AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Island Pacific School vs. Rundle Academy & Rundle Studio

one-to-one comparison:

View Island Pacific School's full report
VS.
View Rundle Academy & Rundle Studio's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    671 Carter Road, Box 128, West Vancouver- Bowen Island, British Columbia, V0N 1G0, Canada

    4330 16 Street SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2T 4H9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1995

    1985

    Enrolment

    72

    325

    Grades

    6 to 9

    4 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day, eSchool

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate

    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.
    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.

    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

    12 to 18

    6 to 12

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $20,925 to $26,507

    $19,200 to $21,400

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    15%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    6 to 9

    None

    Median FA package size

    $5,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    18

    36

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    85%

    0%

    Day entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9

    4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Nov 01, 2021

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 6 - 9

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Island Pacific School is unique in some key ways, the most obvious perhaps being that it is limited to the middle school years. It’s intentionally that way, of course, based in a belief that the experiences gained during that time in a child’s development are crucial to success in high school and beyond. Character, stewardship, and responsibility are emphasized, and very noticeably so in the Masterworks program, one that is emblematic of the approach of the school. It’s a research project that grade 9 students complete, and one that builds on what they’ve learned at the school in equal measure to their personal interests and growing sense of self. That program, as all the others offered at Island Pacific, require a lot of the students, not the least of which being the need to present themselves very overtly to the school community through a culminating presentation. The fact that the topic is chosen by the students is validating of their own interests and ideas, something that perhaps doesn't happen enough in the middle years. It has the potential to be a very empowering experience, and indeed, that’s exactly what the Island Pacific program has been created to offer. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge, and able to thrive within a tight-knit community of peers who are looking for the same.

    View full report

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Rundle Academy and Rundle Studio are both sister programs of Rundle College, which was established in 1985 and has rightly gained a strong reputation for offering quality academics and co-curriculars ever since. It offers Kindergarten through Grade 12, though is divided across three campuses: one for each of the primary, elementary, and high school programs. The school is able to provide a very broad range of programming while, at the same time, delivering a close, intimate student experience.

    The additional programs extend the offering in some key ways, though building on all the exising infrastructure, administration, staffing, and resources. Rundle Academy was created to support learners diagnosed with various learning disabilities, and provides student-centred instruction to meet their specific learning needs. Progressive classroom design is combined with a consistent, purpose-oriented architectural aesthetic.

    Rundle Studio is the online offering which, again, may be somewhat new, but nevertheless has a decades-long history of development to draw on. Parents and students who turn to Rundle are looking for an engaging, personalized learning. And that’s precisely what they find.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    "Island Pacific School, an International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle School offers distinctly different programs including classes in reasoning, philosophy and ethics; a self-directed research project called Masterworks, monthly community service; a musical; hiking, sailing and kayaking expeditions. Small by design, and with a mission to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity, Island Pacific School, located on Nex̱wlélex̱wm (Bowen Island), fosters critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership."

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    "Rundle Academy and Rundle Studio take pride in supporting learners to flourish in outstanding academic and extracurricular programs, specifically designed for students who have been diagnosed with a learning disability. All of our students benefit from small class sizes with highly trained staff, utilizing Individual Program Plans (IPPs) to support their learning. Our Academy students learn in person while the Studio is an innovative virtual program. NOTE: no direct support for students on the Autism spectrum."

    • Meeting the needs of students who have a diagnosed learning disability, with or without ADHD
    • Individual Program Plans (IPPs) for each student
    • Small class sizes
    • An energetic and dedicated team of educators
    • Premier academic program
    • Programs offered to further develop student leadership and character.
    • Co-curricular
    • Help our students to see what reaching their full potential looks like
    • Innovative, creative environment with personal technology devices provided to each student
    • Character development and citizenship is integrated into our curriculum

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    "The core purpose of Island Pacific School is to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity. It encompasses all the elements of our core instructional programs to help them help them become confident and caring members of society as a whole. Our middle school education program is about more than pure academic excellence (1st curriculum): it’s a balance between academics and cultivating our humanity."

