36 Scarsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R7, Canada
81 Industrial Parkway North, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 4C4, Canada
2000
1979
180
120
Nursery/Toddler to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
Traditional
12 to 18
12 to 16
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$20,700 to $26,150
$15,200
Yes
No
3%
0%
Nursery/Toddler to 12
None
$3,000
$0
11
11
0%
0%
80%
80%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
“At La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science, students experience academic rigour and high expectations alongside individualized support, warmth, and care.”
“Parents at La Citadelle told us they value the small class sizes, accessible faculty members, and frequent reporting on their children’s progress.”
“La Citadelle is a school that nurtures true bilingualism, meaning students learn both French and English as first languages—especially if children start their academic careers here.”
Read The Our Kids Review of La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science
information not available
La Citadelle was established in 2000 with just 5 students and operating out of a church basement. The program has grown considerably since then, with an annual enrolment of 200 students spanning prep-K to Grade 12. Further, in 2015 the school moved into a new space, doubling the size of the physical plan and providing an opportunity to grow the student population and its programs significantly. Despite that growth, the approach to instruction remains true to the original intentions. Since its inception La Citadelle has been progressive, and while achievement is one of the six core values, so are compassion and harmony. There is a high level of individual support, in part a function of a low teacher/student ratio. The ideal student is one that is operating ahead of her peers, able to thrive within a challenging, varied, and multilingual teaching environment.
View full reportWe all want to go where everyone knows our name, and while there is a strong academic program at APA, that sense of place is one of the primary draws for the families that enroll here. Students are known throughout the school, and their successes are routinely recognized, shared, and celebrated. For many students, that in itself can provide a transformative learning experience. The community of the school actively includes the parents and siblings of the students who attend, something that brings a welcome warmth and familiarity to the lived experience of the school. The size of the school also allows for faculty to approach each student individually, providing appropriate challenge and support to ensure that all reach their academic and social potentials. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a close-knit, personal, challenging academic setting.
View full reportinformation not available
"...this school took me in with a smile and great attitude."
François LeFantôme - Student (Nov 06, 2018)
I absolutely love Aurora Prep! It is a bit small but it comes with plenty of charm and smiles. It ha...
View full review
"They had high expectations with him and really encouraged him to rise to the level he was capable of."
Patty Keele - Parent (Nov 19, 2018)
Both my children have had a fantastic experience at APA. The teachers and administration are very re...
View full review
"The academics are so relevant and well-applied. The kids know why they are learning something and are using this knowledge to relate to and understand real-life situations."
Meave Mastracci - Parent (Dec 10, 2018)
Making the decision to switch my eldest to APA was literally one of the best decisions we have ever ...
View full review
"La Citadelle is a highly regarded private educational institution rooted in the fundamental concepts of Canadian bilingualism, holistic education, mastery learning, and excellence in both instruction and education. Founded in 2000, La Citadelle offers a highly academic reach-ahead IB and AP curriculum in Languages, Mathematics, Sciences, Technology, Humanities, and Fine Arts together with a panoply of co-curricular activities to an exceptional group of students, from PrepK (2 1/2 years old) to Grade 12, who excel academically, share an enthusiasm for knowledge, are outstanding world citizens and value ethics, personal achievement, and responsibility as fundamental traits of character. Inspired to learn and achieve by exceptionally competent and dedicated teachers, they are guided and encouraged to embrace challenges and reach their goals while being provided with extraordinary opportunities to develop individual interests and talents."
"Aurora Preparatory Academy is a small school that produces big results. With our smaller class sizes, teachers develop a meaningful connection with each child, facilitating higher academic performance and stronger overall development. Our welcoming, inclusive community ensures an environment where students, teachers and families work together for the success of every learner. By meeting and enhancing the Ontario curriculum, our approach to education promotes independence, responsibility and confidence."
"Navigating private school options can be overwhelming today. La Citadelle addresses this complexity with a focus on essential elements like studying, mastery learning, discipline, and genuine child success. Our conversations with parents are refreshingly candid, emphasizing commitment and hard work for the honest pursuit of success. La Citadelle is committed to providing an authentic and objective perspective on the efforts needed from both students and families for success."
"At Aurora Prep, we provide a broad-based foundation that focuses, not only on exceptional academics, but also on athletic, artistic, social, emotional, and psychological development. We maintain a small, cohesive environment in which students are supported by a community to which they truly feel they belong. This approach allows them to explore and enhance their existing skills while simultaneously encouraging them to face and overcome challenges."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"La Citadelle welcomes diverse families seeking unique educational experiences. Academic-focused families value our commitment to excellence. Families seeking a fresh start appreciate our supportive environment. Those desiring a rigorous setting find familiarity in our structured approach. We tailor our methods to meet individual needs, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching academic journey for all students. Our unwavering commitment is to foster success and flourishing in education."
"Aurora Prep chooses to remain small and affordable. Our tuition costs are among the lowest of all schools in York Region, making private education within reach for a greater number of families. In addition, we deliberately keep our community small, allowing it to retain its feeling of cohesiveness while providing a greater number of opportunities for students. It truly feels like a one-room schoolhouse that still provides an exceptional array of educational opportunities."
Information not available
Information not available
"Our school's smaller size, often overlooked, prioritizes interpersonal connections over opulence. In contrast to larger institutions, our close-knit environment fosters a deep understanding of each student's needs, strengths, and challenges, enabling a personalized educational approach. The essence of our school resides in the quality of instruction, a sense of community, and individualized attention, challenging prospective parents to value substance over size for their child's education."
"Although Aurora Prep is committed to being smaller in size, families sometimes believe our programming is limited. Nothing could be further from the truth. We enjoy a 19,000 sq-ft building and a generous yard. We introduce itinerant subjects - music, French, phys. ed, and art - immediately in Junior Kindergarten. We don't split grades. We also have charitable opportunities, school concerts, clubs and field trips, and a school musical. Aurora Preparatory is truly comprehensive in its offerings."
"La Citadelle transcends academics, fostering a notable shift in student behaviour. Embracing values, discipline, and respect, diverse backgrounds undergo positive transformations, leaving parents astonished at improved conduct. Integrating academic excellence with a robust ethical foundation cultivates responsible, well-rounded individuals. Our unwavering commitment to education and character development redefines the educational experience, shaping promising futures for students and families al"
"Aurora Prep espouses and embodies the belief that it takes a village to raise a child. Every member of our community plays an integral part to ensure the best possible experience for all our students. Our teaching staff works incredibly closely, supporting one another and contributing to each student, each class, and the school as a whole. Administrators are deeply involved in school life, often spending time with classes or individual students in order to foster connection and provide guidance."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Alfred Abouchar is the Headmaster and founder of La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science. With a rich and diverse educational background spanning 40 years in both Canada and internationally, Mr. Abouchar has created this unique educational institution to instill in children a profound value for education while offering them a curricular program of study that leads students to the highest standard of academic achievement. For the past 17 years, La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science has been the living testimony of his vision that All children can succeed!
Fluent in both English and French, Mr. Abouchar holds an Honours B.Sc. in Physics and Chemistry from the American University in Cairo, a B.Ed. from Althouse College of Education of the University of Western Ontario, a M.Sc. in Physics from the University of Western Ontario and a M.Ed. from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto.
Beginning his extensive career in education by teaching Physics and sciences at the secondary level, Mr. Abouchar was recruited by the Ministry of Education as Education Officer, Provincial Consultant in Mathematics and Sciences and Secretary General of the Council for Franco-Ontarian Education. He has among his various academic contributions also occupied the positions of Principal Investigator & Coordinator of the Ontario Assessment Instrument Pool in Chemistry and Physics, Professor at the Faculty of Education of the University of Ottawa and Superintendent of Curriculum, Research and Continuing Education with the Ottawa-Carleton French Language School Board. Mr. Abouchar has also lead the Ontario delegation at the joint Canada-France Educational Workforce in Chad, founded the Multicultural Francophone Association of Ontario, and served for 9 years on the Ontario Advisory Council on Multiculturalism and Citizenship.
Mr. Abouchar has furthermore participated in the provincial overhauling of the Ontario Science Curriculum, written Physics and sciences textbooks, developed innovative educational software and related films, and lectured extensively on a variety of topics in Education.
A passionate musician and composer, Mr. Abouchar has successfully merged his musical talent with his expertise in computer technology and pedagogy to create a unique Computer Music Program of study which is offered exclusively to all elementary and secondary school students at La Citadelle. The annually produced albums of their collective compositions are but tokens of the authentication of the development of their creativity and their power of learning and achieving at La Citadelle.
“Since 'seeing is believing ', I gracefully extend an invitation to all parents of school children to visit La Citadelle and experience first-hand its harmonious and scholarly perspectives and to join us on our fascinating endeavor of distinctly shaping the lives of our children and leading them to success,” - Mr. Abouchar.
We would like to introduce you to Aurora Preparatory Academy, an institution that offers an exceptional elementary education in York region at a surprisingly reasonable cost. Aurora Prep is owned and operated by a small, select group of teachers committed to continuing the unparalleled 35 years' success its predecessor, Foundations Private School, on the occasion of its principal's retirement. It has been an exciting year of transition and updates, honouring the past while embracing the future, and many of our current families are already registering in advance of the anticipated public interest.
Aurora Prep is a small school that produces big results, currently boasting a student population that allows us to provide exceptional individualized support to each of our students. Teachers and students enjoy a strong rapport that facilitates higher academic performance and stronger emotional development. In addition, we encourage our families to get involved in school life, and we provide many opportunities to do so. Together, our approach produces a welcoming, cohesive community that creates the best environment possible in which elementary students can thrive. While many schools may speak of foundation, community, and excellence, Aurora Prep espouses them as its fundamental, governing principles.
Our students are encouraged to do their best at all times, achieving excellence in every subject and activity. We promote responsibility, independence and effort, recognizing the inherent importance of the learning process and not just the final result. Aurora Prep students develop the courage to try new things and the mindset that they are capable of anything. They recognize that striving for academic excellence must be complemented by striving for excellence in all other aspects of life. A committed involvement in athletic, artistic or altruistic pursuits is an essential component of our students’ lives.
If you have any questions about our school, our approach, or our programmes, we invite you to contact me personlly and I would be happy to provide you additional information.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Vissers
Traditional
International Baccalaureate
Information not available
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.
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.
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.
Not applicable
La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science offers an exceptional well-rounded international education and a truly comprehensive advanced instructional program from PrepK to Grade 12 in a multilingual environment within the Canadian experience. Promoting good education and a balanced instructional program of study covering languages, the arts and sciences in its pedagogy of excellence, which is based on the Ontario and French Curriculum, the IB and the AP programs, La Citadelle strives to create a well-rounded learning process that is geared to establish a marked impact on the holistic development of the learner.
Aurora Preparatory Academy’s curriculum is aligned to the Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines, resulting in a student’s seamless transition into secondary school. We introduce all areas of study, including French, Music, Art and technology, at the Junior Kindergarten level and recognize the inherent value of traditional areas of study, such as grammar, spelling and hands-on math. Our instructor–to–student ratio is purposely kept low to ensure that every student receives the assistance, supervision and direction that he or she needs. We provide a platform for high-achieving learners who require a more challenging curriculum and are capable of completing enriched work in multiple areas of study. We are also able to supplement in-class lessons with additional support for those who may be currently working below grade-level. In each case, we make sure our students meet or surpass curriculum benchmarks set forth by the Ministry. Our goal is to give our students the skills and the confidence needed to be successful in the next phase of education and for the rest of their lives.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
At La Citadelle, we believe that one can more effectively teach a subject if they have a passion for it. As such, specialized teachers are designated for specific subjects, and mathematics is no exception. Guided by the textbook, the approach to teach mathematics combines both the traditional and the discovery math approaches in an effort to equip the student with an array of skill sets relevant to the assimilation of mathematical concepts.
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Calculators may be used in an upper elementary class at the request of and under the supervision of the mathematics teachers. Secondary School students will possess a scientific calculator to use at their discretion, primarily outside of the classroom.
Information not available
Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Reading beginnings are phonics-centred and will evolve into sound blends and word formation. Students begin this early reading practice in French in Junior Kindergarden and are relatively fluid readers in this language by the end of Grade 1. English as an academic subject begins in Grade 1, with a phonics-based system as well, but given their initial proficiency in the language overall, their reading skills are at par with their French ones by the end of this same year.
Information not available
Equal balance
The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction.
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.
Beginner writing is systematic in both mechanics and content. As of Grade 1, there is a balanced approach to teaching a student the proper techniques to write cursive (how to hold a pencil, how to respect a line, forming letters, letter sizing, etc.) and what it is that they are writing. It begins with the ability to write sight words and to reproduce words containing sound blends seen in reading. From there, there is a gradual progression towards sentences, paragraphs and longer pieces of written works, all with a strong emphasis on correct sentence structure, and proper spelling.
Information not available
Equal Balance
Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.
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.
Based on the textbooks, we cover all strands required by the Ministry of Education at the elementary levels: Life Systems, Matter and Energy, Earth and Space systems and finally, Structures and Mechanisms. In grades 11 and 12, Science subjects are divided into the respective disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics which are offered as University Preparation courses.
Information not available
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physiology
Equal Balance
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.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Information not available
Information not available
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Thematic
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).
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
The Ministry of Education conglomerates History, Geography and Civics into one big umbrella called Social Sciences. At la Citadelle, we believe, in preparation for the upper grades, that, though interconnected, each facet of the Social Sciences is a subject to be treated independently. Grades 1 & 2, are given a generalized Social Science course using an Expanding Communities approach. From Grades 3 to 6, History, Geography and Civics are treated as distinct units. We further divide the curriculum in the following manner. History is taught more with regards to world history, and Geography is taught with a heavy Canada slant. Civics remains a course with an Expanding Communities approach. At the secondary levels, each facet is considered a different subject in which separate credits are obtained.
Information not available
Equal Balance
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Students are required to take a 3rd language (either Mandarin or Spanish), in addition to their bilingual (French, English) core education. This 3rd language is taken from Grade 2 all the way up to Grade 9. Guided by textbooks which are divided into units pertaining to everyday life, students are given the tools to actively communicate in every-day situations using the target language. Writing, though a key component, is not the primary focus of our 3rd language programme.
Information not available
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
At La Citadelle, our main goal is to bring out the artist in every student. Through Fine Arts, Music, Drama, Dance, Computer Music, Graphic Design and other forms of creative courses our students receive an in-depth hands-on experience from specialized teachers who are passionate in what they do and bring to each student and the classroom curriculum.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Computer literacy is an increasingly important skill in today's society, and it is a very valuable teaching and learning tool. We do not however believe that it should replace traditional teaching and learning skills as these too remain valuable assets. To maintain our students' level of computer proficiency, without it deterring teaching of other subjects, students from Kindergarten to Grade 10 take a mandatory computer technology course, in which they progress from learning basic computer and keyboarding skills to more advanced programmes and web design.
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Across all grades, the physical education programme combines both Health and Physical Education where students learn to make healthy active living a part of everyday life by participating in the classroom and gymnasium, out of doors, in schoolyards and school gardens, and in the community. Beginning with Kindergartens, students gradually develop their kinesthetic awareness and understanding of movement concepts as well as acquire an extensive subject-specific vocabulary. As students become adolescents, and are beginning to face important life decisions more advanced knowledge and skills are developed to help them better understand and cope with the changes they are experiencing and to make responsible decisions about the health of their adult bodies. In this programme, they have the opportunity to learn and establish patterns of healthy, active living
Information not available
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.
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.
At the four levels of the Kindergarten Panel, La Citadelle aims to instill in children a curiosity and a love of learning as they develop their own skills and talents. Offered exclusively in French through a concrete based pedagogy, the curriculum program at the Kindergarten Panel is structured in such a manner as to integrate a variety of subject matters such as play and learn, cursive writing, mathematics, sciences, computer studies, music and arts and to foster accelerated mastery learning and a high level of achievement by all children.
At Aurora Prep, we offer a strong academic programme right from Junior Kindergarten. We integrate reading, writing, math, and social studies, in addition to supplemental programmes in technology, music, French, physical education and art. Our teachers also balance the need for social development, discovery and exploration. Young children are eager to learn and we are happy to be partners in their academic and emotional growth. We believe students must be provided a solid foundation to experience optimal success in later grades, and this groundwork begins with our youngest learners. Without exception, they thrive in any subsequent academic environment.
Standard-enriched
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).
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.
Starting from Grade 1, all subjects are taught by specialized teachers who teach across grade levels and who provide students with the flexible academic support needed to make them achieve mastery learning.
Information not available
Supportive
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
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.
La Citadelle provides a rigorous curriculum in a holistic and supportive environment whereby our students excel academically, share an enthusiasm for knowledge, are outstanding world citizens, and value ethics and personal responsibility.
Our instructor–to–student ratio is purposely kept low to ensure that every student receives the assistance, supervision and direction that he or she needs. We provide a platform for high-achieving learners who require a more challenging curriculum and are capable of completing enriched work in multiple areas of study. We are also able to supplement in-class lessons with additional support for those who may be currently working slightly below grade level. Our goal is to give our students the skills and confidence needed to be successful in the next phase of education and for the rest of their lives.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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."
La Citadelle offers a comprehensive, balanced and academically advanced program in languages, arts and sciences, enabling its students to acquire the fundamental intellectual, emotional, social and physical foundations to live a full and enriching life in an ever-changing global and technological world.
We espouse a balance of academic pursuits, athletic participation, artistic expression and community service, the goal of which is to provide the most well-rounded, engaging and comprehensive education possible. No one gets lost in the shuffle at APA, and we are exceptionally proud of the success stories that resonate through our halls. Our students are challenged, encouraged and guided, and they become academically successful and socially responsible, exceptionally well-prepared for future studies and for life.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect 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. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
As a result of our small class sizes and dedicated teachers, we are able to provide some accommodation for students with exceptionalities. Students receive additional support to help experience success, either in class, before or after school, or during free time. We also incorporate the modifications contained in any pre-existing Individual Education Plan; however, we often find many of these modifications are either not necessary or can be significantly reduced in our learning environment. Students incorporate strategies and skills to overcome any academic challenges, and the result is often a greater degree of success than in other environments.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Nursery/Toddler - 12
3%
0%
$3,000
$0
80%
80%
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 3 - 12
No
Yes: grades 8 - 12
Yes: grades 1 - 8
No
No
At La Citadelle, we believe that every child is unique in their own way, and that it is our duty to help each student shine and thrive through the grades and life itself. A Positive attitude and a willingness to learn always helps.
First and foremost, it comes down to “The Right Fit”. You want a school that feels like a family, a place where teachers are behind your child every step of the way, an environment that nurtures, supports, challenges and cares. Aurora Prep is that school. The best way to determine if APA is the right fit for your family is to experience it by having your son or daughter join us for a Trial Day. Spending a day at Aurora Prep allows you and your child to gain a sense of the way our school operates, the breadth of our academic programme and the strength of our community. This visit also allows us to assess your child to ensure he/she can develop at APA, academically, emotionally, creatively, and socially.
Once a child has completed a Trial Day and been accepted to our programme, the following documents are required:
A non-refundable deposit is required in order to secure placement. Please see our Tuition Schedule for further details regarding fees and payment options.