261 Buena Vista Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 0V9, Canada
99 Sheppard Avenue West, Unit A, North York, Ontario, M2N 1M4, Canada
1915
2001
375
75
Preschool to 12
Preschool to 12
Girls
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Traditional
15 to 17
5 to 12
Accelerated curriculum
Dedicated gifted school
$15,540 to $29,700
$18,000 to $24,000
Yes
No
24%
0%
6 to 12
None
$6,800
$0
23
5
0%
0%
70%
100%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
Elmwood was founded in 1915 by Theodora Philpot who, in addition to having a great name, was well ahead of her time in the world of education. Like Maria Montessori, Rudolf Steiner, and others, she felt that traditional education wasn’t meeting the needs of students, both academically and personally. She wanted to offer an alternative, one that was student-centric, and that would stimulate a love of learning rather than the rote memorization of facts. She felt that there should be a bit of poetry in the course of daily life, and a bit of joy, too. She began that first year with just four students, all of whom were boys. Despite the obvious differences—it’s now home to nearly 400 students, all of whom are girls—the spirit of the school nevertheless is reflective of Philpot’s vision. The school is one very much centred on possibility, creating opportunities for students to explore their world and to find their place within it. The ideal student is a girl looking for a vibrant, challenging, community-oriented academic environment.
Read The Our Kids Review of Elmwood School
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Elmwood was founded in 1915 by Theodora Philpot who, in addition to having a great name, was well ahead of her time in the world of education. Like Maria Montessori, Rudolf Steiner, and others, she felt that traditional education wasn’t meeting the needs of students, both academically and personally. She wanted to offer an alternative, one that was student-centric, and that would stimulate a love of learning rather than the rote memorization of facts. She felt that there should be a bit of poetry in the course of daily life, and a bit of joy, too. She began that first year with just four students, all of whom were boys. Despite the obvious differences—it’s now home to nearly 400 students, all of whom are girls—the spirit of the school nevertheless is reflective of Philpot’s vision. The school is one very much centred on possibility, creating opportunities for students to explore their world and to find their place within it. The ideal student is a girl looking for a vibrant, challenging, community-oriented academic environment.
View full reportThe student body at Wise Owl reflects the diversity of the surrounding community, and the school uses that as a foundation to encourage and celebrate a multicultural perspective. Wise Owl is small, which is a draw for the families that enrol, as is the program that runs from preschool through the primary and elementary years. There is a close, family feel, with an individual attention to the needs of the students. Likewise, there is an attention to building students’ emotional and social esteem within a values-based environment. The ideal student is one looking for something different, and who will thrive in a hands-on, community-based academic environment.
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"While there is a structured program, teachers at the Little Owl Private School deliver content in an interactive way."
Kate Lebedeva - Parent (Jul 08, 2021)
My son is thriving academically and emotionally at Little Owl Private School. We came to Little Owl ...
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"... the school is putting an emphasis on teaching the children soft skills such as manners and being respectful to others in addition"
Rebecca Huang - Parent (Jul 08, 2021)
My daughter has been attending the kindergarten program at Little Owl. I can say confidently that my...
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"Teachers are also very open to communication with parents and plan individualized learning approaches..."
Igor Kaminsky - Parent (Jul 08, 2021)
Our kids have been attending Little Owl Private School for the past 9 years, and we had an amazing e...
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"Elmwood is one of the most innovative girls’ schools in North America, offering all three levels of the IB Programme. Acclaimed for its academic excellence, caring atmosphere and strong community spirit, Elmwood is a school where girls are encouraged to stretch themselves, try new things, create and explore. We strike a balance between traditional academic goals and innovative approaches to achieving those goals. We create inquiring lifelong learners, engaged global citizens, and confident, compassionate leaders."
"Founded in 2001 as Little Owl Private School and now known as Wise Owl Private School, we offer a multicultural, coeducational environment from preschool (age 2+) to Grade 12. Our devoted educators cultivate academic excellence, encouraging critical thinking and passion. Committed to fostering global citizenship, our holistic program prepares students for success in academics, arts, and athletics, empowering them to thrive in a diverse and dynamic world."
