189 Weldrick Road East, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4C 0A6, Canada
Blyth Academy Lawrence Park, 2660 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2J5, Canada
Indirect Support:
189 Weldrick Road East, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4C 0A6, Canada
Blyth Academy Lawrence Park, 2660 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2J5, Canada
1986
2015
600
90
Preschool to 8
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Science and technology
Academic
Traditional, Montessori
Liberal Arts
16 to 20
8 to 16
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$25,000 to $26,800
$23,550 to $27,750
No
Yes
0%
4%
None
7 to 12
$0
$6,500
50
15
0%
0%
0%
95%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
9, 10, 11, 12
Nov 17, 2020
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
RHMS was established in 1986, and has grown considerably over the years to where it sits now with an annual student population of 600. That’s big in the world of private schooling, particularly given that the program only covers preschool through Grade 8. Size can be a strength, to be sure, and Richmond Hill is a prime example of that. The program is broad and deep, with extensive curricular and extracurricular offerings. The campus has been developed throughout the life of the school, and today is an example, in every way, of how good a facility school can be, both aesthetically and practically. Classroom appointments are up to date throughout, including in-class technology that incorporates a full range of instructional devices and applications. All resources are applied in sympathy with the core program of the school and the values that undergird it. And, despite the size of the student population as a whole, the segmentation of the primary and elementary programs, in consort with the low student to teacher ratios, the lived experience of the school is quite close-knit and personal. Over the past three decades plus RHMS has done a lot, and in all the right ways, and the school certainly lives up to its reputation.
View full reportSam Blyth founded Blyth Academy in an understanding that as the world changes the needs of students change, and education therefore must evolve to meet them. Throughout the decades of its life, Blyth Academy has consistently proven its ability to meet that mandate. It began by offering a global curriculum, one that covered the basic literacies as well as collaborative and leadership skills. In addition to 10 brick-and-mortar campuses, Blyth Academy Online, launched in 2014 and offers asynchronous courses that students can start at any time throughout the calendar year. In response to the COVID crisis, Blyth Academy Orbit added a synchronous virtual school to the offering, bringing all the schedules, teachers, peers and relationships of a traditional academic experience, the only difference being that all was mounted entirely. In all, it’s hard to imagine a school more suited to our time or making more out of the technologies available for program delivery. While Blyth Academy is now effectively the largest single private school network in Canada, the student experience remains intimate in both the physical and virtual synchronous classrooms there are never more than 15 students. True to Sam Blyth’s original vision, there remains a focus on global learning, citizenship, and ethical leadership. There might have been a time when Blyth Academy was an anomaly within the world of education—smaller schools, virtual offerings, an agile approach to learning—though it certainly isn’t now. It’s hard to imagine a school better suited to our time and the needs of the current generation of learners.
View full reportinformation not available
"I see such a positive change in my son's social skills."
Vanita Jassal - Parent (Dec 15, 2022)
My son has low self-esteem and benefits from unique learning experiences. We met with Sarah when pla...
View full review
"Over more than three decades of service, we have educated thousands of children in our positive and progressive learning environment. Our methods empower children to form their own identity, and strive with ambition towards the goals that they choose. The foundation that our private school provides, gives children the tools to succeed at higher levels of education and beyond."
"Blyth Academy Lawrence Park is a private school that has been wonderfully embraced by its families and neighbours since opening in 2010. Small class sizes and a trusted personalized approach to learning gives every student the attention they need to succeed."
"Specialization is a key component of RHMS. One key area of specialization at RHMS is the STEM Program. It is a meaningful cross circular platform of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This program encourages students to be creative, take risks, engage in hands-on learning and hone their problem-solving skills. This program also serves to help mentor our students for future careers in STEM fields."
"Communication is the cornerstone of our commitment to each family at Blyth Academy Lawrence Park. The learning experience is a partnership between teacher and family and, as such, you will hear from your child’s teacher weekly: the great, the good and the could be better. Parents and guardians also have access to our online learning platform, Edsby, in which gradebooks are always up to date, assessments with feedback can be reviewed, and classroom announcements and resources accessed."
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"Why choose RHMS? We provide a positive learning environment, we retain an outstanding staff, we cultivate active community leaders, we inspire a healthy lifestyle, we deliver an innovative curriculum and most of all we empower children."
"You will often get schools that have teachers who are not specialists in the subjects they are teaching. We encourage and expect our passionate team of teachers to really live their subjects. We have an English teacher who studied Literature at Colombia University, a professional photographer on staff as our in-house media teacher, and an astrophysicist teaching physics. The faculty brings an academic energy and passion to the campus every day."
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"RHMS takes the standard curriculum and enriches and extends it. Our teachers research and carefully select the most effective text and resource materials that will enhance in class discussions and hands-on learning in every discipline. This way our RHMS student’s enjoy unique and exciting learning that will last a lifetime."
"We want our students to be a bit uncomfortable and for them to lean in, and grow from the discomfort that something new and challenging brings. This will not look the same for everyone; for one student it may be coming to school each day on time and for another it might be taking an AP physics course. That is the beauty of our campus though; we identify where each student is, and meet them there to help them thrive in their learning, growth and happiness."
"One of our most important goals at RHMS is to foster the development of responsible global citizens. Simply put, we encourage our students to be good people. Starting with their immediate community and then going beyond. This goal begins with modeling examples of ways to do so and then working together with students on a variety of good will initiatives."
"As a small school, many families think that we are limited in the extracurriculars that we can offer. This is far from the truth. We are a member of the Small Schools Athletic Federation (SSAF), which allows for our teams to compete against other independent schools. Our campus hosts a Spring triathlon at Glendon College, where students from across the city complete against one another. We also host an annual Model UN conference and student can take part in student council and various clubs."
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Dear Friends,
Be it ever so beautiful. There’s no place like home. (L. Frank Baum)
Richmond Hill Montessori Private School is my second home; and a home-away-from-home for our students and teachers. Each morning when I arrive, I am reminded how fortunate I am to be here.
The spirit thriving within these hallways is powerful. It’s a testament to the school’s culture, developed over decades of passion, friendships and education. Students, faculty, and parents form this incredible community; a community that is caring, compassionate and supportive – an environment truly fostering the love of learning.
My own journey at RHMS began in the classroom, back in 2006. I have filled the shoes of many diverse positions, each with it an opportunity to learn about the school from another angle, and to understand the complexities of each role.
It humbles me to have a steady stream of former students and alumni, returning to share their great feats, and many adventures. Knowing the considerable victories they achieve each year not only motivates me, but reinforces the notion our school’s community is empowering young minds to find ambition and purpose in life.
Soon, my own children will be joining the RHMS community and walking its bustling, bright halls; they’ll witness all that RHMS has to offer, including innovative curriculum, cutting-edge resources, a variety of extra-curricular activities, enthusiastic peers, and a team of knowledgeable and supportive teachers. What a great joy it will be to watch my children grow, develop and find a sense of belonging here, like so many children before them have.
RHMS’ culture is organic; it is grown from within -- I want to thank our teachers and faculty. Your commitment to students’ well-being and your own professional development move me each day.
And of course, thank you to the RHMS parents, who have continued to provide ongoing commitment and support. We remain dedicated to upholding our promise to you, “To nurture each child’s distinct talents and ensure every child feels comfortable, challenged and confident they can achieve anything.” By working together, we can encourage students to accomplish incredible things.
For families interested in learning more about RHMS, I welcome and encourage you to visit and experience our programs first-hand. You too may find your home-away-from-home.
C. Ingravalle
Principal
At Blyth Academy, we know our students. With an average class size of 10, and youthful, engaging teachers who motivate and inspire, the roles of student and teacher are as collaborative partners in discussion or exploration. It is an entirely different model than one in which the teacher teaches and students are left to find ways to engage. Our young learners are active and acquiring knowledge themselves; very much empowered in understanding the ‘how’ and ‘why’ over the ‘what’ of education.
Our space is fresh and intimate, and our student body is active in building our own colourful range of club, team, and leadership opportunities. Come and ask the tough questions — our doors are open, we’re proud of what we have built, and prouder still to have a mix of students with varied pursuits and passions who are ‘together’ here and happy.
Liberal Arts
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.
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.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Not applicable
At Richmond Hill Montessori Private School (RHMS), one of our directives is to bring the world into the classroom using a multitude of resources. The transformation of classroom into 'real world' requires not only physical resources such as textbooks, exercise books, maps, globes and an ongoing emphasis on incorporating technology into the classroom via everyday computer usage, presentations, smartboards, and other digital devices; it also requires very important abstract resources such as imagination, vision, and passion. These are all encouraged under the careful supervision of our nurturing staff. We believe that, together, these components are essential for a student's success in advancement of knowledge and development. RHMS is committed to remaining current and preparing its students to participate fully and effectively in today's society. That being said, it is our mission to ensure that the traditional core knowledge and the educational philosophy at the preschool and elementary levels has been, and will continue to be, consistent over time.
