3000 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5N 4E2, Canada
451 Ellesmere Road, Scarborough - Toronto, Ontario, M1R 4E5, Canada
2000
2000
545
240
K to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
Traditional
20 to 26
16 to 24
In-class adaptations
$28,220 to $32,970
$9,050
Yes
No
0%
0%
8 to 12
None
$8,400
$0
42
22
0%
0%
100%
0%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Not available
Mar 30, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 3 - 11
Yes: grades JK - 2
Yes: grades 6 - 11
No
information not available
information not available
Stratford Hall has grown phenomenally in its 15 years of life, from 40 students in its inaugural year to more than 500 today. It was begun by parents looking for a better option for their children, one that offered challenging academics as well as the full IB program, and those remain hallmarks of the school today. The IB program also provides the foundation for the physical plan, with three buildings housing the three aspects of the program, realized in 2014 with completion of the Middle Years building. Stratford Hall presents as modern, progressive, urban, and indeed, that’s precisely the intention—the architecture is inviting, while also referencing the surrounding neighbourhood. Jason McBride was appointed head of school in 2015, arriving from a like position at GEMS World Academy in Dubai, and underscoring the international perspective promoted across the curricular areas. The ideal student is one that will thrive in a vibrant, challenging, and intellectually active academic environment.
View full reportCharacter development and academic excellence go hand in hand at Sathya Sai School. The Ontario curriculum is integrated with the values of truth, right conduct, peace, love, and non-violence. Holistic development is a major focus: yoga, prayer, and activities that teach calmness and concentration are regularly provided. Kids thrive in an environment of ample support and compassion delivered by school staff and volunteers in partnership with a parental commitment to those same values. Sathya Sai School offers a huge range of extracurriculars and clubs, as well as service projects which help build key traits and skills such as leadership and responsibility. Kids graduate with a sensitivity to the needs of others and a strong ethical framework as well as impressive academic credentials.
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"An independent, gender-inclusive, university preparatory day school for students in Kindergarten to Grade 12. Through the continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes (PYP, MYP and DP), the School provides a level of individual and academic challenge beyond the norm. We have a tradition of breaking with tradition: because your child needs more than tradition to meet the challenges of the world they will inherit."
"The Sathya Sai School is training future leaders in our community. We offer the Ministry of Ontario Curriculum integrated with a Human Values-based character education program for students from JK to Grade 8. We are a non-profit, independent school of 240 students. The school's curriculum is structured around the five universal Human Values of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-violence. This focus on Human Values has led us to be ranked a #1 elementary school in Ontario by the Fraser Institute since 2006."
"At Stratford Hall, your child will be given the opportunity to learn and to thrive: to discover their unique strengths, and to explore the diverse opportunities our rapidly changing world offers. Under the care and guidance of Stratford Hall faculty and staff, they will grow and mature, while equipping themselves with intellectual tools, strength of character, and a global perspective that comes with an International Baccalaureate education."
"The Sathya Sai School is founded on the universal ideals of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-violence. These values are inherent in each child. Our goal is to nurture these values to achieve excellence. The Sathya Sai Education in Human Values program awakens intuition and consciousness. This brings about transformation of one’s character. We provide students with an environment that helps them gain confidence to become good, intelligent and socially responsible citizens."
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"Families choose Stratford Hall for the caring teachers, innovative programming, and vibrant community. Students will discover their unique strengths and explore the diverse opportunities our rapidly changing world offers through the three programmes of the International Baccalaureate, the PYP, MYP and DP."
"Families choose the Sathya Sai School because of its highly rated academic programs and integration of character education. Families regularly comment on their child's awareness of social issues and social responsibilities. Many parents have noted that their child's behaviour at home and in the community have been recognized as exemplary. While reaching toward their highest potential, they have also changed the lives of people around them with their compassion, self-discipline and wisdom."
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"Our facilities are greater than can be seen from the street and we have potential for growth. Parents are surprised that we have 2 full sized gymnasiums, a climbing wall with 15 routes, rooftop spaces and access a 10 acre park with playgrounds and fields."
"Meditation/Silent Sitting. Parents report that their children continued to engage in silent sitting/meditation at home, even after graduating from the school. There were observable improvements in their children's behaviour - they were calmer and able to handle stress better. Meditation and silent sitting have had a long-term impact on their performance in higher grades."
