325 Sandhill Road, Kanata, Ontario, K2K 1X7, Canada
1-300 Water Street, Whitby, Ontario, L1N 9B6, Canada
Indirect Support:
325 Sandhill Road, Kanata, Ontario, K2K 1X7, Canada
1-300 Water Street, Whitby, Ontario, L1N 9B6, Canada
2003
2010
32
127
1 to 8
1 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts
Progressive
6 to 10
10 to 20
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$16,000
$22,000 to $23,500
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
4
11
0%
0%
0%
98%
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
information not available
“Nurturing teacher-student relationships is a priority at Cambridge, something that’s made easier with such small class sizes.”
“Cambridge International Academy is a university preparatory school with ... a high university placement success rate, but its key differentiator is the “customized learning” program.”
“Every Cambridge teacher we spoke to agreed that character education underpins the whole curriculum.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Cambridge International Academy
A small, dedicated school, March Academy is of particular interest to families of students who have had trouble assimilating or accessing a conventionally delivered curriculum within a conventional teaching environment. Teachers are adept at helping students find a place within the social network of the school, feeling involved and valued, as well as supporting a range of learning differences. The program begins with empowering students, helping them become aware of their talents, and encouraging them to employ them within a group learning setting. Parents report a high level of satisfaction, and a common regret perhaps is not turning to the school sooner. Frequent, open commination between faculty and families is also prized.
View full reportCambridge International Academy offers a safe, nurturing, and cooperative learning environment designed to help kids thrive from Grade one. Following an enriched Ontario curriculum that’s supplemented with resources that help kids excel, the caring staff at Cambridge International Academy prepare students for success in a rapidly transforming, competitive, and global society. Small classes and a tight-knit community allow school staff to develop close relationships with every child, guiding their moral and emotional growth. A varied range of extracurriculars—robotics, math club, sports, debate, drama, poetry, and many more— are seen as essential to student success and character development. High schoolers participate in leadership opportunities such as the Model UN and DECA, as well as after-school clubs and volunteer opportunities within the local community. Cambridge International helps kids succeed in their chosen areas of interest through customized educational pathways, and its graduates are frequently offered admission to Canada’s top universities.
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" ... the epitome of what schools should be ... "
Christine Deugo - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
March Academy is the epitome of what schools should be. My son has flourished since he began attend...
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" ... she is thriving ... she feels she matters"
Claudia Gongora - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
Our eldest daughter completed JK-trough grade 1 in the public school system and it was painful to se...
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" ... a small, quaint and loving school"
lisa o'kane - Parent (Jun 13, 2019)
March Academy has completely changed my child and his outlook on school. It is now a place he looks ...
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"They recognise a student's strengths and weaknesses and encourage them by adapting lessons to capitalize on these."
Vijaya Dass - Parent (May 27, 2021)
My children enjoy Cambridge International Academy. They feel safe and comfortable at school. The cl...
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"...they also actively took care of the students in life."
Coco Li - Student (Jul 21, 2021)
I miss my time at Cambridge International Academy very much. The teachers in the school were very pa...
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"All my teachers were passionate and knowledgeable in their respective subjects."
Julie Indrigo - Alumnus (Nov 24, 2021)
My experience at Cambridge International Academy was eye-opening because not only did I do school wo...
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"March Academy is a dynamic learning environment that celebrates individual difference and teaches students to use their strengths to be effective learners. Small class sizes and experienced teachers create an environment that provides support and challenges students to achieve their true potential. Music, arts, nature, and daily physical activities are integral to educating the whole child. Through high expectations, recognizing learning styles and emphasizing the positive, we give each student a chance to shine."
"Cambridge International Academy is a ministry inspected co-ed private school in Ajax, which customizes and enriches the Ontario curriculum with AP program from grades 1 to 12. Using customized planning we help students achieve their potential. With strong parent partnerships, our Elementary Programs help students transition to high school with Reach Ahead credits. For high school, we design the curriculum to ensure students are able to achieve their post-secondary goals."
"March Academy is a dynamic learning environment that celebrates individual difference and gives students the confidence to advocate for themselves and use their strengths to be effective learners. Our environment provides support and challenges students to achieve their true potential. Music, arts, nature, and daily physical activities are integral to educating the whole child. High expectations, recognizing learning styles and emphasizing the positive, give students a chance to shine."
"Every student receives an Individual Student Plan so that their learning experience is personalized and customized to their individual needs, interests, talents, and skill level. The Student Plan is comprised of customized academic programs such as Blended Learning, Reach Ahead, & AP, volunteer initiatives, interesting co-curriculars, as well as academic and non-academic outside competitions. Lastly, we offer cross-curricular coding to increase the technology proficiency of students."
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"Families choose March Academy for our small setting, highly experienced educators, and enriched programming. Graduates report that March Academy helped them to better understand their strengths and needs as learners which gave them the confidence to be effective advocates for their learning in high school. Students appreciate and are prepared to embrace life-long learning."
"Families join Cambridge International Academy because of our personalized approach to education. Our customized programs (Blended Learning, Reach Ahead, & AP classes) challenge our students so that they thrive academically, socially, and personally. Our small class sizes provide students individual attention to successfully complete the curriculum and ready them for the next higher grade level. Our parents appreciate the frequent updates about their child's academic progress."
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"The program at March Academy has been carefully curated to enrich the whole child by including weekly opportunities for subjects such as Yoga, TaeKwonDo and Music which support the more academic areas such as Math and Language. Despite the attention and support for individual student needs, our emphasis on working in and as part of a group of learners is critical to student development. All experiences complement each other for the benefit of overall learning."
"The kitchen & dining area are sometimes overlooked by prospective parents. Initially, parents don’t realize the significant academic & social learning that takes place in these gathering areas. Students not only learn about healthy eating habits, kitchen safety, and food preparation but they also gain a deeper understanding, respect, and appreciation for diversity while they prepare and taste each other’s cultural traditional foods. Transferable skills acquired through cooking are beneficial."
"Families are often surprised by how much their child enjoys coming to school every day and what their child is capable of learning and doing. Parents are often delighted to report, "We have finally gotten our child back". Children rise and often surpass the expectations set out for them. Families come to realize and appreciate that teachers at March Academy have clear, specific, just-right expectations which reflect in the self-confidence they see in their children."
"Families are surprised by the frequent communication and the variety of co-curriculars at school. Our teachers frequently communicate with parents to offer the 'next steps' to keep their children engaged and challenged in their learning. In addition, our teachers coach students to perform their best in a wide range of co-curricular activities. This year, students in our Math Club won University of Waterloo's 2022 Zone Champion Award for the Canadian Intermediate Mathematics & Computing Contest."
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An underlying tenet at March Academy is that education should provide children with a compass to guide them and support their ability to find their way, rather than a single road map that everyone must follow.
For 20 years, March Academy has worked to empower elementary aged students by helping them to understand how to find their way in a group learning environment. It challenges them and helps them grow, primarily by teaching them how to learn, while at the same time, helping them to respect and work with their peers.
March Academy celebrates individual difference, recognizes strengths and teaches students to use their strengths to be effective learners. Through high, reasonable expectations, by incorporating individual learning styles, by emphasizing the positive, and by teaching co-operation, we give each student a chance to shine and express their true potential.
Our students are excited, engaged, positive students. They develop qualities that allow them to become confident life long learners. We are extremely proud of our graduates, their growth and successes. We look forward to making you and yours part of our March Academy family.
It is with great pleasure that I welcome our twenty-first-century pupils to Cambridge International Academy located in Ajax, Ontario. We are a co-ed private school that customizes and enriches the Ontario Curriculum for students from grades 1 to 12. Our goal is to find each of our student's academic potential and personal interests so that they can thrive in their future endeavors.
Our professional and dedicated teachers ensure a respectful learning environment where students can reach their academic potential through our customized academic pathway and be inspired by each other. Our caring teachers understand the importance of encouraging students to apply their critical thinking and analysis skills in order to experience an ongoing and in-depth inquiry about their learning. They give high-achieving students more opportunities to be engaged and challenged with the curriculum. Our educators provide their students with opportunities to engage in different ways of learning, seek out information related to the interest of the students, and provide them with time and resources to explore these interests. With our enriched curriculum, we help students in their personal/character development, uncover their hidden talents, and inspire a love for learning. We promote our students to embrace collaboration, communication, innovation, and computer technologies to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of education.
We believe parents are vital partners in education and they have a positive impact on their child’s school experience. We invite our parents to get involved in various school initiatives and make them a part of our school community. We communicate frequently with parents to ensure their son/daughter remains on track in his/her academic success so that their child experiences individual success in education.
I invite you to visit Cambridge International Academy and experience a difference in education. This may be one of the best decisions you will make in your child’s life. Cambridge International Academy’s Information Package provides you with further details about our enriching way of education.
Best Regards,
Sandra Arff
Progressive
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.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Not applicable
March Academy uses a multifaceted, eclectic approach to build and re-teach core skills or to provide academic challenges to students, where and when necessary. Small class sizes with a low teacher-student ratio allows for more individualized attention and flexibility in curriculum delivery, as well as providing support for social skills development, school anxiety and navigating the underlying hidden school curriculum. Providing the learner with an understanding of their part in the learning process and helping them to become advocates in their own learning is emphasized. Music, art, daily physical education, and nature studies are seen as critical elements of the program to entice and excite all learners.
Our teachers acknowledge students learn at different times and in different ways therefore they use an interactive teaching strategy to best suit students' learning profiles. Our teachers are facilitators and mentors, encouraging critical thought and self-reflection, while also promoting cooperative and independent learning. We provide an enriched, balanced curriculum with a focus on core academics, as well as music, art, and drama. We offer continuous, varied and appropriate formative as well as summative assessments which provide evidence of every student's learning progress. This information helps teachers immediately flag areas of concern and help students in that subject. Triangulation assessments also help students, parents and teachers select attainable learning goals. For students in high school, we administer Aptitude Tests to help each student plan their further education. The high school programs offer a rigorous university preparatory curriculum and give special attention to soft skills needed for success such as organization, self-advocacy, note-taking, study skills, collaboration, and communication.
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.
The teaching of math is delivered in multi-aged groupings with similarly skilled students. Lessons are augmented to support individual student needs and skill level, and an altered pace and reteaching in different formats is offered when necessary. Math manipulative materials and various strategies are offered to solidify comprehension of the concepts. Students practice and apply their understanding on a weekly basis with their peers by solving assigned real-life problems with a 'math buddy'.
Our Grade 1 through 8 Mathematics program is built around the Ontario Curriculum and is delivered with a Singapore Math approach. Singapore math ensures a foundational mastery in underlying mathematical procedures using a three-stage learning process which moves from concrete, to pictorial, and then abstract. The Singapore Math approach ensures social-emotional well being for students as they develop confidence, and comfort with mathematical thinking. Additionally, both our elementary and Grade 9 programs follow the updated curriculum strands with the use of Scratch ™ coding as the mode of instructional delivery for programming. Our approach goes above and beyond the ministry requirements in that we incorporate coding practices and principles into all Mathematical strands. The high school mathematics program closely follows the Ontario Mathematics curriculum. The program emphasizes mastery of a wide range of mathematical skills and logic-based thinking, with regular opportunities for discovery through proofs, manipulatives, and technology.
An eclectic teaching approach is taken for the teaching of math using resources such as Nelson mathematics, Jumpmath and other commercial programs to augment main lessons.
Textbooks used are from the Ontario Trillium List.
Students are expected to learn math facts and are taught strategies on how to learn and find the facts. How to use calculators is taught as part of some lessons. Calculators may used for some lessons to confirm facts and in different math strands.
Calculators are used in the classroom for high school math courses which require the use of a scientific calculator.
Balanced Literacy
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.
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.
March Academy uses an eclectic approach to language teaching depending upon individual student need. In the primary grades an emphasis on letter sounds and phonetics is given in conjunction with the teaching of comprehension strategies, grammatical structures and vocabulary development. In the higher grades a greater emphasis on comprehension strategies, inferencing and vocabulary and grammatical development dominates the lessons.
We use an individualized reading approach whereby students learn to read at their own pace within the classroom. Students are given the opportunity to develop their phonemic awareness, phonetic decoding skills, reading comprehension and overall reading fluency in a safe and supportive learning environment where they read, are read-to, and are read-with. At the elementary level we use a formalized Reading Program in combination with high-interest leveled readers to ensure continual reading engagement and progression.
Equal balance
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.
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.
The teaching of writing is through a balanced systematic and process approach. Direct teaching of writing skills is taught both in small group lessons and on an individual basis as needed. Students are asked to write for a specific task or assignment to improve grammar and sentence structure, or to practice a specific type of writing. Time is also provided for personal and creative writing to both practice and apply the skills that have been taught and to foster a love of writing for different purposes. Formal lessons in both printing and cursive writing are given on a weekly basis.
In the early years the writing focus is on structure and usage and students are given topics of personal interest and relevance, inspiring creativity and a love of writing. Students are provided with comprehensive instruction in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary which is spiraled throughout the grade levels as skills and concepts are re-introduced and reinforced by repeated exposure. The writing process is modelled and further developed through the use of graphic organizers and outlines. Students create descriptive and grammatically sound sentences which lead to cohesive paragraphs and, ultimately, short stories, reports, and essays. Students engage in self and peer editing and learn the importance of continual improvement in writing.
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.
Science lessons are based on a school-wide theme each month in the form of Integrated Studies. Topics are taught through both direct lessons about the theme and through inquiry-based, team and partnered assignments. Special emphasis is place on aspects of nature, wildlife and the environment through targeted lessons each week in the form of nature journals. In Grades 7 and 8, specific topics are explored in more depth.
Science is fundamental to helping students understand how things work in our world. In the Elementary grades, Science is inquiry-based, and uses real materials to make connections between scientific theory, technology, and our everyday lives. Most lessons focus on acquiring skills and knowledge through hands-on experiences which reinforce scientific theories learned in class. The High School Science program delivers the Ontario Curriculum thoroughly with emphasis placed on inquiry-based learning and knowledge acquisition through a variety of instructional methods such as peer to peer teaching, current event discussions, and case study analyses. The curriculum is delivered through the use of up-to-date texts, hands-on experimentation and investigation, and online simulations. Experiments are thoughtfully designed to enrich the students’ learning and provide experience with instrumentation, procedures and lab reporting skills. Students work independently and in groups to create and present projects that demonstrate their understanding of the concepts learned.
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
Physics
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
At an elementary school level, Literature is explored and appreciated both in terms of how it is written and in what it means to an individual. Students are asked to reflect and relate to text as it impacts them and as it impacts society as a whole.
Literary analysis is key to the development of critical thinking. Our teachers choose both classic and contemporary literary texts that resonate with students and promote discussion, critique and debate. Students are encouraged to make connections to themselves, the text, and the world around them as they read and listen to literary text. Students engage in reading comprehension and vocabulary exercises, as well as written response journals, as they build their thinking skills. We have been successful in increasing students’ reading interest through reading clubs which foster offline discussions and help students understand the historical and social context of the text being read. This leads to a deeper understanding and a greater sense of achievement. Emphasis is on the use of the personal growth model which encourages students to draw their own opinions, express their feelings, and use personal experiences and the text to develop their writing skills.
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
Core Knowledge
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.
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).
Social Studies lessons are based on a school-wide theme each month in the form of Integrated Studies. Topics are taught through both direct lessons about the theme and through inquiry-based, team and partnered assignments.
The Social Studies program is an essential component of the development of cultural literacy. The curriculum focuses on developing an understanding of World cultures and history as well as a more focused knowledge on Canadian history and geography. Students engage in individual and group based projects that demonstrate their understanding of the content. Art, drama, and literature are used to enhance the social studies program in all elementary grades.
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
History and Geography lessons are taught through both direct lessons about the topic and through inquiry-based, team and partnered assignments.
Humanities and the Social Sciences promote active listening, critical thinking skills and help students make connections to history and the world in which they live in. Students learn to make decisions based on values, and discover the truth about the human condition and the human experience. Our teachers use a number of strategies such as direct instruction, visual media, and reciprocal teaching to increase dialogue between teacher and students. Thinking and inquiry is key to learning in the Social Sciences and Humanities where students develop their own questions, collect and organize data, draw inferences, and engage in problem solving. Field trips and role play are also incorporated as part of the teaching strategies to give students the opportunity to make real-life connections to their learning.
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.
A core French program is offered at March Academy.
The French curriculum follows ministry guidelines and is a comprehensive and seamless program that builds on the four key strands of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. Students develop their overall French communication skills using a variety of texts and online French resources. Vocabulary building, reading and writing are connected to relevant events and real-life practical scenarios with the use of engaging multimedia resources and applications.
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
Creative
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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.
March Academy students engage in music lessons which take the form of an individual piano lesson, a music theory lessons and a group choir session each week. Visual arts lessons are also provided on a weekly basis. Dance and drama lessons may be integrated into physical education, language, or integrated studies classes dependent on the monthly theme.
The Arts curriculum is designed to facilitate an appreciation of art through the study of art history and various artistic techniques and mediums. This involves exposure to art through gallery visits and online and in-person talks from guest artists from the local community and beyond. Students are encouraged to think about the importance of art in the world, and as a reflection and historical record of humanity. The Arts curriculum encourages self-expression through the creation of various two and three dimensional art projects using a variety of materials. Visual Arts includes the traditional fine arts of drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking, architecture, photography, and crafts. The program focuses on creating and fostering a sense of curiosity, creativity and confidence in students.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Technology is used to enhance or build upon concepts or themes in the classroom. Time is spent teaching students how to navigate specific programs to be used as tools in learning.
Our school recognizes the importance of information literacy, media literacy, and information and communication technology literacy as critical 21st century skills. Teachers use coding, robotics, electronics, and multimedia equipment to support learning across the curriculum. Some of the software used within the curriculum includes Java, Python, and Scratch. Additionally, we gladly identify and accommodate students who require the use of a computer to thrive academically.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
A large emphasis is placed on physical education. Classes are held on a daily basis and include both indoor and outdoor traditional games and activities as well as weekly sessions of TaeKwonDo and yoga.
Our approach to physical education emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, as well as safety and injury prevention. We offer a wide variety of competitive and recreational sporting experiences for our students. Gym classes for High School students may include attending a fitness club. Our students are encouraged to find their passion through physical activity and athletic involvement in order to learn the value of hard work, commitment, and discipline and to live a well-balanced life.
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
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.
At CCIA, we offer on-line courses to students who are motivated to propel their academic studies to enter post-secondary education sooner. In addition, we offer School-Work Transition Career Pathways such as Early Childhood Education and a Business Focus. Co-op Classes are offered to gain work experience and OSSD.
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.
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”.
March Academy celebrates student success in all areas of the program. Without the emphasis on letter or number grades, students are made fully aware of their needs and successes through constant feedback and supported to ensure they are able to achieve their goals to a standard that they are capable of.
Cambridge International Academy keeps the student-to-teacher ratio low so we can focus on the individual needs of the student and support each child on his or her individual path to success. At Cambridge International Academy, we recognize that students have different learning styles. Our learning environment is set up to meet the needs of students. We use a complete approach which reinforces verbal instruction with visual, audio and written support. This allows students to engage on many levels with the material being presented.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"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."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
The goal at March Academy is to encourage the development of the whole person. Students who are confident in themselves and who can advocate for their needs as learners are successful and can offer more to their communities.
Cambridge International Academy pays equal attention to the emotional, social, and physical aspects of our students with emphasis on intellectual ability. We aim to inspire students to become critical thinkers.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| 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.
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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
Accommodations
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
March Academy's program supports children who struggle with a learning challenge. Accommodations and modifications are integrated into the program and any remediation is a regular part of the delivery of the content when and where necessary. Time and space can sometimes be accommodated for extra support services engaged by families such as occupational, physiotherapy or speech therapy.
CCIA has the flexibility to cater to students who have mild learning disabilities and ADHD. We work closely with parents to set up an academic regime which includes training on the Reading Plus or MyLexia brain based programs, and one-to-one instruction and tutoring as needed. Accommodations are offered in class to help capture the best of a student. High School students wanting an Early Childhood Education or Business focus may have the opportunity to receive modifications in some of the high school courses.
Students who have been diagnosed with a learning disability can be accommodated at March Academy.
When a student demonstrates learning difficulties while attending CCIA, our dedicated teaching staff investigate alternate ways of teaching to help the student grasp the content. Extra help in homework is offered after school. Planning with long term projects is also monitored to ensure the student is meeting deadlines. We offer accommodations such as extra time to write a test and the use of a computer in class. Teacher notes from lessons are also provided to help the student get back on track. When difficulties persist, parents are notified and a parent- teacher meeting is arranged to brainstorm ideas to support the student.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
0%
98%
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
No
No
March Academy is suited for families who seek a smaller academic setting. The environment is suitable for students who, despite best efforts, are not experiencing success at their current school placement. Students may be identified as learning disabled or gifted, be experiencing school anxiety, be 'late bloomers', or be students who enjoy more teacher-student interaction. The smaller setting for learning combined with the supports that that March Academy can provide may also provide a renewed spark for learning in the student.
Cambridge International Academy promotes a school environment where students are self-motivated, have a positive disposition toward learning and have aspirations to contribute to the school and the community in a meaningful way.
Parents are asked to contact the school for a tour and to meet with the staff regarding the learning needs of their child. Students are then asked to spend a day or more at the school to join a class and to follow the school day. Following the visit, school staff and parents will meet to discuss the school-student fit and suitability. If in agreement, students will be allowed to enrol at March Academy at a mutually decided date.
Future students will be required to attend a scheduled interview as well as provide their written responses to two questions. Cambridge International Academy will request a confidential school report from a current homeroom teacher or guidance counselor.
