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in-depth report
OUR KIDS Report:
Report on Branksome Hall
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Grades JK — 12 — Toronto, ON (Map)
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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Branksome Hall
REPORT CONTENTS
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Branksome Hall ACADEMICS & Curriculum


Page Contents

Curriculum Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate

[Show definition of Curriculum]

Central to your child's school experience is the underlying curriculum taught in the classroom. "Curriculum" refers to both what is taught and how it's taught. When considering the different curricula outlined in the next few pages, keep in mind that few schools fall neatly into one category or another. Most schools' curricula comprise a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. Having said that, most schools do have a general overall curriculum type. These are identified for each school on OurKids.net.

Curriculum approach at Branksome Hall: Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate

Branksome Hall has a Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

[Show: About Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate?]

Our Kids definition: Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.

Compare Branksome Hall's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Liberal arts - 12%
  Traditional - 39%
  Progressive - 34%
  Montessori - 12%
  Reggio Emilia - 1%
  Waldorf - 2%

Branksome Hall has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.

Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


International curriculum & programs at Branksome Hall: Duke of Edinburgh's Award

What Branksome Hall says about their overall curriculum and approach:

Branksome Hall is Toronto’s only all-years International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for girls. Our IB Advantage sparks students’ curiosity and passion for new challenges through our unique combination of outstanding academics, well-being, international mindedness and strong focus on innovation. Our inquiry-based Liberal Arts curriculum is enriched by our four core values: sense of community, inclusiveness, creativity and making a difference. A Kindergarten to Grade 12 independent school, Branksome Hall educates 900 girls on our 13-acre campus in downtown Toronto. Our state-of-the art facilities include an Athletics and Wellness Centre with two saltwater pools, STEAM Studio, Makerspaces and numerous flexible learning environments. We offer a Boarding Program and an immersive Study Abroad Program with our sister school, Branksome Hall Asia in South Korea. Our graduates are welcomed by leading universities in Canada and around the world, most with scholarships. More than $1.4 million in student financial assistance is provided each year. Branksome continues to set the pace for innovation in girls’ education, ensuring today’s students are well-prepared to solve tomorrow’s complex problems.


International Baccalaureate program(s) offered

ProgramOffered
Primary Years
Middle Years
Diploma program
Career-related program

Approach

Focus
Academic

Pedagogies and subject courses:

  • Mathematics

    Traditional Math

    Mathematics approach at Branksome Hall: Traditional Math

    Branksome Hall has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Traditional Math?]

    Our Kids definition: Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Mathematics with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Traditional math - 27%
      Discovery math - 6%
      Equal balance - 67%

    What Branksome Hall says:

    The Mathematics program at Branksome provides opportunities for university-bound students to develop a strong understanding of mathematics; practise strategies for applying knowledge and skills to solve complex problems in both real-life and abstract situations; communicate reasoning using mathematical conventions and terminology; and become proficient in using graphing calculators and relevant computer software. Students will learn new mathematical concepts and skills through class discussion, group work and individual practice. In all grades, students will be encouraged to develop specific study strategies that can promote academic success here at Branksome and later at university.

    Textbooks and supplementary materials:

    This information is not currently available.

    Calculator policy:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Early Reading

    Phonics-intensive

    Early Reading approach at Branksome Hall: Phonics-intensive

    Branksome Hall has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).

    [Show: About Phonics-intensive?]

    Our Kids definition: Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Early Reading with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Phonics-intensive - 48%
      Whole language - 2%
      Balanced literacy - 50%

    What Branksome Hall says:

    Reading instruction in the early years is both explicit and systematic. Teachers in the early grades focus on essential early literacy skills through structured literacy lessons. Important skills include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. This instruction may take place in a whole class and small differentiated groups. Unit of Inquiry provides students with an opportunity to utilize newly learned skills during content area instruction. A variety of assessment practices and measures are used to gather data to support instruction and goal setting from benchmark assessments to diagnostic tasks, progress monitoring to outcomes evaluation assessments.

    DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Writing

    Equal balance

    Writing approach at Branksome Hall: Equal balance

    Branksome Hall has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).

    [Show: About Equal balance?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Writing with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 78%
      Systematic approach - 11%
      Process approach - 11%

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Science

    Inquiry

    Science approach at Branksome Hall: Inquiry

    Branksome Hall has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Inquiry?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Science with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Inquiry - 25%
      Expository - 7%
      Equal balance - 68%

    Teaching approach:

    This information is not currently available.