Blyth Academy offers a private school experience that focuses on personalized education, very small class sizes and experiential learning. Our unique approach allows us to tailor the curriculum to the individual student, not the other way around. By taking into account each student’s learning style and extra-curricular responsibilities, we are able to customize a plan unique to the individual.
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.
Our Mathematics program is rigorous and demanding and includes learning basic mathematical principles and operations while developing problem-solving skills. Our students are given a solid foundation of core mathematical concepts to assist their understanding of more complex questions. Expectations for pencil and paper skills in mathematical operations are very high. Students are taught to describe what they are doing in mathematics and to explain why they are doing it. Students are able to identify the relationships between mathematical concepts and everyday situations and to make connections between mathematics and other subjects. Mathematics and numbers are used throughout our daily lives for financial planning, shopping, telling the time, driving, cooking, and so much more. Learning mathematics can often be a challenge for our logical and practical thinking; however, it is a necessary tool we cannot live without.
We use an inquiry-based approach to instruction, supplemented with traditional direct instruction. New topics are presented using real-world scenarios and students are then prompted with questions such as: “What do you notice?” or, “What do you wonder?” This open-ended questioning allows students to begin engaging with concepts without being limited by preconceptions. At this point, the teacher may ask additional open ended questions, or offer prompts if students are stuck. After they have had a chance to brainstorm, it is up to students to articulate what materials and skills they might need to solve the problem. The teacher then provides some direct instruction to introduce the necessary new skills. Having students engage with a problem prior to direct instruction not only makes math more meaningful, but also fosters more engagement, as students will be more invested in learning new skills if they are instrumental to a pre-existing task.
Information not available
Nelson textbooks are used across grade levels, with supplementary learning facilitated by Desmos online graphing calculator.
Only non-graphing scientific calculators are permitted during test and exams. (Smart phones are also not permissible, as they do not always handle order of operations appropriately.) Students are encouraged to use their own calculators during regular practice, so that they are comfortable with their devices during tests and evaluations.
Not applicable
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Not applicable
Language is a core subject that is practiced on a daily basis. For a child to grasp the concepts of science, history, or geography, they must first be well-versed in language. The Montessori reading and writing learning sequence is categorized in three coloured-coded levels: the Pink, Blue, & Green series of readers. Once a child masters a level they move on to the next series. The Pink series focuses primarily on a child learning phonetic sounds, building and reading three-letter words. The Blue series places emphasis on learning how to read and write consonant blends. The Green Series introduces more challenging words that contain silent vowels sounds and phonograms. The Pink, Blue, and Green series create a solid foundation in language and provide a natural flow of Montessori phonetic education.
Information not available
Equal balance
The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.
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.
In personal, academic, and workplace situations, students need to write clearly and coherently with precision and style. While doing so, they must also accurately apply the conventions of language, grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Our extensive program gives students the tools to develop confidence in their writing skills.
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.
Science is both a body of knowledge and an experimentation process within the natural world. Our Science program encompasses a set of principles and methods for investigating all aspects of the physical world. Theories and methods are constantly re-evaluated as new information becomes available. Students are taught to have a deep respect for the environment and are shown ways to act as environmental stewards. Our Science program allows students to learn of scientific accomplishments, past and present. In addition, students have the opportunity to experience scientific studies that inspire a sense of wonder and respect for life and the environment. Our students are guided through the scientific process of developing a hypothesis, followed by experimentation, evaluation, and reaching a conclusion.
We focus on experiential learning, and there is no better subject in which to be able to do that than science. From collecting and consolidating the knowledge of students in the junior years to the complex examination of biological process, physical systems, and chemical reactions in grade 12, students are taught science through innovative teaching and learning. In grade 9, students build an understanding of the world as they develop their practical and inquiry skills. In grade 10 we shift focus to cells and systems, chemical reactions, climate change, and light. By grade 11 and into 12, students are encouraged to study each of the subjects individually, where we start to truly explore the nature of the sciences in ever more complex and elaborate ways. Our prime asset is our team of passionate and knowledgable staff, communicating their love of the subject in every lesson.
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
Physiology
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.
