AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Ridley College vs. Oakwood Academy

one-to-one comparison:

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  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    2 Ridley Road, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2R 7C3, Canada

    2150 Torquay Mews, Mississauga, Ontario, L5N 2M6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1889

    2007

    Enrolment

    797

    65

    Grades

    JK to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, Boarding

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

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

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    Academic culture

    Rigorous
    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    17 to 18

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Accelerated curriculum

    Preschool/K curriculum

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

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $29,455 to $43,835

    $20,180 to $68,860

    Boarding Tuition

    $74,745 to $82,975

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    21%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    5 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $15,892

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    53

    4

    Percent in boarding

    45%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    61%

    100%

    Day entry years

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

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

    Boarding entry years

    5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Ridley expresses so many of the great traditions of private school, and it comes by all of them absolutely honestly. The school was founded in 1889, making it one of the oldest schools in the country. It began life as an Anglican boys’ school—it was named after an Anglican Bishop—but is non-denominational today, and has been co-ed since 1973. That said, many of the traditions that inform the life of the school date to the founding, including chapel meetings that serve to bring the school together around shared events and shared values. The school maintains a cadet corps, the largest of its kind in Canada. The chapel, and indeed all of the buildings that comprise the campus, are, frankly, gorgeous. It’s easily one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. The strategic plan, implemented in 2014, provided an opportunity to take stock of the school at the time of its 125th anniversary, including a dedication to maintaining a global perspective across the breadth of the curriculum. Throughout its long history Ridley has maintained a reputation as one of the best schools in Canada, one that no doubt will remain for very many years to come. The ideal student is one who arrives predisposed to make the most of the wide range of academic and extra-curricular opportunities that will be made available to them.
    Read The Our Kids Review of Ridley College

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Ridley expresses so many of the great traditions of private school, and it comes by all of them absolutely honestly. The school was founded in 1889, making it one of the oldest schools in the country. It began life as an Anglican boys’ school—it was named after an Anglican Bishop—but is non-denominational today, and has been co-ed since 1973. That said, many of the traditions that inform the life of the school date to the founding, including chapel meetings that serve to bring the school together around shared events and shared values. The school maintains a cadet corps, the largest of its kind in Canada. The chapel, and indeed all of the buildings that comprise the campus, are, frankly, gorgeous. It’s easily one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. The strategic plan, implemented in 2014, provided an opportunity to take stock of the school at the time of its 125th anniversary, including a dedication to maintaining a global perspective across the breadth of the curriculum. Throughout its long history Ridley has maintained a reputation as one of the best schools in Canada, one that no doubt will remain for very many years to come. The ideal student is one who arrives predisposed to make the most of the wide range of academic and extra-curricular opportunities that will be made available to them. 

    View full report

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Not all students are created equally, and Oakwood was created, more than anything else, with that idea firmly in mind. It was founded by Trillian Taylor and Michele Power, who remain directors at the school today. The school is intentionally small, allowing for a very individual attention to the unique needs of each student, including an overt attention to social and emotional development. Families who enroll here do so knowing that their learners are capable of a lot, while in the awareness that they would benefit from a different approach than is found elsewhere. Students entering Oakwood join a community of true peers, something which in itself can be transformative to their learning experience and academic success.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    "Ridley College is an independent day and boarding school for students in JK through Grade 12. As leaders in positive education and wellbeing education, we teach the habits of mind, body, and spirit so that students are primed for learning and success–now and long after graduation. Our learner-centred and inquiry-based learning approaches are enhanced by the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy–a comprehensive and rigorous program that challenges and sets students apart, empowering them to excel and grow."

    • Founded in 1889
    • 59 countries represented: Canadian school, global mission
    • Strong residential life program
    • Wireless internet access
    • MacBook computer integration
    • Outstanding athletic tradition
    • Comprehensive arts program: music, drama, dance and visual arts
    • CAIS, CESI, CIS, NAIS, TABS affiliate
    • Tiger Arena with an NHL-sized ice surface for training and competition
    • Fieldhouse with 20,000 square feet of synthetic surface including a four-lane track

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    "Oakwood Academy is the only recognized school in Canada using the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR®) Model. Located in Mississauga, our unique developmental approach teaches students (pre-school to Grade 12) to think rather than memorize, and uses social relationships as the cornerstone of curricular development. Our school is designed for every student to reach their academic and social potential. March/Summer Special Needs Camps available!"

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    "Ridley is a leader in positive education and wellbeing education. We aim to teach students the habits needed to lead flourishing lives by deliberately and consciously applying the science behind positive education. We house the largest boarding programme in Ontario and the third largest in Canada. Every Ridleian belongs to one of our ten Houses and is supported by our unrivalled circle of care and engaged with vibrant, challenging, modern programmes to nurture and mentor them on their journeys."

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    "Our families are looking for a place that will academically and emotionally prepare their children for university. Most commonly, we hear our families love the warmth of our community, our positivity, and the individualized care we provide, along with our strong academics and activities. They further appreciate our passion for making all who step onto our campus feel like they belong and our celebration of cultural diversity and global perspective while maintaining a rich Canadian legacy."

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    "The Ridley community is often called the Ridley family. All Ridleians belong to a broader community of peers, faculty, parents, and alumni. As a boarding school, our lifeblood is community connection and relationship building across age groups, generations, and identity groups, creating a strong feeling of belonging that defines and sustains us. Students make lifelong connections with peers from around the globe, maintaining friendships across time zones, forever shaped by the Ridley experience."

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    "Our commitment to service is more than just words. Service helps students develop strengths in empathy, compassion, and kindness while emphasizing the importance of giving. People feel a deeper sense of fulfilment and meaning in their lives when they give to others, and our students learn to realize and appreciate this as one of the pillars of a flourishing life through supporting local House charities, participating in weekly service opportunities and optional global service trips and more."

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome to Ridley!

     

    One of the favourite times of my day is the opportunity to walk the halls of Ridley College, drop in on classrooms and watch active learning in action. At Ridley College, you will find that students are engaged in exploring new ideas, debating eternal questions and solving relevant problems. Learning is student-centered and exciting to witness!

     

    In our Lower School, you will discover inquiry-based learning in all classrooms from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Students engage with ‘big ideas’ and pursue essential and enduring questions – ‘what is an economy and how does it impact the human experience?” You’ll see students Skype interviewing an anthropologist from Kansas. You’ll hear the excitement of innovation in the robotics lab. 

     

    In our Upper School, you will meet young adults who confidently pursue their passions – academic inquiry, athletic endeavour, or artistic expression. You will see focused and disciplined students leading a Socratic seminar in a literature class, singing a solo in Chapel or persevering through a two-kilometer time trial in our indoor rowing tank.

     

    Cultivating the full potential of each student requires a caring, committed and world-class faculty. The task also requires intimate relationships that are built day by day, year after year. At Ridley, you’ll find a community of adults who are excited to build those relationships. As a boarding school, Ridley provides students with a 24/7 experience that will help them cultivate those lifelong bonds with peers and adults alike – in the classroom, in the House, on the ice or in the theatre.

     

    The reality is that one cannot be certain what children and young adults can do until we challenge them to be their best. At Ridley, students are surrounded by peers who share their sense of purpose, who believe in the value of hard work and who are building the courage to pursue their dreams. Add to this the experience and care of a community of adults who are dedicated to nurturing their potential, and you have the Ridley formula.

     

    I hope that our website offers you a glimpse into the life of our unique community of learners and that you are inspired to look deeper into the Ridley experience. Check out our YouTube channel to get a real glimpse into the Ridley difference. Better yet, I invite you to visit the School to soak in its idyllic setting, to experience classes in action, to meet teachers and Head of Houses' and to talk with students. We warmly welcome you and your family to Ridley. 

     

    I look forward to greeting you on campus in the near future.

     

    Come experience the legacy that is a Ridley education.

     

    J. Edward Kidd

    Headmaster

     

    Dear Parents,

    Thank you for considering Oakwood Academy for your child.  Deciding on a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make for their future.  This is perhaps even more the case if your child needs an individualized education. 

    As experienced educators in the field of special education, we saw first hand how many students were being taught skills that didn’t address their core developmental capacities. We were inspired to create a school that embraces each students’ individual learning profile and implements an educational program to target their route developmental challenges. We know that every child is capable of engaging with others, expressing their emotions and ideas and developing meaningful ways to communicate and interact with their world.  The decision to base our curriculum around the The Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-based (DIR®) Model was made because we know this is the most effective way to help children become thinkers and problem solvers.  We know that success beyond primary school years requires students to think critically, work collaboratively and communicate effectively, which is why we are careful to challenge students with meaningful learning opportunities rather than predetermined curriculum material.    

    We understand that finding the right school to foster your child’s social and emotional growth in addition to their academic growth, is critical.  You can feel confident that your child’s unique learning needs will be respected at Oakwood.

    Working with families is an essential part of our school model and we welcome the opportunity to meet you and your child and discuss how Oakwood Academy can be part of your child’s educational journey.

    Trillian Taylor & Michele Power

    Co-Founders, Directors 

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Progressive

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      International Baccalaureate

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      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.

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      A ticket to the world in your hand, the keys to knowledge in your pocket, true friends by your side, and the resources of a legacy at your back. Ridley College is a school of the world that prepares students for the world. Co-educational, Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 with a Post-Graduate option and boarding beginning in Grade 6, Ridley College is certified in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes, making Ridley one of 15 International Baccalaureate continuum schools in Canada and the only co-educational boarding school in Canada with this distinction. A Canadian school born of the new world yet built on classical British boarding school roots, Ridley offers students a forward-looking and rigorous university preparatory education relevant to the most selective colleges and universities around the globe.

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Using the DIR® model, founded by Dr. Stanley Greenspan, Oakwood Academy offers an individualized education program that is developmentally-based, and utilizes a multidisciplinary team in the development of each child's unique education plan. Using this model allows us to address all areas of a child's development and support their ability to communicate and relate to others.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Equal balance

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        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.

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Inquiry

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

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


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Physics

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

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

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

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


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Teaching the Visual Arts at Ridley College is a unique privilege as the school offers world class studio resources and a student body that brings to the learning experience a diverse range of cultural perspectives. The first key role of art education is to facilitate the development of fundamental skills that enhance a student’s capacity to engage with tasks involving refined hand-eye coordination, spatial reasoning and fine motor control. Through the careful observation required for various drawing, painting and sculpting exercises, students enhance their visual acuity and sensitivity to the complexity of the visual world. The second key role of art education is the development of an awareness of art as an essential component of civilization. Most importantly, students gain an understanding of why creativity, self-expression and the pursuit of aesthetic form are fundamental aspects of life.

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Heavy integration

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        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.

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Information not available

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        RIDLEY COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        OAKWOOD ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Academic

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      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.

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      The Kindergarten programme at Ridley College provides a rich and stimulating inquiry and play-based learning environment that enables students to develop a sense of curiosity and an understanding of the world around them. Classroom materials and artifacts are carefully selected to support student learning and spark creativity. The Kindergarten programme at Ridley College not only supports holistic development of the child - cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development - it provides learning opportunities that instill growth-mindset and support overall well-being, mental health, and resiliency in each child.

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      The DIR Model addresses all areas of a child's development with emphasis on his/her ability to communicate with and relate to others. Building a strong relationship with the child is the foundation of the model because a child must first be emotionally attached to the people in his life and have meaningful interaction with them in order to develop cognitively and emotionally.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Accelerated

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      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).

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Rigorous

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      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”.

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Information not available

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

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

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."


      Secondary

      Secondary

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

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


      What the school says

      What the school says

      RIDLEY COLLEGE

      Information not available

      OAKWOOD ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    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.
    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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    At Oakwood Academy, academics are only part of what we do! Each day, we strive to support our students' development as a whole - cognitively, physically, and emotionally. A large part of our programming is supported by our multidisciplinary team, including an Occupational Therapist, Speech Language Pathologist, Physiotherapist, and Music Therapist. These professionals support our students' ability to navigate their physical world, as well as to relate, engage, and communicate with others.


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    Information not available

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Oakwood Academy specializes in supporting students with a variety of different learning needs (e.g. ADHD ) and developmental disorders (e.g. ASD).