    Treatment of evolution:

    SubjectOffered
    Evolution as consensus theory
    Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
    Evolution is not taught

    Topics covered in curriculum:

    SubjectOffered
    Biology
    Chemistry
    Ecology
    Geology
    Meteorology
    Physics
    Physiology
    Zoology

  • Literature

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Canadian lit
    American lit
    European (continental) lit
    World (non-Western) lit
    English lit
    Ancient lit

  • Social Studies

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Humanities and Social Sciences

    Equal Balance

    Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Branksome Hall: Equal Balance

    Branksome Hall has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Humanities and Social Sciences with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 79%
      Perennialism - 8%
      Pragmatism - 13%

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Foreign Languages

    Communicative

    Foreign Languages approach at Branksome Hall: Communicative

    Branksome Hall has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Communicative?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Foreign Languages with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Communicative - 32%
      Audio-lingual - 4%
      Equal balance - 64%

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.


    Language instruction offered in:

    SubjectOffered
    Chinese-Cantonese
    Chinese-Mandarin
    French
    German
    Greek
    Italian
    Japanese
    Hebrew
    Latin
    Russian
    Spanish
    ESL

  • Fine Arts

    Equal Balance

    Fine Arts approach at Branksome Hall: Equal Balance

    Branksome Hall has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Fine Arts with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 63%
      Receptive - 1%
      Creative - 36%

    Program offers:

    SubjectOffered
    Acting
    Dance
    Drama/Theatre
    Graphic Design
    Music
    Visual Arts

    Visual studio philosophy:

    Expressive
    Disciplined

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Computers and Technology

    Heavy integration

    Computers and Technology approach at Branksome Hall: Heavy integration

    Branksome Hall has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).

    [Show: About Heavy integration?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Computers and Technology with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Heavy integration - 26%
      Light integration - 22%
      Medium integration - 52%

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Computer science
    Robotics
    Web design

  • Physical Education

    What Branksome Hall says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • IB Diploma courses

    32 courses

    Group 1 (Language A)

    • English Literature SL
    • English Literature HL

    Group 2 (Language B)

    • French SL
    • French HL
    • Spanish SL
    • Spanish HL
    • Spanish ab initio SL

    Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)

    • Economics SL
    • Economics HL
    • Geography SL
    • Geography HL
    • History SL
    • History HL

    Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)

    • Chemistry SL
    • Chemistry HL
    • Biology SL
    • Biology HL
    • Physics SL
    • Physics HL
    • Environmental Systems SL
    • Sports, Exercise and Health Science SL

    Group 5 (Mathematics)

    • Mathematical Studies SL
    • Mathematics SL
    • Mathematics HL

    Group 6 (The Arts)

    • Music SL
    • Music HL
    • Theatre SL
    • Theatre HL
    • Visual Arts SL
    • Visual Arts HL
    • Film SL
    • Film HL

  • Advanced Placement courses
    This information is not currently available.

  • Sex and health education

    Ontario curriculum

    Sex and health education approach at Branksome Hall: Ontario curriculum

    Branksome Hall has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

    [Show: About Ontario curriculum?]

    Our Kids definition: The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

    Compare Branksome Hall's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Follows provincial curriculum - 57%
      Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 43%

    Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

    Branksome Hall has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).
    [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

    Our Kids definition: By and large, students are taught about sex free of any particular moral or ethical standpoint. The school doesn't impose any particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) on students when teaching sex and related issues.

    What Branksome Hall says:

    The goal of our curriculum is to encourage respectful and open-minded conversation. Our approach is to equip our students with the information they need to make well-informed decisions based on their own personal experiences, values and beliefs.

Preschool/K Curriculum Play-based

[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]

Preschools and kindergartens tend to have a particular curriculum or curricular approach. This refers to what is taught and how it's taught. Most preschools have a curriculum that comprises a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. A preschool's curriculum may or may not, though, reflect its higher-level curriculum (if it's part of a school with elementary or secondary programs)

Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Branksome Hall: Play-based

Branksome Hall has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).

[Show: About Play-based?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare Branksome Hall's Preschool/K Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Play-based - 20%
  Montessori - 29%
  Waldorf - 2%
  Reggio emilia - 7%
  Academic - 42%

What Branksome Hall says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

The Junior School sparks a joy and interest in learning that will stay with a student for life. Caring teachers stimulate natural curiosity. Small classes allow for the personal attention that helps a young girl thrive and develop her self-esteem. Students follow a curriculum that provides a solid grounding in basic skills and promotes good study habits. From the earliest age, girls learn to express themselves as competent communicators and to develop self reliance. Students learn through inquiry-based instruction within a variety of subject disciplines, including English and French, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, and Physical Education.

Language English

Learn about Branksome Hall's languages of instruction and enrolment.

Branksome Hall offers English as the primary language of instruction.

Language of enrolment include: English

Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched

[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]

This refers to the rate at which students move through the curriculum (e.g., topics, textbook material, skills, etc.). Curriculum pace is often defined in comparison to provincial standards.

Curriculum Pace approach at Branksome Hall: Standard-enriched

Branksome Hall has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

[Show: About Standard-enriched?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare Branksome Hall's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Standard-enriched - 54%
  Accelerated - 18%
  Student-paced - 28%

What Branksome Hall says about their curriculum pace:

We offer all three International Baccalaureate (IB) programs: PYP (Primary Years Program) for JK to Grade 6, MYP (Middle Years Program) for Grades 7 to 10 and the DP (Diploma Program) for Grades 11 & 12.


Flexible pacing style

Type Offered
Subject-streaming (tracking)
Multi-age classrooms as standard
Ability-grouping (in-class) as common
Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace)
Regular guided independent study opportunities
Differentiated assessment

What Branksome Hall says about their flexible pacing:

This information is not currently available.

Academic Culture Rigorous

[Show definition of Academic Culture]

Through the collective mindset of teachers, administrators, students, and parents, each school develops and maintains its own academic culture. This generally relates to the norms and expectations created around academic performance. Many parents look to private schools because they want a specific type of culture. Some want a rigorous environment that will elevate their child to new heights. Others want a nurturing environment that will help their child develop a passion for learning.

Academic Culture approach at Branksome Hall: Rigorous

Branksome Hall has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).

[Show: About Rigorous?]

Our Kids definition: 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”.

Compare Branksome Hall's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Rigorous - 51%
  Supportive - 49%

What Branksome Hall says about their academic culture:

This information is not currently available.

Developmental priorities Intellectual

[Show definition of Developmental priorities]

Schools have specific goals regarding how they want their educate and develop their students. This is part of a school's overall philosophy or vision, which is contained in its mission statement. While they tend have several developmental aims, schools tend to priortize certain aims, such as intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, or physical development.

Primary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced

Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

What Branksome Hall says about their developmental priorities:

This information is not currently available.

Special needs support

[Show definition of Special needs support]

Schools offer a wide range of approaches and services to support students with special needs. This may include individualized learning, one-on-one support, small classes, resource rooms, and learning aids. These supports may be provided in a number of different environments such as a dedicated special needs school or class, an integrated class, a withdrawal class, or a regular class with resource support or in-class adaptations.

What Branksome Hall says about their special need support:

As Branksome Hall is an independent school with a rigorous admissions process, our students with identified learning needs are generally high-functioning students. They have formal, individual, written plans based on a psycho-educational assessment, medical documentation or social emotional documentation. Provincial funding is not available for our Learning Strategies program. For this reason, Branksome is unable to support students whose learning needs exceed the inclusive classroom.

A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Indirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:

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

Read our guide to special needs schools and special education


Academic support

TypeOffered
Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities

TypeOffered
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support

What Branksome Hall says:

Branksome Hall follows an inclusion and Learning Diversity Policy where every student is the responsibility of every classroom teacher and where our teachers take ownership of the special learning needes of students in their classroom and differentiate their instruction to meet those needs.


Additional support

TypeOffered
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy

Gifted learner support No Support

[Show definition of Gifted learner support]

Schools support students with gifted or advanced learning abilities in a several ways. Whether they offer a full-time gifted program or part-time support, they normally provide some form of accelerated learning (delivering content at a faster pace) or enrichment (covering content more broadly or deeply). Many schools also offer a wide range of in-class adaptations to support advanced learners, such as guided independent studies, project-based learning, and career exploration.

Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.

Class structure

Program Offered
Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school)
Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class)

In-class adaptations

Program Offered
Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement)
Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement)
Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement)
Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement)
Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others)
Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement)
Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement)
Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement)
Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement)

What Branksome Hall says about their gifted learner support:

This information is not currently available.

Homework Policy

[Show definition of Homework Policy]

Homework is work that's assigned to students for completion outside of regular class time. There's a long-standing debate over homework. Should homework be assigned to school-age children? If so, in what grades? And how much homework should be assigned? In selecting the right school for your child, it's important to look closely at a school's homework policy.

Nightly homework

In grade Gr. 12, Branksome Hall students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.

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Branksome Hall15 mins15 mins15 mins30 mins30 mins45 mins30 mins60 mins90 mins90 mins120 mins120 mins
Site Average16 mins19 mins26 mins31 mins37 mins44 mins56 mins60 mins75 mins84 mins100 mins107 mins

What Branksome Hall says about their flipped classroom policy:

This information is not currently available.

Report Card Policy

[Show definition of Report Card Policy]

While all schools measure individual progress and achievement in students, they have different ways of doing this. For instance, many traditional schools gauge progress through report cards, which give students lettered or numbered grades. Other schools, meanwhile, measure progress in other ways, either in addition to or instead of giving grades. For instance, they may offer prose-based feedback (i.e, comments), academic achievement reporting, habits and behaviour reporting, and parent-teacher meetings. In choosing the right school for your child, take a close look at its policy for measuring the individual progress of students.

How assessments are delivered across the grades

TypeGrades
Lettered or numbered gradesJK to Gr. 6
Prose (narrative)-based feedbackJK to Gr. 6
Academic achievement reportingGr. 7 to Gr. 12
Habits and behaviour reportingGr. 7 to Gr. 12
Parent-teacher meetingsJK to Gr. 6
 

Qualitative insights

These insights are based on conversations with parents, alumni, and school leadership. Handpicked and curated by our editor, they offer a close look at how the school is experienced and perceived by those who know it best.


Students are supported in finding their individual passions.

Observations from students and alumni indicate that Branksome Hall excels in fostering a supportive environment that encourages students to discover and pursue their varied interests, whether in the arts, sports, or community service.

I really think what differentiates the school is Branksome’s commitment to pushing you towards your passion. For example in the IB program, you have to do ‘CCAS,’ which is an acronym for ‘Community, Creativity, Action, and Service’.  Most schools would only have CCAS, which is in Grades 11 and 12. That’s it. Whereas Branksome instills those values in Grades 7 and 8, when you have to do the Principal’s Award.  After that, in Grade 9, you start doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and then you’re doing CCAS in Grades 11 and 12. So they’re really instilling in you the fact that you have to be doing extracurriculars. Some people might find that tiring—but without them, many people wouldn’t have found what they’re passionate about. They really find your passion at Branksome, and then narrow into your passion, and they offer so many different programs.
—Becca Clark, alum (see full interview)
What surprised me the most was how much she grew as an individual. Even in Junior Kindergarten, you get presented with this amazing portfolio of what your child has accomplished. And it's shocking and super impressive how much your children grow and how much they're experienced, how much they receive in terms of education, but also just opportunities for presentations, for art, for expression, even at the very youngest of ages.
—Clara Mathur, parent (beginning in JK) (see full interview)
I think you’ve definitely got to try new things as a Branksome student. There are so many things in the creative realm, the sports realm, the community service realm, and the academic realm that Branksome offers. To get the most out of your experience and to feel your best when you graduate, in my view, you need to try a lot of different things, and find a passion that you want to commit more time to. Being successful isn’t necessarily a one-lane street. There are a lot of different ways to be successful, and I think trying different things at Branksome, just to try different things, is the way to get there.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)

Preparation for higher education is exceptionally strong.

Feedback from alumni highlights that the rigorous academic programs at Branksome Hall, particularly the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, provide a strong foundation for university-level work and beyond.

I think the lessons and things that I’ve learned at Branksome have really laid the foundation for me going forward into university. If I could give an analogy, it reminds me of the starting blocks in track and field. That’s what Branksome has become for me now — a great way for me to push off into the rest of life.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)
Branksome Hall provides an amazing education. I mean, you’re doing the IB program. You’re at an independent girls’ school. You’re learning things in advance of a lot of students elsewhere. For example, we had an opportunity to do a course in American history, which has really given me a lot of information in my life. I love that I’ve done American history. Branksome Hall pushes your education to a new level, which is definitely another reason why you would want to go there.
—Becca Clark, alum (see full interview)
Branksome Hall shaped my hard skills, like my study habits. Branksome definitely shaped that. And that has really given me a great foundation to go into university. The level that people are practicing subjects at—for example, ‘Theory of Knowledge’ in the IB program, being able to think in a way that is more theoretical and higher level—that has helped me as well in the university setting.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)

There are supportive student-teacher relationships.