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"Wise Owl Private School offers tailored programs from foreign languages to science, surpassing traditional learning. Emphasizing exploration, mastery of techniques, and skill acquisition, we provide a dynamic educational experience. Our commitment to a holistic learning environment inspires curiosity and creativity, making Wise Owl an innovative educational institution."
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"Parents prefer Wise Owl Private School due to our commitment to tailored, diverse programs that foster a holistic educational experience. Our focus on exploration, technique mastery, and skill acquisition ensures a dynamic and engaging learning environment, setting us apart. Additionally, our dedication to inspiring curiosity and creativity makes Wise Owl the preferred choice for parents seeking an innovative and comprehensive educational institution for their children."
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"The commitment of our teachers to every student's academic journey is often underestimated. Our educators tirelessly dedicate themselves to delivering high-quality lessons and customizing the learning experience to meet the unique needs of each student."
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"At Wise Owl Private School, we highly value transparent communication with parents, while our dedicated teachers focus on providing quality learning experiences to ensure students acquire essential skills for future academic success."
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When we talk to the girls about what makes their school special we get as many different answers as we have students. Not far from every girls answer though is family and confident young women. There is something here for each and every girl to love, to get involved in and to find inspiring.
Over 100 years ago, Theodora Philpot, an entrepreneurial and visionary woman, founded Elmwood School. Although the subjects we teach and the manner in which we teach have evolved dramatically since 1915, Mrs. Philpot would still recognize the essence of the school she created. Every girl here is known and valued-we see them as individual girls on individual journeys, and we inspire each girl to reach her full potential. That is the School's mission statement, and it is something every member of our community lives every day
Our holistic approach to girls' education combines superior academics with outstanding co-curricular activities and healthy lifestyle choices. The powerful and supportive all-girls environment here gives students the freedom to stretch themselves, take risks and learn from their mistakes. We are specialists in how girls learn, so we can tailor things to exactly what works best for them.
At the base of everything is our reputation for academic excellence. Elmwood is the only school in Ottawa accredited to deliver all three levels of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme ranging from preschool right up to the senior grades. This is a fully transferable, world-class education, and the combination of the "gold standard" IB program and a strong Ontario curriculum is the best preparation for university and beyond
When girls graduate from Elmwood they are ready to move on to the next phase of their education with confidence. They have become inquiring, lifelong learners with an exceptional education, confident, caring leaders and compassionate, engaged global citizens.
I hope you will come visit us soon. We all look forward to sharing our school with you.
Best regards,
James Whitehouse, Head of School
Welcome to Wise Owl Private School, where our guiding motto is "Teach Your Children Well."
From Pre-K (age 3) to 12th grade, we offer meticulously crafted, well-rounded academic programs. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to elevate the student experience, providing abundant opportunities for honing creativity and exploring individual interests.
Dedicated to excellence, we are committed to furnishing an educational, secure, and enriching environment. Our mission is to challenge students towards academic prowess while cultivating a balanced, passionate, and open-minded approach. We aspire to shape critical thinkers who embody respect and responsibility, fostering global citizenship.
Join us on the journey of education that goes beyond, preparing students for a future of success and significance.
Sincerely,
Natalia Galinskaya
Traditional
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Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
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We believe that the best kind of education is one that combines a world-class curriculum, passionate teachers, innovative teaching methods and small class sizes, so every student gets individual attention. Elmwood exceeds the expectations of the provincial curriculum and is more rigorously evaluated than any other school in Ottawa. At Elmwood, we encourage and challenge our students to strive for academic excellence and inspire them to develop a lifelong love of learning, knowing that this strong foundation of knowledge and skills is crucial for success in the 21st century. Our outstanding faculty draws on best practices in girls’ education as they inspire students to be principled, knowledgeable, and reflective learners. From the early years to graduation day, Elmwood students benefit from a program of study that is student-directed, inquiry-based, rigorous, relevant and specifically designed to prepare students for life and work beyond the classroom.