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    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

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    • First Nations Advocacy Committee
    • Model U.N.
    • Days for Girls
    • Postive Spaces Group
    • Amnesty International
    • Cappies Review
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    5 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    21%

    5%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $15,892

    $5,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    61%

    100%

    Day entry years

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

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

    Boarding entry years

    5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades JK - 12

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    Yes: grades 4 - 12

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    The Ridley Admissions Committee looks for students who are engaged and motivated individuals. The Committee looks for students who demonstrate potential to make a positive contribution to the Ridley community and who will take advantage of the many opportunities available at the school - in the classroom and boarding houses, as well as in the arts, athletics, leadership, and community service activities. Students who are well-rounded, open-minded, enthusiastic, and academically-focused are encouraged to apply.

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    We encourage you to set up an intake appointment to discuss how Oakwood Academy can support your child's unique strengths and goals!

    What the school says

    What the school says

    RIDLEY COLLEGE

    The SSAT is only a requirement for those students applying for a merit-based scholarship. 

    Application Fees

    • Domestic: $100
    • International: $200

    Registration Fees

    Domestic Day:

    • JK-Grade 4: $1,250
    • Grade 5-8: $1,850
    • Grade 9-12: $3,000

    Domestic Boarding: $3,500

    International Boarding: $4,000 (one-time registration fee) + $4,500 (estimated incidental fees) = $8,500 (total confirmation fee (non-refundable))

    OAKWOOD ACADEMY

    Welcome! We are excited that you are considering Oakwood Academy. We are thrilled to be the only school in Canada to provide individualized education using the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR®) Model. Our uniquely planned curriculum has been designed for students who require explicit education, and focuses on both academic and social development.

    Please be assured that our admissions process is to help us understand your child’s strengths and goals, to develop an individualized curriculum to help them achieve their full potential.

    Step One: About Your Child Form

    The About Your Child form is to be completed by the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the applicant. Please submit the forms to our Admissions Coordinator at [email protected].  Once the form has been completed and submitted you will be contacted by our admissions office about your inquires or to set up a meeting with the Director.

    Step Two: Meeting with the Director

    Once your form has been received, we will be in touch to set up a meeting and tour. Both the applicant and their parent(s)/guardian(s) are expected to attend the meeting. In order to properly make a recommendation about the student’s placement, the applicant must attend the meeting. 

    Step Three: Trial Day Opportunity

    In some cases we will suggest a trial day to determine appropriate placement in our Academic Program. On this day, your child will spend a half or full day at school, fully integrated into a classroom setting so that we can best determine their strengths, goals, and support level before recommending placement. 

    Step Four: Class Placement

    Decisions are made after a personal meeting and assessment of the applicant. At this time, a recommendation for suitable placement and services within the school are made and discussed with families.

    Step Five: The Final Step – Registration Forms and Payments

    Upon acceptance, you will receive registration forms to be completed.


                THE FOLLOWING MUST ACCOMPANY YOUR APPLICATION:

    • $500 Application Fee (applied to the tuition total)
    • A copy of the applicant’s birth certificate or passport 
    • A copy of the applicant’s most recent immunization records
    • Post-dated cheques (please refer to Fees for tuition breakdown)

    Questions?

    Do not hesitate to contact the Admissions Office at [email protected] or call (905) 814-0277 for assistance. 

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Irving Bell (1971)
    Founder of the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics[10]
    Colm Feore (1977)
    Feore honed his skills as a member of the Stratford Festival of Canada, has had notable roles on series, such as House of Cards, and has on performed on Broadway.
    Duncan Coutts (1988)
    He joined the alternative rock band Our Lady Peace. Our Lady Peace has won four Juno Awards and ten MuchMusic Video Awards.
    Darcy McKeough (1951)
    Darcy is the former CEO of Union Gas and former Treasurer of the Province of Ontario. He has also been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada.
    Greg Stremlaw (1990)
    Greg has had a record-setting career in public and private sport, and is now the Head of CBC Sports as well as General Manager of the Olympics for Canada.
    Georgina Black (1985)
    Ridley’s Chair of the Board of Governors and Old Ridleian, was recently and unequivocally named one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women of 2016
    information not available

Compare:

RIDLEY COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

OAKWOOD ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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