AN OUR KIDS REPORT:The YMCA Academy vs. MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus

one-to-one comparison:

View The YMCA Academy's full report
VS.
View MacLachlan College – Lower School Campus's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    15 Breadalbane Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 1C2, Canada

    337 Trafalgar Road, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 3H3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2003

    1978

    Enrolment

    110

    250

    Grades

    6 to 12

    JK to 6

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Curriculum pace

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

    Academic culture

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

    Avg. Class Size

    8 to 12

    15 to 18

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $27,825

    $24,515 to $36,608

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    30%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    9 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $10,000

    $10,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    16

    28

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Yes

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    The very heart of private education is providing options for parents looking to support their learner, and YMCA Academy sits at the very heart of that concept. It was founded and developed to support learners with needs that may not be adequately met within other settings. Likewise, it comprises an academic environment in which those students aren’t constantly reminded of their exceptionality. Here, they participate in a community that is supportive, sympathetic, and socially oriented around their personal needs. That, in itself—irrespective of the programs or the curriculum—can be transformational. This isn’t a school for others, making a concession for them. Rather, it is a school for them. That’s huge.

    View full report

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    “MacLachlan prides itself on being at the cutting edge of innovation in teaching and learning theory,” says Michael Piening, head of school. “This generation of learner, and the world they are growing up in, is very engaged, social and interactive. We looked internally at how we could best respond and adapt to enhance student exploration, creativity and knowledge.” That’s quite a mouthful, to be sure, but it’s a good one nevertheless. Schools are challenged to adapt their programs to the needs of students, and there are a lot of red herrings out there, such as an over-emphasis on digital literacy, for example. To be a 21st century learner can mean many things, though at McLachlan it means engagement with ideas, peers, and community. The annual Word Fest is a great example of that, in that case using the language arts program as a starting point for an engagement with issues and topics that require students to think creatively, empathize, and communicate their ideas. Earlier this year the grade one classes took part in a workshop with the Hamilton Children’s museum, roll-playing a shipwreck, stuck on coral in the midst of a storm. That, and indeed many programs at MacLachlan, can rightly turn heads. They provide telling examples of how the school expresses its dedication to engagement, exploration, and social interactivity, all of it as charming as it is impressive. The ideal student is one who can thrive in a diverse, active, and challenging academic environment. 

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    "The YMCA Academy is an alternative middle school and high school serving youth with learning disabilities and learning style differences. The school's small class sizes, individual education plans, life skills counselling, and experiential learning opportunities support students in their pursuit of college preparation and workplace level courses. The recently expanded, state-of-the-art facility is conveniently located in the Central YMCA in downtown Toronto."

    • Helping your teen succeed in life
    • Building skills for academic success
    • Individualized Education Plans
    • Special Education support
    • Social & Emotional support
    • Experiential Learning
    • Small, supportive classes
    • Laptops for every student
    • Co-operative Education
    • A broad range of extracurricular opportunities, including clubs, events, and a cross-Canada exchange

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    "MacLachlan College’s Lower School Campus in Oakville is tailored for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. Our co-ed IB Primary Years Programme fosters a vibrant learning adventure with an emphasis on international-mindedness. The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) is an internationally recognized and rigorous curriculum for Kindergarten to Grade 6 students. It empowers students to become lifelong learners, responsible individuals, and critical thinkers with a global perspective. Our specially trained IB teachers continuously update their knowledge and foster a culture of inquiry in the classroom, promoting higher-order thinking skills and a lasting curiosity about the world. Vibrant classrooms cultivate a love for learning, laying the foundation for academic success. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, promoting a profound sense of belonging. Students embrace learning, developing confidence, and finding their voice in a supportive, safe, and nurturing environment."

    • IB World School Primary Years Programme
    • Round Square Leadership
    • Innovation & Future Ready Programs
    • Wellness & Emotional Intelligence
    • Field Trips and Outdoor Learning
    • Small Class Sizes
    • Character Education
    • Safe and Supportive Community
    • Technology Integration
    • Hot lunch program

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    "MacLachlan's academic program offers a transitional approach of two globally recognized programs beginning with the International Baccaulaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Gr.6 and Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 academic program offering Advanced Placement preparation/enrichment. The overarching goal from Pre-K to Gr. 12 is to develop essential real-world skills, support academic excellence, foster a growth mindset, and cultivate transdisciplinary abilities."

    Array

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

    Array

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    "Families choose MAC because of our highly respected academic programs and co-educational learning environment. What families quickly appreciate is MacLachlan’s high level of communication between home and school and how our smaller school size allows for their child(ren) to immerse themselves in their learning. Smaller classes afford teachers the opportunity to foster and influence tremendous growth in our students, and we feel privileged to guide them through their learning journey."

    Array

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    "MacLachlan is an incredibly tight-knit community. It quickly becomes obvious to prospective families that staff have an impressive connection to students, knowing virtually all them by name. Our leadership team is highly engaged with the everyday routines within the school community and are immersed throughout the school year. This level of engagement lends itself to MacLachlan’s commitment to facilitate programs that have a whole child development approach with a focus on student wellness."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    "MacLachlan is committed to creating successful and innovative approaches to learning by promoting and developing skills that transcend the classroom environment. MacLachlan is a small but mighty school. Our students score top achievements in cross-collegial local, national and international competitions in the areas of math, debate and public speaking. These opportunities provide enriching experiences for students outside the classroom where they can further explore their passions."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    I have spent a quarter of a century working in independent schools in Ontario, having focused my career on curriculum development and research on learning and the adolescent brain. The following judgment, then, must carry some weight: The Academy is a uniquely impressive school, one that profoundly improves the quality of life of its students, and promises to multiply such improvement as they move on successfully to post-secondary studies or meaningful work placements. Of course, these are large claims, but they are supported by the achievements of our graduates. We have taken approved Ontario Ministry of Education courses and incorporated them into unique programs to meet the needs of our student population. Our goal is to give our students the skills to graduate from The Academy with their Ontario Secondary School Diploma in hand, ready to face the challenges of university, college or vocational endeavors.

     

    Our personal, differentiated approach, specialized programs and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to those students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences.  Our students typically have communication exceptionalities such as: learning disabilities, autism, giftedness and/or medical conditions that affect learning such as ADD and ADHD which have impacted their achievements in school settings. At the Academy we support our students from their first day of school with an Individual Education Plan outlining supports and accommodations specific to their needs.

     

    The  Academy team is made up of experienced teaching professionals with accreditation in their professional fields. They bring varied backgrounds and expertise in special education, IT, counseling, mentorship, curriculum development, guidance and career counseling, cooperative education, and many others.

     

    Given its history in education, and its wide-ranging social programs for youth, the YMCA connection enhances The Academy in many ways. We recognize that our students can benefit from the “wrap-around” services our connection to the YMCA of Greater Toronto makes possible. For example, each of our students has year-round access to all Health, Fitness and Recreation centres with the Central Y being the facility for all school-related fitness education. Co-operative education opportunities are readily at hand as well. Our students experience school-wide overnight leadership and outdoor education sessions at camp Wanakita and/or Camp Cedar Glen, and access to Canada Youth Exchanges through the YMCA Student Youth Exchanges program, amongst a large variety of supports.

     

    Finally, The Academy has been, and will continue to be, a school in which all students know that they are part of a supportive, safe and challenging community, dedicated to enrich their present and their future. We pride ourselves in our students’ success!

    MacLachlan College lives its mission statement by cultivating intellectual curiosity in its students and inspiring them to be active contributors to our ever changing world. Our small class sizes, averaging 15 in the lower school and 18 in upper school, ensure that every student is known on a personal level. This is a key feature of our school. MacLachlan College is committed to providing a superior, world class education.

    Accredited as an IB World School, MacLachlan offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, making us the only private school in Oakville with this prestigious designation. The IB PYP programme is an internationally recognized curriculum designed for students from pre-school to grade 6. The IB is one of the world’s most highly esteemed education programs. In an increasingly globalized world, the IB challenges students to think critically, research deeply and develop internationally minded perspectives on a broad range of issues. Students become lifelong learners and conscientious critical thinkers.

    In grades 7 to 12 we offer a rigourous academic program with an option to work toward Advanced Placement courses of study. We believe in the traditional approach to education. However, true to our motto "Where tradition and vision meet", our methodology and approach to the use of communication technology is progressive. Our teachers and students engage in dynamic and interactive educational opportunities. Our approach leads to inquiry based learning and the development of higher order critical thinking skills. At MacLachlan College we believe in the personal touch. We take the time to listen. I would like to hear about your child and I invite you to call for a visit.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

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


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      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.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      The YMCA Academy offers a full range of compulsory and elective high school courses, imbued with the school's focus on providing accommodations and assistive technologies and offering experiential learning opportunities and wrap-around support.

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      MacLachlan College is a dynamic and inclusive community where teachers guide and facilitate learning by creating real world connections and a growth mindset is nurtured in every student. The rigorous academic program is supported by our active and collaborative learning environment, resulting in successful and resilient students who are well prepared for future success in today’s ever-changing world. MacLachlan’s ongoing commitment to innovative and challenging educational experiences allows for the rapid integration of new technologies and emerging active learning resources to enhance student exploration, creativity, and knowledge. By combining traditional methods of instruction with a living systems approach, classrooms have been transformed into creative hubs where students fully participate and engage not only in their coursework but with their peers, deepening their intellectual inquiry and critical thinking abilities. These adaptive and dynamic learning environments enable students and teachers to collaborate, innovate and connect existing knowledge to new thinking.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      Our educational philosophy of international mindedness is cultivated and supported through the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. MacLachlan is proud to be the only school in Oakville designated with the prestigious IB PYP designation. Small class sizes provide personalized attention where students develop a sense of belonging and purpose through strong bonds with their teachers and fellow classmates. It is of paramount importance that we provide an atmosphere where students do not just learn, but are eager and engaged. Our students embrace learning, develop a spirit of confidence and find their own voice in a supportive, safe and nurturing environment.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

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

      MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    THE YMCA ACADEMY


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

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

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    We offer a full suite of accommodations for learning style differences, as well as a dedicated counselor providing social/emotional support to individuals and the learning community. We welcome students with a wide variety of learning style differences.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

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

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    9 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    30%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $10,000

    $10,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

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

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Yes

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    Yes

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    The YMCA Academy is a Ministry of Education–inspected, alternative high school in downtown Toronto. Our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences. The YMCA Academy’s middle school is an alternative grade 7 & 8 program in downtown Toronto. Developed with a focus on building reading, writing and math skills, our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    For students entering our program at grade 9, we do an assessment of English and Mathematics to determine grade level and appropriate placement in our program

    MACLACHLAN COLLEGE – LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS

    Applications are welcome throughout the year, however, beginning the process early increases the likelihood of securing a space for your child. MacLachlan accepts applications from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. Please note, admission procedures are more informal for children at the PK to SK levels. Rolling admission is available for Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8. 

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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