AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Bannockburn vs. Nile Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Bannockburn's full report
VS.
View Nile Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    3080 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5M 2M8, Canada

    5 Blue Haven Cresent, Toronto, Ontario, M9M 1W6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1993

    2005

    Enrolment

    200

    235

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 6

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Boarding, Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Rigorous
    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

    Avg. Class Size

    15 to 24

    12 to 16

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Accelerated curriculum

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Montessori
    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
    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

    $17,975 to $27,300

    $8,400 to $8,900

    Boarding Tuition

    $30,000

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    18

    16

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    6%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

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

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Jun 30, 2021

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 6

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    BANNOCKBURN

    information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    BANNOCKBURN

    Bannockburn is founded in Montessori, and hews close to the spirit of the method and its fundamental principles. There is an abiding attention to creating a supportive, student-centric environment, one that can stimulate and build on children’s curiosity. That said, there are a few welcome adaptations as well, such as lower teacher/student ratio that one might expect to see within a Montessori classroom. The school is very much an expression of the surrounding community—it was begun in 1993 by local parents and educators, and retains very close ties to the surrounding community today. The life of the school is informed by an active and robust parents’ association, with meetings held on the first Monday of each month. Given the location of the school, the fact that it sits on a five-acre property is an added plus, one that both adds to the atmosphere of the school, and allows for the programming, as appropriate, to spread beyond the interior instructional spaces. So, yes, the school has a strong Montessori program, though there is also a clear Bannockburn identity, one that nicely reflects the community that it serves.   

    View full report

    NILE ACADEMY

    Nile was founded in 2005 and quickly grew to where it sits today, with an annual student population of 350. The program includes all grades from JK through 12, though is centred on academics with the mandate of preparing students for success at university. While not a STEM school in name, the school has brought science, math, and technology forward in the offering, and in a cross-curricular way, much as STEM programs do. The ideal student is one who thrives within a diverse, challenging, values-based academic environment.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    BANNOCKBURN

    information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    "We are very happy with the quality of education and instruction our son is receiving."
    RIMA SAAD - Parent   (Aug 17, 2021)
    My son is very enthusiastic to go to school every morning. My husband and I were quite surprised as ... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    BANNOCKBURN

    "Bannockburn offers an outstanding, authentic Montessori learning environment, carefully implemented to meet the specific needs of children during the most crucial periods of their formative years. Each fully equipped classroom is directed by dedicated, qualified teachers complemented by specialist instruction in French, music, visual arts and physical education. We invite you to discover how Bannockburn can make a brilliant difference in your child's life.... from the very beginning."

    • Exceptional Montessori education for children 18 months-12 years
    • Accredited by CCMA
    • Member of CIS
    • Licensed under CCEYA
    • Individualized curriculum
    • Low student teacher ratio
    • French, music, art and physical education
    • Toddler 18 months-3 years
    • Primary 3-6 years
    • Elementary 6-12 years

    NILE ACADEMY

    "Excellence in Education and Ethics. Nile Academy will prepare your child not only to achieve greatness, but to live their life with a sense of moral and ethical responsibility. By providing a private school environment with small class sizes and low student to teacher ratio, while also following the Ontario Curriculum, we can ensure our students are well prepared for the rest of their educational pursuits here in Canada. Our school also welcomes and provides boarding for international students."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    BANNOCKBURN

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Thank you taking the time to read about Bannockburn. I encourage you to pay us a visit and see what makes Bannockburn such a special place. It starts with our Toodlers who show us that these young individuals are capable of so much more than we would normally expect, and culminates with our Upper Elementary graduates who truly exhibit that they are responsible, nurturing, peaceful young people with self-esteem and respect for others. Bannockburn graduates are self-motivated, intellectually curious, love learning and achieve academic success.

    Nile Academy’s mission is to enable its students to reach the highest levels of achievement and acquire the skills, knowledge, and values they need to become productive individuals. We aim to develop intellectual and personal qualities so that our students can become confident, effective and responsible citizens of the World.

    Our vision is to be the most outstanding private school in the greater Toronto area.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      BANNOCKBURN

      Montessori

      NILE ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      BANNOCKBURN

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      BANNOCKBURN

      Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.

      NILE ACADEMY

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


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      BANNOCKBURN

      Not applicable

      NILE ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      BANNOCKBURN

      Bannockburn School leads in Montessori education by offering an exceptional, enriched Montessori curriculum and a nurturing, inspiring environment carefully prepared to meet the needs of children in the formative years of childhood. Every day in the classroom is a study in the balance of young children purposefully working to develop cognition, concentration and independence in a nurturing and carefully prepared environment.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Nile Academy's Grade 1 to Grade 8 curriculum is taught within the framework of the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum. Specialist educators teach our comprehensive curriculum in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Information Technology, Physical Education, Music, and Visual Arts for Grade 6 to 8 classes. At Nile Academy, children are encouraged to discover their emerging capabilities and achievements. Our teaching staff is dedicated to nurturing their students’ individual needs in an accommodated atmosphere where they can grow emotionally, socially, and academically – freely at their own learning pace. Support programs are conducted for individual students who need extension or acceleration in various key learning areas; remedial sessions in English and Mathematics; a Reading Recovery program; and specialist support for ESL students. We offer an Aftercare Homework Program (for Grades 1-8): Students can register for this supervised time to work on homework and connect with some peers after school.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Phonics-intensive

        NILE ACADEMY

        Phonics-intensive


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        DIBELS testing

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        No

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Equal balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        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.

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Inquiry

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        BANNOCKBURN

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        BANNOCKBURN

        Zoology

        NILE ACADEMY

        Physics

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Traditional

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        BANNOCKBURN

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Core Knowledge

        NILE ACADEMY

        Core Knowledge


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        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).

        NILE ACADEMY

        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).


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Not applicable

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        Not applicable

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Communicative

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        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.

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        BANNOCKBURN

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Equal Balance

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        BANNOCKBURN

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        NILE ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        BANNOCKBURN

        Light integration

        NILE ACADEMY

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        BANNOCKBURN

        Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        BANNOCKBURN

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        NILE ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        BANNOCKBURN

        Bannockburn’s Physical Education and Athletic program is an active and exciting part of the school with many classes and events to get our students' hearts and bodies moving. Within the school day, the Physical Education program accesses all Bannockburn students from Toddler to UEL. Our curriculum focuses on providing opportunities for our students to engage in a variety of physical activity, movement, and sport in an effort to develop a wide range of physical, social, and emotional skills. In addition to our Physical Education classes, Bannockburn has been active in attending inter-school athletic activities within the Toronto community. Additionally, Elementary students have the opportunity to participate on a team with our intramural sports program during recess. The primary goal of our Athletics program is to provide our students with positive opportunities to participate in sporting events, while demonstrating their improving skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a supportive environment.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      BANNOCKBURN

      Montessori

      NILE ACADEMY

      Academic


      Our Take

      Our Take

      BANNOCKBURN

      Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

      If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

      NILE 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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      BANNOCKBURN

      The Primary-age child has an astounding capacity to learn and absorb, thus, utmost emphasis is placed on ensuring an uninterrupted work cycle. This enables the child to explore freely and learn through purposeful work in the different areas of the classroom: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematics and Culture. Concrete, manipulative materials for each area enable the child to use the five senses to build an essential foundation of knowledge and concepts.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Nile Academy’s Kindergarten program is uniquely designed for the educational, emotional and social needs of four- and five-year-old students. The Kindergarten curriculum reflects the importance of early literacy and numeracy activities, as well as self-initiated inquiry-based pursuits. Our broad program also includes daily physical education, French language classes, as well as science, creative arts and computer time. Our child-centred classrooms are led by skilled, dedicated teachers who are experts in early childhood education, guiding and developing each child’s individual approach to learning.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      BANNOCKBURN

      Accelerated

      NILE ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      BANNOCKBURN

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

      NILE 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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      BANNOCKBURN

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      BANNOCKBURN

      Supportive

      NILE ACADEMY

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      BANNOCKBURN

      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.

      NILE ACADEMY

      A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      BANNOCKBURN

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      BANNOCKBURN

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      BANNOCKBURN

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

      NILE ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      BANNOCKBURN

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

      NILE ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      BANNOCKBURN

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    BANNOCKBURN

    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

    NILE 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

    BANNOCKBURN

    • Full-day students at Bannockburn can also choose from a rich variety of extra-curricular clubs. These after-school programs are facilitated by passionate and skilled instructors. Programs cover a comprehensive range of interests, including sport and team games, music and visual arts, science and technology, languages such as Spanish and French, and mathematics. All programs take place on school grounds, and meet Bannockburn’s high standards for engaging and exciting learning.

    NILE ACADEMY

    • Nile Academy offers a vigorous sports program that teaches our students the importance of health, strength, teamwork, and discipline. We instill in our students that a healthy individual is made up of a healthy mind and body. Nile Academy’s wrestling, soccer, and badminton varsity teams compete with other area secondary schools. Nile Academy is a member of TDCAA (Toronto District College Athletic Association) that is a member of the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA). The Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) is an organization of student-athletes, teacher coaches, student coaches, teachers, principals, and sports administrators in Ontario, Canada. OFSAA is the second-largest high school athletic association in North America, second only to the California Interscholastic Federation.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

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

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Jun 30, 2021

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 6

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades 2 - 11

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    NILE ACADEMY

    We are looking for hard working, energetic, and motivated students to join us here at Nile Academy.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    NILE ACADEMY

    Students must attend an in-person interview and complete an Admissions Test in order to apply. To schedule an appointment, you can reach the school office at 647-748-6453.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

NILE ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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