Accounts from students and parents reveal that small class sizes and passionate teachers at Branksome Hall contribute to meaningful connections between educators and learners, enhancing the overall educational experience.

I think every teacher, especially as you progress through Branksome, is really wanting to create a bond with their students. The small class sizes help. Being able to choose your own subjects, or have more choice in the IB program, really allows you to work with teachers and learn from teachers that are passionate about the same things that you’re passionate about. I think that makes a huge difference. Having a great rapport with teachers really makes you excited to go to school every day and makes you want to learn from them.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)
As a teacher myself, I model many aspects of my own teaching practice after the remarkable teachers I had [at Branksome Hall]. Teachers' ability to get to know each student, and remember little details from their lives, even after graduation, speaks to how each faculty member truly cares for their students. Even now when I go back and see a teacher I once had, they ask about certain family members or reminisce on moments from my Branksome days (15+ years ago!).
—Sara Akbari, alum (1995-2009), Educator (see full review)
I was very happy with the quality of instructors and teachers at Branksome. The IB programme is a very rigorous one at that and the teachers do not take this lightly. They are incredible at what they do and they also offer a lot of one-on-one support. We have something called sittings where you can book with your teachers a time to go over any content you would like, you can also create sittings with a group of friends and have a group study session as well, with your teacher present to support and answer questions. The dynamic between teacher and student is definitely formal, but the energy at Branksome and from the students really does bond teachers and students and all teachers are very involved with student life and what is going on at the school. There are constant opportunities for you to receive feedback from your teachers, they are extremely passionate about what they do and teach.
—Deniz Mutlu, alum (2012-2022), Currently in second year univeristy (see full review)

The IB programme provides a global perspective.

Observations from students, parents, and administrators highlight that Branksome Hall's distinction as the only all-girls, three-program IB school in the country shapes both the academic rigor and the global mindset that the school fosters among its students.

The Number One thing that I appreciate about my experience at Branksome Hall is the education. The IB program really helped me get ahead and on-track for university, so I’m really appreciative for that, both in content and the study habits that I developed through the IB.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)
The IB program is one thing that differentiates Branksome Hall from other private schools. I know that very few independent schools in Toronto offer it. Especially the support to do the IB is a unique thing that Branksome provides. I don’t want to say it’s expected, but it’s a natural streamline from Grades 9 and 10 at Branksome to go into the IB program. Having them scaffold the curriculum in Grades 7, 8, 9, and 10 to go into the IB, I think that’s really unique. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have studied in the IB program because I think it prepared me for university.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)
The education is so great at Branksome, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to be in the IB program. As challenging as it was at times, I’m definitely reaping the rewards.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)

They leverage the benefits of an all-girls environment.

Insightful reflections from parents and alumni highlight how Branksome Hall's all-girls setting fosters confidence, resilience, and the belief that girls can pursue any field, particularly in STEM and beyond.

My daughter loves the all-girls environment. She has three brothers, and she loves being with other girls. She loves being with other strong women. She loves being motivated and mentored by strong women. She loves the challenges that she receives in class. So I think that’s had a great impact on her, just being in an all-female environment and also just receiving great challenges through her education.
—Nina Piatek, parent (see full discussion)
The focus on educating girls, making them confident, making them resilient, making them think that everything is possible for them, and they are no less than anyone else, and they can pursue all the same fields as boys do, such as STEM and health sciences. That is fantastic.
—Lisa Richards, alum (see full discussion)

There is a culture of creative and collaborative problem-solving.

Observations from families reveal that Branksome Hall offers a comprehensive program with an emphasis on the arts and the role of creativity, allowing students to explore different forms of artistic expression, from visual arts to dance and music.

