3400 Richmond Road, Victoria, British Columbia, V8P 4P5, Canada
Blyth Academy Lawrence Park, 2660 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4P 2J5, Canada
2,339.9 km
337.4 km
1906
2015
1003
90
JK to 12
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day, Boarding
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Liberal Arts
Varies
8 to 16
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$21,095 to $43,995
$23,550 to $27,750
$57,595 to $75,360
Yes
Yes
20%
4%
K to 12
7 to 12
$11,685
$6,500
67
15
26%
0%
0%
95%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades K - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
information not available
information not available
The academic atmosphere at St. Michaels is supportive and progressive, beginning with a Reggio Emilia program that sets a tone of curiosity and collaboration that is carried through the upper grades. The boarding program sets the foundation for the school, establishing a community of service, involvement, and excellence not only in students’ academic life, but in their social lives and physical health as well. The program of pastoral care is broad and robust, something that derives in part from the context that the boarding program provides. The motto of one of the two founding schools is retained today: “nothing is great unless it is good.” That’s telling. Care and support are considered to be as important as challenge and excellence, and students are encouraged to engage with the entire spectrum of curricular and extra-curricular programs. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a rich, challenging, diverse academic and social atmosphere.
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.
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"School leadership is exemplary"
Bronwyn Tulloch - Parent (Apr 06, 2018)
Our daughter started at SMUS as a boarder in Grade 11. She moved from a very large public day school...
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"Our son loves SMUS. There is no single thing that makes him love it, but rather the combination of..."
Jonathan Barry - Parent (May 14, 2018)
Our son likes the quality of the students, the teachers and the professionalism of the school best. ...
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"...they aim to have each student actualize their inner potential".
Enoch Wuraola - Parent (Jul 10, 2018)
Both of my children have attended St. Michaels University School as boarders: my daughter from gr. 1...
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"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...
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"Located in the city of Victoria, St. Michaels University School is a boarding and day school with a global reputation for academic excellence. Students from around the world are challenged by an extensive curriculum, including Canada’s most established Advanced Placement program with 25 courses and the AP Capstone Diploma. Intellectual stimulation combined with exceptional values-based athletics, arts and leadership programs make SMUS a school that inspires excellence in all students while preparing them for life."
"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."
Information not available
"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."
Information not available
"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."
Information not available
"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."
Information not available
"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."
"Each year, we host the 'Best School Year Ever' scholarship competition aimed at North American boarding students. The application deadline for this contest is December 1, 2023. Successful candidates from grades 9 to 12 stand a chance to secure scholarships of up to $75,000 to enroll at SMUS. Renowned locally and globally for its exceptional standards, our school draws students from diverse backgrounds worldwide."
Information not available
From all my enquiries, anecdotal, empirical, and statistical, SMUS is a world-class school built on the solid foundations of its extended community. At the heart of that community are the students, some drawn into boarding from a diverse range of cultures and others who are deeply rooted in Victoria and its environs. The students are inspired by a large, dedicated and highly qualified faculty who over the years have established a reputation for going beyond the call of duty to nurture individual interests and enthusiasm.
The school mission is to aim for the “excellence in all of us.” As anyone who aspires for the highest standards will know, this is no easy task. A starting point is that “you have to be good to be great” but an outstanding education requires a holistic view that provides opportunities for the development of the mind, body, and the soul to enable young people to ask the big questions and really find out who they are.
We believe in both passion – come with a spark of enthusiasm and it will be fanned into a blaze – and compassion – education is a shared experience and we all journey together. Indeed, the school’s commitment to service and leadership has a reach far beyond BC; it is truly international.
Learning should be fun, but it should also be appropriately challenging. Rigor instills resilience, which we are told will be increasingly important as the world becomes more competitive. This should also be the time for reflection; the chance to pause and think and dream.
SMUS students have achieved remarkable success in a broad range of professions. Many report that this is down to quiet inner confidence, the ability to think independently, and a commitment to civilized values.
By providing a vast range of competitive sports, clubs, and activities, we hope to provide something for everyone to find their niche.
We invite you to come and meet us at our beautiful sites on Richmond Road and Victoria Avenue, and to find out first-hand the blend of people, place, tradition and innovation that makes St. Michaels University School such a special place.
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
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.
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.
Not applicable
SMUS's curricular approach is a blend of traditional, which ensures success in provincial and AP exams, and progressive enhancements that allow students to dive deeper into topics and find their passions. This is achieved through inquiry-based learning, which speaks to learners' natural curiosity, and project-based learning that gives opportunities for them to express creativity across subject areas. Additionally SMUS is an innovator in experiential programs - ensuring students of all grades gain hands-on experiences outside the traditional curriculum, including outdoor education, leadership and service. SMUS is also a committed champion of personalized learning, shaping education around the needs and interests of each student.
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.
At all levels, SMUS follows the provincial curriculum but adds enrichment using real world examples, problem solving and project work. Where possible, SMUS connects mathematics to other subject areas. At the Junior School, there is a strong focus on building foundation skills and math fluency through the exploration of number concepts, patterns and relations, spatial sense, and statistics and probability. By Middle School, students are continuing to develop concepts and skills, while emphasizing real world applications of mathematical ideas. At the Senior School, skills and concepts are developed in several different ways - numerically, graphically, algebraically, and written. After the Grade 10 level, students can choose which stream of mathematics best suits their post-secondary needs. As well, we have three levels of Calculus available to students. This includes two levels of AP Calculus to again offer the best possible preparation for university.