"Stratford Hall has summer camps for Grades K - 7 and has a partnership with Goh Ballet and Microsoft Digital Academy. We also have a Post Secondary Advisory on campus to guide students on their journey of self-actualization. Recognizing that each student is unique, we begin working with them in Grade 8 and 9 to assist them on their path to self-discovery. Once realized, students are helped to find the post-secondary opportunities that fit their unique set of interests, strengths and goals."
"Sathya Sai School students love coming to school. When they are ill and cannot attend, they feel sad to have to miss even one day of school. A student who joined in grade 7 had been bullied at his previous school and did not want to attend school. After joining the Sathya Sai School, he was jumping out bed early in the morning and could not wait to come to school to learn and share with his friends. Many families appreciate the fact that their child has introduced meditation to them."
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Stratford Hall is a remarkable community of dedicated students, families, faculty and staff who come together everyday to share their talents, creativity, and experiences in the pursuit of learning and personal growth. Through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum, students develop the skills of deep inquiry, thematic connection and global perspective to prepare students for a changing and unpredictable world.
This exceptional program of academic, arts, athletics, clubs and student life engages students to achieve remarkable leaps in development through each stage of their education. Stratford Hall students learn to be thinkers, doers, leaders and lifelong learners.
Stratford Hall celebrates and values all members for who they are. Identity, culture and relationships are upheld as core constructs. We actively work upon our practice in diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) and observe indigenous understanding and reconciliation. These beliefs are evident in all parts of our institution, from the classroom to the boardroom.
Even though we teach a globally minded curriculum, our location is one of our greatest assets. When Stratford Hall opened its doors in East Vancouver in 2000, our Founders understood that students experience school within - not separately from - the surrounding neighbourhood. We are connected to an incredible diversity of people, cultures, activities and history.
Stratford Hall is constantly developing and growing as an institution, through design thinking, professional development, curriculum revision, and campus development. We acknowledge our historical foundation while attending the changing world around us in order to provide the best possible educational environment for our students.
We invite you to visit our campus and see these principles in action, whether you are a prospective student, family, employee, or neighbour.
Welcome to Sathya Sai School, a non-denominational, unique elementary school (JK-Gr.8) that integrates character development with academic excellence. The result has been the blossoming of human excellence through self-transformation in hundreds of students.
The universal human values, namely Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Nonviolence and the five teaching techniques – Universal Prayers, Silent Sitting, Story Telling, Group Singing and Group Activities - help develop a child holistically. Our faculty members strive to be exemplars of human values.
At Sathya Sai School of Toronto-Canada, the advanced academic programme is balanced with Daily Prayers, Meditation, Yoga, Music, Choir and Band, Physical Education, team sports, leadership and extracurricular activities. Service activities (local, national and international) are integral to the school culture.
The harmonious trilateral partnership between parents, teachers and volunteers ensures a child’s physical, social, emotional, intellectual and spiritual well-being. The parents must attend "Dynamic Parenting" classes to understand human values and inculcate the same in their children.
The universal human values, which underlie all the learning at our school, have resulted in a high level of academic achievement in our students, together with a sensitive awareness of the needs of others. This has made them welcome additions to the high schools, universities, and workplaces of their choice, where they shine as examples to others through their diligence, ethical conduct and sense of community service.
Please visit our website to learn more about our school programs.
Sincerely,
Revathi Chennabathni
Traditional
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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.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
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.
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Stratford Hall is a K-12 International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum School. The IB forms the foundation of our pedagogical approach to teaching and learning and is divided into the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, and the two-year Diploma Programme in which students undertake university-level work. All three phases are inquiry-based – driven by questions the students and teachers generate together – in order to develop knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed. Using best practice from a range of international frameworks and curricula, the IB curriculum at Stratford Hall is then laid over a modified BC curriculum with a heavy emphasis on critical-thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity across all disciplines. All three programs are also linked through what is known as the IB Learner Profile. This is a set of 10 characteristics, such as being open-minded and caring, that are explicitly taught, reflected on, and encouraged. Our aim is to foster a community of internationally minded citizens who can build a better world through intercultural understanding and respect.
The essence of the Sathya Sai School lives in our five universal human values of Peace, Love, Non-Violence, Right Conduct, and Truth. It permeates all that we do by balancing character with academic excellence. Student voice and choice are embedded in the school environment so that students become active partners in the learning process. We encourage students to engage with the materials, promote collaboration, and encourage self-reflection to evaluate their learning. Learning is implemented through science fair projects, role plays, public speaking events, and service-learning assignments that run through all grades. Through hands-on methods, students inquire and draw meaningful conclusions. We are also committed to building a 21st-century skill-set critical to student success. Digital literacy begins early in primary grades, and students learn digital ethics. French also starts early in the primary grades. Teachers gather evidence of learning from various sources (triangulation of data) that accurately reflect how students work towards expectations. Assessment as of and for learning also plays a critical role in improving student achievement.
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.
The mathematics programme at Stratford Hall is built on the belief that all students are capable of studying math at a high level. In the PYP, mathematics is understood as a language that is intentionally developed during each year of the programme through inquiry and investigation. Competencies include reasoning, analyzing, understanding, solving, communication, representing, connecting and reflecting. In the MYP mathematics course, it is important that learners acquire mathematical understanding by constructing their own meaning through increasing levels of abstraction, starting with an exploration of their own personal experiences, understanding and knowledge to prepare student for the study of group five courses in the IB Diploma Programme (DP.) In the DP, students will gain a better appreciation for the usefulness, beauty, elegance and power of mathematics which will help students to improve in their logical, critical and creative-thinking.
Since each student in a mathematics classroom has a unique identity and readiness to learn new concepts and skills, learning begins with a focus on fundamental concepts and foundational skills, delivered through carefully planned direct instruction using a variety of platforms. Our resources include textbooks/workbooks, Jump Math, Mathletics, and websites such as IXL, Prodigy, SplashLearn, and manipulatives. Following that, problem-solving tasks are assigned to introduce, clarify, or apply the concept and skills learned using strategies which are then enhanced further by contests such as Gauss and Spirit of Math. This balanced pedagogy engages students and allows them to demonstrate their learning by representing, connecting, and justifying their thoughts as they find relevance in what they learn. Teachers also raise awareness of math-related careers by exploring real-world applications and providing opportunities for career-related project work, such as a business fair, where students can learn financial literacy and become budding entrepreneurs.
Our teachers have the flexibility to use a variety of textbooks and materials to meet the needs of the class and the content being covered. There isn't one set of textbooks that is used across all grades.
Students are trained to use calculators specific to the course that is being taught.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Our IB Programming in the PYP (Primary Years Programme) allows for a balanced approach to early reading instruction. Through six interdisciplinary units of inquiry, students are exposed to both systematic-phonics programming and a whole language approach. Regular routines are established at the beginning of the school year including home reading, silent and partner reading, daily read-alouds and weekly library visits. MYP language and literature builds on experiences in language learning that students have gained during the PYP. Knowledge, conceptual understanding, and skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and presenting) are further developed through the MYP and DP years where careful examination of literature lends itself to independent, critical and original thinking.
At Sathya Sai School, we aim to ensure that our students become proficient, thoughtful readers and writers, who can think critically and communicate confidently and purposefully. To achieve these goals, we follow the balanced literacy approach to teaching language. Teachers engage students through read-aloud, modeling reading, thinking, and comprehension strategies. This enables students to see what good reading looks like and it initiates many habits of the mind necessary for proficient readers. Our classroom libraries provide students with leveled books that cater to the different interests of our young readers. Book talks, guided reading, reading buddies, book clubs, and annual book fairs are some of our successful reading programs and events that get our children excited about reading. Upper grades move to analyses of writing structures and archetypes connections.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
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.
Students learning to write in the PYP (Primary Years Programme) receive age-appropriate direct instruction of written and grammar conventions along with consistent exposure to various styles of writing (narrative and expository) through the interdisciplinary units of inquiry. Students have opportunities to practice and apply their written convention skills through writing short or long stories, poetry, reading responses, essays, articles or research pieces. The use of planners to generate ideas and assist with the organization of a written piece are important areas of focus, along with the self-editing process. Citation skills are introduced in upper elementary, and carried on throughout the grades. Letter formation and handwriting are a focus in the early years. Assistive technology and specialist support is provided to students on individual education plans.