The literature we provide students is very stimulating with a highly educational content. Accompanying the text is a multitude of reading comprehension exercises that require imagination, critical thinking, and attention to detail. Our students are encouraged to read independently and, in doing so, actively participate in a Reading Log program that expands on their reading choices. Students also write book reports to enhance their reading comprehension abilities. Exploration of literature allows for an extensive analysis of vocabulary. Building and elaborating on this new vocabulary provides students with a tool to research and discover all possibilities that the world has to offer.
Our English program encourages students to collaborate in their analysis through the use of formal and informal seminars on a variety of texts and forms of media. Students read a wide array of texts ranging from literary classics to contemporary pieces. Teachers seek to build creative thinking skills within their students by balancing their courses with traditional literary criticism, creative writing, and media analysis.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Not applicable
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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At RHMS, the Social Studies curriculum is designed to give our students a solid knowledge of geography; an appreciation of the past through the study of history, helping them develop an understanding of the present; and how to apply this knowledge to daily life. We view our multicultural RHMS family as the perfect starting point to take our students on a fascinating journey around the world to study different environments, languages, architecture, literature, music, art, and traditions. This helps them develop pride in all achievements and responsibility for the future. Our Social Studies curriculum is integrated at all levels and exposes our students to a variety of hands-on activities meant to broaden their experience with various topics presented at different levels.
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.
At the Intermediate (Grade Seven and Eight) level, RHMS introduces its students to the world of business and the economy. This provides an opportunity to explore technology; understand ethics, the community, and the environment; and how these rapidly changing issues relate to business today. It further explores the nature of the competitive global economy and investigates how individuals and societies can gain the information they need to make appropriate economic decisions. Students are introduced to macroeconomics and microeconomics; applying economic models and concepts to interpret economic information; assess the validity of statistics; and investigate marketplace dynamics. Students use economic inquiry and communication skills to analyse current economic issues, make informed judgements, and present their findings.
Blyth Academy emphasizes experiential learning and so a pragmatic approach is important to making learning memorable and relevant. History, whilst grounded in facts, nonetheless has at its core inquiry skills and the appraisal and interpretation of evidence. Whilst this aspect is often seen as perennialism or the preserve of the liberal arts, the application is very much pragmatic. History, though political and social bias, is created as much as it is studied and the students will reflect critically on this process of creation. This skill can then can be applied to real life scenarios such as political and social education, and applications to social justice. Students will complete projects and be encouraged to reflect on the success of their approaches to learning new topics. The relevance and appropriateness of pragmatism in the social sciences must be critically appraised before it can be usefully employed.
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.
French is a key component of our core curriculum. The ability to speak French in this global age provides a great advantage for students and is a key factor in academic success. Learning our country’s second official language will not only enhance a student’s overall skills in learning, but can also expand his/her career opportunities, promote understanding of different cultures, and create bilingual citizens of our children. Beginning in Preschool and continuing until Grade Eight, our students begin with simple words that eventually grow into complete and complex conversations. Our curriculum focuses on an intense study of grammar, creative writing, and conversations. Learning a second language at an early age is always a positive influence on a young student’s mind. We also believe it is important to learn about other cultures: how wonderful it is that within our own country we have another language to explore and research.
We follow the Ontario curriculum, with a focus on oral language and practical knowledge and skills. At the Grades 10-12 level, students are combined in a core/extended/immersion classroom, and are credited based on the competencies they attain during the course. While we are not a French Immersion school, we do offer credit for the French Immersion course. In addition, ESL courses are offered as needed, resulting in a possible maximum of 3 English credits.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Creative
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Through the study of art, students are taken on a journey of discovery, development, and a quest for creativity. Beginning with the basic principles of art theory and technique, we complement their newfound knowledge with the study of Art History. We believe, to appreciate an art piece, a student must experience the joy of creation. Painting, sculpting, and drawing provide an outlet for emotions to surface in a positive way. At RHMS, we provide a well-rounded education in fine arts. This provides students with a solid appreciation of the world around them, from the CN Tower to Monet’s creations at the AGO to the city’s landscape.
The arts program at Blyth Academy is very much tailored to the students' strengths and interests. In music, for example, if the students wish to study guitar, we locate a music studio in the neighbourhood and provide the appropriate setting and instruction. If students in Visual Arts wish to pursue pottery, classes take place in a nearby pottery studio. Individual creativity is very much the focus of our arts programming.
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.
Today’s child is more engaged with technology than ever before. Children intuitively and quickly learn to navigate electronic devices to surf the Internet, draw on a tablet, and create highly imaginative and complex structures in videogames, all with very little guidance. The objective of the RHMS Computer Studies Program is to have students become digital creators, not merely digital consumers. Our curriculum bridges the gap between students’ technological experiences and their understanding of how technology is made, and its functional use and purpose in the future.
Students are highly encouraged to bring their own device to class each day. Laptops are used extensively in each class, and the majority of resources and assignments are posted on our educational portal, ensuring that students always have access to class notes, upcoming assignments, and pertinent digital resources. In addition, students who opt to delve further into Information Technology, Media or Film Studies are encouraged to equip their devices with appropriate and efficient software.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Our Physical Education program builds on the concepts learned at the preschool level by promoting self-confidence and reinforcing the benefit of physical fitness in maintaining good health. Our program fosters an environment where students can learn the skills, techniques, and rules of a broad range of sports such as ball hockey, badminton, volleyball, and basketball, among others. Our students build strength, endurance, flexibility, balance and co-ordination, and develop confidence, creative expression, freedom of movement, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work as a team to reach a common goal. Our two gymnasiums are well equipped with age-appropriate sports equipment and protective gear.
Physical Education takes many forms at Blyth Academy. Outdoor education is the backbone of our programming, however we do regularly access a nearby facilities as needed, as well as pools, basketball courts, hockey arenas, martial arts studio, and fitness centres. As part of our extracurricular programming, physical education is delivered by means of school soccer teams and clubs. Students are required to complete the pertinent theory components to all Physical Education classes, which is delivered in the classroom.
Not applicable
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Not applicable
The Montessori philosophy and method of teaching fosters a loving, independent environment tailored to the individual needs and development of each student. Our Montessori classrooms include students who are three, four, and five years of age, providing opportunities for learning, helping to create a sense of community where everyone contributes to and takes responsibility for the functioning and maintenance of the environment. The older children provide leadership and guidance, and act as models for the younger children; they benefit by helping the younger children, reinforcing skills and knowledge previously learned, and gain satisfaction and self-worth by helping others.
Information not available
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
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.
Information not available
Supportive
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 “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.
At RHMS, one of our directives is to bring the world into the classroom using a multitude of resources. The transformation of classroom into 'real world' requires not only physical resources such as textbooks, exercise books, maps, globes and an ongoing emphasis on incorporating technology into the classroom via everyday computer usage, presentations, smartboards, and other digital devices; it also requires important abstract resources such as imagination, vision, and passion. These are all encouraged under the careful supervision of our nurturing staff. We believe that, together, these components are essential for a student's success in advancement of knowledge and development.
At Blyth Academy, we have high academic expectations, and provide students with the supportive and flexible environment in which to reach those high standards. Teachers are very much focused on student learning and success, ensuring understanding for each individual, and engaging the entire class in the learning process. The academic success of each student is based entirely on the individual's learning style and academic goals.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Graduates of Blyth Academy will step into post secondary education with an appreciation for hard work and their fellow peers. While supportive by nature, our staff pushes students to strive for academic excellence, without sacrificing the human element. Empowering each student to be emotionally mature, socially balanced, academically driven, and personally open and accepting is an inherent goal for each student who spends time with us.
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. | ||||
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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
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Academic success presents itself in many forms, and requires diverse learning situations. At Blyth Academy, we are well versed in the role of accommodating students with various challenges. Differentiated learning is common place in each classroom. These accommodations, by way of student support plans, are developed in cooperation with the student, family, teacher, guidance counsellor and administration, as a whole team approach.
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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
7 - 12
0%
4%
$0
$6,500
0%
95%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
9, 10, 11, 12
Nov 17, 2020
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 1 - 8
No
Yes: grades 5 - 8
No
No
No
Students wishing to attend Blyth Academy should be academically oriented, with post-secondary education as the goal.
We understand that choosing the right school not only for your child but for your entire family is an important decision and one that requires a great deal of care and research. We would like to therefore give you the opportunity to learn more about our school, through a personal orientation visit. During the orientation you will view our facility, see our classrooms and be given sufficient time to ask all of the questions necessary to assist you in this very big decision. You will also be provided with information pertaining to program availability, curriculum, policies and guidelines, school fees and hours, as well as all application registration documentation, including a step by step, concise outline, of the complete registration process.
To book your orientation visit please contact us at 905-508-2228.
We thank you again for the interest you have shown in Richmond Hill Montessori Private School and we look forward to meeting with you in the near future.
Students and families are required to meet with both administration and guidance as part of the initial application to ensure the goals of the student are in line with the philosophy of Blyth Academy. Formal application and registration may then take place online, or in person.
