225 Broadway Street, Mississauga, Ontario, L5M 1J1, Canada
8671 Odlin Crescent, Richmond, British Columbia, V6X 1G1, Canada
2007
2013
100
225
JK to 8
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional, Montessori
Traditional, Reggio Emilia
5 to 16
8 to 15
Dedicated gifted school
$10,000
$21,400 to $25,800
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
9
20
0%
0%
90%
0%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
One of the reasons that private school is attractive is because there is no assumption that one size fits all, and Guiding Light is a great example of that. It presents both traditional and Montessori instruction in consort with the values and lessons of the Catholic church. It’s not for everyone, though for some, it provides a strikingly tailored fit. The ideal family is one that is active within the Catholic faith and looking for a school that will support that spiritual life. Families who enroll are drawn by the strength of the academic program, as well as by the breadth of extra-curricular offerings, all offered within a very close-knit school community. There is no other school like it, and for the families that enrol, that's perhaps Guiding Light's greatest strength.
View full reportPythagoras famously said “educate the children and it won't be necessary to punish the men.” Which sounds harsh, there on its own, but it’s true—education is the means to the liberal arts ideal of becoming active, productive, empathetic participants in all aspects of civil life. That means experiencing new things, engaging critically with new ideas, while offering our own talents in the service of others. It also means growing in to an understanding of what membership in communities offers, as well as a sense of roles and responsibilities that those communities require of us. Pythagoras thought big thoughts, and the school does too, as well it should. They offer a rich program, an extensive co-curricular offering, and cast a wide net in terms of instructional delivery. It’s an active place, full of opportunities to do all those things that Pythagoras valued: experience, interaction, values, while accessing a holistic approach to learning and life. Pythagoras also lived in a cave, though that’s a point where this school sharply departs from its namesake. The building is a chief asset of the program. Spaces are open, fluid, bright, modern, and engaging. Any way you slice it, from instruction to school community, there’s a lot to love.
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"Focus of the school is not simply in academics but also helping develop the children into good people."
Felix Wong - Parent (May 08, 2018)
My children love their experience at Guiding Light. The school provides a warm, welcoming, and safe...
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"Students heighten their education at Guiding Light Academy with various forms of teaching outside of workbooks..."
Vania Padua - Parent (Mar 17, 2021)
A large part of our worries as parents is wondering what our children’s experience will be at scho...
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"The teaching staff at Guiding Light Academy is highly knowledgeable about their subject and I love how creative they are in..."
Cindy Flandes - Parent (Mar 17, 2021)
Guiding Light Academy has been a home away from home for all my children. I am mother to seven child...
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"...the entire staff is very welcoming and is familiar with each and every family that attends the school."
Lindsay Foley-Dinh - Parent (Jun 08, 2021)
Both of my children attend Pythagoras Academy and we have no doubt in our minds that our kids love i...
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"The academic program in Pythagoras is quite unique."
Jeff De Guzman - Parent (Mar 10, 2022)
We have three children currently attending Pythagoras Academy. We know that all kids enjoy attending...
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"Pythagoras Academy provides the ideal preparation for children."
Mackie Mack - Parent (Mar 10, 2022)
We have 2 children attending Pythagoras Academy. Regardless of whether they are in the elementary o...
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"Guiding Light Academy is a Catholic private elementary school in Streetsville, Mississauga. We offer an enriched curriculum for JK, SK & Grades 1 to 8 that far exceeds the Ontario standard. We focus on spiritual development, academic excellence & an extensive co-curricular program that includes music, gymnastics, sport, drama, elocution & dance. The Spiritual Guidance is under the full responsibility of The Heralds of the Gospel & Lumen Veritatis Academy. Each school day begins with Daily Mass at our local Parish."
"Pythagoras Academy is a progressive JK to Gr. 8 independent school that embraces the role of the Arts and Sciences. Education can be relevant, engaging and inspiring and our teachers are dedicated to making this a reality for Pythagoras Academy students. By regularly designing learning experiences that are active and hands-on, our staff ensure that students’ whole personhood is involved in learning and growing. We teach students how to apply their interests and talents in order to solve real-word problems."
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"Pythagoras Academy stands out through its unique integration of the 5 Chairs, 5 Choices behavioral agility curriculum. Led by renowned expert Louise Evans, our approach emphasizes conscious communication and relationship mastery. Through tailored programs like the Success Centre and Excellerator, we ensure students reach their full potential. Real-life challenges, the Fine Arts, and inquiry processes enhance critical and creative thinking, preparing students academically and socially."
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"Families prefer Pythagoras Academy for its supportive community and adaptive programs. Our Excellerator program offers tailored support, while enrichment activities challenge students. With a remarkable 1:5 staff-to-student ratio, we foster personalized connections, akin to a second family. Transparent school tours showcase our commitment to openness. We prioritize individualized education and relationships, making us the preferred choice for nurturing and enriching schooling."
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"Pythagoras Academy defies expectations. Families experience a vibrant community with tailored support. Beyond typical independent school norms, we offer world-renowned curriculum, diverse before/after-school programs, fine arts showcases, and competitive robotics leagues. No matter the learning needs or family lifestyle requirements, Pythagoras Academy is a school for every child and family. Personalized learning paths and extensive volunteer options demonstrate our commitment to every child."
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"Pythagoras Academy defies expectations. Families experience a vibrant community with tailored support. Beyond typical private school norms, we offer world-renowned curriculum, diverse before/after-school programs, fine arts showcases, and competitive robotics leagues. No matter the learning needs or family lifestyle requirements, Pythagoras Academy is a school for every child and family. Personalized learning paths and extensive volunteer options demonstrate our commitment to every child."
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We at Guiding Light Academy are blessed to share the integral role of guiding our children during the formative years of their lives.
Through outstanding learning and teaching, with constant reinforcement of core values, we strive to prepare our children for the tapestry of life.
On a personal note, I have founded and managed School of Knowledge, Sharjah, U.A.E., for the last 30 years. My gratification is when my students, now young adults, feel that the best years of their lives were the ones spent in our care! This sense of achievement is what I endeavour to bring to the field of education in Toronto as well.
A Welcome Message from Our Head of School
At the heart of every child and youth is a curious person, knowing what matters and what interests them. Pythagoras Academy teachers are experts at connecting to students and engaging them deeply in their learning by taking into account the unique qualities of the students they teach. Our students understand that they belong in our community because they ‘stand out’ and not because they try to ‘fit in’.
Students need both creative and complex challenges to thrive. In this light, we have designed many specialized programs to encourage this creativity and to build on students’ problem-solving skills. We have a world-class musical theatre program and information technology/broadcasting program where students are innovative, expressive and confident. Creativity abounds in our Story Studio, our innovative writing space.
We take pride in our students’ collaboration and communication skills. We develop our students’ confidence by coaching them during collaborative, real-world problems solving activities. Learning to work together and knowing how to give and take, appreciate others and generate quality ideas together are skills our students will need in the future. Our learning process is dynamic, crosses disciplines, and often involves a Fine Arts component.
Our parent community works in harmony with our school leadership and warm-hearted, talented staff. Together we create an enriched environment where students feel safe, cared for and supported to invest all of themselves into their learning opportunities.
If you are beginning to get to know Pythagoras Academy, you are welcome to explore our website, book a tour, or speak with me directly about any questions you may have. We welcome all parent inquiries and encourage parents to connect with us on our life-long journey of building a healthy, compassionate, and innovative learning community.
Warmest regards,
Michael Bouchard
Interim Head of School
Traditional
Reggio Emilia
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
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).
The Enriched Curriculum at Guiding Light Academy provides your child with the opportunity to learn and grow spiritually, physically, and emotionally through creative learning. At Guiding Light Academy, we focus on three key Elements including Spiritual Guidance, Academic Excellence, and Co-curricular Activities. We combine traditional methods of academic learning with aspects of social interactive learning. Our main goal is to provide a learning environment that inspires life long learning, encourages strong self -development, and instills deep spiritual values.
We use the curriculum that promotes critical thinking and problem-solving. As well our curriculum strongly supports the development of our students' imaginations and creativity. This is accomplished through cross-curriculum Fine Arts programming and challenges.
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.
At Pythagoras Academy we teach consistent, easy to learn algorithms emphasized in traditional math programs and we ask our students to apply these algorithms in complex, real world situations. In addition, we “throw situations at students” and ask them to use their critical thinking to apply possible solutions to these situations. Our students enjoy mathematics and see math as a way to express themselves and work collaboratively with others.
Information not available
Information not available
Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
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.
Information not available
We have a reading program that focuses on deep and accurate comprehension of fiction and non-fiction texts. We acknowledge and promote excellent reading subskills (including direct phonics instruction). Our work is informed by the master teacher, Adrianne Gear, as well as by Fountas & Pinnell and a wealth of Canadian & International Educators/Thinkers in the field of 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.
Our students learn to write by having plenty of time to write during writer’s workshops. Their writing is analyzed and this forms the basis for personalized “mini-lessons”, which are highly effective in supporting our students to improve and mature their written expression.
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.
Our Inquiry-Based science program is cutting-edge, hands on and encourages both wonder and critical thinking. Our science program is orientated so that students will make their own discoveries and have the “aha” moments that make science so engaging and thought-provoking.
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
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.
Our students study historical texts and learn how these texts are still relevant to modern day social issues. In addition, they study contemporary texts and are engaged in critical thinking and creative thinking about how these works may suggest solutions and lines of thinking to address current-day challenges.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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Students learn to “see the big picture” when looking at historical events. The program is structured to help students gain enduring understandings about big patterns that exist across civilizations and times.
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
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Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Information not available
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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.
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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.
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Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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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.
The Enriched Curriculum at Guiding Light Academy provides your child with the opportunity to learn and grow spiritually, physically, and emotionally through creative learning. At Guiding Light Academy, we focus on three key Elements including Spiritual Guidance, Academic Excellence, and Co-curricular Activities. We combine traditional methods of academic learning with aspects of social interactive learning.\nOur main goal is to provide a learning environment that inspires learning, encourages strong self -development, and instills deep spiritual values.
By paying attention to individual and group interests, we create inquiries of studies that are engaging to students and result in enduring understandings. In practical terms, this means we listen to student's own questions and desire learning experiences that satisfied students' curiosity and sense of wonder.
Accelerated
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).
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).
Our small class sizes allow us to spend one on one time with every child ensuring that the course material and pacing is customized to each child.
Every student has a different learning style. Our teachers are nimble and responsive to students' learning needs and regularly differentiate instruction.
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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”.
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"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Not applicable
Not applicable
Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Golf |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
90%
0%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 8
No
No
No
No
Guiding Light Academy aims to develop all around students with a focus on Catholic values, an intensive academic program and an extensive co-curricular program. We expect a student of Guiding Light Academy to have a deep understanding of the Catholic faith, a strong focus on academics and have the ability to sing and dance on stage as part of a performance.
Pythagoras Academy looks for students who are curious, open-minded, and care about others.
As part of the application requirement, we ask that the parents along with the child meet with the school's admission team to discuss the child and the school's curriculum.
Parents are required to fill out the application form and prepare the required documents. We accept payment for the application fee by cash, cheque, WeChat, Alipay, wire transfer, and bank draft. Please call 604-370-0199 to get more information regarding our payment options.
Once the admissions office receives the application and the application fee, we will schedule the assessment for students. After the assessment, the enrollment process will be carried out, which includes filling out the enrollment-related forms and making the tuition payment.
The required documents for the application are as follows:
- Student's head photo
- A copy of parents' PR card or Canadian Passport
- A copy of parents' visa (work permit, visitor visa, etc.) if applicable
- A copy of a BC hydro bill (or any proof of residence in BC)
-Two years of report cards for grade 1 and above applicants.
- Application fee of $300 for local student and $500 for international student