Writing is not just a matter of convenience but also a form of art to explore and express. The approach to teaching writing is also similar to reading. The teacher prepares, facilitates, guides, and models students--leading them to independence through a gradual release of responsibility. Most grades use the 6+ One Traits of Writing Model. Reflections and journal writing are aids to inculcate introspective skills. Vocabulary enrichment and phonic instructions are used to enhance reading and writing competencies as part of our balanced literacy program. Writing activities that students see as meaningful and that challenge them to think creatively about topics and concerns. Students explore various forms and styles of writing in different genres and engage in the creative process as they plan, draft, revise, and publish their work.
Equal Balance
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.
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 at Stratford Hall is messy, fun, and challenging. We guide our students into becoming scientific thinkers who ask questions beyond traditional textbook learning. Our students have an in-depth knowledge of scientific fact and theory, can design, engineer and investigate their own experimental questions in our state of the art, university-level laboratories and through our field study opportunities, and can maturely discuss the impact of science on society. A science specialist helps classroom teachers craft a meaningful, inquiry-based, exciting science sequence through the Primary Years Program, developing into more rigorous experiment and data analysis techniques throughout the Middle Years. Stratford Hall offers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at the Diploma Programme Level, which fully prepare students for university-level science and beyond.
Students are provided hands-on opportunities in school or through science field trips in order to develop and refine their inquiry skills, problem-solving skills, and critical and creative thinking skills while discovering fundamental concepts through direct instruction. The activities offered enable students to Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate, promoting collaborative, active learning in which students work together to solve problems and investigate new concepts by asking questions, observing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions. Science fairs are held at the school with little guidance, allowing students to become freethinkers while they analyze how the science behind everything works. Opportunities to relate knowledge and skills to wider contexts by integrating science with other subjects motivates students to learn in a meaningful way and become lifelong learners.
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
Physics
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.
Literature is a course that looks at varying conceptions, interpretations and experiences of the world through literature. By comparing local, national and international works that come from a variety of genres and periods, students learn that literature is heavily influenced by cultural perspectives; however, the universality of the human experience is paramount. Each year texts are chosen by English teachers to best fit the character and interest of the grade.
The study of Language and Literature in Sathya Sai School is focused on developing language skills essential to students for understanding themselves and others so that they find fulfilling careers and become responsible citizens. Students are encouraged to exercise their higher-order thinking skills to voice their perspectives as they read various forms of literature. The school uses strategies and resources that recognize and reflect diversity in the classroom and cater to the individual strengths and needs of students. Students are encouraged to connect with their own experiences as well as with the world through different lenses. Students read and analyse works of recognised, diverse writers from their own time as well as earlier eras. Thus by reading from a wide spectrum of materials they are challenged to become receptive to varying ideas and perspectives as they grow in their ability to think independently and critically.
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
Expanding Communities
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
The transdisciplinary themes in the PYP frame the programme of inquiry. PYP Units of Study are organized in to six themes: Who we are How we organized ourselves Where we are in place and time How the world works Sharing the planet How we express ourselves These globally and socially driven themes provide a starting point from which students can examine issues and opportunities as they are being experienced in the real world. Taken together these themes provide students with authentic learning experiences that are not confined to the boundaries of traditional subjects because real-world problems have no boundaries.
Social Science at the Sathya Sai School, especially for the early grades, is highly linked with the backgrounds and experiences of the local community. More traditional geography and history lessons are used at the lower grades. However, the emphasis overall is on projects about family and community histories. Social justice also plays a central role. Children learn quite a lot about the historical experiences of minority communities in Canada and are encouraged to think critically about their own communities and the roles they played.
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.
The MYP Individuals and Societies course encourages learners to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological, and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies, and environments. It encourages learners, both students and teachers, to consider local and global contexts. DP History aims to develop knowledge, communication, research skills, curiosity, lasting critical-thinking abilities, and a profound understanding of – and empathy for – people living in other periods and contexts; therefore, the course provides abundant opportunities for students to explore and apply the IB Learner Profile. The course naturally integrates academic skepticism, a crucial connection to Theory of Knowledge.
Humanities and social sciences in the Sathya Sai School provide a vehicle for our moral philosophy of universal human values. History and geography are used to examine past and current social and moral issues in the world which are then linked back to our understanding of universal human values. More traditional geography and history lessons are used at the Junior and Intermediate levels, focusing on the development of Confederation, settlers, and their impact on Indigenous communities. In geography at the higher levels, the focus is on World Human Patterns and Economic Systems and Immigration with an emphasis on Canada. However, the emphasis overall is on projects about family and community histories. Social justice also plays a central role. Children learn quite a lot about the historical experiences of minority communities in Canada and are encouraged to think critically about their own communities and the roles they play.
Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
Students in the PYP are introduced to French and Spanish. In the MYP, Language Acquisition performance is assessed at six different phases. These phases represent a developmental continuum of additional language learning. Language Acquisition teachers work with students and parents to determine which phase of instruction is appropriate. Mandarin is an option starting in Grade 10. In the DP, students who are in phases 1-3 of their Language Acquisition in Grade 10 would be guided towards the study of that same language at the standard level in the DP. Alternatively, they might choose to study a different second language in Grade 11.
At Sathya Sai School, the teaching of Core French begins from Junior Kindergarten (JK). Our students are introduced to the fundamentals of the French language through recitations, poems, songs, dialogues, and other modes of communication. French is taught once a week from JK to Grade 3. However, it is taught everyday from Grade 4 to Grade 8, in line with the Provincial Ontario Curriculum. The students go through the four strands of learning: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The students learn a lot through various audio visual means, as well as group and individual project work. This boosts their confidence in writing, speaking or expressing themselves in the French language.
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
Equal Balance
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.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Students from K - Grade 10 participate in music, theatre and visual arts. In Grades 6-8, students complete a rotation of three Arts courses, one per term. They are Visual Arts, Music and Theatre Performance. In Grades 9 and 10, they choose one of five elective courses: Media Arts, Music, Photography, Theatre Performance, and Visual Arts. DP art students investigate past, present, and emerging forms of Visual Art and to engage in producing, appreciating, and evaluating an understanding of Visual Arts from local, national, and international perspectives. DP Theatre is a unique subject in that it is a practical art form; it is dynamic, collaborative, and live. It is a practical subject that encourages discovery through experimentation, the taking of risks, and the presentation of ideas to others. It results in the development of both theatre and life skills; the building of confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills.
The Sathya Sai School offers an enriched arts education for students in music, drama, yoga, dance, digital arts and visual arts. Visual Art is taught independently as a subject and is integrated into other subjects. The school's philosophy of universal human values is embedded into Performing Arts curricula. The goals of the school are to enrich and accelerate aesthetic development; to stimulate creativity and original thinking; and to create an enduring respect and passion for learning within a climate of artistic and academic excellence.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Rather than a stand-alone subject, information technology is used as a tool for learning and production. Exposure to computers and their uses will be appropriate to the grade level and the topics under investigation.
Computers and technology play a fairly central role at the Sathya Sai School despite not being an explicitly "technology-focused" school. Nonetheless, coding is a central part of every grade's curriculum. Technology should be implemented into education as quickly as possible, but only when it is relevant. When nothing else works, technology can often achieve educational goals, but only when it is employed as a tool to boost learning. Students at this age require more scaffolding, but technology can help them develop higher-order thinking skills if used responsibly.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
At Stratford Hall we strive to develop intelligent athletes that are lifelong participants in physical activity. We focus on developing physically literate students that have an understanding of the fundamental movement skills which will allow them to participate in a variety of activities. We do this by using the “Teaching Games for Understanding” model combined with the Primary Years and Middle Years Program guides and the IRP's from the BC Ministry of Education. We also have a strong Outdoor Environmental Education (OEE) program that starts in grade 4 and compliments the PE program. The OEE program focuses on water sports (kayaking, canoeing, sailing, stand up paddle boarding, dragon boating), winter activities (snow shoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating), hiking, rock climbing, Circus, and a number of service opportunities. The OEE program runs through grade 10.
The Sathya Sai School's Physical Education curriculum endeavours to create a healthy mind in a healthy body alongside a good sense of fair play. Good morals and manners come first and so sportsmanship is the first priority. Students are to be strong competitors while still being fair competitors. Basketball, badminton and cricket are some of our top sports and teams either exist for them or are in the works. There is also an all-grades sports day that runs every year.
Play-based
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) is a curriculum framework of essential elements — the knowledge, concepts, skills, attitudes, and action that young students need to equip them for success. At Stratford Hall, these elements combine to create a transdisciplinary learning opportunity that is engaging, relevant and challenges each student to meet and exceed their own expectations. The PYP framework is organized into three distinct area of curriculum focus: - What students learn; - The way in which teachers will teach; and, - The practice of effective assessment which supports how we know what we know about student attainment.
