443 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 2L8, Canada
394 Royal York Road, Etobicoke, Ontario, M8Y 2R3, Canada
Indirect Support:
443 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 2L8, Canada
394 Royal York Road, Etobicoke, Ontario, M8Y 2R3, Canada
2002
2016
500
60
7 to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Progressive, Reggio Emilia
15 to 19
6 to 8
Learning
Learning
In-class adaptations
Dedicated gifted school
$42,780
$9,132 to $19,250
Yes
No
0%
0%
7 to 12
None
$0
$0
83
5
0%
0%
50%
0%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Dec 01, 2022
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Having been founded in 2002, Greenwood is a relatively young school, though has grown in response to the needs of the families that enroll here, and the place that it has within the academic mosaic of the city. It still thinks of itself as a small school, and the lived experience is personal and close-knit. That said, at 500 students, it’s certainly not tiny, and the curricular and extracurricular programs benefit from the size. The current facility, opened in 2016, is an apt expression of the goals of the school, as well as the families that support it. It includes flexible learning spaces and up to date athletic and arts spaces. Greenwood, in some sense, still flies a bit below the radar in the public consciousness, though given the success and growth it’s experienced, that won’t last long. The ideal student is one able to thrive within an active, academically oriented learning environment.
View full reportOak Learners is the very definition of a community-based, student-centered academic environment. Classes are small, personal, and lessons begin with the talents, interests, challenges and curiosities that the children bring with them into the room. An emphasis on the arts is used as entrée to the curriculum, underscoring a cross-curricular approach to instruction. Classroom spaces are bright, open, and adaptable to large group, small group, and tutorial-style learning. Founder Kelly Ferrell is rightly a draw, bringing a wealth of experience to the offering, as well as a proven track record as an educator, leader and entrepreneur. The faculty she’s attracted shares her enthusiasm for active, hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Still relatively young, Oak Learners has quickly established itself as a key offering within its catchment area.
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"The teachers at Greenwood are exceptional."
Alexander Viola - Student (May 04, 2022)
My student experience at Greenwood has been incredible. I really love this school and it feels like ...
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"I think they do a wonderful job of putting kids and parents at ease."
Jen Hastings - Parent (Dec 14, 2022)
I have three kids (1 girl, and 2 boys) who go to or went to Greenwood (our daughter graduated in 202...
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"They work with children in small classes and create individualized plans for each child. I also receive regular updates about my son's strengths and areas that need to be worked on."
Asha Rampersad - Parent (Oct 16, 2018)
My 6 year old thrives at Oak Learners. He loves the staff who are attentive, responsive and makes l...
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"They have a knack for connecting with children and their challenges ... adjusting both the curriculum and the approach to fit each child's needs"
Jana Machan - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
Our son loves the varied and fun activities at Oak Learners, which challenge him educationally while...
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" ... our two kids love Oak Learners"
Jasmine Bush - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
For different reasons, our two kids love Oak Learners. The staff were very good at identifying skill...
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"We help students develop the knowledge, skills and character they need to lead fulfilling lives and reach their full potential. Our personalized academic program provides each student with the perfect mix of challenge and support, and our welcoming all-gender community allows students to be open-minded and engaged each day. Students can pursue their passions through a broad range of courses and co-curriculars. Our Outdoor Education program encourages character growth and creates lasting memories."
"Oak Learners inspires meaningful learning every day. Passionate teachers nurture children’s natural curiosity about their world with hands-on experiences. Students in Kindergarten through Grade Eight participate in an enriched interdisciplinary program, with a focus on Academic skills, the Arts & Outdoor Education. Academic excellence is enhanced with 30-50% of each school day being integrated with immersive outdoor learning, where academic subjects are explored and shared in an authentic way."
"Greenwood students have a champion in their corner from day one: their Adviser. Advisers ensure that their advisees get both the challenge and the support they need to truly thrive; Advisers also coach advisees through growth opportunities, both in and out of the classroom.
Every September and January, the grades spend a week together off-campus. These Outdoor Education experiences encourage them to find new depths of perseverance, to take risks, and to build lasting bonds with classmates."
"Our unique approach at Oak Learners inspires creativity, fosters academic skill-building and builds confidence in our students every day. Students of all ages are constantly encouraged to interact with the natural environment: to seek and explore experiential learning opportunities and to ask questions about the world around them. Academic excellence is enhanced with 30-50% of each school day being integrated with immersive outdoor learning."
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"Greenwood's personalized academic program is a selling point for our families; this approach ensures that each student gets exactly the right level of challenge and support to encourage academic growth. Families value that our focus goes beyond academics to encompass character and community spirit - we encourage students not only to strive for excellence, but to become the best versions of themselves. The fact that Greenwood welcomes all genders is also important for many families."
"At Oak Learners, education does not follow a one-size-fits-all approach. We work as partners with families to ensure each child receives a personalized learning roapmap that supports and enriches their child(ren)'s individual learning style(s). We passionately believe that our small class sizes facilitate an attentive and adaptable learning environment that will continue to nurture our students with meaningful experiences."
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"Families tell us that they didn't fully appreciate the value of the Adviser program until after they enrolled; to quote a parent, it is a "game changer". Families also tell us that our staff's commitment to student success becomes truly apparent once their child starts at Greenwood. Our teachers care deeply about helping each student to do and to be their best, and are ready to support them along their learning journey."
"Every school day is integrated with immersive outdoor learning, where academic subjects are explored and shared in an authentic way. Small classes help facilitate opportunities for our students to get outside every single day, rain or shine, to explore and enrich the academic curriculum in a meaningful way. The result is happier and healthier children, teachers, and families."
"We want to encourage students to grow in all elements of their character, but that doesn't mean that we sacrifice academic challenge. Greenwood uses a "high challenge, high support" model - rather than reducing academic challenge, this high level of support creates the conditions students need to truly stretch themselves academically. Students who are both highly challenged and highly supported are motivated, confident, curious learners."
"At Oak Learners, we believe every child can be successful when they belong to a supportive educational community and this is exactly what families who choose Oak Learners will discover. There are proven links between children's mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health with time spent outdoors in nature. Students at Oak Learners have gained increased focus, confidence, self-esteem and overall increased happiness and satisfaction with school."
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We all need something a little different to thrive. No two people are the same, which is why one-size-fits-all strategies will yield dramatically different results. To find fulfilment, we need the precise mix of challenge and support that works best for us.
This idea is at the heart of everything we do at Greenwood. Our personalized approach ensures that each student is known as an individual and gets what they need to flourish. In the classroom, that means understanding where each student is at and meeting them there with the right level of challenge to encourage engagement and growth. Outside of the classroom, each student is paired with an Adviser; Advisers provide unparalleled support, acting as “champions” and advocates for their advisees in all aspects of school life.
This customized approach extends to our diverse offering of experiences. From the courses we offer to our wide range of extracurriculars, we help students find and follow their passions. We also strongly believe in the value of experiential education, and our trailblazing outdoor education and service learning programs provide authentic, hands-on learning opportunities. When students design their own personalized pathways, they feel a sense of ownership over their education -- and we know from experience that this consistently drives dedication and determination.
While our enrollment has grown to 500 students since our founding, we have maintained our tight-knit community and small-school feel. We believe in the power of learning from, and laughing with, each other, and students have ample opportunity to get to know their peers both in and out of the classroom. Our passionate, caring staff are committed to every student’s success, health, and well-being; the meaningful relationships they develop with students are what make our engaging and interactive approach to learning possible.
When our alumni leave Greenwood, they know what success means to them and they are ready to achieve it. Our graduates have followed a wide range of paths, from volunteering with Doctors Without Borders, to pursuing a graduate degree at Cambridge, to opening an art studio. Our hope for our alumni is that they lead fulfilling lives, and we are committed to helping them develop the character, knowledge, critical thinking and resilience needed to do so.
We are proud of what we have achieved over the past 20 years, but Greenwood is not content to stand still. Moving forward is critical to staying on the leading edge of education and delivering the best experience possible for our students. Our Strategic Plan for 2021-2026 charts an ambitious and exciting future for our school - learn more about it here.
Exploring our website is a great way for you to get to know Greenwood, but there is even more to discover. We hope you will join us for one of our virtual events and experience first-hand what makes this community so unique.
Sarah Bruce
Principal
On behalf of the entire staff at Oak Learners, I want to welcome you and your family to our school this year. The global Covid-19 pandemic caused adversity and change. However, as a community, we have adapted by working together to support all the learners in our classrooms and, despite these circumstances, we have ensured that all students received the education and support they needed while remaining safe.
The 2022-2023 school year is no different, with a focus on equity, diversity, ingenuity, and inclusion. All the educators at Oak Learners will face the coming challenges and continue to adapt to create a caring and welcoming school environment.
Raising resilient and successful children certainly does take a village! I love working together with parents to support their child’s education; in a true partnership between the school and families. Communication between home and school is paramount to a child’s success and we strive to demonstrate this value on a daily basis.
At Oak Learners, we strive to create an engaging curriculum that is progressive, interdisciplinary, and most importantly student-driven. Not only are we an innovative not-for-profit learning centre, but we are also a team of leaders in the community, working to ensure all students are supported and cared for. I truly believe that every child has the capacity to excel and succeed and love school.
I am proud to welcome you to our 7th school year and look forward to working with the entire school community once again!
~Kelly Farrell
Kelly is an OCT certified teacher and has worked in classrooms and alternative learning environments since 1996 and as a certified teacher since 2004, working with students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Kelly has a passion for empowering students to develop confidence through building on their strengths to support their difficulties, particularly those with learning exceptionalities, including Learning Differences, ASD, social-emotional needs, and anxiety. Kelly subscribes to the tenants of Montessori, Reggio-Emilia and Constructivist methods of teaching and is always looking for ways to bring these strategies into the 21st Century through technology and environmental education.
Throughout her teaching career, Kelly has been teaching, leading, and connecting students and staff with a global community of educators leading the way in 21st century personalized learning. In 2014, Kelly was awarded “Project of the Year” at the Water Docs @School Film Festival for her Inquiry-Based Learning project, “Kids Against Road Salt“. This project has been used to train new teachers on the benefits and processes behind inquiry-based learning. Kelly’s teaching was also featured in Owl Magazine on the “Cool School” page in 2014 for a unique publishing project undertaken by her Grade 7/8 class that year.
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.
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).
Greenwood’s high-challenge, high-support model encourages academic engagement and growth for every student. We have high expectations for each student, and our personalized support helps students to meet those high expectations. Our teachers take time to understand every student’s unique personality, strengths and learning style, using that knowledge to develop a fully personalized learning experience that sets up each student for engagement and success.
Oak Learners offers progressive, interdisciplinary, inquiry-based programming in a student-driven, teacher-facilitated, alternative learning environment. Each learner goes through a cyclical process of identifying their unique strengths, needs, goals, and interests. Each day at Oak Learners brings new learning opportunities through an integrated and immersive approach to elementary education. Ontario Curriculum content and skill achievement guidelines are covered and enriched through a holistic approach to learning in a project-based inquiry model, leading to a much deeper and richer learning experience for the students.
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.
Greenwood offers specialized math programs.
Mathematics instruction at Oak Learners takes a very hands-on approach, using manipulatives as well as leveled workbooks to provide an enriched approach to learning Math.
Information not available
Students are taught to use calculators in math and business classes.
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.
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Students are immersed in literacy opportunities through our "Integrated Literacy" programming as well as receiving a multi-sensory approach to learning English phonetics as well as leveled reading activities to build confidence and scaffold literacy skills.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
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 Oak Learners, we approach Literacy through an Integrated approach, which means that Reading and Writing skills are taught within other subject areas, such as Science or Social Studies. Children develop strong literacy habits and communication skills through meaningful experiences with text.
Inquiry
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.
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 instruction includes a mix of knowledge acquisition and inquiry-based learning at all grades and course levels.
Science in the Elementary Years is all about understanding and respecting the world around us. At Oak Learners, we explore our neighbourhood daily and use the students' own questions and observations to form units of study.
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
Not applicable
Equal Balance
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Students analyse literary texts from contemporary and historical periods.
At Oak Learners, we approach Literacy through an Integrated approach, which means that Reading and Writing skills are taught within other subject areas, such as Science or Social Studies. Children develop strong literacy habits and communication skills through meaningful experiences with text.
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
Thematic
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
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Social Studies becomes part of everyday conversation at Oak Learners. Students and teachers may discuss community, family or school related topics and through inquiry, students learn about how they see themselves as part of the larger community.
Pragmatism
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
Humanities and social sciences courses at Greenwood include Food & Culture (Grade 11), Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology and Sociology (Grade 11), World Religions and Belief Traditions: Perspectives, Issues, and Challenges (Grade 11), Challenge and Change in Society (Grade 12) and Philosophy: Questions and Theories (Grade 12).
At Oak Learners, we believe that Humanities Education plays a very important role in providing young leaders with 21st Century learning, problem-solving, collaboration and critical thinking skills. The more students can observe, explore, question and design the world around themselves, the more they have the opportunity to construct true understanding of new concepts.
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.
French classes are required for students in Grades 7, 8 and 9, and are offered as electives in Grades 10, 11 and 12.
We offer enrichment opportunities for students interested in learning new languages through technology and guest-teachers. These decisions are made through consultation with parents and teachers.
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
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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.
Students apply the elements and principles of design when exploring the creative process through drawing, painting, printmaking and mixed media. Students use the critical analysis process to reflect on and interpret art within a personal, contemporary and historical context.
We believe that Arts Education plays a very important role in educating young learners. We make sure to integrate Art, Music, Drama and Dance throughout our days, throughout every subject area. The Arts is what brings learning to life and provides a context for deep emotional and social learning.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium 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.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Greenwood is designed for the digital native, with technology and collaboration tools fully integrated into our program. Students work on laptops throughout the day; students can purchase a laptop through the school or select their own learning device through the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program.
Technology integration is personalized for each learner. We offer a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option for students and encourage the learning of typing and internet navigation skills as an integral part of our 21st Century Curriculum.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Exercise Science is offered as an optional course at Greenwood, while regular physical education classes are paired with Outdoor Education experiences throughout the year.
Outdoor Education is at the core of everything we do at Oak Learners and facilitates a robust Physical Education experience that incorporates everything from hiking and sports to yoga and fitness.
Reggio Emilia
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 Kindergarten program follows a skill-based curriculum through a cross-curricular and arts-based approach with a unique focus on outdoor education. Spending time in our community and in nature provides our students with unique opportunities to engage in a meaningful way with their environment and their peers.
Student-paced
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
Differentiated instruction allows students to learn in a variety of different ways based on their challenge and support needs (e.g. teacher-directed, self-paced, small-group discussion, collaborative).
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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.
Greenwood’s high-challenge, high-support model encourages academic engagement and growth for every student. We have high expectations for each student, and we offer personalized support to help them meet those expectations.
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"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
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.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Greenwood aims to help students develop the knowledge, skills and character needed to lead a fulfilling life and reach their full potential. We believe that character is composed of four elements – intellectual, moral, civic and performance character. By instilling these elements of character in our students, we know they will graduate ready to be confident, competent, ethical, and engaged members of society.
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FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| 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.
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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
Accommodations
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Support is dependent upon students’ individual needs. For example, if a student is finding a particular class especially challenging, support would be given by the classroom teacher. If there is a pattern amongst many classes, the student's Adviser would facilitate a more fulsome intervention. This intervention will involve strategies such as enlisting parent/guardian support, supporting the growth of academic and executive functioning skills, and organizing an extra help schedule. Student supports and intervention progressively involve more people as needed.
Information not available
Access to Greenwood's Student Success Centre (SSC) is included in each student's tuition fees. After reviewing a psychoeducational report and seeking parent/guardian and teacher input, we may recommend that a student with a learning difference carry a reduced course load so they can access SSC support. Students who do so receive a timetabled period in the SSC where they earn a Learning Strategies credit. Grade 12 students in need of SSC support can enrol in the Transition Skills Program, a non-credit course.
All learning programs are personalized at Oak Learners. We work in a close proximity with parents when planning for appropriate learning goals and strategies for their children.
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RecreationalRec. |
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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
7 - 12
0%
0%
$0
$0
50%
0%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Dec 01, 2022
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Greenwood's assessment of student-applicants emphasizes character, personality, academic readiness and interest in personal growth. Among the questions we consider are the following: • Does the applicant have the academic ability to complete the requirements leading to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma? • Do the applicant and their family have values and experience or inclinations that are consistent with Greenwood’s ‘whole person’ approach to education? • Is the applicant involved in the school life of their current school and in extra-curricular activities outside of school, and will they contribute in a positive way to the Greenwood community? • What is the character of the applicant? Is the applicant supportive of others? How has the applicant dealt with previous challenges and opportunities? • Is the applicant academically and otherwise engaged in life? Are they curious, interested in learning and excited about trying new experiences?
Applying to Greenwood involves the following steps:
All applicants are required to complete the Character Skills Snapshot (CSS), administered by the Enrollment Management Association. This online tool examines seven essential character qualities or “non-cognitive” attributes of individual students. Research shows that these qualities are the ones that independent schools feel are most important to nurture in their students. The CSS takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. Learn more about the CSS here.
Please note that an interview cannot be scheduled until the application is complete. Applications are considered complete when Greenwood has received:
The admission process is personalized, just like most aspects of our programming. Your journey at Oak Learners begins with a personalized tour and meeting with our Director. If it is determined through this interview that Oak Learners may be an appropriate fit for your child, we will then book a trial-day where your child will spend the day as part of our classroom. Following the trial day, there will be a second in-person meeting to determine next steps and registration.
The success of every student plays a role in the admission process. Decisions may be made on several factors, including (but not limited to), student-teacher ratio, academic needs, classroom make-up and social needs.
