are to be submitted. There is an admissions process that involves an extensive discussion with the parents, and a two-day tryout in the School. Students who are gifted tend to excel at our School. It is critical that the student, their family, and the School's philosophical beliefs are aligned. A match of philosophy is a must. This is because we are a philosophically-driven, self-directed learning school. Students work to mastery, so they keep progressing until they have completed units or projects or grades. Classes operate with students in multi-aged groups, with 8 students per teacher, so students receive a great deal of individualized attention. This allows for students to work independently, as they receive instruction individually or in small groups or seminars. We are not a Special Needs school, but we can accommodate certain students with mild-to-manageable learning challenges, though we generally only take students whose abilities are average through to gifted.
Documents required: proof of date of birth (passport or birth certificate); report card from previous school, OSR if applicable ; admission form; payments
