AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Mulgrave School vs. Progressive Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Mulgrave School's full report
VS.
View Progressive Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    2330 Cypress Bowl Lane, West Vancouver, British Columbia, V7S 3H9, Canada

    13212 106 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5N 1A3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1993

    1983

    Enrolment

    1030

    340

    Grades

    Preschool to 12

    Nursery/Toddler to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

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

    Academic culture

    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”.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    14 to 22

    17 to 22

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $26,850 to $30,290

    $8,700 to $19,500

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    5%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    7 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $15,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    64

    20

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    18%

    100%

    Day entry years

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

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Dec 01, 2023

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 11

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Mulgrave was founded in 1993 on the grounds of the West Vancouver Montessori School, and has grown exponentially since then due to the strength of the program and the school’s earned reputation. Today Mulgrave is home to just over 900 students from pre-school through grade 12, housed within a 150,000 sq. ft. building that includes substantial upgrades completed with the senior school expansion in 2015. The school operates a centre for educational innovation, a clear expression of the administration’s desire to be a model to others, and to continue to evaluate and grow the programs the school offers. So, there's a lot going on, largely driven, as it was at the start, by the members of the community the school serves. The school rightly prides itself on maintaining a close, community feel throughout, while offering a strong academic foundation through the International Baccalaureate and an overall dedication to delivering the curriculum through a global lens. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a vibrant, challenging yet supportive academic environment.

    View full report

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Progressive Academy hits a lot of the sweet spots that parents are looking for when considering private education. The size of the student body is smaller than the mean for schools across Canada, and affords a more individual, personal approach to instruction. The students are known by faculty, staff, and peers, and therefore quickly gain a sense of place and belonging. That said, the school is large enough to provide a good range of curricular programs and extracurricular activities. Students have the opportunity to try activities that they perhaps wouldn't attempt in larger, more competitive settings. A strong academic program is delivered in consort with an attention to interpersonal skills and social and emotional development. The school is a particular draw for families looking for a balanced program, one that builds from the students’ interests and creativity, yet supports them to reach a bit beyond their immediate comfort zones. 

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    "Mulgrave is a gender-inclusive, non-secular Pre-K to Grade 12 IB World School nestled in the forested slopes of West Vancouver. We inspire students to be self-motivated critical thinkers, young leaders, and active, responsible citizens in a global community. Mulgrave offers a wide range of enrichment activities in athletics, outdoor education, service and leadership, and the arts. Our students, diverse yet united in their values, support and care for one another as they strive to achieve their personal best."

    • IB (International Baccalaureate) World School
    • Academic excellence within a holistic education
    • Wide range of social and cultural opportunities
    • Fostering personal best in the classroom and beyond
    • Dedicated, enthusiastic, and exceptional teaching staff
    • Diverse, engaged community of families
    • Personalised approach to learning
    • Focus on student wellbeing and identity
    • Remarkable, purpose-built facilities
    • Commitment to student-centred innovation

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    "Progressive Academy is a multicultural, coed, academic school for students from age 3 to grade 12. We connect learning with living, explore interests and pursue passions. Creating with purpose, energy and joy are the hallmarks of Progressive Academy students. Rigor in core subjects, at the best pace for each student, provides the foundation for pursuit of knowledge and skills. Choice in a wide range of subjects such as robotics, musical theatre, and sports is the fuel to inspire learning."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    "Why Mulgrave? can be answered in so many ways - each as unique as our students themselves. A few of the most cited reasons include: outstanding individual care and attention and focus on wellbeing; development of an individual’s character, personal skills, and qualities, and values; balanced programme of the arts, athletics, outdoor education, and service learning alongside academics; world-renowned IB programmes; highly skilled teaching faculty; and our diverse and engaged community."

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    "Families come to visit our campus and describe the feeling as 'Mulgrave magic'. Our campus is beautiful and our location is spectacular, but it is our warm and inviting community of learners, teachers, and families that contribute to something truly special. Mulgrave students are encouraged to be their personal best, to be allies and advocates, and to follow their passions. While the IB programme offers academic rigour, we hold student wellbeing at the heart of our purpose."

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    "Families new to Mulgrave come to quickly appreciate the openness and community at Mulgrave. It may be cliche to say we're family, but it's true! We delight in having parents, grandparents, and loved ones volunteer at our school. Teachers and leaders are approachable and happy to engage with families in partnership in their child's education. Parents and caregivers chat in parking lots and enjoy a cup of coffee together at drop-off. Students connect across grade levels in support of one another."

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    information not available

    There are so many benefits to sending your child to a school that recognizes the incredible potential of each individual.

    Progressive Academy strives to develop well-rounded advanced learners, capable of becoming the entrepreneurs of the future. We develop confidence with intention. Our approaches to education stress understanding through discovery, yet ensure that the necessary base skills are well developed, opening the door for students to pursue subjects as far forward as they are want. 

    Students are exposed to many required classes including French and Mandarin as second languages, art history, music (including concert band in Junior High), robotics, as well as many options including public speaking, programming, photography, and sports like fencing and equestrian. Our students perform regularly during the school year to build their confidence and comfort with being in front of crowds.

    Our school is best characterized as academic. Students are encouraged to learn beyond their grade or age might dictate. We follow the passion for learning of the student, rather than hold them back based on age. Our highly individualized approach helps students learn at an early age that they are directly responsible for their own development.

     

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      International Baccalaureate

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      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.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      At Mulgrave, our vision for learning is informed by our school's aims and values and is encapsulated within our learning model. We truly want students’ learning at Mulgrave to be personalised and very special. We want our students... to enjoy and be passionate about learning throughout their school career and beyond. to understand themselves and how they learn and be genuinely active and reflective in the learning process. to be increasingly independent in their learning whilst being able to collaborate and be genuine co-constructors of knowledge and understanding. to be confident, connected and informed digital citizens and self-directed, enquirers, and risk takers. to be creative and innovative in the way they work and think. to be supported, challenged and cared for by their teachers and each other.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      Progressive Academy implements the Alberta Provincial curriculum as a starting point. Students are not bound by grades or constrained by time in their forward progress through the curriculum. High expectations for full understanding and ability to use what has been learned determine forward progress. Authentic learning opportunities provide meaning for curriculum expectation. Students are often in multi-grades classes and are encouraged to perform at their highest level while mentoring younger student in their work.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Balanced Literacy

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Phonics-intensive


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        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.

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Early literacy begins at age three, where our students start to read and write using phonics. Our expectations by grade school are that students are one or several years ahead of norms for reading levels.


        DIBELS testing

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        No

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Equal balance

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Not applicable

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Not applicable

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Not applicable

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Equal Balance

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Expanding Communities

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Communicative

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Equal Balance

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Fine arts are integral to our program for a well balanced student. Art history, performing in French and Mandarin, drama and musical theatre are all part of developing our students' confidence.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Heavy integration

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Progressive integrates FIRST Robotics programs into our curriculum, so all students get exposed to technology in a fun, competitive environment. All students are required to have laptops starting in grade four, as our program includes teaching such skills as computer programming, CAD, computer graphics editing and publishing. Additional instruction is available for accelerated students in things like electronics, web design and advanced programming.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        MULGRAVE SCHOOL

        Physical education is combined with health education to provide students with a wealth of opportunities to establish good habits.

        PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      Our approach to preschool and Kindergarten is in alignment with our approach to learning at all grade levels. Our IB curriculum extends into our PK3 and PK4 programmes and provides students with a strong inquiry-based foundation that sparks their curiosity and kicks off their journeys as life-long learners. While we generally classify our preschool as 'play-based' and Kindergarten as 'academic', in reality, we provide a balance of both, believing in each child's capacity to explore their potential in literacy and numeracy, as well as the importance of learning from the daily interactions they have with their natural and social surroundings.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      By creating engaging environments and providing authentic learning experiences our young learners actively engage in learning and reflection. Whether it is a tour of the city to examine 2D and 3D shapes in Edmonton's architecture, or a study of bugs in the yard - Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten students learn the basic of research - observation. Literacy, communication skills and numeracy are woven into your students daily activities. Our high interactive phonics programs find most of our students with beginning reading skills before they enter Kindergarten.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      Accelerated

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      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).

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      We offer standard- and higher-level IB diploma courses, Mandarin language streams for native and non-native speakers, and online courses. As well, we have well-staffed learning support centres that serve as resources for our teachers as they work to provide differentiated and personalised instruction for all our students.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      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”.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      We want our students' learning to be experiential, relevant and authentic. All this so that they can achieve their personal best and, more importantly, take with them skills and qualities to live better lives as lifelong learners and stewards of our world. We want our students to have high expectations for themselves, and we provide the support they need to achieve their dreams.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      At Progressive Academy we have high expectations. We expect our students to understand what they are learning and demonstrate their ability to incorporate their learning into their lives. We expect our students to learn how to learn, to take responsibility for their learning, to reflect on their learning and to help others. We expect our students to help shape a better world in their daily lives as students.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

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

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MULGRAVE SCHOOL

      We recognise that learning happens through the holistic educational experience of our students through the IB academic programmes of the formal curriculum, through the enormous range of curriculum enrichment that happens through co-curricular and other programmes and through what our students experience at home and outside school. We regard a Mulgrave education as an important part of their total education.

      PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

      At Progressive Academy we believe that all of our students can shine in all domains. Each student is naturally more capable in some domains than others, but by providing tools and working together, everyone can succeed intellectually, emotionally, socially, physically, and spiritually.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    5%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $15,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    18%

    100%

    Day entry years

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

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Dec 01, 2023

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Preschool - 11

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 1 - 11

    Yes: grades 3 - 12

    Entrance essay required

    Yes: grades 7 - 11

    Yes: grades 10 - 12

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    Mulgrave looks for students who will profit from its enriched programme and who will be able to contribute their own special talents, abilities, imagination, and curiosity to the school community.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    MULGRAVE SCHOOL

    To learn more about our application process (which varies by grade), please visit our website here

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

MULGRAVE SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

PROGRESSIVE ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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