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    "Small by design, with a maximum of 72 students (up to 18 per grade), our students are taught by middle school experts and get to participate in a wide range of academic, artistic, and recreational pursuits designed to foster critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership. Our students are are alive and inspired, brave and accepted, and challenged daily to express the best of what it means to be human. They feel a sense of belonging and acceptance and are innovative and resilient."

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    "Students sometimes learn as much, if not more, from the middle school activities in our extracurricular program. They are part of an intentional education strategy at Island Pacific school that challenges critical thinking, inquiry and the implementation of our values: wisdom, courage and integrity."

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    "Our students go on two extended trips into the great outdoors during the academic calendar: a fall hiking trip and a spring kayak trip. These expeditions provide physical and critical thinking challenges intended to bring out the best in individuals and the groups in which they work and play; challenges that call on the values on which Island Pacific School is founded: wisdom, courage and integrity.

    Our school sport is Ultimate with emphasis the “Spirit of the Game”."

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Island Pacific School is a small, independent, IB Grade 6-9 middle school that has operated on Bowen Island for over twenty-five years.  Our students come from the local community, Vancouver, and around the world.

    We operate on the basis of the following principles:

    • That “middle school matters most,” i.e. that during these crucial middle years, we can either lose students or set them up for the rest of their lives
    • That education encompasses both academics and the development of character
    • That teaching is, in part, a matter of initiating students into the great conversations of human inquiry
    • That schools must not insult students’ intelligence but must instead stretch and challenge them on all fronts
    • That students need specific opportunities to learn to take responsibility for themselves
    • That small schools are very powerful sites in which to create an intentional educational community
    • That our job as educators is to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity

    The school expresses and realizes these principles by way of a number of core program elements including:

    • The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) which puts a premium on inquiry-based learning
    • Special classes in reasoning, philosophy and ethics
    • A Grade 9 Masterworks program that requires students to complete—and publicly defend—a 15-30 page piece of independent research
    • Hiking, sailing and kayaking expeditions (including a full “Discovery Week” in May)
    • Monthly afternoon excursions to the art galleries, museums, theatre, universities, and work sites of Vancouver
    • Monthly community service activities
    • A cross-grade mentor system where older students look out for, and support, younger ones
    • House system that requires, among other things, that students clean the school

    Every year, a number of our alumni students return to the school’s “Rites of Passage” graduation ceremony because they have come to realize that IPS was a defining chapter in their lives. This is precisely our aim: to make a pivotal difference in the lives of our students, so that they might go on to make a difference in the world at large.

    Thank you for taking the time to investigate our school. I would welcome and encourage you to set up an interview and a student visit to get an even better sense of who we are and what we do. I think you will be impressed and intrigued by what you find.

    If you have the opportunity to visit our schools or talk with a member of our community, you will invariably stumble upon the concept of R+. You may be wondering what R+ means, and in short, there is no definition, it is just, “The Rundle Way”.

    As we further explore what “The Rundle Way” is, it is the living embodiment of our values, Pathways to Learning, and the rich fabric of our Rundle program.

    At Rundle, our value statement is, “Together: Be Kind, Be Curious, Be Well”. We believe that these four values are the epitome of a fully realized, future-ready, person with passion and purpose. In our pursuit of these values, we are actively aiming for a pluralistic community who are committed to becoming a true culture of learning.

    R+ follows our uniquely developed Pathways to Learning model. At Rundle, the three distinct, yet intertwined, Pathways to Learning are character, academics, and co-curricular. In our schools, we will always believe, “character comes first.” We believe we have not done our job if our students do not develop an altruistic mindset with a view to making their communities, locally and abroad, a better place. We know we want our students to pursue any post-secondary learning of their choice, and to this end, academics are at the core of our program. Our faculty work with students to help them reach their individual potential and celebrate with them when they do. Finally, co-curriculars are the balance of our program. Rundle offers hundreds of outside-of-the-classroom experiences that allow our students to explore their passions and share their talents.

    Finally, the fabric of our Rundle program is steeped with a long history of school pride, engaged community members, and generosity. Over 2000 students have graduated from the Academy and College and our connected alumni network now extends around the world and across all industries. We often say, “Rundle is a K–Forever” program. The connections between our alumni, faculty, and staff remain strong and we continue to stay connected after graduation. We take great pleasure in celebrating our alumni’s success and we love to see where their journey takes them after Rundle. Our alumni’s contributions continue to enrich our school programs and our world!  

