741 Main Street East, Milton, Ontario, L9T 3Z3, Canada
10 Rosehill Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4T 1G5, Canada
333.1 km
335.4 km
1984
1993
65
113
JK to 8
JK to 12
Coed
Girls
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Progressive
10 to 12
10 to 12
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$9,500 to $16,100
$26,050 to $33,350
No
Yes
0%
20%
None
JK to 12
$0
$6,000
6
8
0%
0%
100%
80%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 12, 2022
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
Oxford Learning Academy was established in 1984 to provide supplemental tutoring, and while it still offers part-time learning, it has also developed a full-time program. Instruction is student-centred, student-paced, and requires more of individual learners than typical classroom instruction. Oxford, of course, has long lead the charge in this regard, and continues to provide an alternative that, for many learners, is transformational, allowing them to achieve their potentials in ways that other instructional approaches simply don’t.
View full reportAll schools, to some extent, defy the various stereotypes that the general population might have about private education. Still, the Linden School is a particularly stark example of that. Founded by Diane Goudie and Eleanor Moore in 1993, the school was intended as a needed and necessary alternative to what was happening in public schools, as well as other private institutions. Goudie had butt heads with other educators by demanding that education be based in a sense of equity, especially as girls and women are concerned. The Linden School is the result, and today it does exactly what Goudie and Moore hoped it would: provide an example of a school for girls that will make a difference in the students' lives and, in turn, encourage them to make a positive difference in the lives of others. The goal, as Moore said at an address at York University, is to educate each student to "to speak with courage--[to] be credible, find a community, listen for all voices, change structures, be a leader and above all make a difference." Since they founded the school, Goudie and Moore have lead by example, earning honorary doctorate of law degrees from York University in recognition of their leadership in the field of education. On receiving the doctorate, Goudie addressed the convocation saying "Ask yourselves the tough questions: What do you want to achieve beyond your paycheque? What are you prepared to risk in order to make a difference in your communities or in the global community?" Those are, of course, very tough questions, and the Linden School is structured around them. For the wrong student, it could be overwhelming. For the right student, it can provide a very strong foundation for a lifetime of engagement, leadership, and success.
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"The teachers at Oxford have been nothing short of amazing."
Pamela Murdoch - Parent (Mar 07, 2024)
My child very much enjoys his new school. He loves learning music, the hands-on art and science expe...
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"The teaching methods are very clear and well-defined."
Sean Wright - Parent (Mar 07, 2024)
We enrolled our son because he required extra help and attention in the classroom that he was not ge...
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An emphasis on community
Caitlin O'Leary - Parent (Jan 23, 2018)
My daughter is very bright, engaged and articulate, but she's also very reserved and shy. She was i...
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"...the girls are encouraged to develop their passions and to voice their own opinions,"
Roseanne Carrara - Parent (Mar 09, 2018)
My daughter came to Linden from an overcrowded Toronto Catholic District School Board classroom wher...
View full review
"Oxford Learning Academy is a learning community with one goal–student success. Oxford Learning is the only education provider that teaches students using the science of cognitive development and has both after-school supplemental education (all grade levels) and a full-day private school (K to grade 8). Students learn how to learn, which boosts their confidence, drive, and enjoyment of learning. Your child will be inspired, supported, and will reach their full potential at Oxford Learning Academy private school."
"Since 1993, Linden’s holistic approach to instilling academic excellence, intersectional thinking, leadership, diversity and inclusion has given students a strong foundation with critical-thinking skills essential for success in today's complex world. Enriched small classes foster student-teacher engagement and love for learning. Students enjoy programs in technology, outdoor ed, multimedia, art, drama, music, athletics and more, taught by highly-regarded specialist faculty. Grads enjoy 100% university acceptance."
"At Oxford Learning Academy, our students will use the proven scientific approach of Cognitive Development to learn new ways of thinking and understand what they are learning and how they are learning. Our students build strong academic skills and develop new ways of thinking, concentrating, listening, and remembering: lifelong skills they can rely on. Our students attain their greatest potential because our skilled team educates them to think critically, confidently, and with intrinsic drive."
"Founded in 1993, Linden is a values-driven independent K-12 school for girls and non-binary students. We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate research-based, innovative, experiential programs for diverse students. Our small and supportive community uses a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage students. Thanks to our award-winning teachers and transformational teaching practices, we are building Canada's best socially progressive school."
