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Trusted by families since 1998.

AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Waldorf Academy vs. Blyth Academy Burlington

one-to-one comparison:

View Waldorf Academy's full report
VS.
View Blyth Academy Burlington's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    250 Madison Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4V 2W6, Canada

    Village Square, 422 Pearl Street, Units 14-21, Burlington, Ontario, L7R 2N1, Canada

    Distance

    Distance

    5,690.2 km

    5,706.5 km

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    We have limited information on Blyth Academy Burlington as they are currently not registered with us.
    Request information

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1987

    N/A

    Enrolment

    182

    N/A

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 8

    N/A

    Gender

    Coed

    N/A

    Living arrangements

    Day

    N/A

    Language of instruction

    English

    N/A

    Faith Based

    N/A

    School focus

    Academic

    N/A

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."

    N/A

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Waldorf

    N/A

    Curriculum pace

    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    N/A

    Academic culture

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

    N/A

    Avg. Class Size

    10 to 18

    N/A

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental

    N/A

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    N/A

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Waldorf
    Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    N/A

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $385 to $24,950

    N/A

    Boarding Tuition

    N/A

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    N/A

    Students on FA

    20%

    N/A

    Eligible grades for FA

    JK to 8

    N/A

    Median FA package size

    $8,000

    N/A

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    14

    N/A

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    N/A

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    80%

    N/A

    Day entry years

    Preschool, JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7

    information not available

    Boarding entry years

    information not available

    information not available

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    N/A

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    N/A

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8

    N/A

    SSAT required

    No

    N/A

  • School’s perspective

    We have limited information on Blyth Academy Burlington as they are currently not registered with us.
    Request information

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Waldorf Academy nurtures children from Childcare to Grade 8 through a balanced approach to academics, creativity, outdoor education, and social-emotional growth. Rooted in a nature-based philosophy and a close-knit community, students develop confidence, independence, empathy, and adaptability. The Casa Loma campus features bright classrooms, gardens, arts spaces, a gymnasium, and recreation areas where joyful learning and lifelong friendships flourish."

    • International Waldorf curriculum in Central Toronto
    • Comprehensive enriched academic program
    • Integrated drama, music, visual arts, woodwork, handwork, and movement
    • Exceptional nature studies program
    • Strong middle school athletic program
    • Curriculum builds social awareness, independent thinking, innovation and social engagement
    • Hands-on science, physics, math, including International Gauss Contest participation
    • Frequent field trips to enhance curricular content and annual class trips
    • Strong and welcoming parent community
    • Ideal Central Toronto location near Casa Loma, local parks and sites such as AGO, ROM, etc.

    What does school_name do differently or uniquely well?

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "At Waldorf Academy, our approach to learning engages the head, heart, and hands—or thinking, feeling, and doing. This is the basis on which Waldorf teachers nurture and engage each child through a curriculum that integrates academics, arts, and practical skills. In our frenetic world, where pushing children to “hurry up or fall behind” has become the norm, the Waldorf approach is an antidote: childhood is something to savour, and adolescence is an opportunity for self-understanding as well as academic development. Waldorf-educated children enjoy full and rich childhoods, and gain the experiences they need to become healthy, self-actualized and confident individuals."

    What tradeoffs has school_name made to serve families in this way?

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

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "At a Waldorf school, education is not measured only by competition and test scores, but is viewed as a life-long journey. Our younger students are given qualitative report cards; formal marking for our older students starts in Middle School. All our students are encouraged to measure themselves—when the time comes—against their own progress, and to build the critical ability to self-assess as well as be assessed."

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

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

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Waldorf education, founded by Rudolf Steiner in 1919, applies a unique view of child development to learning, offering a welcome alternative to mainstream education. Over the past century, Waldorf education has evolved in many ways, while remaining true to its founding principles: a key feature of Waldorf education is that it must always innovate and stay culturally and socially relevant. Waldorf education is the fastest-growing independent educational system in the world, with over 2,000 schools in 70 countries worldwide, many of which are in North America. When we meet with prospective students, we also want to get to know you, their parents/guardians. At Waldorf Academy, school is a family affair: we understand that children learn best when the adults in their lives are invested and involved in their education. Our strong community culture, volunteer ethic, and partnership with parents is integral to our approach, and tracks with student wellbeing and success. For us, it is not sim"

    What type of student is a good fit for school_name?

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

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Waldorf Academy welcomes students from all walks of life and all ethnic backgrounds. Our curriculum opens doors and keeps them open by offering broad, diverse and well-rounded Waldorf programming that resonates deeply with most children. We welcome a range of temperaments and talents: shy children are supported in becoming more extroverted; studious students are encouraged in arts and sports; active individuals are given opportunities to build strong academic skills and self regulation. Our multifaceted, communal approach to learning naturally meets a range of learning styles, and our unique curriculum is specifically designed to correspond to the stages in child development."

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing school_name?

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

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Waldorf Academy is the right choice for your family if you are looking for a place that will help your child find joy in learning, build strong social skills as well as academic abilities, and thrive in the world. If you have a predetermined path for your child where the destination is more important than the learning journey itself, other schools might be a better fit for your family. At Waldorf Academy, we spend ample time outdoors, minimize unnecessary technology, engage in creative academics, and foster strong relationships. We value individuality in the context of community. Our approach is child-centred, but not child-led. We believe in communal, wonder-generated learning rather than individual, inquiry-based education. We invite you to visit Waldorf Academy where you’ll see children who delight in being allowed to live in the moment, explore nature, develop critical thinking skills and build self-understanding, all while getting a first class education."

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

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

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Our approach to exceptional education, close-knit community, and prime location set Waldorf Academy apart.
    Our Approach: Waldorf’s time-tested, innovative curriculum aligns with natural child development, blending academics, hands-on learning, arts, and real-world experiences. This holistic method helps students actively engage in their education.
    Our Community: At Waldorf Academy, families are integral to the experience. From festivals to sports days and board volunteering, parents and students feel a true sense of belonging. A strong community foundation enhances learning and well-being, creating lasting warmth and connection. Our Location: Nestled near Casa Loma in central Toronto, Waldorf Academy is easily accessible by foot, bike, TTC, or car. Our oasis-like campus is steps from parks, cultural landmarks, and Toronto’s top venues, drawing families citywide to join a vibrant, supportive community that fosters lifelong bonds."

    How would you characterize school_name's image amongst the public?

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

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Waldorf schools are well-known as balanced, holistic and student-centred. The curriculum is academic, but is taught in multifaceted ways through journaling, projects, movement, music, and time outdoors. Waldorf Academy is as much a science-oriented school as it is an arts-enriched institution. Waldorf alumni and graduates make a range of career choices and have endless opportunities and wide horizons thanks to an education based on exploration, invention, and discovery. Famous alumni of Waldorf education include astronaut Sarah Levine Gillis, actress Jennifer Aniston, musician Jesse Cook, and international diplomat Jens Stoltenberg. There are over 2000 Waldorf schools in 70 countries, with Waldorf education being one of the fastest-growing independent education movements in the world."

    What aspect of school_name is underappreciated?

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Our curriculum is features strong academics with excellent math and literacy foundations in elementary grades, and robust science and nature studies curricula. Our elementary program meets all key milestones of the Ontario curriculum using unique teaching methodology to bring all subject matter to life in a way that makes learning joyful, memorable, and inspiring. Our alumni go to a range of excellent high schools from private to public, and 98% of Waldorf graduates enrol in post-secondary education."

    What do families find surprising about school_name?

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Touring families are often delighted by our large gym, our many outdoor spaces and our beautiful music room. Parents are drawn to the interwoven and unique ways we engage students in learning. Some people are unaware that we serve children from Childcare to Grade 8, with a campus that spans the block from Spadina to Madison, including a large and beautiful 3-storey building full of skylights, warmth and colour. Families are also happy to learn of Waldorf’s strong tradition of nature based learning that includes field trips, including week-long wilderness trips by Grade 8."

    What improvements or changes has school_name made recently?

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Waldorf Academy has renovated its Lower Level to create a bright, vibrant and beautiful Arts, Pottery & Woodwork Studio space for our exceptional craft curriculum. We look forward to showing you around! With our students, Waldorf Academy recently added pollinator gardens to our property to support the environment, a core school priority and learning opportunity for the students."

    How will school_name change in the next 5 years?

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    WALDORF ACADEMY

    "Centred around community, Waldorf Academy will always remain true to its mission to provide Waldorf education to as many Torontonians as possible. Waldorf Academy has always woven into the fabric of the community, and with our outdoor education and experiential learning we aim to continue to broaden our community partnerships so that our students can see themselves as active citizens in their communities bringing about positive change."

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WALDORF ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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