AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence vs. Sidney Ledson Institute

one-to-one comparison:

View Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence's full report
VS.
View Sidney Ledson Institute's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

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

    220 Duncan Mill Road, Suite 107, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 3J5, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1989

    1982

    Enrolment

    150

    118

    Grades

    1 to 12

    Preschool to 6

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    eSchool, 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."
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional

    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.
    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

    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

    10 to 12

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental

    Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Dedicated gifted school

    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

    $12,797 to $13,848

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    13

    12

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    50%

    Day entry years

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

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    Yes: grades Preschool - 6

    SSAT required

    No

    Yes: grades 4 - 6

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    The school was founded in 1982 in order to create a program that reflected the work of Sidney Ledson, an author and expert on topics relating to teaching technology and motivation. His methods gained traction internationally, at the core of which is the idea that we needn’t wait to introduce children to new skill areas (specifically around language and numeracy) and the sooner we start, the better. His books on reading expanded the concept and application of phonics, and his work remains a foundation for the language arts programs at the institute today. There, and elsewhere, the approach intends to challenge students to reach further, to expand and improve their abilities in order to reach their fullest academic potentials. The ideal student is one operating at the top of his or her peer group, and, in the later grades, is preparing for success within university studies.

    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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    "helpful teachers ... small class sizes"
    Atchuthan Kathirithamby - Parent   (Mar 07, 2018)
    Our son had a truly amazing experience at Sidney Ledson. At first, he was reluctant to move to a sma... View full review

    "Great school"
    Ramesh Nuggehalli Narasimha Gowda - Parent   (Mar 10, 2018)
    The experience my kid gets is diverse. It is a wholesome learning culture. The teachers are great an... View full review

    "excellent teachers"
    Chandini Ramesh - Parent   (Mar 10, 2018)
    My daughter has loved every teacher who has taught her and that is what she appreciates the most and... View full review

  • 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/

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    "Founded in 1980 by best-selling author, Sidney Ledson, SLI excels in offering the best of traditional and innovative education to children from preschool to grade 6. Building on internationally acclaimed preschool reading success, SLI has grown into a hub for ground-breaking student achievement in literary, STEM, and artistic domains across all grade levels. Our tradition of excellence has continued online, and we now offer online and on-site participation options for the 2022-2023 year."

    • Online Preschool Program
    • On-Site and Online Kindergarten Program
    • On-Site and Online Elementary School Program
    • Full-day Live Teacher instruction and Assistance On-Site and Online
    • Online Participation in Math, Literary, and Entrepreneurship Contests
    • Small Class Sizes
    • Gifted Stimulation
    • STEM subjects
    • Individualized Learning
    • Co-ed

    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."

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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."

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    Array

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

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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."

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    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."

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Information not available

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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! 

    The Sidney Ledson Institute is a visible expression of the philosophy embodied in Sidney Ledson's books, "Raising Brighter Children" and "Teach your Child to Read in 10 Minutes a Day."  Our PK - Gr. 7 Program implements this philosophy at the school to raise IQ, provide enriched academics, and promote self-confidence in our students, to not only succeed, but excel through their primary education, and then through their Alumni years at Toronto's most academically elite secondary and post-secondary institutions. 

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      Information not available


      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.

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      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


      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.

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      Our approach to teaching is an early introduction to reading, learning, and critical thinking which develops an interest, curiosity, an out-of-the-box thought process, and thirst for more knowledge. Students find themselves working at advanced grade levels, not defined or limited by boundaries, and constantly seek challenges. Our enriched academic curriculum is a stimulant for growing minds through the grades, and in the final year at the school, students are prepared for entry to the most sought after schools through the test preparatory program for IB, TOPS, GIFTED, and SSAT. Our nurturing teachers and conducive school environment, coupled with small class sizes offer the advantage of individualized learning and the opportunity for the children to express themselves, lead, excel and develop a self-confidence that they will carry through.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Writing


        Approach


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        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.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        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

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We incorporate the big concepts, phonemic awareness and additional multi-sensory teaching approaches that are seen within the SMT program. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        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.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        Physiology

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        Expanding Communities

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Expanding Communities


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        Medium integration

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        We are a certified Ontario school that follows the Ontario Curriculum. We utilize differentiated methods and supportive assistive technology as is necessary.

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Our students can code in HTML and CSS, understand and implement the basics of Python, Javascript, and R, and also employ the foundation skills of directing machine learning training - beginning in Grade 1! More basic computer literacy skills, such as typing and presentation development, as well as block-based coding, are also included from as early as Kindergarten and Preschool.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach


      Our Take

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      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

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      Supplementing the enriched academic program, our Pre-school and Kindergarten classes engage in various intelligence raising and memory enhancement activities. An introduction to French, Kinder Music, Drama, Piano, Chess, and hands-on science workshops instills in our young students the early quest for knowledge.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace


      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.

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      Every child starting the school is assessed in the first few days to determine the their abilities in all subject matters. Following this, the student is issued remedial, reinforcement, and /or advanced material to ensure understanding and smooth progress.

    • ACADEMIC 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.

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      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

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      There is an inextricable interplay between rigour and support, with celebration attributed to efforts over accolades.


      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."

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

      Information not available

      SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

      The school's developmental priority is to promote and nurture social, intellectual and academic growth. Starting from the Preschool class, and all the way to the Grade 6 class, our focus is to not only nurture self-awareness and leadership abilities in students, but to also encourage them to embrace their hard work in building a mindset primed for natural high achievement.

  • 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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    HERITAGE ACADEMY OF LEARNING EXCELLENCE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Our teachers are trained to identify and follow a strategy-development protocol in partnership with parents and on-site specialists for the purpose of navigating developmental exceptionality that typically accompany high IQ (high-functioning Autism and ADHD). Due to the accelerated academics at all grade-levels, our program is not recommended for students with intellectual or other learning disabilities.

  • 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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    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

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    • Digit Art (Photoshop, VR Art, and more)
    • Competitive/Recreational Chess Training and Tournament Participation
  • 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%

    50%

    Day entry years

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

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    Yes: grades Preschool - 6

    SSAT required

    No

    Yes: grades 4 - 6

    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

    Type of student school is looking for

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Our admissions process is geared to select students that present a strong academic record, effective social regulation skills, and an observable drive and openness to learn and adapt as leaders and team players.

    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.

    SIDNEY LEDSON INSTITUTE

    Please email [email protected] to request an admissions application package for your desired grade of entry.  

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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