"Our small class sizes allows teachers to ensure that students recieve the attention and support they need to be successful. We differentiate our learning so that we are focusing on the strengths of each learner to enhance their learning. Our arts programs are second to none, especially providing the opportunity for students to preform each year at a festival in a professional theatre.
Each year students participate in projects such as Science Fair, Social Studies Projects and Speeches."
"Families chose Linden for the palpable feeling of community, for the innovative approach to providing an enriched, hands-on curriculum, for the small size, and for the high calibre of faculty. “Many schools talk about the ways in which their students find themselves, but in my opinion, Linden delivers this, time and time again. Girls truly do find their voice at Linden.” –Grade 8 Parent"
"Parents are often surprised by the growth they see in their child's confidense in themselves. Our unique approach that teaches students to learn how to learn, helps the students gain this confidence. They are able to tackle new and previously difficult tasks with a new found sense of pride. Parents may also be surprised by the importance placed on student's mental wellbeing, ensuring that students feel safe and secure in their school helps to support their academic preformance."
"Our faculty are highly regarded for their responsive, transformational teaching that inspires the next generation of high-achieving changemakers. We care less about tradition and more about the future. We prioritize what matters most to our students and our inclusive community celebrates equity and diversity."
"At OLA we provide students with a rich arts program. All students at OLA have classes in visual arts, drama, and music. Families may not fully see the importance of these programs in supporting their students' success in school. Each year our art, drama, and music programs culminate with a Festival of the Arts, where the students showcase their skills. OLA has done musicals such as Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and the Lion King. Samples of their art is displayed for families to enjoy."
"We offer a unique athletics program where all students are welcome to participate in a variety of teams—there are no tryouts or “cuts” made since we believe that everyone can be an athlete. Our sports teams are very competitive and make it to the playoff rounds in almost every tournament and league sport, often winning medals and banners!"
"1. Children develop academic intelligence, a vivid imagination, strong learning skills and problem-solving skills through constant recognition and encouragement.
2. Children find joy in the learning process.
3. Our enriched curriculum guides our children into becoming confident leaders of tomorrow.
4. Children are inspired, supported and nurtured while learning in a safe and engaging environment.
5. School and family have a strong partnership that allows children to prosper."
"We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate innovative research on girls’ educational needs.
Four Linden teachers have received the Prime Minister's Teaching Awards.
Small classes & transformational teaching give students an instant sense of belonging.
Every Linden student wants to change the world for the better by exploring their passions & using their critical-thinking skills.
Every Linden high school student chooses more than the required number of STEM courses."
Here at OLA, we work hard every year to achieve excellence in academics and in student activities. The dedication of our teachers and students helps us to reach this goal. Our students and teachers are constantly trying to improve themselves and reach higher standards. It has been a privilege to be the principal of Oxford Learning Academy and to see our students grow and become successful.
Over the years, I have seen students, teachers, parents, and school faculty give time and energy to make our school successful. The strength of our OLA community has contributed to our students’ academic and extra-curricular achievement. Any successful school has a strong community of parents and staff who are involved and supportive, and we therefore expect nothing but the best from our students, inside of the classroom and outside. High expectations and accountability continue to be top priorities for all of us at OLA. We must settle for nothing less than the BEST in our school! Success in anything has one fundamental aspect - EFFORT. The sky is the limit for students at OLA!
Founded in 1993, Linden is a values-driven independent K-12 school for girls and non-binary students. We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate research-based, innovative, experiential programs for diverse students. Our small and supportive community uses a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage students. Thanks to our award-winning STEM teachers and transformational teaching practices, we are building Canada’s best socially progressive school.
Linden’s small class sizes allow for more teacher-student engagement and a strong sense of community across all grades. Linden’s exceptional physical education program with a no “try-outs” policy fosters confidence, teamwork and resilience in our students. Above all, we strive to instill a life-long love of outdoor activity in girls, whether through team sports, camping or STEM and art classes by the nearby ravine.
At Linden, we nurture civic engagement, leadership and community-building through a range of experiential learning projects, from environmental stewardship to media arts and citizen journalism. Even the youngest members of our community know that they have the power to create change and make a difference in their communities.
It is a joy to stay connected with our alumnae and hear about their exciting careers in a range of professions — engineering, computer science, performing arts, international development, and law, to name a few.
Learn more by exploring our website and joining us at our upcoming open house events.