With the challenge of the IB program, that you’re going through with friends, and the co-curriculars that you’re going through with friends, the friendships that come from those two areas are another reason to choose Branksome. I formed many friendships from those two areas, both curricular and co-curricular. I’m still in touch with so many of the girls from my graduating class, and I live with friends from high school here at university. Being able to still have that connection is so, so valuable because you get to see people grow and change, and that is nice and rewarding to see. You also have friends for life.
—Nora Hodgson, alum (see full interview)
Branksome offers more Arts than what I was expecting. There’s a wide variety. Visual Arts was one of the favourite subjects of my younger daughter when she was going into Grade 7. What I loved was she also had the opportunity to try different kinds of arts programs. In Grade 7 and 8, you do your Visual Arts, you also do drama, but in addition to that, you also have another Arts option in terms of music—whether you do an instrument, Band, or Voice. She opted to do the violin, never having played strings. She had two great years of Violin. She loved the Arts program, the actual Visual Arts, because they did sculptures, they did actual paintings, and they also did a unit on sewing, and they went fairly in depth with these items. And then the other thing is that my older daughter started in Grade 9 and was given an Arts option: she actually opted to do Dance. In Grade 9, you have to commit to two years for your Arts subject. And she said, ‘I picked dance just to be out of my skin and take on a new challenge’.
—Nina Piatek, parent (see full discussion)
When I look at my daughter and her friends from Branksome, they exude a love of learning that I think Branksome has fostered. Branksome fosters not only a love of education, but a love of true learning and critical thinking. It’s the fact they love to hear something, and understand it. Branksome girls don’t just accept a statement like ‘two plus two is four’. They want to know why and how, and it’s across the board.
—Lisa Richards, alum (see full discussion)

The faculty is passionate and dedicated.

Observations from students and alumni suggest that the passionate and dedicated faculty at Branksome Hall foster a nurturing learning environment through their commitment to high-quality instruction and strong supportive relationships.

One word I would use to describe Branksome is ‘passionate’. As a school, it is passionate about teaching. They’re passionate in what they believe in, and they ‘walk the walk’ every day with the girls. It is passionate about the latest and current models of teaching the IB curriculum to the girls, at every age and stage from JK to Grade 12.
—Lisa Richards, alum (see full discussion)
Branksome Hall is a well-known independent girls' school in Toronto. I am very happy with the quality of instruction at school. I am very pleased with the high-quality instruction my child receives at Branksome Hall. The teachers are dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate about fostering a nurturing learning environment. The school's rigorous academic standards, combined with a focus on character development, have significantly contributed to my child's growth and academic achievements. The strong emphasis on empowering young women is evident in every aspect of the school's curriculum. Branksome Hall has exceeded my expectations, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to any parent seeking an exceptional educational experience for their child. They communicate effectively and provide constructive feedback. I feel my girl receives both the challenges and the support that she requires.
—Shelly Huang, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

There is comprehensive support.

Insights from Branksome Hall students and alumni reveal that the school provides extensive support systems to ensure student success, including dedicated guidance counselors and robust student support services.

My three words for describing Branksome are ‘supportive’, ‘ambitious’ and ‘forward-thinking.’ Their supportive approach sets the school apart. I say ‘ambitious’ because Branksome is at the top of its game. It’s continually investing in facilities, investing in different pedagogies, and different methodologies. And ‘forward-thinking’ because of how the school really invests heavily in things like cutting-edge research around how girls learn best. For example, we have the Chandaria Research Centre. I don’t know of any other school that has a research centre focused on the best ways for girls to learn.
—Lisa Richards, alum (see full discussion)
What drove it home for me was that first moment when you walk on campus you feel the hug, you feel welcome. It just felt like the right, nurturing environment for us. Both my girls would say their reasons for choosing Branksome were really that they looked at what all the schools had to offer, and what they found at Branksome was the warm environment, the academic program they were looking for, the arts program they were looking for, and in addition to that, just the athletics piece. I loved the school based on all the tours we had done and the schools we had looked at, but ultimately the decision for what school the girls wanted to go to, I left it in their hands—and I was really happy when they chose Branksome.
—Nina Piatek, parent (see full discussion)
There is a helping hand whenever you look. Branksome truly cares about their students' success and it shows with their dedication to ensuring their students' excellence. Speaking from my personal experience the energy and spirit at Branksome is definitely a fond memory. Branksome truly feels like such a tight-knit community and there are always fun events and community bonding opportunities for all students. I think Branksome does an extraordinary job at preparing students for the future.
—Deniz Mutlu, alum (2012-2022), Currently in second year univeristy (see full review)
 

OUR KIDS REPORT: Branksome Hall

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