    Ultimately, R+ is a combination of all these factors. As much as we can aim to define it, it is when our values, Pathways to Learning, and fabric weave together as true excellence in each member of our school community, that we realize R+

    I invite you to further explore if R+ and Rundle is the right fit for your family and look forward to welcoming you to our Rundle community. 

    Sincerely,

    Jason Rogers Signature

    Jason Rogers
    Head of School
    Rundle College Society

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Liberal Arts


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      International Baccalaureate

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      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

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      During the middle years, schools can either lose students or set them up for the rest of their lives. Put students in an environment of mediocrity and they will wither on the vine. Create a climate of challenge and expectation, and they will surprise us all. Located on Bowen Island, BC, Island Pacific School (IPS) is uniquely designed to give grade 6-9 middle school students the education they need: an education that challenges and surprises them to become the very best of who they are. Small by design, Island Pacific School is an IB Middle Years Program school with a total of 72 students, and is accredited by both ISABC and CAIS.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Through our Pathways to Learning program, Rundle Studio encourages students to strive for success in academics, build solid character, and engage in co-curricular activities. Although we want students to achieve the highest level of academics, we believe that putting a focus on character development is paramount. Through social interactions, learning experiences, and co-curricular activities, students continuously develop their character. The Studio delivers curriculum from Alberta Education at grade level with no modifications.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC 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

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        We have a writing across the curriculum program that emphasizes a progression of writing skills. In addition to encouraging creativity, we pay particular attention to the development of strong grammatical skills.

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Traditional


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        We regard literature as a window into the human condition. We take it as obvious that reading should be an integral part of everyone's life.

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

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

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

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

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Core Knowledge


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC 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

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        We complement our core knowledge curriculum with individual explorations. We have a busy excursion and community service calendar to get students out experiencing new communities every second week.

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Perennialism


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Information not available

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Communicative


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        We use the highly effect AIM language learning approach to teach French to grade 6 - 9. It is designed to provide students with quick fluency in practical situations.

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

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

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        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)

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Information not available

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Creative


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        At IPS, our Art program focuses on giving our students exposure to a wide variety of artistic practices and mediums. We aim to engage their curiosity and excitement for the arts, while helping them to develop skills, and expand their personal limits. When an IPS student leaves the school, we want them to have an interest in the arts, and the courage to pursue whichever aspect of the arts that appealed to them the most.

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

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

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        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

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Digital citizenship, digital legacy and digital literacy. These three competencies are the foundation of the digital technology program at IPS. It is designed to reflect, and get ahead of, how information exchange in the world is evolving: socially, in education, in the workplace, and in the way data is stored. Teachers switch gears quickly between paper and digital content reaching for technology to solve problems and model that practice for students. Along with Google Classroom and Drive, teachers are using new tools for assignment distribution and tracking (Doctopus & Remind); data collection through Google Forms; regular correspondence through email; and tracking (internal Teacher Dashboard web portal).

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ISLAND PACIFIC 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.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      IPS incorporates project-based learning in all grades. All students are required to prepare projects for three Open Houses per year. The Masterworks independent study project is compulsory for every Grade 9 student. Students publicly defend their Masterworks and earn 4 credits towards their high school graduation.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ISLAND PACIFIC 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.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      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

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Students participate in a wide range of academic, artistic, and recreational pursuits designed to foster critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership. Guided by a highly qualified teaching staff, the middle school programs at IPS are designed to equip and inspire. They provide a foundation for Grade 6-9 students who may wish to pursue International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) programs in high school. At Island Pacific School, our middle school programs are developed to provide opportunities to experience new adventures. We are committed to delivering an exceptional middle school education – one that engages and inspires students for life.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

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

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

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

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

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

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

      Kids with good heads on their shoulders.

      RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

      Information not available

  • 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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    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

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    The school may require an additional learning assistance fee to provide the support necessary to help students who have specific, existing individual learning needs. Learning strategies* help students achieve high levels of success. This is determined on a case-by-case basis prior to enrollment. *Learning Strategies fees are charged for those students who require additional support. The annual cost is based on the number of blocks per week. One block is $1,200, two blocks is $2,400 and 3 blocks is $3,600.

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Information not available

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Rundle Academy is one of the premier learning disability programs in Alberta, and provides exceptional educational opportunities for our students. Our individualized academic program encourages intellectual, social and personal growth of our students and is balanced by a variety of experiences in music, languages, technology and physical education. Our dedicated teachers utilize a variety of instructional approaches including assistive technology, differentiated instruction and assessment, and an intensive writing and reading program.

  • 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

    ISLAND PACIFIC 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

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    • Excursions: We think it important that students get out and see the world around them. So, once a month we take students on excursions, or field trips. These experiential learning outings are meant to give students academic, cultural and fun experiences they could not get within the confines of a regular classroom setting.
    • Expeditions: Middle School Education includes taking our students on two extended trips into the great outdoors during the academic calendar: a fall hiking trip and a spring kayak trip.
    • Ultimate Team Sport & Tournaments: Island Pacific School’s sport is Ultimate, a low-contact frisbee game originally invented by high-schoolers. Rules are enforced by the players themselves, who rely on the “Spirit of the Game” for fair play.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    6 - 9

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    15%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $5,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    85%

    0%

    Day entry years

    6, 7, 8, 9

    4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Nov 01, 2021

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 6 - 9

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 6 - 9

    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

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    We are looking for students with parents/caregivers who are committed to supporting their children in gaining an education that is worthy of the name. In particular, we need parents who understand that students need specific opportunities to learn to take responsibility for themselves and that students want, and are capable of, acheiving great things.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL

    Early admission - December 1, 2022

    Regular admission -  February 21 , 2023

    Late admission - Always welcome http://islandpacific.org/admissions/

    RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO

    Visit the Admissions Portal, after you have attended a virtual information session and received an application code.

    • Create an account
    • Set your password
    • Start your application
    • Pay the $175 non-refundable application fee

    Attach supporting documents including:

    • a copy of the student’s psychoeducational evaluation and IPP
    • a copy of the student’s birth certificate or Canadian visa/landed immigrant form
    • a recent photograph of the student
    • the last two years of student’s final report cards
    • the most recent Provincial Achievement Test results (where applicable)

    Application Deadlines:

    • November 1: Siblings and Alumni Children
    • November 1: Early Decisions
    • After November 1: Remaining Decisions

    Applicants are accepted on an ongoing basis, but it is strongly suggested that applications be made in the fall as spaces are limited. Applications open each September for consideration for the following academic year.

    Rundle Academy has both university-track and non-university-track courses in its Senior High division. Therefore, SSAT scores are not required to ensure that students entering the Academy can complete a university-track program.

    We have two, one-time fees that are due upon initial acceptance. These fees help fund ongoing faculty training and facility improvements, program support, and enhancements which allow our faculty and staff to remain ahead of the curve on educational practices and trends. The chart below should help give further clarity around fee payments.

    Family Membership Fee

    A one-time, per family fee of $2,000 is paid upon acceptance for all new families joining Rundle. This fee is non-refundable, non-transferable and is separate from tuition payments.

    Student Facility Fee

    A one-time, per student fee of $2,000 is paid upon acceptance and applies to all new students of new families joining Rundle. All new families are required to pay this fee for each student joining Rundle. This fee is non-refundable, non-transferable, and is separate from tuition payments.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Emmett Sparling (2013)
    If you’re one of the nearly 1 million followers of Emmett Sparling’s Instagram account – @emmett_sparling – then you’ll be familiar with his breathtaking world-wide photo and video work.
    Danae Jan (2020)
    Since being introduced to Ultimate at IPS in grade six, Danae Jan has really taken the sport head on. She is the 2022 Junior Woman's Division Athlete of the Year for Ultimate Canada.
    Liz Williams (2000)
    Liz has been deployed overseas, including to Iraq for tactical operations and to Mali as part of a MEDEVAC force for a United Nations mission. She is a Standards Instructor Pilot with 427 Squadron.
    information not available

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ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL:
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RUNDLE ACADEMY & RUNDLE STUDIO:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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