Progressive
Information not available
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Not applicable
It is our goal at OLA to inspire, support, and nurture learning in a safe and engaging environment. Our teachers and administration staff will motivate and inspire their students by being passionate learners themselves. Our programs encourage questions and self discovery allowing each student to develop unique personal growth. Our teaching will be relevant to everyday life, issues, and topics. Students are taught baseline knowledge and theoretical knowledge first, and then challenged to apply this to real world problems. At OLA, French is taught from Kindergarten as well as Social Studies, Science. There is a strong focus on social emotional learning in the kindergarten program as well as early reading and math skills.
We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate innovative research on girls’ educational needs. Our speciality is applying feminist pedagogy through a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage girls. We balance the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements with best practices in girls’ education. Research supports what we know from experience—that girls thrive academically and socially in single-sex environments. Girls are more engaged in their studies when they are empowered to ask questions, debate with each other and their teachers, collaborate in groups, and analyze their course material with a critical lens. This is why we supplement the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum by enriching our courses with relevant and interdisciplinary topics that girls find more meaningful and engaging.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Within all grades there is a weekly focus on building problem solving skills in our math program.
Math specialists teach our elementary students as well as high school students. All Linden students select math in high school and a majority of our alumnae select STEM subjects in their post-secondary studies. Our teachers inspire students to exceed their academic expectations; students who come to Linden and have feared math in the past end up excelling in the subject and taking more than the necessary number of math courses in high school. We excel in connecting students' learning with finding solutions to real-world problems facing their local and global communities.
Nelson Math is used as a primary resource. Oxford Curriuculm is also used. Teachers have access to a variety of supplementary math resources including Singapore Math.
Our program draws from diverse resources based on current research and the needs of our students.
In the primary grades there is a focus on mental math and use of calculators is discouraged unless it is lesson specific. In the higher grades calculators are used only when required for the math problems.
Although there are sometimes rich learning opportunities using calculators, students in Grades 1-8 usually perform calculations without calculators. Students with math-based exceptionalities may use calculators. High school students use calculators for most math-based problem solving.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
In our Early Reading program beginning in Kindergarten children are taught phonics and whole language. Children work with word families and rhyming to help build their knowledge of words that sound the same. In Kindergarten there is a weekly focus on a letter, the sound the letter makes, how to write the letter and the words we know that start with (or contain) that sound. Within the weekly focus the students are taught to read and recognize a site word. It is highlighted in lessons and by the end of the week the children are comfortable reading and using the site word.
Information not available
No
Based on small class sizes that allow deep understanding of individual student needs, we use a variety of assessments.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
As early as Kindergarten children are taught how to write letters using the Handwriting Without Tears program as well as the Oxford Curriculum methods. Once children are confident in writing each letter, and have begun reading and decoding, students are encouraged to begin writing simple words. Their first spelling comes in the form of printing rhyming words. Then builds on these skills and students progress to writing simple sentences. Students receive explicit learning in both printing and cursive throughout their education at OLA. Grammar instruction is also a part of our program.
Information not available
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
At OLA science is an engaging program. Beginning in Kindergarten students are introduced to the scientific method. They learn to wonder, think about, hypothesize, observe, and make conclusions. Combined with a traditional approach to learning scientific concepts, experimentation and inquiry play a major role in our science curriculum. Every year begininning in grade 1 students take part in Science Fair and conduct group and individual projects.
We know that engaging girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) from an early age directly influences their choice of post-secondary education and career paths. Girls who have confidence in their ability in these fields are more likely to perform well in math and science courses. Improving girls’ belief in their abilities is essential as they move from elementary school into middle and high school. Girls are more engaged when taught math and science concepts in the context of real-world phenomena, using real materials to make connections between mathematic and scientific theory, technology, and their everyday lives. This is why even our youngest students conduct experiments in our science lab, participate in math fairs, and learn computer programming. As a result of our engaging pedagogical approach to STEM subjects, every Linden high school student chooses more than the required number of courses in math and science.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
At Oxford Learning Academy students begin doing novel studies in grade 1. Throughout their time at Oxford novel studies are set based on each students indvidual reading level. Students read a variety of texts and genres including more traditional works of literature as well as more contemporary novels.
