1132 Fisher Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 6P7, Canada
7808 Pierre Drive, Summerland, British Columbia, V0H 1Z2, CanadaIndirect Support:
1132 Fisher Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 6P7, Canada
7808 Pierre Drive, Summerland, British Columbia, V0H 1Z2, Canada
5,528.8 km
7,512.6 km
1992
2018
425
165
JK to 8
Preschool to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Boarding, Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
10 to 18
15 to 20
Learning
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$23,550 to $25,950
$14,800 to $17,980
$41,930 to $59,480
No
Yes
0%
30%
None
1 to 11
$0
$3,000
39
10
0%
24%
80%
70%
information not available
JK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
information not available
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
No
Yes: grades Preschool - 11
No
No
information not available
information not available
Turnbull was founded by Mary Ann Turnbull in 1992, guided by a commitment to Caring and Excellence. Its history, in a sense, dates back to the Turnbull Learning Centre, established in 1981. The Centre offered academic services, and Turnbull’s success there led to the creation of the school. The setting is idyllic. Since 1996, it has occupied a 5.5-acre parcel in the Central Experimental Farm area of Ottawa, a National Historic Site that is easily accessible from all parts of the city. The location is within Ottawa, yet retains a rural community feel, which itself is a draw for many families. The school has grown over the years and is a good size today, allowing for a nice breadth of programming while retaining a personal, community feel. As initially intended, the school's values—cooperation, character, and reasoned reflection—inform all its activities, fostering a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment for students and their families. Parental involvement in the school's life is welcomed, as is consistent and informal communication between families and school administration.
View full reportThe setting for the campus couldn’t be more attractive, nestled comfortably on 17 acres in the Okanagan Valley. The school prides itself on a ability to remain agile, and to innovate programs and approaches. It’s a candidate for the full IB continuum, though, as any school in a similar position, is of course already teaching to that curriculum. While we think of innovation in terms STEM instruction—engineering and digital design perhaps particularly—there is also a core belief in what outdoor education can offer, something that adds dimension to the academic delivery and the student experience. The boarding program adds depth and diversity to the student population. Founded in 2016, Unisus is comparatively a young school, though the leadership brings a wealth of experience in private schooling. The school was founded to offer an exceptional learning experience, something that it has proven, through hiring and program development, to be very adept at achieving.
View full reportinformation not available
information not available
"Turnbull School is dedicated to academic excellence in a caring environment. Students benefit from highly qualified teachers, small class sizes, daily physical education, organization and study skills, enhanced French, award winning science, computer technology & robotics, dynamic music, visual arts and drama programs, intramural and extra-curricular sports, clubs and special events, in a modern facility. Our leadership and character development programs enhance the school culture of excellence and caring."
"Located in the highly sought-after Okanagan Valley, UNISUS is a dual diploma school offering both the IB and the BC Diploma, opening doors to universities worldwide. Our Academics+ program keeps academics at the core, while students either pursue professional training in Scholar-Athlete Academies, or build future-ready skills through diverse Enrichment Programs during the school day. Combined with weekend boarding adventures, UNISUS is a local and international school where students learn, grow, and truly belong."
"At Turnbull School, we focus on a well-rounded approach where children are not just exposed to a rigorous academic program, but also a strong focus to character development, study skills, arts and music, and athletics. We truly get to know our families and have a strong sense of community and belonging."
"As an IB World School, the IB curriculum encourages students to think critically, challenge assumptions and consider both local and global contexts. Outdoor Education is a foundational part of our K-12 learning curriculum. Unisus is based in the four-seasons Okanagan Valley with access to unparalleled outdoor recreation, including skiing, boating, and watersports! We offer English language instruction. We offer ELL, Outdoor Ed and boarding in our custom-built facility."
"With our focus on providing a strong academic foundation, we do not have the resources to support serious academic and behavioural concerns. As a result, we are unable to accept applications for students with these profiles."
Information not available
"In 1996, Turnbull School moved from office space to its original, newly constructed and permanent home. In 2003, in order to meet growing demand and improve programming, the senior school was constructed which included a full-size, double gymnasium, science lab, and visual arts room. In the fall of 2019, a modern and fully equipped music hall was added to the school, which also included the renovation and updating of designated drama and visual arts rooms. More recently, in 2025, a STEM lab was added to the senior building for our coding and robotics program."
Information not available
"Well-rounded children with an open mind and willingness to learn, with average to above average learning profiles do very well at Turnbull School."
Information not available
"We would advise families who have children with serious learning needs and/or behavioural issues to explore other school options."
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"Over the years, parents have shared with us that they selected our school based on reputation, reliability, communication with families, and a warm, welcoming environment of caring and excellence."
"Where you send your child to school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. At UNISUS, we inspire our students to be globally-minded citizens and critical thinkers through Academic Excellence, Student Empowerment, and Global Citizenship. We are proud to be the only IB World Boarding School in the Okanagan. Our location in beautiful Summerland allows us to offer an extensive and varied outdoor education program, including downhill skiing. High standard+high support."
"Turnbull School is a highly regarded and a sought-after elementary school. Children are excited to come each day, and they return home happy."
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"Families come to Turnbull School for an excellent education; however, during their time with us, they are exposed to so much more beyond the curriculum. When a Turnbull student leaves us, that child enters the world having gained new experiences and opportunities that will last a lifetime."
"What might surprise students - particularly international or national boarding students - is the opportunity to explore four-season outdoor recreation activities: skiing, snowboarding, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, water sports. Boarding students who had never skied before arriving in the Okanagan, are all proficient skiers after spending weekends at Apex Mountain Ski Resort and Nickel Plate Nordic Centre! Add to that, a tight-knit, supportive community where no student feels lost in the crowd."
"Families are always impressed with the true sense of community, as well as the amount of care and communication they receive from our faculty."
"Based in the beautiful Okanagan, British Columbia, we have a unique chance to ignite a passion and respect for outdoor exploration and recreation. The UNISUS outdoor education program has the natural advantage of the renowned sunny Okanagan climate and four-season outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, ziplining and direct access to some of the best hiking trails, lakes, and ski hills in the world. We also boast a tight-knit, caring community!"
"At Turnbull School, we are consistently reviewing and updating our resources and programming. In particular, we are very excited about our new Tech Lab and technology program."
Information not available
"While we do not foresee any significant changes to our current structure, we remain committed to providing current and relevant curriculum and experiences for our students. We are also committed to adhering to the values and guiding principles that have shaped our school over the years."
Information not available
At Turnbull School, we are committed to fostering excellence in a caring and supportive environment. As an independent coeducational school for students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, we offer a comprehensive academic program, as well as an abundance of extra-curricular activities, that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
We believe that a strong educational foundation built during the elementary years is one of the greatest gifts we can offer a child; one that will benefit them for a lifetime.
To learn more about our school and what makes Turnbull a special place to learn and grow, we invite you to visit our website or contact us directly. We would be happy to answer your questions.
Thank you for your interest in Turnbull School!
Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) with a strong focus on outdoor education, technology and entrepreneurship.
Everyone knows each other’s name in our safe, tight-knit, and inclusive community: children never get lost in the crowd. Every single student is known, accepted, encouraged, and supported to discover their voice, true self, and potential to shine. Small class sizes and dedicated IB teachers (most of whom have lived and taught overseas) mean your child will never be just a face in the crowd!
Founded in 2018, the UNISUS campus sits on a 17-acre hilltop at the base of Giant’s Head Mountain, in Summerland, the Central Okanagan. The school and our custom-built 60-student capacity boarding facility (and dining hall) is nestled among miles of vineyards and orchards, with a view to Lake Okanagan and all lake life has to offer. The Okanagan Valley offers four season recreation, a beautiful natural environment, and a safe place to learn and live
The UNISUS IB Diploma Programme (DP) offers students world-class university preparation programs and pathways to esteemed universities worldwide. The academically rigorous Diploma Programme (DP) offers an unsurpassed breadth and depth of knowledge that develops students intellectually, emotionally and ethically - increasing our student's candidacy to their university of choice (100% of our graduates continue to universities in Canada, the U.S. and Europe).
Students become confident and capable globally-minded citizens and thinkers, empowered to meet life's challenges with intelligence, compassion, and courage.
UNISUS is a community guided by three Learning and Teaching Goals:
Academic Excellence: where students are continually challenged and excel in their learning within a curriculum rooted in rigorous standards and real-world applications
Student Empowerment: where students develop the skills, confidence and resilience to embrace challenges and opportunities
Global Citizenship: where students commit to international mindedness through ethics, global perspectives, communication, leadership through service, and sustainability.
These learning and teaching goals are based on research and intention and ensure that UNISUS students are “future ready” and best equipped for our rapidly changing, interdependent world. We think our graduates will agree!
Dr Beverley von Zielonka
Progressive
International Baccalaureate
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.
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.
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.
Since 1992, Turnbull School’s small classes and exceptional teachers have provided a comprehensive and enriching academic program, where emphasis is placed on caring and excellence. Our well rounded curriculum ensures a balance between all subject areas, and students enjoy the application of the content to cross-curricular activities and projects, so what they learn has more relevance and application. We value our parents as collaborative participants in their child’s education. Regular communication is a given and the staff all recognize the importance of keeping parents well informed. Accountability and accessibility are key attributes of every member of the faculty and leadership team. From a young age, Turnbull students are taught the essential learning skills of study strategies, time management and organizational techniques. As a result, our students learn to take responsibility for their academic work and to exercise the perseverance that together lead to future success.
SCHOOL PROFILE Unisus International School is an independent, co-educational, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School serving students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. All students follow the IB curriculum. ABOUT UNISUS UNISUS School is a leading co-educational, day and boarding, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School located in Summerland, British Columbia. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and/or the B.C. government Diploma (Dogwood) program. Our fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP). UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Unisus is the only program of its kind in the Okanagan Valley and the only boarding school between Vancouver and Saskatchewan. Four foundational pillars anchor the school: The IB, Outdoor Education, Technology & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Small and personalized, UNISUS places the learner at the core of the school experience.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Our mathematics program goes well beyond the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum and provides students with an advanced program that covers greater breadth and depth of concepts and reasoning skills than is normally experienced or expected. With specialized teachers and small classes, every Turnbull student can be enriched, yet help is readily available if concepts need additional reinforcing. More frequent and meaningful teacher-student interactions result in immediate individual feedback. The approachable nature of our teachers and that personal connection with every student is a huge factor in student engagement in the learning process. Our “spiral curriculum” approach to mathematics ensures a continual review of previously taught concepts so students are revisiting and retaining the material while moving on to new areas. In this way, they develop strong mathematical competence and see the relevance of one topic to the next.
We stress problem-solving techniques but also use traditional approach to help solve math problems
The Nelson My Math Path program, powered by the Singapore Math framework, is the main resource used. Jump Math is used as a supplement, as well as other problem solving and critical thinking resources.
Information not available
Calculators have a place in the upper grades when numeration is not the main objective of a topic being studied. When a child struggles with numeration skills, and a calculator can be used as a tool to help, students will not be left behind when working within another strand.
Information not available
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.
At Turnbull School, we believe that for children to become proficient readers, they need to develop a wide range of knowledge and skills. These include a strong base of oral language, a strong general knowledge background, an understanding of print concepts and knowledge of letters and words. Children also need to learn comprehension strategies and higher order thinking skills, such as the ability to infer meaning from texts. We incorporate activities to develop all of these competencies on a daily basis in our overall literacy program. A balance of direct instruction, guided instruction, independent learning and practise are important elements of our early reading program. We also value frequent assessment and evaluation of reading levels and skills, and use the recently updated Nelson PM Benchmark, to track each child’s progress.
Phonics is used in the lower grade while we use whole language reading program in the high school years.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
We use the recently updated Nelson PM Benchmark to track each child's reading progress, along with other important related skills.
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.
Primary students use the Six Traits Writing model, where they learn and practise using the six traits of effective writers. Students learn to write personal and expository texts, poetry and report writing. They also learn basic editing skills. Junior students continue to expand on their understanding and use of the Six Traits of Writing model. Students learn to write personal and expository texts, poetry and report writing. They complete more formal spelling and grammar lessons on a regular basis, develop editing skills and learn to use the writing process as a tool to fine tune their writing skills. Senior students focus on the importance of following the writing process: brainstorming, planning, organizing, revising and editing. We emphasize both creative and expository writing along with the ability to develop and express ideas in clear and effective prose. Students are also given a strong grounding in grammar.
We focus on basic writing skills, as well as creative writing.
Inquiry
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.
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.
Children best acquire scientific knowledge through experimenting, manipulation and exploration with science materials. We promote children’s natural curiosity for the scientific world through interactive, hands-on learning, offering many opportunities for experiments, labs and exploration. We go far beyond what is normally expected in the Ontario curriculum. Turnbull students graduate very motivated and with the advanced competence to pursue sciences.
We used the IB framework to teach science, as well as the B.C. goverment curriculum.
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
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Our students experience a very enriching literature program of novels, poetry and short stories, but we also emphasize the importance of developing strong basic skills of grammar, decoding, spelling and technical writing. Our students are set up for success beyond their time at Turnbull School, as they learn to communicate well both orally and in writing, and develop strong critical reading, creative writing and research skills.
We emphasise social justice but the curriculum also touches on traditional.
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
Thematic
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
The goal of our social studies program is to educate students about their local, national and international communities, and their place within these societies. Combining the disciplines of geography and history, we help students develop into informed citizens in a culturally diverse and interdependent world, while instilling an understanding and appreciation of our unique Canadian identity and experience. Through these studies, students acquire broad-based skills that are vital to future success. These skills include identifying and solving problems, critically evaluating different points of view, making informed decisions on a variety of issues, and engaging in articulate expression and debate. By exploring various points of view and evaluating a variety of evidence, students practise achieving a balanced perspective when making decisions on issues relevant to their world.
Our IB PYP and MYP programs place an emphasis on theme-based units of inquiry learning. UNISUS International School is a leading co-educational, day and boarding, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School is located in Summerland, British Columbia. With a fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP). UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Unisus is the only program of its kind in the Okanagan Valley and the only boarding school between Vancouver and Saskatchewan.
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.
Grade 7 history covers Canadian history from the earliest inhabitants to the War of 1812. As well as covering the factual material, the students have opportunities to research elements of our past. In geography, the Grade 7's learn about earth sciences and the physical geography of Canada. In the Grade 8 program, students learn about the history of Canada from the War of 1812, through the important events surrounding Confederation, and ending with World War I. Their geography course continues the citizenship strand, exploring the nature of world human geography.
The IB framework emphasis on both perennialism and pragmatism learning
Equal Balance
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.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Turnbull School strives to graduate students from Grade 8 with a strong level of conversational and every day, pragmatic French, while also achieving solid skills in French reading, writing and grammar. In addition, the students will have the desire and confidence to pursue further French studies beyond the basic requirements of high school. The achievement of this goal is dependent on the number of years the student is at Turnbull School, as well as the language aptitude and motivation of the student. There is a French only environment in French class, with an exception for students newer to French. Motivation and enjoyment of French always drive and enhance our program objectives.
We offer Spanish language classes at senior levels and Spanish is also incorporated into junior-level classes. We have a full-time languages teacher on staff. The balanced approach is the most effective way to learn - we offer Spanish, starting in the early years.
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
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.
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.
Music, drama and visual arts are all recognized as essential elements of a child’s development for all grades at Turnbull School. Weekly fine arts classes are taught to students in Grades 4 to 8 by teachers who have specialized training in these disciplines. The Turnbull School Concert Band has been in existence since 2005. As an extracurricular ensemble, students from Grades 5 to 8 have the opportunity to further explore their love of music beyond their regular music classes with woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. The members enjoy the chance to gain performance experience through playing for special events at the school and in the community. Students in grades 6 to 8 may also decide to audition for a role in the annual school drama production. This extracurricular activity has included as many as 80 students, and rehearsals typically begin in October with the final performance in May.
Art, Dance and Drama are all components of our after-school program, CASE, and we have an on-staff part-time art teacher in the school. Art is an important everyday part of K-7 classes, as well. UNISUS is a community guided by three Learning and Teaching Goals: Academic Excellence: where students are continually challenged and excel in their learning within a curriculum rooted in rigorous standards and real-world applications Student Empowerment: where students develop the skills, confidence and resilience to embrace challenges and opportunities. Global Citizenship: where students commit to international mindedness through ethics, global perspectives, communication, leadership through service, and sustainability. These learning and teaching goals are based on research and intention and ensure that UNISUS students are “future ready” and best equipped for our rapidly changing, interdependent world.
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.
Every student has regular computer technology classes and a curriculum which reinforces a variety of skills through cross-curricular assignments that deepen their learning. These include Robotics, Internet safety, research, web animation, graphic design, video editing, publishing, graphing, coding and keyboarding. Having access to enriching and engaging technologies, such as a new STEM lab with a 3D printer, several portable Chromebook stations, SmartBoards, scan-and-project devices, eInstruction’s Classroom Response System, and a wide range of educational software are only a few ways in which we deepen the learning activities for our students.
At UNISUS School our goal is to develop responsible global citizens equipped with the critical thinking and technological literacy skills necessary to participate effectively in the worldwide community of learners. To that end, we offer an innovative Applied Design, Skills and Technologies (ADST) program. The ADST British Columbia curriculum is an experiential, hands-on program of learning through design and creation that includes skills and concepts from traditional and First Peoples practice; from the existing disciplines of Business Education, Information and Communications Technology, and Technology Education; and from new and emerging fields. It fosters the development of the skills and knowledge that will support students in developing practical, creative, and innovative responses to everyday needs and challenges. ADST learning at UNISUS can include 3D modelling, animation, Virtual Reality, product design, photography, stop-motion, computer graphic design, and more!
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
All students at Turnbull School take part in daily physical education classes taught by physical education specialists. Our program focuses on participation, skill development, fair play and healthy living. These objectives are met by providing the students with the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports and activities. Turnbull School offers an Intramural sports program to all students from grades 1 to 8, where children can participate in more competitive game play, keeping fun and sportsmanship the priority. Children from the Junior and Senior divisions have the opportunity to try out for various sports teams, where they will play in games and tournaments with other schools within the Ottawa Independent Schools Athletic Association (OISAA), as well as other schools in Ontario and Quebec.
As the only independent private IB World school in Canada’s Okanagan Valley, we have a unique chance to ignite a passion and respect for outdoor exploration and recreation. Our Outdoor Education curriculum instills confidence, resilience, and life skills that students will carry beyond their time at UNISUS. Based in beautiful Summerland, British Columbia, the UNISUS outdoor education program has the immediate advantage of the renowned sunny Okanagan climate and four-season outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and ziplining. With direct access to some of the best hiking trails, lakes, and ski hills in the world, UNISUS students have the opportunity to acquire a lifelong appreciation for active living and unparalleled outdoor experiences. https://www.unisus.ca/outdoor-education
Academic
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.
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.
Every child is deserving of a safe, nurturing environment to express and develop his/her unique interests, creativity and abilities. It is in Kindergarten where Turnbull students first learn to respect and care about each other, to feel unique and special, but to see others that way too. The junior and senior kindergarten curriculum reflects the importance of early literacy and numeracy activities, as well as self-initiated inquiry-based pursuits. Our broad program also includes daily physical education, French language classes, as well as science, creative arts and computer time.
Unisus IB World School Junior Kindergarten At UNISUS, we believe that igniting a love for learning and a passion for making a positive impact starts at the beginning of each child’s education. The structured, play-based approach of our Early Years Program encourages the natural wonder and curiosity in each child and introduces the youngest members of our UNISUS community to a lifelong journey of learning. The Early Years Program is currently available for learners ages 3 - 5 years.
Student-paced
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.
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.
Grades 4 to 8 French classes are streamed into two levels per grade. The students working within the advanced level of French are working beyond grade level and using Francophone resources. Highly motivated students who graduate from this level may enter French Immersion in high school.
Learning at Unisus is personalized. Each student's learning plan is carefully tailored to the need and interests of each student with lesson planning guided by IB and BC Curriculum. IB takes the approach to teaching and learning to the next level. We also offer a B.C. government Diploma (Dogwood) program.
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.
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.
Turnbull students learn to take responsibility for their academic work and to exercise the perseverance that together lead to future success. The children make a personal commitment to do their very best to further their own growth. This includes taking responsibility for their work, being prepared, and caring about the growth of others through participation and respect.
NURTURING A LOVE OF LEARNING AND CREATIVITY Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) with a strong focus on outdoor education, technology and entrepreneurship. Everyone knows each other’s name in our safe, tight-knit, and inclusive community: children never get lost in the crowd. Every single student is known, accepted, encouraged, and supported to discover their voice, true self, and potential to shine. Small class sizes and dedicated IB teachers (most of whom have lived and taught overseas) mean your child will never be just a face in the crowd!
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
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."
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.
Turnbull School emphasizes a competence based approach where each student can apply skills, acquire knowledge, develop creative problem solving skills, become an effective communicator, and acquire strong social and leadership skills. Time management and organizational skills are viewed as an integral part of their curriculum and essential to their future success. Turnbull School students also show care for others within and beyond the school. We aim to graduate students who are very well prepared for high school, academically, emotionally and socially.
With a vision to be a leader in global education and prepare students for an ever-changing world, UNISUS supports students to become globally-minded citizens, critical thinkers, and empowered to make a positive change in the world. Four foundational pillars anchor the school: The IB, Outdoor Education, Technology & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Small and personalized, UNISUS places the learner at the core of the school experience.
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 | |
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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.
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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.
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Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
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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.
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Dysgraphia
This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
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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.
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Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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| Developmental | ||||
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Autism
Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
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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.
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Down syndrome
his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Suicidal thoughts
This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
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Drug and alcohol abuse
This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
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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.
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| Physical | ||||
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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.
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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.
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Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
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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.
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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.
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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."
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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).
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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.
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Multiple physical
Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
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Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
At Turnbull School, we occasionally have students who require some form of accommodation (i.e. ESL). These accommodations may arise from recommendations listed in a psycho-educational assessment. All forms of accommodation are discussed with parents ahead of implementation.
Information not available
If a student were to exhibit learning difficulties while at Turnbull School, we would proactively work with the parents to develop the best possible outcome for their child.
Academic support for students takes place both in and out of the classroom. Unisus is proud of the Learning Center, where students can drop in for help with organization, homework completion, getting started on tasks, concept review, and support in extending or applying understanding. Some students with educational plans have regular learning support blocks. Our Learning Support Strategist supports students with dynamic learning abilities. Our educational assistant works primarily with students in the PYP program from grades K-5. Our ELL teacher supports our international students with English language acquisition. We are proud of our Unisus Wellness team!
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
1 - 11
0%
30%
$0
$3,000
80%
70%
JK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Rolling
No
Yes: grades Preschool - 11
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 11
No
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
Turnbull School students show care for each other and the community at large. They are motivated to do their personal best in their academics and extra curricular activities.
Where you send your child to school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent – thank you for making UNISUS part of that decision. At UNISUS, we inspire our students to be globally-minded citizens and critical thinkers through Academic Excellence, Student Empowerment, and Global Citizenship. We are an International Baccalaureate World School uniquely located in beautiful Summerland, B.C., Canada, and are proud to be one of the only IB World Boarding Schools in British Columbia. We offer both an IB Diploma and/or the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) stream (new for 2023-2024!) We look forward to touring you through our campus and sharing the benefits and opportunities that come from a UNISUS education.
Turnbull School has a multi-step admissions process. For children applying to Grades 1 to 8, we begin by gathering information from report cards, confidential letters of reference and formal assessments (if any). This is followed by a visit day in a classroom of the child's current grade. Occasionally, if more information is needed, an individual standardized assessment may be administered by an educational consultant.
Please visit www.unisus.ca and apply online. All applicants will be date and time stamped. As our classes are at capacity in many grades, only full applicants will be considered for the wait list if applicable.
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