AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Halton Waldorf School vs. Yip’s Music & Montessori School

one-to-one comparison:

View Halton Waldorf School's full report
VS.
View Yip’s Music & Montessori School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    2193 Orchard Road, Burlington, Ontario, L7L 7J8, Canada

    100 Lee Avenue, Unionville, Ontario, L3R 8G2, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1984

    1990

    Enrolment

    240

    Varies

    Grades

    Preschool to 12

    Nursery/Toddler to SK

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, Mandarin

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Waldorf

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    Student-paced
    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.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    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.
    Supportive
    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.

    Avg. Class Size

    16 to 24

    5 to 13

    Special needs support

    Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Waldorf
    Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    Montessori
    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $17,600

    $9,480 to $15,840

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    K to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    15

    0

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    90%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 8

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - SK

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    information not available

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    Any school is more than the buildings or the setting, though perhaps especially with Waldorf programs, setting is an important piece. Halton’s program is established and proven, having been founded in 1984, and the facilities are notable as well, providing, in many ways, the ideal environment for the Waldorf approach. The buildings aren’t small, though they really confer a nice sense of place, some that is beautifully extended by the school’s proximity to green space. Waldorf intends to set students apart a bit from the bustle of daily live, and all the distractions that might be found there, and refocus students’ attention, and awaken a perception and appreciation of children’s talents and their place in the world. You’d be hard pressed to find a learning environment that better expresses and supports those goals. It’s idyllic, and matches the strength of the academic program and the experience of the staff.

    View full report

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Music can be a powerful thing, and Yip’s has created its program around that understanding. Benefits include social, creative, and cognitive development, and Yip’s uses it as a basis for delivering the Ontario curriculum. The use of the Montessori method provides some nice overlap, including a foundation in the core Montessori values of empathy and respect. Yip’s has grown to occupy four locations since the first was opened in 1990. As such the school has a deceptive range and breadth of instructional resources—while each location feels close-knit, the school is effectively quite large. That said, the lived experience for students is one of participation within a small, familiar, safe, and comfortable community of learners.

    View full report
  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    My involvement with Waldorf education began almost 30 years ago when my daughter started Waldorf Kindergarten in Europe. Our family joined the Halton Waldorf School after arriving in Canada in 2004, and I joined the faculty as an assistant teacher in 2007. I immersed myself in Waldorf Education and became a certified Lead teacher in 2014. I was in the classroom for 15 years and was always interested and involved with the school's leadership. In 2022, I became the Pedagogical Director of the Halton Waldorf School. In each role, I have seen firsthand how the curriculum supports healthy and well-rounded childhood development that helps students flourish and find fulfillment in life.

    Our faculty recognizes that true knowledge is best attained through experiences that engage children physically, intellectually, and emotionally. With a passionate commitment and a multi-disciplinary approach, we identify each child’s learning profile and support building their full potential.

    As members of a global community of Waldorf schools, we educate children within the context of their evolving awareness of the world. We foster intellectual flexibility, moral discernment, integrity, and a love of learning that profoundly shapes their individual capacities.  

    Yip’s Music & Montessori School offers a unique curriculum that promotes academic, language and performing arts excellence for children. Our vision to create an environment which would foster and enhance the musical talents of youth is at the core of the program philosophy. Yip’s encourages our students to aspire to high moral values, at the same time teaching extensive cultural sensitivity, preparing them for unlimited global success. 

    Yip’s Music & Montessori School focuses on the individuality of students. We designs individualized program so students learn according to their own pace. With small class sizes and low student/teacher ratios, the school’s experienced, certified teachers are able to foster classroom discipline and deliver individualized instruction. 

    Yip’s offers an integrated Montessori program that includes Language, Mathematics, Practical Life, Sensorial, Science, History and Cultural Education. The school’s child-cantered, caring environment empowers children to reach their potential, while nurturing confidence and self-esteem. We follow and excel the Ontario curriculum for students. At Yip’s, academic excellence and high ethical standards are nurtured. Students are encouraged to be creative, independent and self-disciplined. 

    Yip’s is also renowned for its effective Music Program. Many studies have found that music learning actually enhances children's brain development, especially in the areas of mathematics and language.Through practice and participating in performances, students are able to master better body coordination, be more self-expressive and learn to value the importance of teamwork. Yip’s also provides language instruction in English, French and Chinese to better prepare students for the challenges of a multi-cultural world. The stimulating programs offered by Yip’s provide the challenging academics, social and emotional guidance you want for your child.

     

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Waldorf

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Waldorf schools are available from preschool to Grade 12, though they are most popular at the younger ages. Waldorf schools are unmistakably "progressive". Rudolf Steiner, their intellectual forefather, believed the educator's first task should be to help students develop an aesthetic appreciation for life and learning. Sometimes incorrectly conflated with Montessori schools, Waldorf schools focus on developing the "whole child" - emphasizing collaborative, hands-on learning, along with the arts and music, which are integrated into other areas of study.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      How will your child benefit from a Waldorf education? Our students are not rushed through childhood by academic expectations that exceed their developmental stages. Instead, our teachers cultivate a life-long love of learning with an academic curriculum that is developmentally-appropriate and includes engaging, hands-on activities. Our children learn by doing, figuring out problems and finding opportunities while building respectful relationships in an environment that highly values individuality. What does this look like in a classroom? Our students are engaged both physically and cognitively with projects that strengthen the logical and creative sides of the brain. They do not sit still for long stretches of time or use screen technology that limits creativity and learning capacity by doing the work for them. Our students also spend a lot of time outdoors for projects, recess breaks, and on field trips. Our property includes over five acres of forest and provides unique opportunities to engage children in hands-on learning.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        As a core main lesson subject, the key concepts of mathematics are taught by the class teachers. To broaden children's knowledge, the main lesson concepts are repeated in different ways by subject teachers during their lessons in art, woodworking, handwork, French and German. In the early grades, students experience an inherent understanding of numbers, both qualitative and quantitative. The four mathematical operations are worked on with rigorous practice and through imaginative stories, drawing pictures, movement and song. This knowledge is deepened in the higher grades with increasing complexity, timetabled skills classes and regular assessment supporting ongoing skill development and preparedness for grade nine mathematics in public school.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Our classrooms do not use screen technology because we believe it compromises a child's potential to learn for themselves and develop problem-solving skills.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Balanced Literacy


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Our curriculum is based on a fundamental belief that childhood should not be rushed and therefore we do expect children to read before they are developmentally ready. Our early childhood programs emphasize learning through play and provide a nurturing environment rich with stories, plays, songs and poetry to foster a love of language and the power of stories. Hearing advanced and complex language from teachers helps young children have an understanding of phonetics, rhythm, plot, setting, and story structure. These are all key to story comprehension so that children deeply understand language and love to read rather than memorizing patterns of letters. Grade one students work on clear speech with daily recitations of poems, tongue twisters and songs. Every day includes written and oral reviews of the previous day’s lessons. Some children will learn to read in grade one but for others this may happen in grades two or three.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        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.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        The Waldorf curriculum places a strong emphasis on hand-writing skills particularly on cursive writing which begins in grade three. Students fill their lesson books with handwriting and illustrations regarding their new knowledge about the focus subjects such as ancient cultures, botany, physiology or physics. This requires a deep understanding of each topic in order to summarize and illustrate what was learned. In grade one students are introduced to letters, and learn the vowels and consonants, often through story images. They also learn phonics and the writing of short sentences. In grade two, students compose abbreviated stories from folktales, begin learning grammar and punctuation, short and long vowel sounds, vowel and consonant blends, and word families.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Inquiry


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Waldorf emphasizes sense-based science. Awareness of the world depends on our capacity to sense and pay attention to the phenomena surrounding us. It also depends on the student being able to organize the world into an understandable experience. In grades one to five students develop an awareness of their environment and their relationship to it through the study of zoology, botany, gardening and farming. This is facilitated through hands-on activities and experiences and these important sensory experiences develop capacities for later observations and the development of scientific concepts. In later grades, the development of concepts calls for flexibility as well as rigour of thought at a time when students are trying to consciously make sense of their world. Building the foundation for these capacities is the goal of the sciences taught in grades six, seven and eight including physics, chemistry, geology, astronomy and meterology.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Zoology

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Literature programs are rooted in the humanities and through experiential learning in multiple subject lessons. Our comprehensive approach discusses fundamental concepts, universal and cultural themes to encourage intellectual flexibility, creative thinking, independent judgement, and moral discernment. The cultural context of stories is further explored with practical work, field trips and theatrical productions. The chosen literature for each grade reflects the childrens' developmental stages and offers lessons to be learned that are directly related to their own evolving awareness of the world and their place within it.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Core Knowledge


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        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).


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Our social studies are a balance of the Core Knowledge and the Expanding Communities approaches. In geography, we foster an understanding of the students' own surroundings and an awareness of different cultures and human conditions throughout the world. We give the picture of earth and civilization as being inseparable and sharing a need for sustainability. The school's diversity offers an opportunity for abundant first-hand knowledge of many cultures. The teaching of history lives strongly in story-telling, bringing vivid images and using biographies to illustrate specific eras and the role played by individuals in the context of geography, technological, economical and cultural developments. Students also experience historical eras through music, art, poetry and field trips.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        As students move into and adjust to early adolescence in grades seven and eight, teachers nurture their growing capacity for independent critical thought and encourage them to creatively express themselves. They are given biographies of striving individuals who made an impression on the world and took responsibility for their actions. The elements of reasoning and self-reflection are steadily emerging at this age and the curriculum supports this development. The history curriculum covers the Middle Ages, Renaissance, the Age of Discovery, and from the 17th century to modern times focusing on the profound social consequences of the revolutions of several eras. Studying world geography brings together physical, cultural, spiritual, and political conditions to create a vivid picture of the earth as a totality. Our membership in the global community of Waldorf schools supports this perspective.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Students experience a different view of the world and humanity through learning other languages. Differences are expressed in tenses, tonal elements, sounds of vowels and consonants, rhythm, vocabulary and sentence structure. Learning another language contributes to a more complete experience of civilization and the world. It complements individual development by practicing perseverance and strengthening the capacity of observation, flexibility in thinking, and interest in other cultures. German is studied from grades one to five. French begins in grade one and because public school students take French in grade nine, there is a stronger emphasis on French in grades seven and eight. Foreign language teachers work with class teachers to address pedagogical questions and to coordinate with the main lesson work.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Information not available

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        The aim of the visual arts program is to support the students’ physical and emotional development and to enrich their academic work through painting, drawing and modelling. Grades 1 to 5 have art lessons once a week reflecting the subject of the main lesson. Artistic work permeates all facets of the main lesson and many subject lessons. As students progress through grades 6 to 8 all artistic work becomes more refined and detailed reflecting the development of the students and the curriculum. By the end of their grade 8 year students have the opportunity to work with a variety of artistic material and gain a comfort level in the artistic realm.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Light integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        For the age of our students, the transfer of knowledge and the development of capacities for learning are closely connected to the teacher, not technology. Working with an oral tradition, personal relationships and human interaction are enhanced and the subject becomes alive for the student through the interest, engagement and knowledge of the teacher. This approach allows for the emotional, intellectual and physical engagement of the student and the strengthening of their perseverance and will. For their ages, a computer is considered impersonal compared to the connection they feel to the material when it is experienced in music, poetry, science experiments, story-telling and creating their own main lesson books by hand. Students in the upper grades are given the opportunity to use the internet and other resources for research projects. Other media are occasionally used to provide a visual impression or illustration related to a main lesson.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

        Physical movement is closely tied to neurological development and forms a fundamental component of a Waldorf curriculum. In the early grades, stepping, rhythm, clapping and recitation are part of the daily routine during main and subject lessons. Movement classes include activities and games to strengthen individual balance, spatial awareness, gross motor muscles and fine motor movements. In the upper grades, students take part in skiing and snowboarding at a local ski hill and use a rented gym where team sports are taught. Grade 5 participates in the Greek Olympics in New York State and grade 8 students have swimming and springboard diving lessons. In grade 7 and 8 an annual basketball tournament is held in Toronto with neighbouring Waldorf Schools. Starting as early as preschool, our students spend abundant time outside in our natural playground which includes 5 acres of forest with trails.

        YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Waldorf


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

      If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Children and parents make an immediate connection to the nurturing environment of our early childhood classrooms. Teachers and assistants enhance the deep sense of wonder, joy and imagination of young children with enriching stories and activities. We support cognitive engagement through play, the true ‘work’ of the child, to create a love of learning, problem-solving skills and creativity. Social skills are developed through group activities, often outdoors in our natural playground and forest trails. Our preschool is licensed by the provincial government and catered lunches are provided to full day kindergarten and preschool students.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      "Pursuit of Academic, Language and Performing Arts Excellence" Our school's education goals are to develop independence, inner discipline and to foster a sense of competence through a prepared learning environment. The preschool programs are based on the Montessori curriculum teaching method and teaching apparatus. Formal music education (Choral, Piano & Violin), Chinese Language (Cantonese & Mandarin) and French are included as part of the school curriculum. Our school is voted as "Top Montessori School" in Markham for 6 consecutive years since 2010.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      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.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Information not available

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      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.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      We do not see school culture as needing to be exclusively either rigorous or supportive. Our culture is rigorous but also balanced with respect and support for the three stages of childhood development. This means our academic expectations revolve around the specific needs of each stage and do not require students to be rushed through childhood. Our children are engaged with activities of interest that are relevant to their current development needs. At each stage, our teachers aim to provide balance for the child's gifts and challenges, cultivating an enthusiasm for learning and an age-appropriate interest in the world.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      Secondary

      Secondary

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Social
      The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

      The Waldorf curriculum and teaching methods are designed to nurture intellectual flexibility, creative thinking, independent judgement, moral discernment, refined written and oral communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively. Children will have the same teacher over several years, sometimes from grade one to grade eight, to allow a deeper support and understanding of each student's needs. It is the goal of a Waldorf teacher to cultivate a sense of wonder and to inspire children to embrace life with enthusiasm, initiative, and purpose.

      YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

      Our Montessori approach offers a board vision of education as an aid to life. It is designed to help children with the task of their inner construction as they grow from childhood to maturity. Our aim of Performing Arts Education is to instil a live of Music, Art and Dance and to develop a child's intellectual faculties, i.e. imagination, memory, social skills, self expression and self confidence.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Accommodations

    Modifications


    Additional support

    Additional support

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    Based on classroom observation, discussions with class teachers and initial assessment activities, our educational support teacher works one-on-one with students several times a week for areas of need or challenge. We also offer therapeutic classes, at extra cost, in art and eurythmy. Through a combination of physical movement and spoken verses, eurythmy focuses on individual needs to support emotional or physical imbalances. Art therapy can address physical, developmental or emotional challenges and may include water colour painting, drawing or sculpting. When a student needs both therapeutic eurythmy and art therapy the therapists communicate on a regular basis.

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    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


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    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

    YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    K - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    90%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 8

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - SK

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    Yes

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

    What the school says

    HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL

    Refer to our website for application forms.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

HALTON WALDORF SCHOOL:
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YIP’S MUSIC & MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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