781 Richmond Avenue, Victoria, British Columbia, V8S 3Z2, Canada
1080 Linbrook Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 2L1, Canada
781 Richmond Avenue, Victoria, British Columbia, V8S 3Z2, Canada
1080 Linbrook Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 2L1, Canada
1913
1891
854
550
JK to 12
JK to 12
Coed
Girls
Homestay, Day, Boarding
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Progressive, Reggio Emilia
16 to 18
Varies
In-class adaptations
Dedicated gifted school
$20,840 to $39,005
$25,180 to $32,310
$57,260 to $73,145
Yes
Yes
15%
9%
SK to 12
None
$2,000
$0
57
37
3%
0%
72%
74%
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
Oct 31, 2021
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
“By any metric, Glenlyon Norfolk School is one of the best of its kind in Canada, namely a school that offers the full IB curriculum with two unique boarding options, and prepares students for post-secondary education and beyond.”
“What distinguishes GNS is that attention to self-awareness.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Glenlyon Norfolk School
“St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School has grown and evolved into a place where girls can forge their unique educational paths in a caring, close-knit community.”
“At SMLS, every aspect of students’ experience – whether it’s math class, basketball practice, debate club or lunch in the dining hall – is carefully constructed to be part of their growth and learning.”
“The students and parents we spoke to, who were from diverse cultural backgrounds, said the school works hard to live up to its aspirations on equity, diversity,
and inclusion.”
Read The Our Kids Review of St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School
Glenlyon Norfolk School started its long life in 1913 as a girls school, the founders intending to establish something better, something more forward thinking, much like other girls’ schools that have a similar pedigree. Later, a boys school was established nearby, and in 1986 they combined to become the school, at least in broad outlines, as it exists today. In keeping with the initial vision, the school intends to be at the leading edge of instruction, continually evaluating what it offers and ensuring that it’s in keeping with what students will need for success at post-secondary studies and beyond. In 1996 it became an IB World School with the adoption of the Diploma Programme, adding the Middle Years Programme and Primary Years Programme in 2004 and 2007, respectively. With them, GNS became one of the first schools in the country to offer the full continuum. The tradition of evaluation and evolution continues today, in a very literal sense, with the school in the midst of an ambitious strategic plan, one intending to keep the school at the forefront of innovation while reflecting the values and ideals that have informed the life of the school for more than a century. The offering, rightly, is highly regarded, and serves as an example to other schools nationally. The ideal student is one who can thrive in a challenging, vibrant, dynamic learning environment.
View full reportThe school has a long history, having been founded in Toronto 1891. After a move to Oakville, it later paired with a school guided by Ruth Lightbourn, a renowned teacher who founded a school almost by default—she began as a tutor for the children of John Guest, then headmaster of Appleby College, and her success was of the kind we associate with Nanny McPhee. She became the go-to tutor, and in time founded her own school. That and St. Mildred's formally joined in 1969, combining the traditions and the drive of both under one umbrella. More than anything, the intention is to provide girls with the skills, experience, and esteem that will carry over into academic and professional success. Ample opportunities are provided for students to discover their passions, wherever they may lie, as well as the encouragement to grow within those areas of interest.
View full reportinformation not available
information not available
"Glenlyon Norfolk School is an inclusive family-driven community whose members care about each other and the world around them, where dedicated teachers and staff deliver the full International Baccalaureate Program in a co-educational environment from First Steps to Grade 12. Building on our foundation as a university preparatory school, we encourage students to be curious, engaged and balanced learners who are ready to take positive risks, make mistakes and discover their true selves."
"SMLS students (JK to 12) benefit from an enriched academic and co-curricular program, personalized learning, unique Signature Programs, world class facilities and teachers who are experts in educating girls. We engage each student in a personalized, real-world learning experience—one where she can explore her own unique pathways within a nurturing community. From the moment a student enters SMLS, she begins a journey of discovery to emerge empowered and ready to achieve excellence in whatever path she chooses."
"Every student at GNS is an IB learner. During their time at GNS, they are encouraged to ask questions, investigate topics independently and take action about issues they feel are important. Building on a foundation of over 25 years of training and experience, our teachers have created a unique approach to delivering the IB curricula that enables our students to develop higher-level skills in inquiry, analysis and innovation that they can put into action in the real world today and in the future."
"What differentiates SMLS from all the other schools are the fact that we are experts in personalization. We offer a large school experience with all of the same academic opportunities, athletics, co-curriculars and success, but with a tight-knit, small-school feel, where we’re all part of a community that cares and is connected to one another."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"At GNS, you are not just another student. The GNS experience is an enriched one that meets every student where they are and supports them to do their very best. This is possible because of our people. Our community. A strong partnership between the school and our families creates the best environment for student growth, and the relationships forged between students and teachers who know them and care about them as individuals set us apart and make our great school truly exceptional."
"Families seek out an SMLS experience for the opportunities the school provides their daughters. As an all-girls school that prioritizes both academic excellence and personal wellbeing, parents know that their daughters are developing in a safe, nurturing environment - one where students get to know themselves and take risks in a safe, comfortable way.
Families who have been at SMLS comment time and again about the warmth and strong sense of community that exists across the school."
Information not available
Information not available
"GNS is a Canadian school with a global viewpoint. As an International Baccalaureate school with membership in the Round Square, our staff strive to broaden our students’ world views, both inside and outside of the classroom, to impart to each student that we all have a role to play in the maintenance and growth of our communities. Being part of the GNS community prepares students to recognize how their actions have an impact on the world around them and helps them become capable global citizens."
"Families are often surprised and impressed by the fact that we have leadership opportunities for every student, starting even in the Junior School and as early as Grade 1.There are ways for every student, whether they’re an introvert or an extravert, whether they have many interests or just one passion - whether they’re an athlete, an artist, an academic or still working on finding themselves - every student has an opportunity to lead."
"We embrace the greatness of small. Our students enjoy the richness of opportunity that comes from being a part of a small school that offers large school programs, where everyone is encouraged and expected to take part. Play on the soccer team, perform in the musical, or organize a beach clean-up—we count on our Gryphons to be active, involved members of our community. As a result, students gain confidence, learn how to work for and with others, and are inspired to pursue their passions."
"SMLS is an Anglican-based that welcomes students from every faith, fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging within our
school community. Our weekly chapels celebrate both our Anglican roots and world religions and cultures so that everyone in our community may develop an understanding of the diversity in the world around us."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
I am honoured to be the head of the Glenlyon Norfolk School community school, entrusted with ensuring a quality education for our students from Gryphon First Steps (3 years old) to Grade 12.
We are a proudly Canadian school with a global viewpoint, as demonstrated by our International Baccalaureate (IB) World School designation.
If you’re reading these words you’ve already begun an important process. If you explore further you will find detailed information and vivid descriptions of student life, both inside and outside the classroom, at each of our two unique and idyllic campuses.
You’ll discover the depth and breadth of the IB curricula that underpins every aspect of our academic life, and you’ll learn about the first-class co-curricular opportunities that ensure each and every GNS student has the opportunity to embrace an experience that is well-rounded, challenging and fun.
In that sense, GNS is no different from so many of the other fine schools in BC, across Canada, and around the world.
But GNS is so much more than that.
The GNS experience is an enriched one that meets every student where they are and supports them to do their very best. This is possible because of our people. Our community. The partnership built between the school and our families creates a strong environment for student growth. The relationships forged between students and teachers who know them and care about them as individuals set us apart and make our great school truly exceptional.
As I often state, the foundation of GNS lies in Our Core Values. Truth. Courage. Caring. Individuality. Community. These principles guide each member of the “GNS Family,” as we ensure the school remains an exceptional place for students, parents, families, alumni, faculty and staff. I know that my two boys love it here!
Our collective philosophy is to never miss an opportunity to celebrate one another’s achievements, but to also never miss a chance to grow and to learn. As in many schools, excellence at GNS is measured in part by academic success, but it’s also gauged by the development of empathy, by the discovery of new passions, by a willingness to push beyond comfort zones, and by the ability to create and maintain enduring relationships and friendships that last a lifetime.
We’re so excited that you’re considering joining our community, and we look forward to assisting you through the process. If you have questions, please ask. If you have comments, I hope you’ll share them with our Director of Enrolment, Trevor Mannion.
The journey you are about to embark on is one that is shared and enhanced by every other member of this community. Together, we’ll ensure that the future is brighter for you, for your family, and for our school.
Warmly,
Chad Holtum
Head of School
Thank you for your interest in St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School.
It is a great privilege and honour to be the Head of School at St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School. I am delighted to be a part of the school's warm and invitational learning community with such a longstanding and rich heritage of more than129 years. SMLS is an all-girls learning environment where girls are encouraged to discover and pursue their personal excellence through a rigorous academic program. Our faculty and staff are deeply committed and dedicated to preparing girls for a strong inspired future as empowered young women.
The entire community celebrates our recent graduates, all of whom are anticipating the start of the next phase of their journey at Canadian and international universities of their choice. For those families who are considering St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School for their daughter, there are a number of virtual opportunities for you to connect and get to know the school, where you will be warmly welcomed.
Nancy
Progressive
Reggio Emilia
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.
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.
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.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
As an IB continuum school, Glenlyon Norfolk School offers a seamless approach to the International Baccalaureate programmes for students at all grade levels. Our uniquely designed and delivered educational program allows us to challenge and support students of all abilities, allowing them to do their best in everything they do. Students are inspired by knowledgeable, committed teachers who are IB experts, and are encouraged to take risks and make inquiries surrounded by supportive peers and classmates. Regular communication with parents allows us to foster a positive partnership between student, family and school for the benefit of all parties. We also provide comprehensive exposure to athletic, artistic and service opportunities that allow us to develop well-rounded students of character. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure students graduate with the tools necessary to find success in their post-secondary studies and to live happy and successful lives.
SMLS is a dynamic learning environment designed to address the unique needs of girls from preschool to graduation. Our programs focus on the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of girls, and are designed to develop our students to become courageous girls who challenge and change the world.
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.
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
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.
Reading is taught through the IB Primary Years Programme Units of Inquiry as well as a separate foundation skill. Teachers differentiate for all learners making it possible for all students to progress at their own pace.
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.
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.
Students work on this skill by using a writing continuum that has been co-constructed by them. They develop their writing by being able to see where they are currently and where they are headed, making this a highly differentiated approach to learning. Writing is incorporated into all aspects of the curriculum. All teachers are considered teachers of writing, and this skill is part of every IB Primary Years Programme Unit of Inquiry.
Information not available
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.
Information not available
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
Zoology
Not applicable
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
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
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Social Studies is taught through the programme of inquiry which is the focus of the IB programme at the elementary years. There are overriding unit themes such as "Where We Are in Place and Time" and then broken into units of inquiry that reflect these broad ideas in age and stage appropriate ways. Key concepts are covered in every grade and, in the earliest grades, a global perspective is incorporated into these units of inquiry.
Information not available
Not applicable
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Not applicable
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Information not available
Information not available
Reggio Emilia
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.
Reggio Emilia programs aim to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of “projects”, (as opposed to “activities” or “lessons”). Teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. Projects can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. A high degree of parent involvement is also encouraged, particularly when forming curriculums and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Our students are engaged in an enriched, values-based curriculum delivered by well qualified teachers with warmth, friendliness and expertise. The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme provides a fabulous framework of inquiry to develop strong foundation skills that allows personalized learning to be at the forefront. Pastoral care is an important part of school life for our learners as it allows all students to challenge themselves to be their very best in a safe and supportive environment. Nature school each week complements our rigorous academic programme, as does our waterfront location allowing students to engage with nature in a meaningful way.
At SMLS, we use best practices from the philosophies of the Ontario 'Play Based' program, Reggio Emilia, inquiry based learning and direct teaching. We take this approach because we believe that providing a balanced program allows for the development of curiosity and the joy of learning in every child. Our process of instruction educates children in the fundamentals needed to go on to a successful academic career in the primary, junior, middle and senior programs. Our goal is to develop within students the core skills of a lifelong learner.
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.
Information not available
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”.
We are rigorous in our academic culture, while at the same time supportive of girls of different learning styles.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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.
Information not available
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 |
||||
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
SK - 12
15%
9%
$2,000
$0
72%
74%
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
Oct 31, 2021
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
Yes: grades Preschool - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 3 - 12
Yes
No
No
No
No
We are looking for well-rounded students that exhibit the 5 As: Academics, Athletics, Arts, Adventure, and Active Citzenship. A student who is curious, engaged and kind and who will appreciate the small, close-knit community that is GNS and will take advantage of all of the opportunities given to them here whether it be in the arts, athletics, the IB program, service, or the Round Square.
Students applying to SMLS should be prepared to participate in an enriched academic program that balances fundamental skill development with inquiry-based learning. SMLS offers a wide range of co-curricular opportunities and we encourage students to participate widely. Students who are most successful at SMLS are bright and engaged learners who are keen to get involved.
Application requirements include receiving a completed application form along with a $250 application fee and the two most recent report cards for the applying student. Older students must then complete the entrance exams. We also require the completion of a confidential student report from a current teacher. For international students, we also require copies of passports for both the student and his or her parents, as these are necessary for preparation of custodianship documents. Once these items are received, we perform an onsite or Skype interview. We also prefer, where possible, for the applying student to visit the school for a day.
Please see our website: http://www.smls.on.ca/Page/Admissions
