2035 Upper Middle Road East, Oakville, Ontario, L6H 7G6, Canada
1-300 Water Street, Whitby, Ontario, L1N 9B6, Canada
2014
2010
200
127
Preschool to 8
1 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Progressive
15 to 18
10 to 20
Learning, Behavioral
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$9,850 to $19,680
$22,000 to $23,500
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
17
11
0%
0%
90%
98%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
information not available
“Nurturing teacher-student relationships is a priority at Cambridge, something that’s made easier with such small class sizes.”
“Cambridge International Academy is a university preparatory school with ... a high university placement success rate, but its key differentiator is the “customized learning” program.”
“Every Cambridge teacher we spoke to agreed that character education underpins the whole curriculum.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Cambridge International Academy
Cambridge International Academy offers a safe, nurturing, and cooperative learning environment designed to help kids thrive from Grade one. Following an enriched Ontario curriculum that’s supplemented with resources that help kids excel, the caring staff at Cambridge International Academy prepare students for success in a rapidly transforming, competitive, and global society. Small classes and a tight-knit community allow school staff to develop close relationships with every child, guiding their moral and emotional growth. A varied range of extracurriculars—robotics, math club, sports, debate, drama, poetry, and many more— are seen as essential to student success and character development. High schoolers participate in leadership opportunities such as the Model UN and DECA, as well as after-school clubs and volunteer opportunities within the local community. Cambridge International helps kids succeed in their chosen areas of interest through customized educational pathways, and its graduates are frequently offered admission to Canada’s top universities.
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"They recognise a student's strengths and weaknesses and encourage them by adapting lessons to capitalize on these."
Vijaya Dass - Parent (May 27, 2021)
My children enjoy Cambridge International Academy. They feel safe and comfortable at school. The cl...
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"...they also actively took care of the students in life."
Coco Li - Student (Jul 21, 2021)
I miss my time at Cambridge International Academy very much. The teachers in the school were very pa...
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"All my teachers were passionate and knowledgeable in their respective subjects."
Julie Indrigo - Alumnus (Nov 24, 2021)
My experience at Cambridge International Academy was eye-opening because not only did I do school wo...
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"Walden International School is an authorized IB World School that delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) to students in JK-Gr 5, and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) to Gr 6-8 students. Walden’s dedication to wellness, service learning, environmental stewardship and international mindedness ensures students are well-prepared for secondary school studies and beyond. Walden is committed to nurturing young people who will mature into globally responsible citizens."
"Cambridge International Academy is a ministry inspected co-ed private school in Ajax, which customizes and enriches the Ontario curriculum with AP program from grades 1 to 12. Using customized planning we help students achieve their potential. With strong parent partnerships, our Elementary Programs help students transition to high school with Reach Ahead credits. For high school, we design the curriculum to ensure students are able to achieve their post-secondary goals."
"We consider Wellness to be an essential skill and have purposefully incorporated it into our programme."
"Every student receives an Individual Student Plan so that their learning experience is personalized and customized to their individual needs, interests, talents, and skill level. The Student Plan is comprised of customized academic programs such as Blended Learning, Reach Ahead, & AP, volunteer initiatives, interesting co-curriculars, as well as academic and non-academic outside competitions. Lastly, we offer cross-curricular coding to increase the technology proficiency of students."
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"We have a truly balanced approach to learning and a commitment to educating the whole child. There is consideration and appreciation for process (rather than simply outcomes) and an explicit focus on nurturing critical thinking and application of knowledge."
"Families join Cambridge International Academy because of our personalized approach to education. Our customized programs (Blended Learning, Reach Ahead, & AP classes) challenge our students so that they thrive academically, socially, and personally. Our small class sizes provide students individual attention to successfully complete the curriculum and ready them for the next higher grade level. Our parents appreciate the frequent updates about their child's academic progress."
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"The kitchen & dining area are sometimes overlooked by prospective parents. Initially, parents don’t realize the significant academic & social learning that takes place in these gathering areas. Students not only learn about healthy eating habits, kitchen safety, and food preparation but they also gain a deeper understanding, respect, and appreciation for diversity while they prepare and taste each other’s cultural traditional foods. Transferable skills acquired through cooking are beneficial."
"Our campus is larger than they perceive from the outside. And, all of our families, students, and guests report that upon entrance into the lobby of our school, there is a welcoming, transcendental feeling that cannot be perfectly articulated."
"Families are surprised by the frequent communication and the variety of co-curriculars at school. Our teachers frequently communicate with parents to offer the 'next steps' to keep their children engaged and challenged in their learning. In addition, our teachers coach students to perform their best in a wide range of co-curricular activities. This year, students in our Math Club won University of Waterloo's 2022 Zone Champion Award for the Canadian Intermediate Mathematics & Computing Contest."
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“Welcome to Walden. Our motto, Imagine Explore Achieve, speaks to the potential that we seek in our students. We inspire even the youngest students in our Early Years classroom to reach beyond what they know through inquiry and reflection. And, by embracing daily challenges they learn resilience and gain confidence, both hallmarks of success.
“What ultimately sets our standards at Walden is our team of dedicated faculty and staff who never cease to amaze me with their innovation, patience, and professionalism. They are educators who feel that every child is deserving of the very best, who are committed to delivering the very best, and who are not apologetic for demanding the very best.
“We look forward to your visit to Walden. We are eager to share with you our promise of a quality education.”
DAPHNE PERUGINI - BSc, MSEd, OCT
Daphne Perugini was a teacher and Vice-Principal with the Peel District School Board for nearly two decades. She has had experience leading a comprehensive network of educators in Gifted Learning, Alternative Education, and the International Baccalaureate. Like many in the field who have inspired her, Ms. Perugini believes that education needs to be transformed.
It is with great pleasure that I welcome our twenty-first-century pupils to Cambridge International Academy located in Ajax, Ontario. We are a co-ed private school that customizes and enriches the Ontario Curriculum for students from grades 1 to 12. Our goal is to find each of our student's academic potential and personal interests so that they can thrive in their future endeavors.
Our professional and dedicated teachers ensure a respectful learning environment where students can reach their academic potential through our customized academic pathway and be inspired by each other. Our caring teachers understand the importance of encouraging students to apply their critical thinking and analysis skills in order to experience an ongoing and in-depth inquiry about their learning. They give high-achieving students more opportunities to be engaged and challenged with the curriculum. Our educators provide their students with opportunities to engage in different ways of learning, seek out information related to the interest of the students, and provide them with time and resources to explore these interests. With our enriched curriculum, we help students in their personal/character development, uncover their hidden talents, and inspire a love for learning. We promote our students to embrace collaboration, communication, innovation, and computer technologies to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of education.
We believe parents are vital partners in education and they have a positive impact on their child’s school experience. We invite our parents to get involved in various school initiatives and make them a part of our school community. We communicate frequently with parents to ensure their son/daughter remains on track in his/her academic success so that their child experiences individual success in education.
I invite you to visit Cambridge International Academy and experience a difference in education. This may be one of the best decisions you will make in your child’s life. Cambridge International Academy’s Information Package provides you with further details about our enriching way of education.
Best Regards,
Sandra Arff
Progressive
Information not available
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
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.
Not applicable
Walden International School is an authorized IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and is pursuing candidacy for Middle Years Programme (MYP). Inspired by Henry David Thoreau’s book Walden, our school is committed to fostering independent, self-reliant learners in a nature-centric environment. Our mandate is to model for our students the merits of subscribing to an unadorned approach to living while developing a worldly view in pursuit of academic excellence. As an international school with a globally-focused curriculum, we promise to deliver a rigorous, prestigious and necessary educational programme meeting the standards and demands of the world in which we live.
Our teachers acknowledge students learn at different times and in different ways therefore they use an interactive teaching strategy to best suit students' learning profiles. Our teachers are facilitators and mentors, encouraging critical thought and self-reflection, while also promoting cooperative and independent learning. We provide an enriched, balanced curriculum with a focus on core academics, as well as music, art, and drama. We offer continuous, varied and appropriate formative as well as summative assessments which provide evidence of every student's learning progress. This information helps teachers immediately flag areas of concern and help students in that subject. Triangulation assessments also help students, parents and teachers select attainable learning goals. For students in high school, we administer Aptitude Tests to help each student plan their further education. The high school programs offer a rigorous university preparatory curriculum and give special attention to soft skills needed for success such as organization, self-advocacy, note-taking, study skills, collaboration, and communication.
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.
MYP Mathematics is more than simply learning formulae or rules. Students do not have the impression that all of the answers to mathematics can be found in a book but, rather, they are active participants in the search for concepts and relationships. Our students learn that Mathematics is alive and are presented with the thrill of exploration and the rewards of discovery. New knowledge may then be applied to other situations, opening up even more doors for students. MYP mathematics promotes both inquiry and application, helping students to develop problem-solving techniques that transcend the discipline and that are useful in the world outside school.
Our Grade 1 through 8 Mathematics program is built around the Ontario Curriculum and is delivered with a Singapore Math approach. Singapore math ensures a foundational mastery in underlying mathematical procedures using a three-stage learning process which moves from concrete, to pictorial, and then abstract. The Singapore Math approach ensures social-emotional well being for students as they develop confidence, and comfort with mathematical thinking. Additionally, both our elementary and Grade 9 programs follow the updated curriculum strands with the use of Scratch ™ coding as the mode of instructional delivery for programming. Our approach goes above and beyond the ministry requirements in that we incorporate coding practices and principles into all Mathematical strands. The high school mathematics program closely follows the Ontario Mathematics curriculum. The program emphasizes mastery of a wide range of mathematical skills and logic-based thinking, with regular opportunities for discovery through proofs, manipulatives, and technology.
Textbooks used are from the Ontario Trillium List.
Calculators are used in the classroom for high school math courses which require the use of a scientific calculator.
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Our early reading program consists of three components: Phonics training, development of a sight word vocabulary, and the story outline using the visual cues on each page. Classroom reading material include class chart stories, phonetic based story books, general story books and guided readers.Students also collect their own stories into a story book format which they use for their reading practices as well.
We use an individualized reading approach whereby students learn to read at their own pace within the classroom. Students are given the opportunity to develop their phonemic awareness, phonetic decoding skills, reading comprehension and overall reading fluency in a safe and supportive learning environment where they read, are read-to, and are read-with. At the elementary level we use a formalized Reading Program in combination with high-interest leveled readers to ensure continual reading engagement and progression.
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.
Writing allows us to develop, organize and communicate thoughts, ideas and information. Fiction and non- fiction in a variety of genres (for example, novels, short stories, biographies, autobiographies, diaries, letters, pastiches, parodies, cartoons, graphic novels, poetry, song lyrics, drama, screenplays, advertisements, blogs, emails, websites, appeals, brochures, leaflets, editorials, interviews, magazine articles, manifestos, reports, instructions and guidelines) are all text types students may engage with to develop their written communication skills, both as readers and writers.
In the early years the writing focus is on structure and usage and students are given topics of personal interest and relevance, inspiring creativity and a love of writing. Students are provided with comprehensive instruction in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and vocabulary which is spiraled throughout the grade levels as skills and concepts are re-introduced and reinforced by repeated exposure. The writing process is modelled and further developed through the use of graphic organizers and outlines. Students create descriptive and grammatically sound sentences which lead to cohesive paragraphs and, ultimately, short stories, reports, and essays. Students engage in self and peer editing and learn the importance of continual improvement in writing.
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
With inquiry at the core, the MYP sciences framework aims to guide students to independently and collaboratively investigate issues through research, observation and experimentation. The MYP sciences curriculum must explore the connections between science and everyday life. As they investigate real examples of science applications, students will discover the tensions and dependencies between science and morality, ethics, culture, economics, politics, and the environment.
Science is fundamental to helping students understand how things work in our world. In the Elementary grades, Science is inquiry-based, and uses real materials to make connections between scientific theory, technology, and our everyday lives. Most lessons focus on acquiring skills and knowledge through hands-on experiences which reinforce scientific theories learned in class. The High School Science program delivers the Ontario Curriculum thoroughly with emphasis placed on inquiry-based learning and knowledge acquisition through a variety of instructional methods such as peer to peer teaching, current event discussions, and case study analyses. The curriculum is delivered through the use of up-to-date texts, hands-on experimentation and investigation, and online simulations. Experiments are thoughtfully designed to enrich the students’ learning and provide experience with instrumentation, procedures and lab reporting skills. Students work independently and in groups to create and present projects that demonstrate their understanding of the concepts learned.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
As well as being academically rigorous, MYP language and literature equips students with linguistic, analytical and communicative skills that can also be used to develop interdisciplinary understanding across all other subject groups. Students’ interaction with chosen texts can generate insight into moral, social, economic, political, cultural and environmental factors and so contributes to the development of opinion- forming, decision-making and ethical-reasoning skills, and further develops the attributes of an IB learner.
Literary analysis is key to the development of critical thinking. Our teachers choose both classic and contemporary literary texts that resonate with students and promote discussion, critique and debate. Students are encouraged to make connections to themselves, the text, and the world around them as they read and listen to literary text. Students engage in reading comprehension and vocabulary exercises, as well as written response journals, as they build their thinking skills. We have been successful in increasing students’ reading interest through reading clubs which foster offline discussions and help students understand the historical and social context of the text being read. This leads to a deeper understanding and a greater sense of achievement. Emphasis is on the use of the personal growth model which encourages students to draw their own opinions, express their feelings, and use personal experiences and the text to develop their writing skills.
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
Core Knowledge
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
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).
MYP individuals and societies encourages learners to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies and environments. It encourages learners, both students and teachers, to consider local and global contexts.
The Social Studies program is an essential component of the development of cultural literacy. The curriculum focuses on developing an understanding of World cultures and history as well as a more focused knowledge on Canadian history and geography. Students engage in individual and group based projects that demonstrate their understanding of the content. Art, drama, and literature are used to enhance the social studies program in all elementary grades.
Equal Balance
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
MYP individuals and societies encourages learners to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies and environments. It encourages learners, both students and teachers, to consider local and global contexts.
Humanities and the Social Sciences promote active listening, critical thinking skills and help students make connections to history and the world in which they live in. Students learn to make decisions based on values, and discover the truth about the human condition and the human experience. Our teachers use a number of strategies such as direct instruction, visual media, and reciprocal teaching to increase dialogue between teacher and students. Thinking and inquiry is key to learning in the Social Sciences and Humanities where students develop their own questions, collect and organize data, draw inferences, and engage in problem solving. Field trips and role play are also incorporated as part of the teaching strategies to give students the opportunity to make real-life connections to their 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.
The study of foreign languages in the MYP provides students with the opportunity to develop insights into the features, processes and craft of language and the concept of culture, and to realize that there are diverse ways of living, behaving and viewing the world.
The French curriculum follows ministry guidelines and is a comprehensive and seamless program that builds on the four key strands of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. Students develop their overall French communication skills using a variety of texts and online French resources. Vocabulary building, reading and writing are connected to relevant events and real-life practical scenarios with the use of engaging multimedia resources and applications.
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.
Students are encouraged to risk-take in the Arts and to do their personal best. Students work with a wide variety of Visual Arts materials to create 2 and 3 dimensional creative works. Our Performing Arts Programme with a focus on Instrumental Music invites students to explore their hidden talents.
The Arts curriculum is designed to facilitate an appreciation of art through the study of art history and various artistic techniques and mediums. This involves exposure to art through gallery visits and online and in-person talks from guest artists from the local community and beyond. Students are encouraged to think about the importance of art in the world, and as a reflection and historical record of humanity. The Arts curriculum encourages self-expression through the creation of various two and three dimensional art projects using a variety of materials. Visual Arts includes the traditional fine arts of drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking, architecture, photography, and crafts. The program focuses on creating and fostering a sense of curiosity, creativity and confidence in students.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Walden provides a balanced approach to computer use. Students at all grade levels use digital tools which are integrated in their programme. Teachers enhance lessons with Smart Boards, laptops, Chrome books and classroom computers or can work on whole class activities at one of the 2 computer labs.
Our school recognizes the importance of information literacy, media literacy, and information and communication technology literacy as critical 21st century skills. Teachers use coding, robotics, electronics, and multimedia equipment to support learning across the curriculum. Some of the software used within the curriculum includes Java, Python, and Scratch. Additionally, we gladly identify and accommodate students who require the use of a computer to thrive academically.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
MYP physical and health education aims to empower students to understand and appreciate the value of being physically active and develop the motivation for making healthy life choices. To this end, physical and health education courses foster the development of knowledge, skills and attitudes that will contribute to a student’s balanced and healthy lifestyle. Through opportunities for active learning, courses in this subject group embody and promote the holistic nature of well-being.
Our approach to physical education emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, as well as safety and injury prevention. We offer a wide variety of competitive and recreational sporting experiences for our students. Gym classes for High School students may include attending a fitness club. Our students are encouraged to find their passion through physical activity and athletic involvement in order to learn the value of hard work, commitment, and discipline and to live a well-balanced life.
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Early learning in the Early Years PYP is a holistic experience that integrates socio-emotional, physical and cognitive development. Very young learners need stimulating, supportive interactions with their peers and teachers and the effective use of curricula. In the Early Years classroom, learning takes place in dynamic environments that promote inquiry, discovery and exploration.
Information not available
Standard-enriched
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.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
At CCIA, we offer on-line courses to students who are motivated to propel their academic studies to enter post-secondary education sooner. In addition, we offer School-Work Transition Career Pathways such as Early Childhood Education and a Business Focus. Co-op Classes are offered to gain work experience and OSSD.
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”.
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”.
While we value rigour in academics, we promote a caring and student-centred learning culture that focuses equally on process and final product. We celebrate the whole child and instill a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
Cambridge International Academy keeps the student-to-teacher ratio low so we can focus on the individual needs of the student and support each child on his or her individual path to success. At Cambridge International Academy, we recognize that students have different learning styles. Our learning environment is set up to meet the needs of students. We use a complete approach which reinforces verbal instruction with visual, audio and written support. This allows students to engage on many levels with the material being presented.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Walden International School is dedicated to cultivating and preparing principled, compassionate and confident young people who will become globally responsible citizens. Walden students’ interaction with others is genuinely different. It is giving, curious and good. At Walden, we make good people in the knowledge that from goodness arises greatness.
Cambridge International Academy pays equal attention to the emotional, social, and physical aspects of our students with emphasis on intellectual ability. We aim to inspire students to become critical thinkers.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Accommodations
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
CCIA has the flexibility to cater to students who have mild learning disabilities and ADHD. We work closely with parents to set up an academic regime which includes training on the Reading Plus or MyLexia brain based programs, and one-to-one instruction and tutoring as needed. Accommodations are offered in class to help capture the best of a student. High School students wanting an Early Childhood Education or Business focus may have the opportunity to receive modifications in some of the high school courses.
While we are not formally resourced to support students with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities, our mandate is to provide an inclusive learning environment that promotes confidence in all students. Teachers will work with students with observed academic and behavioural difficulties through providing the necessary accommodations that best support the student. The school will work collaboratively with parents to encourage the success of their child.
When a student demonstrates learning difficulties while attending CCIA, our dedicated teaching staff investigate alternate ways of teaching to help the student grasp the content. Extra help in homework is offered after school. Planning with long term projects is also monitored to ensure the student is meeting deadlines. We offer accommodations such as extra time to write a test and the use of a computer in class. Teacher notes from lessons are also provided to help the student get back on track. When difficulties persist, parents are notified and a parent- teacher meeting is arranged to brainstorm ideas to support the student.
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
90%
98%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 8
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 1 - 12
No
No
No
No
Walden students are resilient, curious, giving and good. At Walden, we make good people in the knowledge that from goodness arises greatness. We are dedicated to cultivating and preparing principled, compassionate and confident young people who will become globally responsible citizens. Our balanced world class education, with a unique focus on wellness, fosters respect and harmony for self and with others; and, empowers students to imagine, explore and achieve a peaceful and sustainable future.
Cambridge International Academy promotes a school environment where students are self-motivated, have a positive disposition toward learning and have aspirations to contribute to the school and the community in a meaningful way.
Parents wishing to enroll their child:
a) Schedule a tour of the school. Brief meeting with Administration and/or Programme Coordinator.
b) If interested, arrange a 2-day (or more, if required) class visit. Supporting documents may be requested.
c) The visiting student will join a class at same grade level. Informal learning assessments will be conducted by the teacher(s).
d) At the end of the classroom visit, parents will receive a written observation report and will meet with Administration to discuss acceptance decisison and next steps.
Future students will be required to attend a scheduled interview as well as provide their written responses to two questions. Cambridge International Academy will request a confidential school report from a current homeroom teacher or guidance counselor.