Wise Owl's Elementary and Middle School program, aligned with the Ontario Curriculum, prioritizes a well-rounded academic approach, fostering creativity and individuality in small classes. The curriculum not only equips students with essential skills and knowledge but also promotes leadership development, good manners, and effective learning habits through independent and collaborative work. Furthermore, our holistic approach includes regular physical activities, visual arts, drama, and music programs, providing students with a comprehensive education that enhances physical coordination, artistic expression, and emotional intelligence.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Wise Owl adheres to the Ontario curriculum as the cornerstone for our mathematics education. Our comprehensive methodology integrates in-class activities to reinforce concepts, adapting approaches to developmental stages. The intricately tailored program focuses on numeration, algebra, measurement, geometry, data management, and probability, stimulating dynamic problem-solving and logical reasoning. Emphasizing cognitive expansion, we instill precise terminology usage, mental math proficiency, and practical application skills. Our commitment to nurturing holistic mathematical comprehension equips students with analytical thinking and a robust foundation, fostering well-rounded mastery for real-world applications.
Text books include Nelson Mathematics, Carson Dellosa Spectrum,. Worksheets from K5 learning, Math Salamanders, Teachers Pay Teachers
Calculators are incorporated into our math program beginning in grade 6.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Wise Owl prioritizes a comprehensive approach to early literacy. Our students initiate their reading journey with a phonics-intensive program, gradually transitioning to a whole language approach as their language proficiency develops. The process is deliberate and gradual, allowing students to grow comfortably and fluently in their language skills. We recognize the significance of both phonics-based learning and context clues in the early reading process. This dual emphasis ensures that students encounter a diverse range of words, integrating structured phonics instruction with the ability to infer meaning from context. By combining these methods, we create a balanced and effective foundation, fostering a love for reading and empowering students to confidently navigate the intricacies of language acquisition.
No
Wise Owl employs tests, guides strategies, and emphasizes evidence for literacy.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
At Wise Owl, our students embark on a structured writing journey, commencing with an emphasis on fundamental grammar rules, sentence structure, and punctuation. As their writing proficiency develops, students transition towards more personalized expression. Our approach encourages them to delve into nuanced aspects of writing, including word choice for mood and conveying specific ideas. Beyond traditional paragraph-based stories, our curriculum explores diverse writing mediums, fostering a holistic understanding of written expression. Throughout this process, students not only compose sentences and stories but also cultivate an awareness of the broader role of writing in various contexts. This comprehensive approach nurtures their ability to articulate thoughts with precision, creativity, and adaptability across different writing styles and mediums.
Equal Balance
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
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.
At Wise Owl, we foster a solid foundation in Science through a harmonious blend of inquiry and balanced instructional practices. Students explore a diverse range of materials, including textbooks, books, videos, and hands-on inquiry, gaining a comprehensive understanding of scientific concepts. Our approach extends beyond traditional learning, offering collaborative opportunities through engaging experiments and research projects. Hands-on experiments are integral to our methodology, allowing students to observe and test scientific facts in a fun and immersive manner. For instance, our Living Things module involves charting and observing seed-to-plant growth, while in Seasonal and Earth changes, students build and compare animal homes based on various environmental factors. Through these activities, we seamlessly integrate creativity with the scientific inquiry process, providing students with a dynamic and enriching Science education.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
In our English classes at Wise Owl, children undergo a gradual progression in text analysis and creation. For younger learners, literature serves as a valuable learning tool, nurturing foundational language skills. As students progress, the focus evolves towards decoding the mechanics of plot, characterization, and themes in basic texts. This developmental approach ensures that children not only engage with literature as a source of knowledge but also acquire the analytical skills needed for deeper comprehension. The curriculum encourages creative expression, prompting students to craft their own texts as they advance. By blending foundational learning with more advanced literary analysis, we aim to cultivate a well-rounded understanding of English language arts, fostering both appreciation and critical thinking skills in our students.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Expanding Communities
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
At Wise Owl, students embark on a comprehensive journey, commencing with an exploration of their own lives and gradually expanding their studies to encompass local communities and the global landscape. This progressive approach allows students to delve into both local and foreign cultures and histories. Through carefully curated readings and exercises, we aim to instill in them an appreciation for the complexities of diverse people and cultures worldwide. The curriculum encourages critical analysis, guiding students to connect these insights to their daily lives. By fostering a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of the world, we empower students with the knowledge and perspective needed to navigate the complexities of our global society and contribute meaningfully to a diverse and interconnected world.
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Information not available
Wise Owl Private School takes a holistic approach to humanities and social sciences, fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a profound understanding of historical and societal contexts. Our curriculum employs diverse methods such as interactive discussions, project-based learning, and real-world applications. In humanities, literature cultivates empathy and analytical skills, delving into historical events and philosophical concepts. Social studies integrates current affairs, bridging theoretical knowledge with contemporary issues. Utilizing multimedia resources, guest speakers, and field trips, our educators create a multi-dimensional learning experience. We prioritize developing research and communication skills, equipping students for active engagement in their communities and the global context. By nurturing a love for learning and encouraging critical inquiry, Wise Owl empowers students to be well-informed, responsible, and compassionate citizens.
Equal Balance
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
In our French program at Wise Owl, we prioritize proper pronunciation and delve into the intricacies of the language compared to English. Emphasizing the richness of the language, we encourage students to extend their learning beyond the classroom, applying their structured knowledge in real-world contexts. By focusing on pronunciation and language rules, we aim to provide a foundation that empowers students to explore French with confidence outside the classroom. This approach allows them to appreciate the language's nuances at their own pace without self-consciousness about their proficiency level. We believe that this comprehensive strategy not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deeper connection to and appreciation for the French language and culture.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
At Wise Owl, we hold the belief that the creative theatrical process is as significant as the final outcome. Our students not only learn performance skills but also delve into the entire process, from early brainstorming to script-writing and improvisation. Emphasizing that theatrical elements extend beyond the stage, students discover the relevance of discipline and freedom in both their artistic pursuits and daily lives. In our fine arts program, the objective is to cultivate students' artistic potential. Exposure to various mediums, application styles, and art history forms the foundation. We strive to foster a non-judgmental environment where students feel confident expressing themselves through their art. By encouraging exploration and self-expression, our approach aims to empower students to embrace their creativity and recognize the broader applications of the arts in their personal and academic lives.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
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.
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.
Information not available
At Wise Owl, we view computers as valuable supplementary tools for lessons, providing access to a wealth of teaching materials and media through the internet. However, our pedagogical focus prioritizes the direct teacher-student relationship. We believe that immediate communication between teacher and student allows for nuanced understanding and tailored guidance without reliance on technology. While technology is pervasive in children's lives beyond school, we emphasize maintaining a space for interpersonal interaction at Wise Owl. We value the unique insights, mentorship, and guidance that result from in-person engagement, recognizing the irreplaceable role of direct teacher-student interaction in fostering a comprehensive and enriching learning experience. This approach ensures a balanced and effective integration of technology within the broader context of meaningful human connection in our educational environment.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
At Elmwood, we believe that competitive sports help our students develop into determined, well rounded global citizens and teach them the grit and determination that gives them the stamina to see things through. We also believe that every girl can find an activity she can become passionate about. Elmwood is a place where the beginner can dip her toe and try new sports or national competitors can develop further and receive focused academic support. The girls regularly take on new sports and quickly learn the skills needed to not only progress but to excel in their chosen activity. In the middle school, our aim is to give the opportunity to play on a competitive team for whichever sport they choose.
Wise Owl Private School's physical education program is a structured and engaging initiative that collaborates with a specialized company every Friday, ensuring a consistent schedule for sports activities. Students benefit from diverse sports exploration, including team sports, individual activities, and recreational games, fostering a well-rounded understanding of physical activity. Our focus extends to skill development, tailoring activities for different age groups to enhance fundamental motor skills and sports-specific techniques. We prioritize physical fitness and overall well-being, integrating activities that promote cardiovascular health, flexibility, and strength. Emphasizing values such as teamwork and sportsmanship, our program encourages fair play, respect for opponents, and collaborative activities. We embrace inclusivity, creating an environment where every student feels valued. Recognizing the role of physical education in holistic development, we connect activities to broader life skills.
Academic
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Our nurturing environment encourages our youngest students to feel secure and helps them start to build their independence. We balance a rich, academic environment with creative and purposeful play, helping students construct a solid base of knowledge of the world around them. A skilled, dedicated educator who is an expert in early childhood education and inquiry-based learning leads each classroom. In our purpose-built Junior School, the Kindergarten classrooms are designed to meet the needs of our youngest students. Through experiential and imaginative play, Elmwood students engage in early literacy activities and tackle mathematical problems using a variety of strategies, helping them establish a strong foundation for their future studies.
The preschool program at Wise Owl is designed to instill essential skills for success in Junior and Senior Kindergarten. Through interactive activities, students build foundational abilities, such as developing Number Sense and exploring various counting methods. In Junior Kindergarten, they delve into Measurement, Geometry, Data Management, and Probability. Senior Kindergarten fosters creativity, challenging students to think innovatively and apply classroom learning practically, preparing them for future academic pursuits with adaptable thinking.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Wise Owl Private School adopts multi-age classrooms, cultivating collaboration among students of varying ages. High school students benefit from guided independent study, fostering self-directed learning and autonomy. Our instructional strategy emphasizes differentiated instruction, tailoring teaching methods to meet individual needs, ensuring a personalized and effective learning experience for all students.
Supportive
A school with a “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 “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.
Elmwood offers an enriched programme combining the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The IB promotes an internationally recognized, inquiry-based curriculum, which focuses on skill development and brings together learners and teachers from around the globe. Girls thrive in our nurturing community where they are challenged by highly engaged teachers who are experts in personalizing the learning of each girl. Elmwood graduates exemplify the school motto: Summa Summarum—the highest of the high. They are academically strong, socially adept, confident and resilient young women.
Wise Owl Private School provides a structured framework for children while fostering opportunities for exploration and cultivating a love of learning. Our students follow both the Ontario curriculum and our enriched Wise Owl curriculum, particularly focusing on the arts. Embracing and nurturing children's innate curiosity about the world, we are committed to guiding them along their academic journey with a blend of creativity and academic excellence. Our approach encourages a holistic development that not only adheres to educational standards but also sparks a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom, preparing students for a lifelong journey of intellectual exploration.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Elmwood’s curriculum focuses on developing the whole girl – we want students to develop intellectually, emotionally, socially and physically during their years with us. Here they feel free to take risks, stretch themselves, and by doing so learn the true extent of their abilities. Our graduates are inquiring, life-long learners, compassionate, engaged global citizens, and confident, caring leaders.
At Wise Owl Private School, our goal is to mold well-rounded, healthy individuals equipped with robust problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Recognizing the potential impact of certain teaching methods on individuality, we actively support each student's unique identity and self-expression. Fostering a strong sense of self is paramount, and our commitment to honing both intellectual and emotional facets ensures students emerge as confident and talented individuals. By instilling this self-assurance, we aim to empower students with the drive to not only succeed personally but also to create success in the broader world outside the classroom. Our holistic approach nurtures the development of individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially adept and resilient in facing real-world challenges.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
6 - 12
24%
0%
$6,800
$0
70%
100%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
At Elmwood, we’re looking for motivated and enthusiastic girls who will contribute positively to the life of the school through their motivation, intellectual curiosity and willingness to try new things.
At Wise Owl Private School, we seek students who embody a commitment to academic excellence, a passion for learning, and a collaborative spirit. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong communication skills, a curiosity to explore beyond conventional boundaries, and a positive attitude towards diverse perspectives. We value individuals who are open-minded, resilient, and eager to contribute to a vibrant school community. While academic achievements are considered, we also appreciate students who exhibit a willingness to engage in extracurricular activities, showcase leadership potential, and embrace the values of integrity, respect, and empathy. Our admissions process aims to identify students who align with our commitment to holistic education and personal growth.
Interested families should fill out our online application form: http://www.elmwood.ca/application-form/
Documents required: proof of date of birth (passport or birth certificate); report card from previous school, OSR if applicable ; admission form; payments