CGS was founded in 1986 by Marie Bates, who remains as the principal at the school today. As that suggests, the school has remained very true to the founders’ initial intentions, namely to create a place that provides a strong academic foundation in a caring, open, and supportive environment. While reading, writing, and numeracy are key—just as they should be—so is the development of creativity and social engagement. Bates believes that children learn as much in music class as they do in math class, and she’s right of course. As such, the program promotes links across the curriculum, allowing children to see those connections while also broadening their horizons of interest. The strength of the program is reflected by the reputation that CGS has earned over the thirty-plus years of its life.
School's Perspective
Compare with:
How CGS (Children's Garden School) sees itself
The school administration answered our questions
Who are you, as a school?
"Since 1986, a balanced education has been the foundation of our program. CGS is Leaside's junior preparatory, co-ed private school of choice for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 4. We emphasize a strong academic foundation with a thoughtful focus on social-emotional skills. Our early phonics and pre-reading programs lead to high levels of literacy. Highlights: French, