AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence vs. AIM Without Limits

one-to-one comparison:

View Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence's full report
VS.
View AIM Without Limits's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    207 Bayswater Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 2G5, Canada

    121 Granton Drive, Unit 13, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3N4, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1989

    2011

    Enrolment

    150

    40

    Grades

    1 to 12

    K to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    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."
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional, Reggio Emilia

    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

    8 to 14

    5 to 8

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental

    Learning, Developmental

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Dedicated gifted class

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $15,400 to $18,000

    $19,000

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    13

    4

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    0%

    Day entry years

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    Yes: grades K - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Schools are founded for a range of reasons, though a few are founded out of a very acute need, and that’s the case with Heritage. Louise Brazeau-Ward’s son had dyslexia, and she had watched him struggle in traditional academic settings, something which inspired her to make a difference in his life and the lives of others like him. Today she’s a world renowned expert in dyslexia, and a proponent of the Orton-Gillingham multi-sensory approach to instruction which she then adapted. All of that forms the foundation of Heritage Academy, the school that Brazeau-Ward created in 1989. Today the school is run by her daughter, and the program, though having grown over the years, remains consistent to its founding mission. The school provides support for students with dyslexia as well as other challenges. The environment—one that is created to address the needs of the students—can itself be transformative. For many students, that’s what Heritage principally offers.

    View full report

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    AIM is a strong, established program offering accredited instructors and therapists, and delivering an evidence based curriculum. Supports are varied and vast, though there’s a personal touch as well. When students enroll they enter a setting in which they are truly understood and appreciated; here, they aren’t unique, being called out of the room to engage with supports, but access them around the clock. Life and community skills training is a draw for many, as is the evidence-based attention to regulation and executive functioning. The facility is absolutely up to date, and attention is personal and individualised, empathetic and compassionate. Founder and director Suki Choi is a draw, as well she should be—her passion is clear, as is her ability to work effectively with families, and she naturally draws those of a like mind to the programs and the staff. AIM is the kind of place that can change lives, and it’s proven its ability to do precisely that for more than a decade.  

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    " ... were able to customize a plan to teach to his strengths."
    Kim Bridgeman - Parent   (May 02, 2018)
    Our son had many difficulties in the regular school system due to a number of learning disabilities ... View full review

    "...emerged from the school with a giant smile and said, "THIS school is where I belong"."
    Lisa Gomes - Parent   (May 02, 2018)
    My child appreciates the individual attention afforded by small class sizes as well as the flexibili... View full review

    "...thoroughly impressed with the teaching staffs' dedication and care."
    Susan Ward - Parent   (Jul 18, 2018)
    My daughter transferred mid-year. She likes the small classroom setting and the teaching staff. She ... View full review

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Heritage Academy specializes in supporting students with Dyslexia, as well as students with other language-based learning exceptionalities. Our multisensory environment and smaller class sizes are beneficial for students with a wide range of other exceptionalities. By promoting the values of honesty, perseverance and teamwork, Heritage Academy fosters acceptance and growth among our students and enables them to reach their full potential."

    • http://www.bulletinaylmer.com/finding-the-right-educational-fit
    • https://www.toronto.com/news-story/4115241-support-services-fill-in-gaps-for-dyslexic-students
    • https://www.ottawaparentingtimes.ca/crime-and-punishment-and-school/
    • https://diefenbunker.wordpress.com/2012/05/11/what-do-potatoes-and-the-diefenbunker-have-in-common/
    • https://www.dyslexiadaily.com/blog/specialised-schools-for-children-with-dyslexia/
    • https://www.pressreader.com/canada/ottawa-citizen/20130207/281981784976489
    • https://www.toronto.com/news-story/3971226-potato-project-a-lesson-in-urban-farming-heritage-academy
    • http://www.todaysparent.com/kids/kids-health/synesthesia/
    • https://www.ottawaparentingtimes.ca/getting-ahead-2/

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    "AIM Without Limits (AWL) Private School is committed to providing innovative and supportive programs to enhance the lives of children with autism. AWL’s Multidisciplinary clinic team (ABA/SLP/OT/Psychologist) and Educational Team’s Morningside Model/ABA-based curriculum with the latest evidence-based educational practices aim for the highest quality education for our students. Our programs promote children's social, emotional, academic and life skills to be functional members of our community."

    • 4:1 student to teacher ratio
    • Evidence-based ABA curriculum
    • Registered private school delivering Ontario approved curriculum
    • Multidisciplinary team - Clinical Psychologist, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, ABA team
    • Strength focused afterschool programs
    • Vocational/Life/community skill training
    • Emotional Regulation
    • Executive Functioning
    • Mindfulness breaks and daily routine

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Our environment, with smaller class sizes and less stimulus, are often advantageous to students with ADD/ADHD. In addition, our teachers bring in the use of frequent body breaks, use of manipulatives, use of multisensory fidgets and use of the desk bicycles.
    By promoting the values of honesty, perseverance and respect, Heritage fosters acceptance and growth among our students, and enables them to reach their full academic potential. We love to see students learn how to succeed and enjoy school."

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    "Professional treatments are integrated into our learning program and include 1:1 ABA, registered behaviour technician, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and psychologist services. Weekly, our students attend music therapy and Occupational Therapy/Speech-Language Pathology (OT/SLP) group sessions, and annually, they have the opportunity to perform at our school concert. We also offer comprehensive selection of afterschool activities, including arts, sports, and coding."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Families have grown to know Heritage as a school that provides both academic and social support for students struggling in their current environment. Heritage believes in the potential of our students. Once they have been provided with the tools and strategies to help them learn based on their individual profile, our students can excel and reach their utmost potential."

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    "We have many families who have been with us for the last 10 years due to our family oriented approach and individualization in our teaching for children's unique needs. AIM started to support one child and we grew to serve more than 100 families now. It is the most rewarding experience witnessing children learn new skills everyday and blossom with our program."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "By engaging students with multisensory teaching techniques and by using different modalities, students love to learn at Heritage.
    We help students foster new friendships and face new challenges with a positive and open approach. Children deserve an environment that is nurturing, and understanding each student's true potential is essential."

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    "We are a charity and non-profit. Yes, we have no owner and all our profits go back to our children's programs. Quality of our services are our ultimate focus and we try our best to offer the highest quality program with most affordable tuition fee. Book your tour today and you will learn more about how we operate as a charity."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    "Our teachers and tutors are dedicated to making a difference in their students' lives. Working tirelessly to ensure the curriculum is delivered engagingly and that students progress in the areas that may have been difficult for them, our staff ensures that each student enjoys school and is part of the learning adventure each grade experiences. We follow the "Tribes" program and want all students to feel included and part of the Heritage family."

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    "Families immediately learn that AIM Without Limits Private School is not only a school but a small community with full of resources for your child's development and future success with clinic/teaching team tirelessly teach and advocate. Our program has been growing based on our children's needs from offering one to one therapy program to opening our private school in September 2021."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence, founded by Louise Brazeau-Ward, has come a long way since its inception. In the early 1980s, Louise (as she is known at the school) was a frustrated parent tired of watching her dyslexic son continually struggle in school. This compelled her to focus her time and energy towards dyslexia research in order to help her son and other children struggling with this learning exceptionality. Through her involvement in this issue, Louise became an internationally recognized expert in the field of dyslexia research and therapy. With the goal of providing an academic environment that met the unique needs of students with dyslexia and other learning exceptionalities,  Louise opened Heritage Academy in 1989.

    As Louise began to train new teachers, she recognized the necessity for a specialized system to support the development and strengthening of written language skills in dyslexic students. To meet this need, she developed the Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching method (SMT), a unique learning system available in both English and French. Since its introduction, teachers, students and parents alike have found this system to be a highly effective way of improving and enhancing reading, writing and spelling skills in dyslexic students. SMT is still taught at Heritage Academy, with the concepts being integrated into all aspects of the curriculum. SMT is also utilized in schools and homes throughout Canada and abroad.

    With Louise Ward’s retirement in 2006, Heritage Academy is now under the watchful eye of Cheryl Ward, Louise’s daughter. The school has grown larger, but remains true to its original purpose. We continue to specialize in supporting dyslexic students, and have expanded our expertise to provide additional comprehensive support to students with a variety of learning exceptionalities. By promoting the values of honesty, perseverance and respect, Heritage Academy fosters acceptance and growth amongst our students, and enables them to reach their full academic potential.

    Awareness of learning exceptionalities has been steadily increasing in recent years. Learning exceptionalities are being more readily diagnosed and progress is being made to lift the negative connotations traditionally associated with such exceptionalities.

    Recent research has concluded that dyslexia, ADHD and many other learning exceptionalities are not linked to levels of intelligence. Rather, this indicates that students who receive appropriate accommodations to support their learning challenges can still excel academically.  

    This is where Heritage Academy can help: We are an Ottawa-based school specializing in helping students with learning exceptionalities reach their highest academic potential. Unlike most schools, Heritage Academy offers small classes with no more than twelve students per teacher. We teach grades 1-12 and provide each student with a supportive learning environment and customized learning approach that best suits their individual learning needs.  Heritage Academy: Our methods work – come check us out! 

    Autism In Mind Children’s Charity (AIM) was founded in 2011 to give children with autism an equal opportunity in life.

    It started with just one child. When I first started a daycare business in Markham, I was approached by a family whose son had been on the government waitlist for autism therapy for 4 years. Moved by their situation, I organized a fundraiser. The response from the community and the daycare parents was so generous, I knew we could do even more.

    My team of volunteers began fundraising on behalf of other local families, to help their children access professional therapy. We also began organizing free Social Saturdays for children with autism and that's how this all began.

    The momentum of these small acts of kindness gathered. Within just a few years, AIM became a Canadian registered charity and one of York Region's leading service providers for children with autism.

    This year, we opened our door for AIM Without Limits (AWL) Private School to offer the best quality elementary education program with our wonderful multidisciplinary professionals. AWL is one of a kind private school system in Ontario that offers ABA/OT/SLP/Psychologist service on top of Ontario Curriculum with fun and engaging strength building afterschool programs like coding, music, art and fitness. 

    Our school project is another beginning of our big dream. With our dedicated staff who share the same value, we will continue to develop programs for children and individuals with autism in our community. 

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Traditional

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      Reggio Emilia


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      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.

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Not applicable

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      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).


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      GRADES 1-8 Our program offers a rich curriculum stressing disciplined learning. Skill development is a major goal of a demanding academic program. All classes emphasize the need to write, speak and listen effectively. Some students entering these grades already have had a history of school failure because of reading, writing and math difficulties. GRADES 9-12 Our high school courses lead to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Courses offered by Heritage Academy have been developed according to the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training. CLASS SIZE Our average class size is 12 students, with 1 main teacher, 1 resource teacher, 1 behavioural interventionist, and 2 educational assistants on staff.

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      Our IEP focuses on literacy, math, life skills, emotional regulation/executive functioning, communication, classroom skills. Our curriculum is designed to develop children to be successful not only at school but also outside of school, our community. Unlike traditional curriculum that focuses on academics, we tailor our program for individual needs and skills that are meaningful for each student.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach


      Our Take

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      In Ontario, kindergarten follows a play-based learning approach which is proven to be effective for typical children. However, most children with autism require a structured environment to be successful – especially in their early years. Taught by our team of dedicated and experienced teachers, occupational therapists, and speech language pathologists, our School Readiness Program combines age-appropriate lesson plans with ABA strategies for students ages four to five. The program’s innovative learning structure helps develop each child’s individual goals while focusing on foundational skills such as independence, socializing, play, and communication, and preparation for our Elementary School Program.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      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.

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      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

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture


      Our Take

      Our Take

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      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.

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      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

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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

      AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

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

  • 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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    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

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    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

    AIM WITHOUT LIMITS

    • We offer wonderful afterschool programs like coding, art therapy, music therapy, emotional regulation group, fitness class.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    0%

    Day entry years

    1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    Yes: grades K - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

    What the school says

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Late applicants may be accepted depending on available space. In this instance an individual pay schedule will be created on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us at 613-722-0133 with any questions regarding our admissions process. We also encourage you to visit Heritage Academy and see for yourself how our unique program works.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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