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.
There are no set texts but teachers make use of Maths Makes Sense, Quest 2000, McGraw-Hill and calculus texts from Stewart and Prentice-Hall. This is supplemented by iPads, laptops and other technological resources. Students can also enter mathematics competitions.
Nelson textbooks are used across grade levels, with supplementary learning facilitated by Desmos online graphing calculator.
At the Junior School, there are no calculators except where they are part of a personalized learning program. In the Middle School, calculators are introduced as a tool. By Senior School, authorized graphic calculators are a part of the curriculum but there are several chapters without calculators.
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
Information not available
Information not available
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
At the primary level, integrated learning - connecting science with language and mathematics - strengthens understanding of different concepts. By Grades 3-5, students learn lab procedures and the scientific process through an inquiry-based approach. In Middle School, many of the concepts and skills students learn are gained through "hands-on and minds-on" experiments and inquiries. Accordingly, Middle School Science classes take a variety of forms including: experiments, guided inquiries, student-designed investigations, mystery guests, field trips and field work. At the Senior School, the required science courses are more expository. Students interested in marine science can take an elective course. At the Grade 11 and 12 levels, students choose from several options and motivated students are offered the opportunity to enroll in advanced courses which prepare them for the Grade 12 Advanced Placement program.
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 English department offers a variety of courses that address the interests and needs of the students. For capable students, we offer the chance to look at the traditional canon, where they study works ranging from the Anglo-Saxon Period to the 20th Century, which can lead to AP English Literature and Composition and AP English Language and Composition. These courses, particularly AP English Literature and Composition, are usually theme-based and seek to address a common question or subject, for example: literature of the road, literature of the absurd, indigenous literature and black humour. We also offer a course in creative writing, in which aspiring authors can receive guidance in writing their own poetry, short fiction and dramatic monologues, and meet visiting authors. In the years that this course has been running, SMUS students have won many provincial and national awards for their writing.
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
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
Not applicable
Information not available
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.
Information not available
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.
SMUS offers a comprehensive language program. Beginning in Kindergarten, students learn French through story, theatre and music to put the language into context. In Middle School, students take French and Mandarin. In Senior School, students can continue their learning in French, Spanish and Mandarin. Languages help develop confidence, and students are often asked to put their skills into practice through public speaking.
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.
Starting in Kindergarten, SMUS students are introduced to a variety of fine arts, including music, choir, strings, drama and visual art. In Middle School, students delve deeper into pursuits in visual art, choir and either band or strings. In Senior School, students have addition opportunities to broaden their skills with courses in subjects such as creative writing, drama and Advanced Placement Studio Art. Beyond the classroom, students hone skills through performances at professional theatre venues. In Junior School, the Grade 5 classes have an annual large performance - either an opera or a musical. In Middle School, students participate in a biennial musical production. In Senior School, students can participate in the annual musical program. There are opportunities for strings, band and choral performances throughout the year. Students also have access to a range of extracurricular art opportunities, such as jazz band, choral ensembles and student Art Councils.
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.
Information not available
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
It is clear from the most cutting-edge brain research, that exercise during the school day is critically important to support optimum brain function in our students. At SMUS, our physical education program is focused on using exercise to help students learn. Our philosophy articulates it best: SMUS Physical Education Program aims to maximize students’ physical, emotional and academic well-being through exercise, while developing the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to support a healthy, active life. Our PE classes are high-energy, supportive environments inspired by a team approach and engaging modern workouts. Students learn how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, while cultivating character through a variety of team and individual experiences, as well as different skill acquisition activities.
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
Reggio Emilia programs aim to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of “projects”, (as opposed to “activities” or “lessons”). Teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. Projects can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. A high degree of parent involvement is also encouraged, particularly when forming curriculums and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Not applicable
The SMUS Kindergarten program is an inquiry and play-based progam inspired by the Reggio-Emilia philosophy. At SMUS, the child is a collaborator at the centre of their learning with teachers and parents acting as partners and guides. SMUS cultivates a joyful learning experience, fostering curiousity and a love of exploration, which includes the use of nature and the environment as a third teacher. Children benefit from small class sizes, two teachers to every classroom, and additional, specialist teachers in music, PE, library, French and art.
Information not available
Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
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.
SMUS's academic culture is more supportive until grade 10. After which, students prepare for exams and university entrance, and the culture naturally becomes more rigorous.
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."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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."
SMUS provides opportunities and feedback that supports students in becoming self-aware, both in terms of what they value and the role they can play in the world. Equally, the program positions students to be curious about those different from themselves, so that they learn to openly listen in a way that builds understanding of other perspectives. Finally, SMUS offers the reflective and technical tools to help students navigate those differences in a way that enhances the lives of all involved.
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. | ||||
Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
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.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
K - 12
7 - 12
20%
4%
$11,685
$6,500
0%
95%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades K - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
Yes
No
The profile of a SMUS student is that they are curious, passionate and ambitious. This means more than just academic success - it means challenging yourself in all areas. As a student here, you will be expected to engage in arts, athletics, leadership and volunteering. You will need to be open to new experiences, to meeting people from different walks of life, and to taking on leadership responsibilities. Admissions staff are looking for students that fit this profile and who will bring their passion and energy to the benefit of all in the school community.
Students wishing to attend Blyth Academy should be academically oriented, with post-secondary education as the goal.
Please visit the Admissions pages on the SMUS website for more information.
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.