We focused on teaching and learning within the four frameworks namely: Belonging and Contributing, Self-Regulation and Well Being, Demonstrating Literacy and Mathematics Behaviour, Problem Solving and Innovation. This school creates a heart culture that enables everyone to feel welcomed and belonged. Our twice-a-day Meditation and bi-weekly Yoga practices play an integral part in the student’s self-regulation and well-being. This balances their overall mental and emotional health. The children gain Mathematics and Literacy concepts through various learning experiences in a play-based inquiry method. The kindergarten teachers create opportunities for students to render service which ultimately leads to individual transformation because the school believes that a student’s holistic growth is an inspiration and contribution to society.
Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
At Stratford Hall we know that no two children learn at the same pace. Our teachers are skilled in the art of differentiation and our small class sizes create an opportunity for our faculty to develop an in-depth understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced by each of their students
We have a student-centred approach based on their learning abilities. We encourage students to think out-of-the-box, with curiosity and creativity.
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.
The culmination of the PYP and MYP programmes is the Diploma Programme - a challenging university preparatory programme. International research from the IBO shows that despite its challenge, "there are many benefits to choosing the DP over other 16-19 curricula including the fact that DP students are better able than their peers to cope with demanding workloads, manage their time and meet the expectations placed on them."
Our foundational philosophy at the Sathya Sai School is to leave no student behind. Towards this end, our teachers ensure that all students’ academic styles and learning approaches are understood and that teaching material is delivered in a student-centred manner. We know that each student is unique, and our program is designed to help students reach their highest potential. Our teachers inspire students to be confident lifelong learners, responsible global citizens and champions of excellence.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
The IB forms the foundation of our pedagogical approach to teaching and learning and is divided into the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, and the two-year Diploma Programme in which students undertake university-level work. All three phases are inquiry-based – driven by questions the students and teachers generate together – in order to develop knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed.
We inspire human excellence through our approach that balances the child's emotional, physical and intellectual needs. This holistic style uses the five Universal Human Values of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-Violence. We realize that every child is innately divine. Our teaching method employs direct instruction through songs, storytelling, meditation and group activities. We integrate these five human values into the more comprehensive curriculum and enrichment activities.
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
8 - 12
0%
0%
$8,400
$0
100%
0%
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Not available
Mar 30, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 3 - 11
Yes: grades JK - 2
Yes: grades 6 - 11
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 2
Yes: grades 3 - 8
No
No
No
No
At Stratford Hall, we look for students who have a solid academic foundation, enjoy learning, have a variety of interests, and have a desire to contribute to our community. In addtion, the attributes of the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile (characteristics such as being caring, open-minded, and reflective) are all an integral part of who we are at Stratford Hall, and we look for prospective students and families who embody these characteritics as well.
Students of the Sathya Sai School are expected to strive to: - Achieve academic excellence; - Apply the five Human Values in daily life; - Develop good study and work habits such as concentration, time management and commitment; - Display friendliness and cooperation by forming positive relationships with peers and adults; - Show respect for other people’s feelings, values and beliefs; - Show initiative and willingness to accept responsibility; and - Render selfless service to the community.
Step 1: Application Form
Complete and submit an application form. A $300 one-time, non-refundable application fee is required (paid online with a credit card).
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documentation
Online checklist assigned upon submission of a completed application.
The SSAT and Character Skills Snapshot is a standardized test used by admission offices to assess the abilities of students seeking to enroll in an independent school. All students wishing to be considered for Grade 6 to Grade 11 must write the SSAT by January 31. Consideration for exemption will be given to students currently enrolled in an IB programme.
A list of test dates and locations can be found here.
Step 3: Schedule a Parent Interview
Once you have access to your online applicant checklist, you will be able to arrange your parent interview. This is for parents only. There is no need to make special arrangements to have your child attend this interview.
The application must be made using the online Application for Admission.
All applicants and parents for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 2 will receive an in-person interview to determine whether our school and your family are a good fit. Applicants will then be placed in a pool and students will be selected by lottery.
All applicants for Grades 3 to 8 will write a Placement Test, based on the curriculum of the student’s current year. Applications are open to siblings of students already enrolled, subject to the same criteria as other applicants.
The decision of the Admissions Committee will be final.
Applicant must be either a Canadian Citizen, a Permanent Resident, or on a Student Visa.