Research shows that learning improves when girls construct their own understanding of concepts by asking questions, and through discussion and experience rather than by memorizing rules or definitions. We offer a safe environment where our students are encouraged to influence class discussions, to take risks, and to ask questions without fear of failure. We encourage even our youngest students to pose challenging questions and to share their answers courageously. As a result, our students learn to love inquiry. Whether examining media or traditional curriculum materials, our girls ask, “Where is the girl or woman in this story? Who speaks? Who is spoken about? Who benefits? Who loses?” By encouraging students towards intellectual risk-taking and questioning the status quo, we go beyond traditional all-girls schools to incorporate the values of equity, diversity, and social responsibility within our curriculum.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Thematic
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.
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
In the early grades OLA follows the Ontarion Curriculum for social studies. As early as Kindergarten students begin exploring their own local community and themselves, then begin to explore how they relate to the world around them. Through the primary and junior grades students continue to follow the Ontario Curriculum, and use a variety of learning oportunities, direct instruction, research, stories, and story telling, to explore social studies. Each year begininning in grade 1 students participate in a social studies major project which they present to families.
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
In the older grades OLA continues to follow the Ontario Curriculum to meet Social Studies expectations. Students use research, to work through a major project which is presented to the school and school community. Students gain skills in applying the social learning to their own experiences, and learn to consider the perspectives of others.
Information not available
Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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.
Students at OLA begin learning French in Kindergarten from their core teacher. In all higher greades students have 2-3 lessons a week from our phenominal French teacher, who is a fluent speaker of the language.
Information not available
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Creative
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Our Arts programs at OLA are truly a combination of Disciplined and Expressive approaches. Students are provided disciplined instructions on techniques, styles and how to use different tools. Once they have learned the "how to" students are encouraged to use what they have learned to create a unique piece of art. At OLA students learn to preform through Drama lessons which culminates in a Festival show where they preform plays/musicals, and preform on the instruments they have been learning in music.
We encourage creative experimentation and ensure that student artwork is exhibited and celebrated throughout the school on an ongoing basis. Students also become art appreciators and critics by being introduced to the major periods in art history. Linden’s music program teaches students not only to play music, but to analyze and appreciate it as well. Our small classes allow teachers to help each student with playing and singing. Once a girl becomes comfortable on stage, she becomes even more confident using her voice in all areas of her life. This is especially true for our drama program where developing confidence in one’s voice is a critical component. Girls perform and write a wide variety of pieces, including monologues, movement pieces and short plays, culminating in highly successful public performances.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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.
Students are given instruction in 2 streams of computers and technology. They are taught Computer Applications by their homeroom teacher and receive Computer Technology classes from a specialized teacher. In Applications they learn how to use their computers, how to type, and how to use different programs. In Technology classes students are taught the basics of coding which begins in grade 1 and continues through to grade 8.
Bridging the Gender Gap in Computer-Related Fields: Girls and women continue to be under-represented in technology-related fields. Our program gives girls the encouragement, motivation, and skills needed to pursue opportunities in these areas. From the earliest grades, Linden girls are taught to use technology in safe, ethical, and creative ways, and are encouraged to view themselves as producers of technology, not just consumers or end users. Therefore, girls learn programming skills in each grade. We begin with basic logic that explains how computers “think,” and progress toward creating programs using user-friendly interfaces that allow girls to build code, and finally work toward text-based code (such as the Python language) in the middle years. Media literacy is also an important part of the computer studies program and students learn to use a variety of digital tools including word processing software, design and layout tools, spreadsheets, slide-shows, audio-editing software, and movie-making programs.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Oxford Learning Academy believes that being active helps students to maintain a healthy lifestyle and promotes overall wellbeing. Students have PE classes 2 times a week, following the Ontarion Curriculum. Students also have opportunities to participate in specialized classes throughout the year including: soccer, swimming and skating.
Athletics at Linden is a well-rounded curriculum of physical education, health class, and daily physical activity. Our athletics program is recognized for innovative instruction and student engagement. Smiles, sweat, and self-confidence are the products of team training and phys-ed classes at Linden! Linden students have the opportunity to participate in sports such as soccer, ball hockey, basketball and track and field. Joining a sports team does not require tryouts. No one is cut from an after school sports team or judged on their beginning skill level. This unique environment allows students to improve their technique. Breeding self-esteem and a strong sense of self is our way of using sports to empower our students.
Play-based
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.
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.
Oxford Learning Academy believes in the power of education and that every child deserves an education that speaks to their individualized needs. At OLA, every student will receive a personalized education program that speaks to his/her individual needs and talents. To support our academic program we also use inquiry based learning to explore our yearly themes, science lessons, social studies, and social emotional learning. Children are taught to believe in their abilities and gain confidence in themselves. The small class allows for the students to build strong relationships with staff that foster learning.
The Linden School offers a girl-centred, full-day Kindergarten program for children 5 years of age and up. Our program helps establish a strong foundation for learning in the early years within a safe and caring play and inquiry-based environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of all children. Our program consists of a balance of exploration and investigation, play, guided instruction, and explicit instruction. Inquiry-based learning allows children to actively participate in their own learning by asking questions and sharing ideas. To learn more, click here.
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.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
At Oxford Learning Academy, students are able to skip grades in order to remain challenged. Some students can also skip grade levels in a certain subject such as math.
Information not available
Rigorous
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Each student has an individual style of learning. Not all students in a classroom learn a subject in the same way or share the same level of ability. Differentiated instruction is a method of designing and delivering instruction to best reach each student. Oxford Learning Academy teachers spend many hours outside of school to develop lesson plans that are engaging, using differentiated instruction. As we support our students in their learning journey, OLA also demands high academic expectations from our students.
Information not available
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
At Oxford Learning Academy, we put a strong emphasis on preparing our students to become future leaders. We need every single one of our students to develop their talents, skills and intellect in order to help solve our most difficult problems in the future. We work hard to develop, leadership skills, intellectually strong, emotionally confident, socially aware and physically healthy students.
The Globe and Mail recently featured an opinion piece by Associate Principal and STEM Curriculum Leader Beth Alexander, in which she discusses educating with and without screens, students' mental health post-pandemic, AI, and her STEM classroom which she describes as a "joyful mess"! You can read it here.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
In the past OLA has supported students with in class interventions such as extra time, visuals, and appropriate breaks. OLA has also had students recieve some of the curriculum outside of the classroom in a one-to-one direct instruction from a resource teacher. This level of support is one that should be discussed with the principal prior ro registration.
The Linden School views accommodations for students as a partnership with families. We expect families to provide medical, social-emotional, and academic support outside of school as needed.
If a child develops learning diffuculties while a student at OLA, our staff team works together with the family to find the best way to support each child individually. If and IEP is required one will be developed with the teachers, parents and school principal. If a family is interested in enrolling a student who needs more direct support and/or interventions there would be additional fees discussed to ensure that the child's needs are being met. Each situation would be discussed with families at time of registration.
We provide a variety of supports for students with many different learning needs according to their IEPs (Individual Education Plans). We are not currently able to modify the expectations of the Ontario curriculum. Although our teachers are trained in accommodating different needs, we do not offer withdrawal support to a specialized special education classroom. Our smaller class sizes allow teachers to help students overcome challenges through encouragement and greater attention in specific areas of need. Girls are encouraged to ask questions and are mentored to develop their own learning and coping strategies.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
JK - 12
0%
20%
$0
$6,000
100%
80%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 12, 2022
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
We look for families that are commited to a higher education for their children. Students should be ready and willing to learn. A thirst for knowledge, willingness to take risks, try new approaches and an overall desire to excell is something we see in many of our learners.
We welcome girls and other gender minorities from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate intellectual curiosity as well as academic and personal potential. Students who are excited to learn, to share their ideas, and be active participants in our community thrive at Linden.
There are two seperate Registration Fee Streems at Oxford learning Academy:
Little Reader Program (Kindergarten): $500 for full day or $400 for half day
OLA (grades 1-8): $1000
Please note that registration fees are paid annually.
Admissions Application Guide
Our admissions team will be happy to answer all your questions and show you everything Linden has to offer.
1. Explore Linden's Program by Booking a School Visit and Tour
Meet Linden students and faculty, and explore our program and philosophy with a personalized tour of the school. An admission application is not necessary for booking a school visit.
2. Apply
Admission for the 2022-2023 School Year: Mid-year admission is available in many grades! Please follow the requirements outlined below.
Admission for the 2023-2024 School Year: The deadline for admission applications is Monday, December 12, 2022. Applications received after this deadline will be considered on a rolling basis as space permits.
To Apply:
3. Interview & Assessment
4. Admission Offer
6. Experience Linden
Contact Us!
If you have a question about applying to Linden please get in touch: