AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Nancy Campbell Academy vs. The Country Day School

one-to-one comparison:

View Nancy Campbell Academy's full report
VS.
View The Country Day School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    45 Waterloo St S, Stratford, Ontario, N5A 4A8, Canada

    13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario, L7B 1K5, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1994

    1972

    Enrolment

    425

    806

    Grades

    7 to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Boarding, 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.
    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

    Liberal Arts

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    Academic culture

    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”.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    5 to 18

    18

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    In-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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

    $15,750

    $32,450

    Boarding Tuition

    $32,275 to $37,275

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    15%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    7 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $11,700

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    71

    54

    Percent in boarding

    29%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

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

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Dec 01, 2023

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    “In the 50 years since its founding, The Country Day School has managed to retain its small-school, community feel while growing to offer students rich academic, artistic, outdoor, and athletic programs on a modern campus.” “Nurturing academic excellence and challenging students are key priorities, but not at the expense of the whole child’s development.” “Everyone wants to be successful, and our teachers push us to get to the next level, but all in a supportive atmosphere where the goal is to get us ready to be independent, motivated learners.”
    Read The Our Kids Review of The Country Day School

    Our Take

    Our Take

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Founded in 1994, Nancy Campbell Academy is a preparatory school intending to provide a strong academic program, a foundation in character development, and to deliver students prepared to succeed in university. Gordon Naylor, the founder, remains as principal, giving valuable consistency to leadership. Over that time, curriculum was developed to address the overarching concepts of world citizenship, consistent with the provisions of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It can risk sounding lofty, though the school works to ground those ideals within the day to day. “If we can create an environment that is based in an ethical way of doing things,” says Naylor, “then we can demonstrate what we’re about, rather than just posting something on the wall saying this is what we’d like to be.” Certainly, reports from students, parents, and alumni vouch for the success of the approach. Students are encouraged not just to consider the concepts of ethical citizenship, but to think about what they, personally, can bring to the world. Academic achievement is a source of social capital within the setting; this is a place where it’s very much cool to be smart, engaged, and curious. The student body is diverse, and the program is designed specifically to address the needs of international learners arriving from overseas. The program, in turn, is strengthened by the breadth of and diversity of perspectives that they bring with them. The size of the student population—enrolment averages 80 students across the secondary grades—ensures that every member is known to faculty and peers, and feels part of the school community.

    View full report

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    The Country Day School (CDS) began, literally, over a dinner one evening in 1971. The region was in the process of amalgamating schools, which meant that students who had been attending local schools would be bussed to larger, more suburban ones. That didn’t sit well, in part because of the bussing involved, but also because of the sense of community that students had and, presumably, would lose by going to schools further afield. Seven families decided to do something about it, to take things into their own hands, and to build a school that would continue what had been developed in the rural, country schools that their children had been attending. (The name refers to that, as well as to the country day school movement that had been developing in the US since the late 19th century, with a period of renewed growth in the 1960s and 70s.) They didn’t have any experience building a school, but they turned to those who did, including Dick Howard, then head of Upper Canada College. “You’ve got to get a feel for the community,” was Howard’s advice, “who’s in it and how they perceive education.” And, for the next two years, that’s exactly what they did, speaking with families, and building a conceptual outline for what the school could be.
     
    When CDS opened its doors in 1972, it was, in every way, an expression of the community that created it. The school has grown since then—enrollment has grown from 49 in that first year to over 700 today—and the community it sits within has grown and changed, too. Nevertheless, the school remains very much an expression of the families that turn to it. The size of the school allows for a very rich, robust extra-curricular program, and students are gently required to experience all aspects of it. The physical plant of the school has been significantly augmented through a recent and very sizable capital campaign. The core program continues to be underwritten by the values that the founding families intended to express, namely a sense of belonging, empathy, inclusion, and respect. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a vibrant, diverse, student-centred environment.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "The school has a unique educational sense and a commitment to the development of our children's education..."
    Walquiria Francato - Parent   (Nov 06, 2019)
    Nancy Campbell Academy for My Daughter and Family is the realization of a dream. The school has a u... View full review

    "The school staff cares deeply about the student body's well-being. There are constant consultations and actions being put into place..."
    Gabriel Quinn - Alumnus   (Nov 06, 2019)
    My experience attending Nancy Campbell spanned from age 15 to 18 and were the most formative years o... View full review

    "My child used to be shy, reluctant to talk, but changed a lot after attending NCA."
    Angela Zhang - Parent   (Nov 19, 2019)
    My child enjoyed and appreciated the warm, family-like atmosphere and a solid academic foundation at... View full review

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Building experience and leadership
    Liz Diaz - Parent   (Feb 03, 2018)
    Balanced education which means his receives great education and many options to participate in other... View full review

    "Parents are involved in the life of the school on many levels."
    Jennifer Sanderson - Parent   (Nov 02, 2021)
    Both of our children went to The Country Day School from Kindergarten through to graduation. They ar... View full review

    "The teaching staff at The Country Day School are top-notch!"
    Jane Cathers - Parent   (Nov 02, 2021)
    My daughter started grade 9 at CDS last year and right from day one she was very impressed with CDS,... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "NCA invests in STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, our TEACHERS & TECHNOLOGY. Experience a superior education where youth address world issues using the ARTS. State of the art MEDIA Room / Robotics & STEM / Mentorship for capacity building."

    • Academic Excellence - NCA students are often awarded substantial university scholarships.
    • Small Classes - many classes have 5-11 students for plenty of individual attention.
    • 100% University Placement - all grads (past 2 yrs) were accepted at their first-choice university.
    • Reasonable Tuition for a Superior Education - NCA is a not-for-profit school.
    • Leadership is developed through 19 moral capabilities.
    • Youth can move the world - NCA is a social justice school that creates change.
    • Unique Education Model - NCA students learn to choose happiness.
    • International and Local Service Opportunities
    • ESL Program - ask us about our guaranteed university pathway programs.
    • Focus on S.T.E.M. & The Arts - state-of-the-art media facility and active S.T.E.M. clubs.

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    "Situated on a 100-acre campus just north of Toronto among the rolling hills of King Township, The Country Day School is a leading JK-12 co-ed independent school. Since 1972, the dynamic and friendly CDS community has been nurturing student talent and fulfilling promise. Our innovative approach to learning integrates leading-edge technology, sophisticated facilities and exceptional teaching. We offer a superior educational experience that is sensitive to each student's individual needs, enables learning and equips them for life. Emphasizing education with balance, CDS provides diverse opportunities in academics, athletics, and visual and performing arts. Plus, students of all ages also love to explore our sprawling campus for outdoor education activities. This is a place of possibilities where students unearth their passions and everyone feels known, supported and inspired. CDS is a school where each graduate can answer the biggest question of all: Who will you be? Learn more at www.cds.on.ca."

    • Nurture academic excellence
    • Build sound and honourable character
    • Raise social and global awareness
    • Advocate fitness for life
    • Employ talented people
    • Promote community involvement
    • Foster artistic passion and expression
    • Create a place where all are welcome
    • Develop the finest campus resources

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "By focusing on helping students find purpose and happiness in their lives, NCA is creating an educational experience that goes beyond just academics.
    Research has shown that having a sense of purpose and happiness can have a positive impact on academic achievement, as well as overall well-being. By teaching students how to choose happiness as a lifestyle, NCA is equipping students with important life skills that can serve them well both in and outside of the classroom."

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    "At CDS, we help students realize their brightest future, and equip them with the knowledge, abilities and perspectives they need to navigate their journey with empathy, fortitude and confidence.
    We do this by offering an education with balance that includes outstanding academics & arts programs, excellent extra-curricular clubs and leadership opportunities (including a world-recognized Debating program), and expansive athletic offerings, all supported by our highly dedicated teachers."

    Array

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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "NCA values the whole student and is committed to promoting their personal growth and development, as well as their academic success. By providing an education that supports students' happiness and purpose, NCA may be helping to create a learning environment that is positive, engaging, and inspiring."

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    "Prospective parents either hear about CDS’s warm and friendly teachers via word of mouth or get a sense of its caring community firsthand hand while touring and find themselves imagining their students here.
    As well, they consistently comment on how impressed they are by our confident and kind student ambassadors when visiting our school and want their children to be part of it. We actively work at creating an environment where kids can feel comfortable and happy in their learning and it shows."

    Array

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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "Having a high IQ is no longer sufficient for success in today's world. In addition to cognitive abilities, social and emotional intelligence are becoming increasingly important for leadership and success in many fields. This is why Nancy Campbell Academy's emphasis on developing well-rounded leaders with high EQ is so relevant and valuable by teaching students how to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships."

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    "While we consistently offer balance in a nurturing and supportive academic setting, we are also a university preparatory school with rigorous academic offerings that can challenge students on that playing field as well. There is an academic strength here that can challenge the mightiest of learners with a broad range of curriculum offerings and teachers who will help them soar."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "By investing in state-of-the-art technology and providing opportunities for hands-on learning, NCA is creating an educational experience that is both relevant and exciting for students.

    The use of technology like VR learning and robotics not only helps to keep students engaged in their learning, but it also provides them with valuable skills that they can use in their future careers. By partnering with leading robotic firms in Canada, NCA is also giving students access to real-world experiences"

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    "There are probably lots of answers to this question, but the main one is how deeply rooted the sense of community is at CDS, starting with how well the teachers get to know each student. The expression Support, Know and Inspire is taken very seriously by every faculty member. Likewise, the more effort our students (and parents) make to become involved, the more rewarding their CDS journey will be. Amazing lunches in our Dining Hall, incredible facilities and a 100-acre campus also top the list!"

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    From Shanghai to Paris, from the Canadian Arctic to Argentina, Nancy

    Campbell Academy has welcomed students from all over the world to

    experience authentic happiness. As they pursue their academic studies they are

    morally strengthened by our capacity-building programme. By strengthening

    their ethical capability they are well prepared to make a difference to their

    families, their communities and the world!

    It is through the experience of learning to be of service to others as an integral

    centre of our curriculum that they build on their strengths. Giving creates

    happiness and joy. On our foundation of ‘Nineteen Moral Capabilities’, students

    develop positive qualities, attitudes and skills while gaining insight thus motivating them to

    build their inner moral architecture, so necessary to be successful.

    We have demonstrated our capacity to inspire leaders of the future. Our students do their

    best to contribute meaningfully, while achieving excellence in their academics! In the spirit of

    the pursuit of happiness through service to humankind we are confident students will be

    inspired to learn, to grow and achieve their true potential!

    Warm Regards

    Gordon Naylor

    Principal

    What do I love most about The Country Day School? That’s a good question. It is the overwhelming sense of community I discovered the first time I visited.

    Community still remains at the core of all that we do here at CDS. In 1971 a group of committed parents first conceived of the idea to start a co-ed private school in King and worked tirelessly to open our doors to 47 students just a year later. CDS has since grown to 810 students with offerings in JK-12 and beautifully situated in the original 100-acre country setting.

    This is a place where your children can come be themselves and feel encouraged and supported in everything they do. Our tagline – Education with Balance – speaks to our balanced offerings of a wide range of individualized academics, athletics, arts and extra-curriculars that will cultivate a passion in every student and help them achieve a healthy balance. I encourage you to experience some wonderful examples of this by watching our Portrait of a Graduate videos.

    Are you just starting your search for an independent school? Or are you well on your way to making a decision?

    Whatever stage you are at in this important process, I invite you to explore our website and social media presence, and then attend an Open House or request a personal visit. Once you step onto our campus for a face-to-face visit, you will witness firsthand the feeling of community I talked about earlier.

    Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to meeting you soon.


    John Liggett,
    Head of School

     

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Liberal Arts


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Information not available

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      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.

      THE COUNTRY DAY 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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      By using the Ontario Ministry Curriculum, NCA is ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that is recognized and valued by universities and employers. Emphasizing academic integrity and the importance of studying the arts and sciences for the benefit of society can also help students develop a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. The emphasis on happiness and well-being is also important for fostering academic success. When students are happy and feel supported, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their learning, which can lead to better academic outcomes.

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      At CDS we are mindful that as students enter the final stages of their educational journey with us, they will be confronted with very difficult life choices, not least of which are post-secondary destinations. We offer the Ontario Secondary School curriculum, as well as Advanced Placement courses. As students move through their Senior School years, the number and range of optional course offerings increase to reflect greater levels of independence and choice, so that by their final year students have more than 20 optional courses from which to choose. Our Senior School staff is committed to a yearly academic renewal process in which new courses are vetted for consideration to ensure students have the opportunity to fully engage their interests and cultivate the skills necessary for future success.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Equal Balance

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Nancy Campbell Academy offers a blended Math program. Our advantage of small class sizes and mentorship allows teachers to build knowing relationships with your child. That strong rapport enables the teacher to differentiate instruction of the curriculum according to each student's needs. This enables your child to feel comfortable, engaged, and encourages continual learning in the mathematics classroom.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        In the delivery of the Ontario Ministry of Education, curriculum NCA uses the textbooks approved by the Ministry. A complete list can be found on their website by clicking on the Ontario Trillium list. This list is continuously updated.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        It is important that students have mathematical literacy and fluency so they are not dependent on calculators for simple mathematics. However, learning to use calculators quickly and effectively is important to be successful in many university math courses.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Equal Balance

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        NANCY CAMPBELL 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.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        At Nancy Campbell Academy, students are exposed to an equal balance of inquiry and expository based sciences, in all streams (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Space). In all streams, students are asked to explore the unknown with an inquisitive mind and are encouraged to ask questions and search for answers.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

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

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Physics

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Equal Balance

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

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

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Using the Ontario Curriculum, our teachers help Grades 9-12 students become adept in four strands of communication, including oral speaking and listening, reading, wring, and media. We expose students to a range of literary forms from various time periods and nations and encourage them to think critically about these texts' relationships to historical context, social justice issues, and to the students' own understanding of the world. Every grade builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the preceding grade. We review and add to a list of literary devices required for conducting literary analysis in oral discussion and writing. With each successive grade, students also engage in a more rigorous process of essay planning and writing. Finally, students acquire increasingly sophisticated skills in processing, research, and presenting that are needed in post-secondary and in the workplace.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

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

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

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

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Communicative

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        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.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        At Nancy Campbell Academy, Grade 9 Core French is offered. The course follows the Ontario French as a Second Language curriculum. The four areas emphasized are Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. These skills are developed in order to use them for understanding, interacting and to promote intercultural understanding. The ESL program teaches Listening and Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Socio-Cultural Competence and Media Literacy. Furthermore the 19 Moral Principles that serve as the foundation to Nancy Campbell are included throughout these four traditional strands. Students enjoy the benefits of small group instruction, which include frequent opportunities to speak and one on one attention from the teacher. ESL is offered grade 9 to 12 in addition to our summer camp ESL credit program and our after school tutor program aimed at assisting ESL students with any of there current courses at all levels.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

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

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        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)

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Information not available

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        NANCY CAMPBELL 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

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Art connects us across barriers of time, space, and language. It celebrates our diversity, brings beauty into the world, and can promote the noblest ideals of humanity. The arts come to life and fulfill their highest purpose when they contribute to the advancement of society and the betterment of the world. Arts Programs at Nancy Campbell Academy provides students with opportunities to develop their skills and capacities in various branches of the arts, cultivate their aesthetic sensibilities, and explore their own creativity. Emphasis is placed on positive personal transformation through the practice of focus, self-discipline, collaboration, and courage to push beyond personal boundaries. Our goal is to cultivate responsible young artists with a desire to use their artistic talents and capacities to enrich their lives and contribute to the lives of others.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Heavy integration

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        NANCY CAMPBELL 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.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        All of our teachers are integrating technology into the classroom across every subject. A few courses revolve heavily around technology including "Introduction to Computer Studies" and "Communications Technology". Hardware and software are both used and learned in this courses to achieve a variety of goals including taking apart a computer and putting it back together, coding a game from scratch, recording and editing video, audio, and pictures, 3D design, and website implementation.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        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

        NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

        At Nancy Campbell Academy, students are encouraged to live a well-balanced life. As part of this, students are required to take one physical education course. This course allows students to participate in a wide variety of activities, allowing them to work individually and as part of a group to expand their capacity and understanding of the importance of being physically healthy. This course also exposes the students to the requirements of a healthy balanced life.

        THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      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

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Information not available

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      A successful kindergarten program encourages curiosity and imagination. Our full-day developmental program provides our students with a balance between academically appropriate activities covering math, language, science and social studies, and fosters a sense of mutual respect, responsibility and a positive attitude toward learning.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Students are given the opportunity to take courses online, pursue co-ops, and engage in internships in keeping with their unique interests, schedules, and goals. Those pursuing independent learning are paired with mentor teachers who are experienced in the subject matter and oversee the successful completion of the course.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      NANCY CAMPBELL 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”.

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      At NCA it is expected that all students strive for academic excellence, cultivate discipline, and achieve high standards. In today's overly competitive environments that consider discouragement and criticism to be the norm, we stand apart by fostering encouragement combined with high standards. NCA students achieve distinction because they are motivated and happy. They seek out opportunities to support one another, realizing that the fulfillment of the unique potential of their friends and class-mates is important too. Our school prides itself in fostering a supportive and distinct learning environment, which promotes academic excellence within a framework of happiness and moral leadership.

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      We really work at making sure that students meet their potential and go on to thrive from there. In the Senior School, we require students have a 70% average to promote them, but also take into account if they've had struggles in their home lives or whether there are other relevant factors. Our teachers and courses do provide academic rigour because we are a university preparatory school, but we are not a pressure-cooker school. We want students to be successful, but we also want them to be well and happy in that success.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

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

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

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

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      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

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Our unique educational model and school environment transform students. We consider intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development as synergistic and inter-related. The discipline required for athletic sports, artistic pursuits, and moral leadership enable students to build capacity in multiple areas of their lives including academics. Every NCA student has the right to be one of tomorrow's leaders, and our program helps shape them into thoughtful, empowered, and high achieving young people.

      THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

      CDS provides an intellectually challenging, diversified and balanced academic program that is learner-centered. At the heart of The Country Day School’s academic vision is the belief that all students can achieve success and meet their learning goals. A one-size-fits-all approach to learning does not serve the best interests of most students who approach their studies from various learning styles and preferences and at differing stages of skill development. To this end, we diversify our instructional strategies, the content of our curricula and our assessment methods to create an overall approach that focuses on how students are learning and ensures success.

  • 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

    NANCY CAMPBELL 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

    THE COUNTRY DAY 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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    • The CDS Public Speaking and Debating Club has sent a student to the World Championships 16 years in a row and brought back a World Champion in 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022.
    • Although still a fairly young team, the Cyclone Robotics Team has become a force to contend with at both recent VEX and FRC competitions.
    • CDS Sports teams regularly win medals at CISAA in Boys' Hockey, Girls' Volleyball, Boys' and Girls' Rugby, Snowboarding and Track & Field. This past year the Girls' Snowboard team brought home their first OFSAA banner and the Track & Field team smashed all previous CDS OFSAA records, bringing home two Silvers in Senior Boys' hurdles and sending a recent graduate to the compete in the U20 Junior Pan Am Games in Costa Rica.
    • Drama, Music and the Visual Arts are alive and well at CDS and offer ample opportunities for our students to showcase their talents on the stage and in the galleries. Visit www.cds.on.ca/page/balance/arts
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    15%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $11,700

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

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

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Dec 01, 2023

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades 7 - 9

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    It sounds like NCA values community, encouragement, and finding purpose in one's pursuits. NCA is looking for students who are interested in academic excellence, promoting good citizenship, and social justice. NCA also values creativity and innovation in the arts, sciences, and technology. Students who are interested in being part of a supportive and collaborative community of learners, and who are eager to make a positive impact on the world around them, may be a good fit for NCA.

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    The Country Day School recruits students who have the desire and potential to engage in their studies and embrace all facets of school life. A balanced education includes academics, athletics, the arts, service and opportunities to learn otuside of the classroom. The admission process identifies students who will thrive in the CDS environment so that we will continue to meet our objective of developing students who are confident, independent, intellectually curious, morally responsible, appreciative of the arts, physically fit and globally aware.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Admission Requirements

    Student admission is based on a three part process.

    1. Assessment of documents that include transcripts or report cards, I.E.P. (if applicable), psychological assessments (if applicable), the student’s letter of intent (stating why they might like to attend Nancy Campbell Academy and what they might contribute to our student body), certificates and proof of accomplishments and letters of reference. 

    2. Interview between student and vice principal or head of school. Approximately 30 minutes (can be done in person, by telephone or on Zoom). This is not a pass or fail situation - it is set up to get to know the student and to see how we can best meet the student’s needs and determine if it is a good school-student match. Students willing to learn is paramount. 

    3. The information gleaned about the student from parents or agents and any other professionals involved in the student’s life (health professionals, psychologists, etc.).

    Students that are accepted receive an acceptance letter and students that are not accepted receive a denial letter with steps outlining what they could do better to reapply in the future.

    Admission Process

    Step 1: Complete the application and return it to the school with a copy of the applicant’s most

    recent transcript or report cards from the previous school (previous 2 years) and a photocopy of

    passport (photo page only) and immunization record.

    Step 2: Documents are reviewed and the interview is scheduled for the student.

    Step 3: An Invoice for the deposit is issued to the student with instructions on how to pay.

    Step 4: Applicant is interviewed by the Principal or Vice-Principal (personal, telephone or skype).

    Step 5: A Letter Of Invitation is issued to the successful candidate with the final invoice.

    Unsuccessful candidates will receive a letter outlining the reasons and the deposit will be refunded.    

    Step 6: Upon acceptance of the invitation and receipt of the payment in full, a Letter of Acceptance, Custodianship, and an account

    statement is e-mailed to the International students. The Letter of Acceptance and Custodianship

    declaration can be used as evidence to support an application for a Canadian study visa. 

    Step 7: International students arrive at the school with an original copy of the following documents: Study

    Permit and Visa; School records of the previous study; Immunization Record.

    *If documents are not in English, they must have an official notarized translation.

     

    THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

    Submit completed Application Package

    • The completed Application Form including the Confidential Teacher Report Form
    • Current school Report Cards and final reports from the previous two years
    • Photograph of the applicant
    • Birth Certificate or passport (photocopy)
    • Application fee of $150 (non-refundable) made by cheque, payable to The Country Day School
  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Dr. Munir Squires (2000)
    Assistant Professor at the Vancouver School of Economics, University of British Columbia. Dr. Squires has his PhD. in Economics from the London School of Economics.
    Hoda Paripoush (2000)
    Hoda Paripoush, owner of Sloane Tea, is one of the first certified tea sommeliers in North America and the first to receive accreditation from both Canadian and US tea associations.
    Jordan Kotras (2001)
    Jordan Kotras is an award winning assistant director based out of the United Kingdom. Some TV shows he's worked on include Netflix Exclusive Sex Education, Casual+y and Flying Tiger, among others.
    Dr. Amgad Squires (2001)
    Dr. Squires is a published biomedical physicist that has been featured in various academic journals including Nature, European Heart Journal and others.
    Lua Shayenne (2001)
    Lua Shayenne is a dance instructor at Ryerson University and an internationally acclaimed performance artist.
    Allister Foster (2001)
    Allister Foster, a Bahama native, is a cinema photographer. You've seen his work in Netflix shows Lost in Space, Lucifer and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, as well as Fear The Walking Dead and more.
    Dr. Lita Cameron (2001)
    Dr. Lita Cameron is a medical physician based in Hamilton, Ontario. She is a graduate of Simon Fraser University, The University of Oxford and received her M.D. from McMaster University.
    Yoland Senik (2005)
    Yoland Senik is an award-winning architect that focuses on environmentally-friendly designs. She attended OCAD University and OTIS College of Art & Design in California, USA.
    Dr. Alexander Miloff (2004)
    Dr. Miloff lectures at Stockholm University. He has attended Queen's University, Brag University in Bangladesh, University of Ottawa and received a PhD. in Psychology from Stockholm University.
    Tahirih Thimm (2002)
    Tahirih Thimm received her LLD. in International and Comparative Law from Osgood Hall Law School. She has worked for the United Nations as a climate activist and currently teaches at Brescia College.
    View all

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Victor Mete (2016)
    Victor Mete is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League (NHL).
    Elvis Stojko (1991)
    Elvis Stojko is a three-time World champion (1994, 1995, 1997), two-time Olympic silver medalist (1994, 1998), and seven-time Canadian champion (1994, 1996–2000, and 2002).
    Adriana Leon (2010)
    Adriana Leon is a Canadian professional soccer player for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women's Soccer League and member of the Canada women's national soccer team.
    Barclay Goodrow (2011)
    Forward for New York Rangers and Two-time Stanley Cup Champion
    JP Saxe (2011)
    JUNO Award-winning singer-songwriter best known for his collaboration with American singer Julia Michaels titled "If the World Was Ending" released in 2019. The song was also nominated for a Grammy.
    Hart Jackson (2002)
    Investigator in the Systems Biology Program at the Lunenfeld-Tanebaum Research Institute at Sinai Health in Toronto.
    McKinley Hunt (2015)
    Played Women's Rugby for Team Canada in the 2022 World Cup and Educator

Compare:

NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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