AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Canadian College Italy vs. The YMCA Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Canadian College Italy's full report
VS.
View The YMCA Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    Via Cavour 13, Lanciano, Italy, 66034, Italy

    15 Breadalbane Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 1C2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1995

    2003

    Enrolment

    100

    110

    Grades

    9 to 12

    6 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    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.
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    Academic culture

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

    Avg. Class Size

    10 to 12

    8 to 12

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $27,825

    Boarding Tuition

    $24,500 to $42,900

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    30%

    Eligible grades for FA

    9 to 12

    9 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $10,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    25

    16

    Percent in boarding

    100%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    95%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    At Canadian College Italy (CCI) students are given an incredible and life-changing opportunity to attend an Ontario-accredited high school in the ancient town of Lanciano in Central Italy’s Abruzzo region, just three hours from Rome. The school is in a four-story Medieval house and student meals take place in a 500-year-old former inn. With a reputation for academic rigour and excellence, Canadian College Italy’s students go on to excel at the world’s top universities and colleges. While classes are taught in English, students are immersed in rich Italian culture and history, visit numerous art meccas in the country, and are offered European trips to expand their horizons. Students come from the world over to study at Canadian College Italy, forming lifelong bonds and friendships that enrich their lives and help contribute to an unforgettable high school experience that offers exceptional educational outcomes.

    View full report

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    The very heart of private education is providing options for parents looking to support their learner, and YMCA Academy sits at the very heart of that concept. It was founded and developed to support learners with needs that may not be adequately met within other settings. Likewise, it comprises an academic environment in which those students aren’t constantly reminded of their exceptionality. Here, they participate in a community that is supportive, sympathetic, and socially oriented around their personal needs. That, in itself—irrespective of the programs or the curriculum—can be transformational. This isn’t a school for others, making a concession for them. Rather, it is a school for them. That’s huge.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    "One of the best parts of CCI is probably the staff who are always ready to support us."
    Isabelle Trudeau - Student   (Feb 28, 2023)
    CCI is an amazing place to step out of your comfort zone and start discovering who you are. You are ... View full review

    "This is one of the first times I’ve seen teachers and headmasters being so close to the students to the point you would think they’re friends or related."
    Frunza Ian - Student   (Feb 28, 2023)
    CCI is a great place where people can learn and connect with other incredible people. Besides being ... View full review

    "This school directly impacted my self-confidence in my chosen career path."
    Marc Wiltshire - Alumnus   (Feb 28, 2023)
    My time at CCI remains a high point in my life, both personally and professionally. I made some of m... View full review

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    "Canadian College Italy is one of Canada's top private boarding high schools abroad. Parents trust us for our reputation for academic excellence, small class sizes and personalized education. Students choose us for our life-changing cultural immersion and our beautiful and historic campus. For nearly 30 years, we have been empowering students with the confidence, character and skills they need to succeed at the world’s top universities and colleges. CCI is the only Ontario-accredited school in Italy."

    • Our campus is the historic centre of a beautiful and ancient town near the Adriatic Coast.
    • Our graduates earn the OSSD, recognized by universities in 165 countries, including Canada & U.S.
    • CCI attracts bright students from around world making for a stimulating multicultural community.
    • Our traditional university preparatory program values critical thinking and independence.
    • Students develop worldliness and maturity living in town and taking educational trips around Italy.
    • Students create their own customized extracurriculars, which include sports, skills and service.
    • All instruction is in English from certified Ontario teachers, except for Italian language class.
    • All students are assigned a tutor to assist with time management and accountability.
    • We are a co-educational high school for students in grades 9-12.
    • Students receive 24-hour supervision with an emphasis on well-being and mental health.

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    "The YMCA Academy is an alternative middle school and high school serving youth with learning disabilities and learning style differences. The school's small class sizes, individual education plans, life skills counselling, and experiential learning opportunities support students in their pursuit of college preparation and workplace level courses. The recently expanded, state-of-the-art facility is conveniently located in the Central YMCA in downtown Toronto."

    • Helping your teen succeed in life
    • Building skills for academic success
    • Individualized Education Plans
    • Special Education support
    • Social & Emotional support
    • Experiential Learning
    • Small, supportive classes
    • Laptops for every student
    • Co-operative Education
    • A broad range of extracurricular opportunities, including clubs, events, and a cross-Canada exchange

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    "As the only Ontario-accredited high school in Italy, CCI is able to offer students a rigorous English-language academic program in a beautiful and culturally rich setting. As a traditional university preparatory boarding school, our program fosters time management skills, responsibility and independence through a balance of academics and enriching extra-curricular activities."

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    "Parents and students choose CCI because we are a small, family-run boarding school where each student receives the personal attention that cultivates success. We value building personal relationships with CCI families, which creates a sense of community and belonging that larger institutions may not be able to offer."

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    "CCI was founded in 1995 by a Canadian teacher who noticed how her own children benefited from travelling and living in Europe."

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    "It's not surprising that studying abroad can enrich one's outlook, broadening one's sense of worldliness and compassion. However, CCI students will tell you that they left CCI with a surprising sense of independence and confidence, arming them a unique maturity going off to university."

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Dear Reader,  

    Canadian College Italy is Canada’s first high school in Italy. CCI is a co-educational boarding school that offers an academically rigorous curriculum in a semester format and all courses are taught in English. Founded in 1995, we have provided a unique high quality educational experience that prepares students for success in their university studies.  We offer grades  9 - 12, and our courses conform to the Ministry of Education accreditation guidelines for the Province of Ontario.  Our professional teaching staff dedicates itself to ensure extensive individual attention is available for every student.  CCI prides itself on its excellent student achievement and graduates have accepted offers and received scholarships from a variety of universities throughout Canada, the U.S.A., the U.K., Australia and Europe.

    The essence of CCI is that challenging learning takes place in the country of the Renaissance where archaeological, historical and art treasures are visited as a formally instructed integral part of the CCI educational experience.  All students visit the major art cities within Italy and optional trips are also organized throughout Europe.

    The Town of Lanciano, where CCI is located, is an ancient-yet-modern, safe, and well serviced small city of 45,000 in the eastern Abruzzo Region. It is a 15 minute drive from the sand and stone beaches of the Adriatic Sea and less than three hours by bus from Rome. An important part of the student experience is to live in an Italian town and be immersed in its culture, and Lanciano has warmly embraced CCI and our students.

    Students attend CCI from – Canada, Europe, the United States, the United Kingdom, Mexico, South America and Italy to name a few. This assemblage of students and concentration of experience promotes strong friendships with classmates from all over the world.

    CCI's main building is a four-story medieval house centered around a bright covered atrium that rises a full four stories. Surrounding the atrium are classrooms, the library and administrative offices.  The Allegria, is a charming 500 year-old inn where our students have their meals. CCI students enjoy excellent Mediterranean food, where all fruits and vegetables are locally grown. The Allegria is the oldest Inn in Lanciano; it also houses the boys’ residence on the second floor. The girl’s residence, Santa Maria is a larger building about a five minute walk from the school.  We encourage each residence to develop into a mini-family so that it operates as much as possible as a home away from home. Each residence has excellent WiFi service.  It is invariably residence life, with its friendships, necessary accommodations, agreements and understandings, that students have reported they remember and will forever treasure as an important bonding and enriching part of their CCI lives.

    Canadian College Italy’s mission:  To provide a unique environment in which students

                                                      experience a renaissance academically, socially and

                                                      culturally.


       We hope to see you in Italy.
     

    I have spent a quarter of a century working in independent schools in Ontario, having focused my career on curriculum development and research on learning and the adolescent brain. The following judgment, then, must carry some weight: The Academy is a uniquely impressive school, one that profoundly improves the quality of life of its students, and promises to multiply such improvement as they move on successfully to post-secondary studies or meaningful work placements. Of course, these are large claims, but they are supported by the achievements of our graduates. We have taken approved Ontario Ministry of Education courses and incorporated them into unique programs to meet the needs of our student population. Our goal is to give our students the skills to graduate from The Academy with their Ontario Secondary School Diploma in hand, ready to face the challenges of university, college or vocational endeavors.

     

    Our personal, differentiated approach, specialized programs and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to those students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences.  Our students typically have communication exceptionalities such as: learning disabilities, autism, giftedness and/or medical conditions that affect learning such as ADD and ADHD which have impacted their achievements in school settings. At the Academy we support our students from their first day of school with an Individual Education Plan outlining supports and accommodations specific to their needs.

     

    The  Academy team is made up of experienced teaching professionals with accreditation in their professional fields. They bring varied backgrounds and expertise in special education, IT, counseling, mentorship, curriculum development, guidance and career counseling, cooperative education, and many others.

     

    Given its history in education, and its wide-ranging social programs for youth, the YMCA connection enhances The Academy in many ways. We recognize that our students can benefit from the “wrap-around” services our connection to the YMCA of Greater Toronto makes possible. For example, each of our students has year-round access to all Health, Fitness and Recreation centres with the Central Y being the facility for all school-related fitness education. Co-operative education opportunities are readily at hand as well. Our students experience school-wide overnight leadership and outdoor education sessions at camp Wanakita and/or Camp Cedar Glen, and access to Canada Youth Exchanges through the YMCA Student Youth Exchanges program, amongst a large variety of supports.

     

    Finally, The Academy has been, and will continue to be, a school in which all students know that they are part of a supportive, safe and challenging community, dedicated to enrich their present and their future. We pride ourselves in our students’ success!

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Traditional

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Information not available

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      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.

      THE YMCA 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

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Not applicable

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Canadian College Italy is a co-educational, boarding, high school that offers an academically rigorous curriculum in a semester format, and all courses are taught in English. We offer courses for grade 9 to grade 12 ( High school graduation). Our courses conform to the Ministry of Education accreditation guidelines for the Province of Ontario, Canada.

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      The YMCA Academy offers a full range of compulsory and elective high school courses, imbued with the school's focus on providing accommodations and assistive technologies and offering experiential learning opportunities and wrap-around support.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Traditional Math

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

        THE YMCA 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

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Expository

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.

        THE YMCA 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

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

        THE YMCA 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)

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Not applicable

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Traditional

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Social Justice


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        In social justice- inspired programs, literature is not viewed as something to be merely decoded and “appreciated”: rather, it is viewed as a catalyst to social action. Choice of texts tends to favour contemporary works. If a classical text is used, it’s often in the context of social deconstruction: students are asked to critically examine possible prejudices and historical narratives inherent in the work. Like in traditional literature programs, students are often asked to engage in class discussion and critical essay writing, but more time might also be devoted to cooperative group projects and personal reflections. The goal is to teach students to think critically about what they read, while becoming intellectually and physically engaged in the social issues pertaining to their wider community.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

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

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Pragmatism

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        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.

        THE YMCA 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

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Audio-Lingual

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        The audio-lingual method of teaching foreign languages emphasizes the use of repetition and a system of immediate reinforcement and feedback. The method makes particular use of oral drills where students are expected to correctly imitate (or intentionally alter) an utterance made by the teacher in the target language. Quizzes and worksheets are also used extensively.

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

        THE YMCA 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)

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Creative


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Medium integration

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Information not available

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        We use assistive technologies in our classes to support students who learn differently. These include speech to text, text to speech, mind mapping, word prediction software, and so on.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Standard-enriched

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      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.

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Information not available

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Rigorous

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      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”.

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Academic emphasis with evening mandatory study hall in the residences

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

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

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

      Canadian College Italy is a boarding school focused on preparing students for university through academics, but also through the development of personal confidence through social connection. Students attend CCI from Canada, Europe, Russia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Mexico, South America, Thailand, and Italy to name a few. This assemblage of students and concentration of experience promotes strong friendships with classmates from all over the world.

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

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

    Additional support

    Additional support

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Accommodations

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Information not available


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

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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    We do not discourage parents from enrolling their children if minor accommodations are required.

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    We offer a full suite of accommodations for learning style differences, as well as a dedicated counselor providing social/emotional support to individuals and the learning community. We welcome students with a wide variety of learning style differences.

  • 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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    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

    THE YMCA 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

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    9 - 12

    9 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    30%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $10,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    95%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    Yes

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    A student seeking a unique educational experience.

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    The YMCA Academy is a Ministry of Education–inspected, alternative high school in downtown Toronto. Our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences. The YMCA Academy’s middle school is an alternative grade 7 & 8 program in downtown Toronto. Developed with a focus on building reading, writing and math skills, our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY

    Three teacher recommendations, current school transcript, and school reports.

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    For students entering our program at grade 9, we do an assessment of English and Mathematics to determine grade level and appropriate placement in our program

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

CANADIAN COLLEGE ITALY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

THE YMCA ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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