2327 Dufferin Street, Toronto, Ontario, M6E 3S5, Canada
557 Church Street, 4th Fl., Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 2E2, Canada
1995
1997
510
50
Preschool to 12
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Traditional
20 to 24
12
Learning
Learning, Behavioral
Dedicated gifted school
$21,300 to $24,000
$20,000 to $22,000
No
Yes
0%
20%
None
9 to 12
$0
$10,000
32
8
0%
0%
97%
50%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
Not all immersion programs are created equally, and Lycée Francais is an example of that. The school was founded in 1995 with support from the French consulate to offer a French education to the children of French nationals living in Toronto (a portion of the faculty, then as now, are themselves French nationals). The program is based on the curriculum used in France, as developed by the French Ministry of Education. That said, the most substantive difference is that the program is dual, admitting students with either English or French as a first language, with French as the primary language of instruction from pre-school on up. Immersion often gets lumped in with gifted programs, though it's not at all just for high flyers. That said, the LFT program is challenging and very much intended, especially in the upper grades, for students preparing to enroll at university.
View full reportHistorically, a liberal arts curriculum comprised a course of study required by citizens in order to take an active part in civic life. It included not just what a person would need to know, but how they would need to be, including an understanding that the cultivation of intellect is a worthy goal unto itself. The Abelard School was created to reflect those kinds of goals. In 1997, a group of seasoned teachers founded the school in order to deliver the basics of a secondary education—the knowledge and the skills required to move on to university life—as well as to impart a love of learning and to encourage creative engagement across the academic spectrum. Those ideals, and indeed those teachers, remain today. The school is small—there is a total enrolment of just 50—and whatever it may lack in terms of a breadth of programming it gains in depth and individual attention.
View full reportinformation not available
information not available
"Rooted in the globally renowned French curriculum, our innovative learning methodology prioritizes immersive subject exploration and bilingualism starting from Kindergarten. Students develop strong personal, social, and intellectual skills, achieving trilingual proficiency (French, English, Spanish) by Grade 12. With the prestigious French Baccalauréat diploma and fluency in three languages, our graduates secure admission to leading universities in North America and Europe."
"The Abelard School offers an enriched, intellectually engaging education for students in grades 7 through 12. Our balanced curriculum encourages excellence, from the maths and sciences to the social sciences and humanities. Socratic instruction and our integrated curriculum foster critical thinking and problem solving skills in a friendly, inclusive school environment where students encourage one another to learn and our highly qualified teachers prepare them to achieve remarkable success in university."
"At LFT, we proudly offer a rigorous curriculum certified by the Grade 12 French Baccalauréat, a unique distinction in Toronto's educational landscape. Our commitment to this prestigious qualification reflects our dedication to academic excellence and global citizenship. Furthermore, LFT fosters a highly international environment, enriching students' experiences and promoting cross-cultural understanding, preparing them to excel in an interconnected world. With access to a worldwide alumni network, our students not only have the opportunity to apply and succeed in the most prestigious universities globally but also enter with a head start, having already acquired 30 credits."
Information not available
"At Lycée Français de Toronto, our commitment extends beyond expatriate French students to include students from the broader Lycées Français network, encompassing various nationalities. We've navigated the tradeoffs of preserving French language and culture while accommodating the educational needs of diverse students, including those from different cultural backgrounds within the network. Balancing bilingualism with Canadian educational requirements, we integrate elements from both systems to provide a comprehensive education. We prioritize personalized learning alongside academic standards, fostering creativity within a structured environment. These tradeoffs ensure that all students, regardless of nationality, receive a tailored education that prepares them for success in a globalized world."
Information not available
"Our alumni stand as the pinnacle of Lycée Français de Toronto's success, embodying the qualities of complete bilingual and multicultural global citizens. Their achievements serve as a testament to the transformative power of our education. Recently, one of our graduates received an offer from Stanford University, a prestigious acknowledgment of their academic excellence and readiness to thrive in a global context. This success underscores the value of our bilingual curriculum, equipping students with linguistic and cultural fluency to excel internationally. Furthermore, our alumni form a global network, studying in the finest universities across Canada, the United States, and Europe. Their accomplishments highlight the effectiveness of our approach, preparing students to succeed in diverse academic and professional environments worldwide."
Information not available
"At Lycée Français de Toronto, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment that values academic excellence, cultural appreciation, and bilingual proficiency. Our school community thrives on a shared commitment to intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship.
Students who appreciate the benefits of bilingualism and multiculturalism will find Lycée Français de Toronto to be an enriching environment. We welcome students who are open-minded, respectful of diverse perspectives, and enthusiastic about building connections with peers from various backgrounds.
Ultimately, a good fit for our school is a student who is committed to personal growth, cultural exploration, and academic achievement within a supportive and nurturing community. We encourage students to embrace the opportunities for learning and development that our school provides, both inside and outside the classroom."
Information not available
"If a family does not prioritize bilingualism or does not see the value in French language education, our school may not be the best fit. Our curriculum is deeply rooted in French language and culture. Families seeking a primarily English-speaking environment or those who do not wish to prioritize French language proficiency may find our school's emphasis on bilingual education to be incompatible with their preferences.
The LFT program is designed to challenge and stimulate students intellectually. For families seeking a more relaxed or less academically demanding environment, our school may not align with their preferences. Our curriculum follows the French educational system, emphasizing critical thinking, analytical skills, and academic excellence. Families prioritizing a less intense academic experience for their children may find our schools incompatible with their educational goals."
Information not available
"At LFT, families are drawn to our unique offerings tailored to their needs. Our exclusive French Baccalauréat program, unmatched in Toronto, appeals to those seeking a rigorous curriculum.
Families often choose Lycée Français de Toronto for its reputation of academic excellence, bilingual education, and diverse cultural environment. Our school offers a rigorous curriculum combined with immersion in French language and culture, preparing students for global citizenship. Additionally, families value the opportunity for their children to become fluent in French while embracing multiculturalism and gaining exposure to different perspectives. The supportive community, experienced faculty, and strong emphasis on critical thinking further attract families seeking a well-rounded education for their children."
Information not available
"Lycée Français de Toronto (LFT) is renowned for its dedication to academic excellence and global citizenship, distinguishing itself with a rigorous curriculum certified by the Grade 12 French Baccalauréat. As a hub of cultural diversity, LFT provides students with an enriching international environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding and prepares them to thrive in an interconnected world. Its graduates are highly regarded for their readiness to excel in the most prestigious universities globally. Moreover, LFT's extensive worldwide alumni network offers ongoing support and networking opportunities, further solidifying its reputation as a leading institution in Toronto's educational landscape."
Information not available
"The global recognition and prestige of the French Baccalauréat offered at our school are often underappreciated. Some families may overlook its significance compared to the IB program. However, the French BAC is esteemed worldwide, providing students with a rigorous education and access to top universities internationally."
Information not available
"At LFT, families discover our affiliation with the prestigious Lycée Français network, the world's oldest and largest school network with 500+ institutions worldwide. This partnership ensures high educational standards and offers unparalleled opportunities for global collaboration and cultural exchange. Beyond French proficiency, LFT provides a truly international experience, preparing students for success in an interconnected world."
Information not available
"We've recently undergone renovations to revitalize our school yard, creating a more vibrant and engaging space for students. But we're not stopping there - we have ambitious plans to continue improving our facilities to ensure an optimal learning environment for all. Furthermore, our commitment to excellence extends to our teaching staff, who participate in regular training sessions each year. These sessions are designed to keep them updated on the latest educational methodologies and best practices, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of our students and deliver high-quality instruction"
Information not available
"In the coming years, we're dedicated to upholding our status as Toronto's premier choice for French education. We'll prioritize academic excellence, bilingual proficiency, and cultural appreciation, continually refining our curriculum with innovative teaching methods and technologies to meet evolving global demands. Strengthening community ties is paramount, fostering partnerships to enhance our students' educational journey through cultural exchanges, community service, and collaborative projects.
Our vision is one of growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment, striving to be a beacon of excellence and inspiration for students, families, and educators in Toronto."
Information not available
Barbara Martin, as the Head of School at Lycée Français de Toronto, brings a remarkable blend of passion, experience, and leadership to her role. With a background as a science teacher and extensive experience in France, including leading a large high school and driving change within the French Ministry of Education, she embodies a vision for education that is both ambitious and compassionate.
Her dedication to nurturing an environment where every student can excel and embrace their individuality is evident. Grounded in principles of compassion, open-mindedness, and collective intelligence, her leadership fosters a community where dialogue and responsibility are paramount. She believes in empowering each member to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world.
Barbara's commitment to ensuring the school embodies values of humanism, curiosity, and excellence for all shines through. She is passionate about providing an education that not only challenges students intellectually but also prepares them to be thoughtful and engaged global citizens. Through a holistic and multilingual approach, she aims to empower students to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Her leadership reflects a dedication to creating a nurturing and inspiring educational environment where students can thrive and fulfill their aspirations.
Barbara Martin's expertise and leadership in education have garnered significant recognition, as evidenced by her recent publication, "La méthode Barbara," released by the renowned French publishing house, Fayard, on October 12, 2022. This book chronicles her experiences as headmaster of a French lycée and has quickly gained acclaim, attracting attention from the press and media, including Radio Canada. The success of "La méthode Barbara" underscores her innovative approach to education and her ability to inspire positive change within educational institutions. Through her book, Barbara shares valuable insights and strategies that have resonated with educators and administrators worldwide, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in the field of education.
In recognition of her distinguished merits and commitment to serving others, she was awarded the medal of the French National Assembly in 2016 and made a Chevalier de l'ordre national du Mérite (France's highest honor) in November 2021.
The Abelard School is a place where ideas and people matter, where debate is encouraged, and where creativity and innovation come to life. It is a place where learning progresses logically through an integrated curriculum, and students talk about Plato, Woolf, and quantum theory in the hallways as well as in the classroom. Abelard is a school for the student who wants to be inspired but also challenged to work and think beyond the norm. It is a school for scholars.
The Abelard School has been preparing students to enter university since 1997. The focus of our programme (grades 7-12) is to ensure that our students graduate as astute critical thinkers, ready to enter and succeed in the university program of their choice. Our senior courses are designed as preparation for the Advanced Placement examinations, on which our students have consistently achieved top scores.
Along with encouraging high academic achievement, Abelard strives to ensure that our students do not limit their future choices by specializing in one particular discipline; our individualized course selection process ensures that students profit from the breadth of courses in our liberal arts curriculum throughout all four years of high school. As a small school, we are able to integrate our courses with one another to allow for greater interdisciplinary learning, and provide our students with increased student-teacher interaction to better help them realize their goals. With our prime location in downtown Toronto, we take full advantage of the many learning opportunities that can be had outside of the classroom in art galleries, museums, the theatre, the opera, and the like.
We invite you to learn more about the Abelard School through our website and in person. We look forward to meeting you!
Traditional
Information not available
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.
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.
Not applicable
The Lycée Français is the only French school in Toronto recognized by the French Ministry of National Education from pre-K to Grade 12. As a member of the network of the "Agency for French Education Abroad" with more than 496 institutions around the world, being deeply rooted in Toronto life and Canadian culture, our school offers our students the best of both cultures: academic excellence in French and a strong focus on personal development and striving to reach one’s full potential. Based on the French curriculum, our innovative pedagogical approach places special emphasis on languages, sciences and sports. With a complete mastery of 3 to 4 languages in Grade 12 and the recognition of the Baccalauréat, our students integrate well into the leading North American and European universities such as Harvard, UofT, McGill University, Columbia, Dauphine and SciencesPo. With a wealth of 550 students from more than 30 different nationalities, our community is united, respectful and caring. The values of fraternity, equality and living together are at the heart of our identity and teaching philosophy.
The Abelard school is an ideal academic environment for students who are motivated, and who are looking to be challenged and inspired. Not all of our students have been identified as gifted, but all of them are bright and eager to learn.
Traditional Math
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
The math program at the Abelard School has been designed to show continuity between all of the branches of math as well as how it integrates with other disciplines. It is our own construction and melds aspects of algebra, geometry, and logic. A solid and sophisticated understanding of mathematics is key to the construction of an agile mind. Our ultimate goal is to have all of our students working at a functional University level math, regardless of the discipline they choose to pursue after high school. Our students regularly compete in national and international mathematics competitions, and have won many awards over the years.
Information not available
Information not available
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Information not available
Equal Balance
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.
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.
The science program at the Abelard School strongly emphasises the connections between science and the other disciplines in our curriculum. Our unique Foundation Sciences course is mandatory for all of our grade 9 students. Our students then move directly into the specialized grade 11 courses in biology, physics and chemistry in their second year of high school. This is extremely helpful for students who intend to study science at university, as it allows them room in their four years of high school to take every grade 11 and 12 science course offered. Our school laboratory is well-equipped to offer our students the possibility to perform experiments and dissections at every grade level. Trips to the labs at the nearby University of Toronto complement the science programme.
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
Zoology
Traditional
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.
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.
Information not available
The English program at Abelard pairs intensive study of the Western literary canon with the practice of expository, analytical, narrative and creative writing. By the time they have reached Grade 12, our students are writing university-level essays, and have developed both the analytical and technical skills they will require to succeed in any post-secondary discipline. Works studied in Grade 12 include: King Lear, The Tempest, Moby Dick, To the Lighthouse, The Waste Land, Waiting for Godot, Lolita, Blood Meridian, Ulysses. In addition to literary analysis, our students engage in their own creative work, composing short stories, plays and even novels. Each year they write and produce a school literary journal reflecting the best student writing of the year. A student-organized school newspaper appears monthly.
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
Not applicable
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).
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Perennialism
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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.
Information not available
The Social Science and Humanities program at Abelard encompasses the following courses: Philosophy, World History, American History, World Religions, Canadian History, Canadian Geography, Canadian and World Politics, Psychology and Economics. The goal is one that is shared by all the disciplines at Abelard: an integrated approach that provides students with a comprehensive overview of world culture and history. This means that information and ideas will overlap from one course to another. For example, our course in Philosophy provides, among other units, a chronological perspective on the development of ethics. This understanding of ethics contributes to discussions about the Enlightenment that emerge in World History. Our Politics course looks at contemporary conflicts around the world and provides students with a basis upon which to make informed assessments of international relations in the 21st century. This contemporary focus on world events and issues is the culmination of our Humanities program.
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.
Information not available
The study of foreign languages gives students a deeper understanding of other cultures and assists them in becoming global citizens. Abelard's French and Modern Languages program aims to graduate students with a fluent or near-fluent mastery of one or more modern languages. Depending on student interest, these languages may include Spanish, Russian, Mandarin and Italian. French is always offered, and is a mandatory component of our curriculum in Grades 9 and 10. The program guides students towards the ability to read, write, and converse with ease. Starting in Grade 10, the reading of literature and articles drawn from current publications is introduced. By Grade 12 students can freely communicate with native speakers and discuss essentially any topic, from current affairs to complex philosophical issues. Latin and Greek language and literature are fundamental to Western civilization. At Abelard, all students are required to study Latin for at least one year.
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
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Information not available
The Arts form the foundation of civilized society, and the Arts program at Abelard is integrated into every aspect of our curriculum, as well as being represented by dedicated Visual Arts, Graphic Design, Drama and Music courses. Students study the history and techniques of each discipline, and produce their own creative work. A full-length school play is performed each year at one of the University of Toronto Theatres, the school hosts a revolving exhibition of student paintings, and the Graphic Design Class designs and produces the school Literary Journal and Yearbook.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Light 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.
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.
Information not available
Abelard students who are interested in developing their computer literacy and programming skills are given the option of dedicated computer science courses. Computer science students also learn to create games and the basics of web design.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Information not available
We encourage our students to be physically active and healthy. We are not an athletically competitive school, but a number of our students are competitive athletes who train privately outside of our school.
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Giving each child the keys to knowledge and the benchmarks of the society in which he/she grows is the only ambition of the primary school. In kindergarten (Pre K - SK), learning is articulated around 5 themes (communicating and developing language in French and English, growing and moving, expressing oneself through artistic activities, learning to structure one's thoughts, exploring the world). LFT teachers are committed to providing each child with an environment and a choice of activities that promote the development of their independence and prepare them for entry into CP (Grade 1).
Information not available
Accelerated
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.
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).
Some students take classes at a number of grade levels, some work on individual projects reflecting their interests. Mentorships at U of T augment our curriculum.
Rigorous
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 “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”.
Our program is designed to provide students with a structured body of general knowledge while encouraging the development of analytical and critical thinking skills. The curriculum is based on the French national curriculum, and augmented by a strong English program ; the curriculum exceeds all requirements set by France, preparing our students to enter and thrive at both North American and European colleges and universities.
At Abelard our students discover their strengths and learn how to apply them. They acquire knowledge, master skills and meet academic challenges. Homework is structured around a variety of assignments and projects, to allow them the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and their critical thought, and to help them to develop a systematic approach to their studies.Our students are also challenged to expand the boundaries of their own creativity, to set high standards for themselves and to think of education as a lifelong journey and the key to leading a rewarding and enriched life.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Our approach is based on plurilingual and pluricultural education. Our students learn and interact with multiple languages and cultures. Each student has the opportunity to choose a language course that is best suited to their personal project. The LFT is the privileged place that allows both to enrich and enhance the knowledge of these languages and cultures. Mathematics, technology and experimental science make it possible to represent the world and better understand its environment. Our teachers (specialized in biology & geology, physics & chemistry, technology and mathematics) inculcate our students the scientific and technological culture, based on a knowledge of the principles and purposes of scientific reasoning, a practice of the scientific process and an understanding of common techniques.
Only students who demonstrate intellectual strength and a high degree of motivation are accepted into our programme. Our goal is to present bright and motivated students the opportunity to explore the history of human accomplishment, to inspire them to grow intellectually and to expand their cultural and social awareness while developing their critical thinking skills and preparing them to shape the world of the future.
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
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
Our school is not designed to provide formal remediation for students with learning disabilities, but we are able to accommodate some types of disabilities, depending on the particular constellation.
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
9 - 12
0%
20%
$0
$10,000
97%
50%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 1 - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
Grade 1 candidates have to be able to understand and speak French. No reading or writing skills are required. For candidates applying in Grades 2-12, both written and oral French skills will be assessed.
Students who are successful at Abelard are motivated, curious, bright and eager to learn. They are comfortable in an intellectual atmosphere and look upon learning as a lifelong venture. They are caring and compassionate and wish to apply what they learn to help others and to advance society.
Application form; Birth certificate; Report cards for the past two years
Applications will be evaluated according to four criteria: interview, test score, report card, and entrance essay (written at the school). Applicants are additionally invited to submit a piece of work of which they are proud and that demonstrates their potential; if they choose to include this, it will be taken into consideration along with the rest of their application.
All applicants must submit the following: