1910 Yonge Street, Suite 115, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 3B2, Canada
55 Deblaquire Street North, Port Hope, Ontario, L1A 4K7, Canada
Indirect Support:
1910 Yonge Street, Suite 115, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 3B2, Canada
55 Deblaquire Street North, Port Hope, Ontario, L1A 4K7, Canada
336.4 km
341.9 km
1999
1865
Varies
570
9 to 12
5 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day, Boarding
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Traditional
1 to 8
12 to 16
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
$4,000 to $12,800
$25,750 to $36,000
$45,000 to $68,500
No
Yes
0%
33%
None
5 to 12
$0
$20,000
0
71
0%
49%
100%
75%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades 5 - 12
No
No
information not available
Trinity College School is one of the oldest boarding schools in Canada and, having been founded two years prior to confederation, is indeed older than the country itself. While it looks entirely different than it did when it was founded—there are no original buildings, nor does it sit at the same site as it did in 1865—the core values remain: quality academics with an eye to educating students into positions of social, professional, and political leadership. Academic achievement is highly valued—this is a school, as many will tell you, where it is cool to be smart—though tolerance, personal expression, and consideration of others are equally important. Service is central to the ethos of the school, as underscored by a robust program of service learning dedicated to developing opportunities within the local community and beyond.
Read The Our Kids Review of Trinity College School
"City Academy prepared me well for university by..."
Ellena Theodorakakis - Alumnus (Jan 06, 2021)
I had the most amazing year at City Academy. I attended for grade 12 and I met some of my best frien...
View full review
" ... everyone is truly welcoming"
Mariam Omilabu - Student (Jan 23, 2018)
Being at Trinity College school is like moving away from home, feeling terrified and lost, then grad...
View full review
"Beate Mundo Corde: Blessed are the pure in heart... truer words could not be said about the people of Trinity College School."
Benjamin Glassco - Alumnus (Jan 25, 2018)
"Beate Mundo Corde": Blessed are the pure in heart. Adorned on the school's crest and displayed on t...
View full review
"I felt like the luckiest person in the world"
Jocelyn Murphy - Alumnus (Jan 26, 2018)
My time at Trinity was so special. I spent four years there in both day and boarding programs, and I...
View full review
All schools are unique, though that’s particularly true of City Academy. It was founded in 1999 by Sheila Dever, and her pedigree for teaching is simply unequalled. She brought a long experience in the public school sector and within the education faculty at York University. She created the program at City Academy to be intensive and challenging, and it is. Small classes and the four semester format focus student attention in unique ways, while allowing instructors to take cues from the students, adapting to their individual strengths and needs. There really is nothing like it. The ideal student is one intending to proceed to post-secondary education, and is looking to build the personal and academic skills that will be required for success in that context.
Trinity is one of the oldest boarding schools in Canada and, having been founded two years prior to confederation, is indeed older than the country itself. While it looks entirely different than it did when it was founded—there are no original buildings, nor does it sit at the same site as it did in 1865—the core values remain: quality academics with an eye to educating students into positions of social, professional, and political leadership. Academic achievement is highly valued—this is a school, as many will tell you, where it is cool to be smart—though tolerance, personal expression, and consideration of others are equally important. Service is central to the ethos of the school, as underscored by a robust program of service learning managed by a director dedicated to developing opportunities within the local community and beyond. The ideal student is one who responds well to challenge.
City Academy prepares students for post-secondary studies in a wide variety of fields. Recognizing that only outstanding academic achievement will ensure entry into a program of choice, our students demonstrate a serious, mature and focused approach to their studies. The low student/teacher ratio, prompt feedback and unique opportunities and resources foster an environment conducive to excellence.
As you enter through the front gates of Trinity College School, you think to yourself, “What will this opportunity bring?” After all, it has been a very personal decision to take the leap to attend a new school. But quickly you are greeted by the TCS community with a warm, welcoming embrace. Somehow, immediately, you sense that your decision to come to TCS was a good one. You recognize that this place is special and unique, and suspect that your experience will be as well. Habits of the heart and mind—courage, creativity, compassion, integrity and perseverance—are palpable and prioritized in this community and, because of this, you feel empowered to delve into previously unexplored areas of interest and try new things. And there is so much to explore at TCS! Experiencing the individualized support and personal attention that is at the heart of the TCS program, you craft and customize your own personal path, confidently pursuing newfound interests and passions. You are on your way now, on a journey to revealing your life’s purpose. The path of each TCS student is as individual as a fingerprint and as personal as a signature. We look forward to welcoming you on campus and introducing you to the people, program and place that are Trinity College School, so you can begin your signature journey.
The philosophy of the school is derived from my 35 years as an educator, consultant and administrator in the public school system, enhanced by my work with the Ministry of Education as an Education Officer and as a Supervisory Officer and instructor of teachers and future administrators in the Education faculty at York University.
It is clear that all students can learn however many need a specific kind of environment to maximize their academic potential.
At City Academy we stress academic focus. The social distractions of larger schools are not available, the ability to “hide” in a large class is impossible (our classes are approximately 6 to 8 students or less), the propensity of being overwhelmed with many different tasks does not happen (students take two subjects at a time), the excuse of being “bored” and not able to remember is radically reduced. The most important factor in student success is that students have recognized the need for a change and have embraced it. In every class the skills needed for future success are taught. The structure of the school enables all students (grades 9 to 12) to long-range plan, practice self-discipline, and feel in control of their time and their workload.
For more than 140 years, Trinity College School (TCS) has been internationally recognized for excellence in educating young people. It is no surprise that our challenging and encouraging environment has helped TCS graduates gain entrance to top universities around the world, and that our alumni are leaders in their communities. But this is just half the story.
TCS has always been keenly involved in character development, as reflected in our mission, “developing habits of the heart and mind for a life of purpose and service.” Given the challenges facing our planet today, we know our students will be called upon to lead their communities, their colleagues, their cause and, in some cases, their countries. If we are to best prepare our students to meet these challenges, we must inspire them to become leaders of character, purpose and vision.
At TCS we think that the quality of character determines the quality of leader. As such, we challenge our students to establish worthy goals and to act to good purpose. We cultivate integrity in our students. We encourage honest and constructive conduct. And, on the strength of our people, our programme and our place, we help to develop leaders who are broad-minded, intelligent, thoughtful and confident.
If you are considering Trinity College School as a destination, I trust that this Web site will provide you with many of the details you desire.
However, in order to truly experience the strong, supportive community that is TCS, I would like to extend an open invitation to visit us in person. I can promise you that the caring and energizing environment that we foster and enjoy will prove unique from any other school you may have visited.
I very much look forward to welcoming you to campus.
Sincerely,
Stuart K.C. Grainger
Headmaster
Traditional
Information not available
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.
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.
Not applicable
Our curriculum is designed to meet the needs of students who intend to seek entry into post-secondary education (mostly universities). We offer all of the credit courses needed to gain entry into Arts, Business, Science and Social Science programs. Because teachers face students with little or no interruption, and we have very small classes, we have the time to complete, review and enrich course content. In addition, our teachers have been workshopped in Teaching/Learning Styles, Study Skills, Note Taking Skills and Exam Writing Skills. All of these are addressed within the context of course delivery. We enhance our curriculum with the ability to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Supplementary Calculus and ACT prep courses and small non-credit workshops in a variety of supplementary courses designed to improve student work habits.
As our families and students appreciate, a high school diploma is only the beginning step towards achieving long-term goals of post-secondary education and career advancement. Our academic program is an opportunity for our students to show that they are capable of managing deadlines and completing specific tasks, which are important skills for any post-secondary program. Academic programming has been carefully designed to prepare students for the challenges of university study, and the wide range of courses, in addition to the School’s emphasis upon learning skills and a personal approach to learning, reinforce our compelling academic vision. We strive to provide opportunities to bring out the very best in every TCS learner by helping students balance their individual aptitudes, the requirements of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma and university admission requirements.
Traditional Math
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.
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 achievement of a senior mathematics credit is becoming increasingly important to all students entering university. We are proud that all of our math teachers are specialists and are knowledgeable about the content of all high school math courses, as well as math courses which will be taken at university. Because of the focused approach of the timetable, students who have had difficulty with mathematics in previous grades are surprised at how easily the concepts are learned in a small group setting with an excellent teacher. We also provide our students the support to enter the Waterloo University math contests such as the Euclid (grade 12) and Pascal (grade 11). Our students have excelled in these contests, earning marks in the top 20 percentile.
Although TCS primarily takes a traditional approach to mathematics, critical thinking and the application of concepts and skills is emphasized in each course and at each grade level. Mathematics teachers are highly collaborative and develop course lessons and materials in teams. Students are also expected to work collaboratively and learn the importance of practice, critique and revision when working toward mastery. Students may avail themselves of a variety of learning supports including the use of the ‘Math Learning Center’ which is open to students throughout the academic day and three evenings each week. The use of technology (including graphing calculators, online interactive graphing tools and video lessons) is embedded in daily lessons and on assessments. Students with a passion for mathematics are encouraged to challenge themselves by sitting the University of Waterloo mathematics contests that run throughout the academic year.
City Academy uses textbooks which support the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and are approved by the Ministry. In some specialized courses a teacher-generated Course Reader is provided.
Mathematics courses primarily use the McGraw-Hill Ryerson published textbooks, designed for the Ontario curriculum. Some exceptions include AP Calculus (Stewart. Single Variable Calculus, Early Transcendentals, 7th edition) and AP Statistics (Bock, Velleman, De Veaux, STATS Modeling the World, 4th Edition).
All students are allowed to use calculators. Depending on the subject and the teacher some use may be restricted.
Students are required to use the Ti-84 series of graphing calculators. Students learn course specific calculator skills during lessons and may use them on assessments, including the final exam. Calculators with ‘QWERTY’ keyboards are not permitted.
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
At TCS, writing is used to harness and develop the power of self-expression. Texts studies serve as models for students’ own writing and to stimulate their creative faculties. There is a focus across disciplines on using language with precision and clarity, and incorporating stylistic devices appropriately and effectively. For example, in the AP Language & Composition course, students not only deconstruct the rhetorical and literary merit of pieces, but learn how to craft their own compelling arguments. In the lower grades we specifically teach grammar and vocabulary is taught through literature.
Equal Balance
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.
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.
Many of our students wish to enter university in science programs. Our science staff represents expertise in all three science disciplines: biology, physics, chemistry, and all are passionate about their subject area. We are proud that in the science department we have teachers with Master’s degrees and PhDs, thus offering our students a wealth of experience and content expertise. In the past we have placed students into very competitive university science programs and all have reported that they felt they were exceptionally well prepared and could take their place equally beside all other students.
The science program at TCS has been developed such that students learn the essential content and skills that will prepare them for the challenges of the next grade level, beginning from Grade 9 and leading to AP courses. Grade 9 and 10 science classes introduce students to the disciplines of chemistry, physics and biology and explore the interrelationships between science, technology, society and the environment. There is a focus on student-directed approaches to inquiry to give them greater ownership in the experimental process and collaboration with lab peers. The importance of fair, unbiased experimental designs to test hypotheses is underscored, as is the proper graphing and written form of displaying and explaining data. Grade 11 and 12 science students will continue to refine these skills as they engage with more in-depth content. Problem solving and analysis skills are emphasized in order to further develop their critical thinking.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physiology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
The English department is rich in talent and experience. Several of our teachers are published authors and columnists. All have a passion for their subject and are flexible in how they deliver course content. All have a fervent belief that the goal of the English program is to produce students whose reading and writing skills will assist them in all of life’s challenges. Returning students comment that the English instruction they received at City Academy prepared them very well for the challenges of university essay writing. We offer a wide variety of English courses to meet the needs and interests of all students.
English courses at Trinity College School are designed to enhance students’ abilities to critically analyze and appreciate literature through the study of a wide array of novels, plays, poems, and short stories. Students focus not only on what a literary text means but also how a text conveys that meaning. Students are taught to use academic language coherently and confidently as well as to select reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading. Our courses are thematically based and expose students to works ranging from the Elizabethan era to the 21st Century. Unique opportunities offered in our department include a Grade 10 cross-curricular English and History Travel Education course; AP Language and Composition; AP Literature and Composition; and a selection of Grade 12 courses that focus on a common subject, including Holocaust Literature, African Literature, Middle Eastern Literature, and Alienation Literature.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
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).
In addition to teaching course content, a particular focus in our social studies curriculum is helping our students to be knowledgeable and discerning consumers of information, including both online and textual resources. Students are taught specific skills for developing and refining research questions. We also work to develop proper research techniques and skills for verifying and authenticating online information. Students are also given various opportunities to communicate their knowledge, in spoken, written and multimedia formats.
Equal Balance
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
We offer all of the social science and Canadian and world studies subjects included in the Ontario curriculum. In this department our teachers, with degrees focusing on history, psychology, geography, law, politics and philosophy, offer an approach that brings the everyday world into the classroom. These classes are very interactive. Parents often comment that the content of these courses are brought home to foster many interesting family discussions. In addition to regular course offerings in this area, we have enriched our program with IDC (interdisciplinary) courses in Film Studies, History of Art and Financial Securities.
The delivery of the social sciences and humanities at Trinity College School seeks an equal balanced approach between perennialism and pragmatism. Fostering a strong theoretical understanding of the relationship between politics, culture, and the economy offers a staging point to critically analyse the issues of the day from a Canadian and global context. Students have an opportunity to explore current public debates about social justice issues and social policy. They critically examine the links between economic and social class disparities; religion; human rights; race, racism, and anti-racism, gender and sexuality; health and education; and environmental concerns on a local and global level. Students receive a solid foundation in research methods and theories, building their analytical skills in order to properly prepare them to contribute to making the world a better place, which is in keeping with our mission.
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Our Language/Classical Studies department is small, but talented. We have teachers who can teach French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese and German. In the past we have offered courses in Mandarin and we were proud that, one of our students, because of the instruction she received at City Academy, entered the University of British Columbia in the faculty of Asian Studies. Also, one of the most popular history courses in our school is Classical Civilizations.
Fluency in the languages and cultures studied at TCS is critical training for contemporary citizenship. Literacy is the aim, one that affords connection preparing students for the 21st century. Languages, both classical and modern, challenge students to blend critical thinking, analytical practices, and performative advocacy in ways that highlight the interplay of curricular application and extension. A variety of efforts are made to facilitate cross-disciplinary study stemming from student interest in topics that encourage collaborative, creative thinking using a cultural framework. Language is the tie that binds communities affording students the occasion both to learn how to speak and how to listen.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Creative
Receptive arts programs emphasize art history (visual, music, theatre, etc) and appreciation over creating or “making” art. Students learn about various artistic works and movements, and are asked to reflect on their underlying aesthetic features and principles. The goal is to give students a core body of knowledge related to the arts, while developing their cognitive, emotional, and aesthetic sensibilities. Studio-work is still a component of most reflective programs, but it plays less of a role than in creative programs.
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.
We are fortunate to have on staff teachers with unique skills in art, film, photography, and music and computers. The school’s belief is that art is a reflection of our society and therefore all students should be exposed to new art experiences. The success of these art programs is reflected in the fact that every year we place students into OCAD, Sheridan College and film studies programs at various universities. Because of our unique Music and Computers course there is a growing student interest in post-secondary courses focused on the music industry. With the assistance of our talented, creative and inspiring teachers, many of our students have discovered a talent in art that they had not previously realized they possessed. And, although art may not be a career choice, they recognize that by taking art courses they will be more knowledgeable future consumers of art.
The Arts are driven by passion, imagination, creativity, discipline, energy, and joy. This is what we work with every day to produce artistic thought, feeling, and action through music, drama, and visual art. We love what we do and we do it well. Our students graduate with a life-long love of the arts and a deep understanding of culture and their place in it.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Information not available
The Computer Studies Department is partitioned into two streams, Communications Technology and Computer Science. Within each stream, students develop skills that allow them to explore the fundamentals and use of computers, and applications within, and apply their skills to produce varied and creative work. The Communications Technology stream emphasizes the creative process, and how technology aids in the development of unique products. Digital graphic design, photography, sound production and videography are the primary concepts of these courses, each implementing rigorous critique and focusing on the design life cycle. Within the Computer Science stream, students gain a deeper understanding of computers, and learn how computers can be manipulated to solve real-world problems. Areas of investigation include program design, computer hardware, algorithm analysis, big data, robotics, and electronics. While exploring these streams, students gain a better understanding of the power of computers, and learn to maximize their use in today’s world.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
We offer the grade 12 Physical Education credit in Exercise Science. It is a subject of special interest to our student athletes and those who are pursuing a career in Kinesiology and/or Physiotherapy.
At TCS, health and physical education (HPE) is mandatory in grade nine. Courses are offered at all grade levels, including focus courses such as large group games (grade 10) and outdoor education (grade 11). Two grade twelve course options exist with Intro to Kinesiology, and Fitness Leadership. Teachers in the HPE department are experts in the field of healthy active living and many are high level coaches. More importantly, the teachers in HPE department are caring individuals, who strive to see students achieve personal achievements, reach goals and have fun during the experience. The knowledge and skills acquired in HPE courses at TCS provides students with the physical literacy and health literacy they need to lead healthy, active lives.
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
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.
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.
Many City Academy students are actively involved in extra-curriculum activities which restricts their ability to achieve academic success within the regular timetable. Therefore, we offer many flexible timetabling opportunities.
With an average class size of 15 students, TCS provides a highly personal approach to learning. Students are supported inside and outside the classroom with dedicated faculty and substantial extra-help opportunities. All Senior School courses have a robust online learning management system to support student achievement.
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”.
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”.
All City Academy students aspire to post-secondary education. Recognizing that universities and colleges are requiring an increasingly high student academic proficiency, our program focuses on building the skills, knowledge and attitudes which will assure success in higher education.
Trinity College School offers a broad and rigorous curriculum in which students may concentrate in areas of personal interest. At TCS, education is collaborative, rich in discussion, and writing-intensive. We believe that learning is an active process that fosters habits of the heart and mind while challenging all students to communicate effectively and to think both critically and creatively.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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."
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."
Self-actualization, both academically and personally, is the focus at City Academy. It is our aim that our students become adults who are well-balanced, self-aware and prepared to make the maximum positive contribution to society.
TCS has always been keenly involved in character development, as reflected in our mission, “developing habits of the heart and mind for a life of purpose and service.” Given the challenges facing our planet today, we know our students will be called upon to lead their communities, their colleagues, their cause and, in some cases, their countries. If we are to best prepare our students to meet these challenges, we must inspire them to become leaders of character, purpose and vision.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Indirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
City Academy |
Trinity College School |
|||
| 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. | ||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Extra support
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Students with Identified Learning Disabilities (full psycho-educational assessment no more than 3 years old) or other diagnosed needs, are supported through additional support programs such as Learning Strategies Courses, or Academic Support periods. Their test/exam accommodations are based on the recommendations in the psycho-educational assessment. They may include; Extended time, use of a laptop or scribe, alternative, distraction-reduced environment or additional breaks. TCS does not modify the curriculum.
City Academy has an excellent track record of accommodating previously identified students. If difficulties arise while students are enrolled at City Academy, in consultation with parents a plan is designed. In some cases the support of a professional psychologist is suggested. In others, special program delivery and counselling within the school are implemented.
Students with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities can be successful at Trinity College School if they do not require modifications to the curriculum and if they are engaged learners willing to accept strategies and supports from their teachers. Generally, these students have LDs that are moderate in nature. Students who surface as having academic challenges while at Trinity College School, are provided with additional academic assistance, learning seminars, and strategies. If initial supports do not improve the status of student achievement, the school may recommend a full psycho-educational assessment to investigate the nature of the academic challenge.
City Academy |
Trinity College School |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
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 |
||||
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
9 - 12
5 - 12
0%
33%
$0
$20,000
100%
75%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades 5 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 5 - 12
No
No
No
No
Students who attend City Academy are university/college bound and are looking for a small focused setting where their maximum academic potential can be realized. City Academy students enter the school with the goal of achieving their post-secondary aspirations and are prepared to take ownership for their own success. Students are ready to take advantage of the supportive environment offered by the teaching staff and the structure of the school. The school’s small class sizes and the flexible structure of our timetable allows student programs to be tailored to meet individual learning styles and strengths. Students who require a more concentrated, accelerated or flexible educational program are able to take credits in a private or semi-private manner. We have had many student athletes find this option the best educational fit for their busy training schedules.
Trinity College School take a holistic view during the admissions process to determine a candidates suitability for our program in an effort to determine fit in three broad categories, academics, extra curriculars and community. Applicants that can demonstrate that they will thrive in our challenging university program, participate in athelitcs, arts and extra curricular programing as well as be a positive member of our caring community are likely to gain entry and thrive at TCS.
Students interested in attending City Academy's day school program should contact the school to schedule an appointment. A marks transcript should be brought to this meeting.
Admission Requirements
Admission to TCS is based on:
How to Apply
There are eight essential pieces of information that must be received by the School before a candidate's file will be considered for admissions:
Send to:
Admissions Office
Trinity College School
55 Deblaquire Street North
Port Hope, ON, L1A 4K7
Canada
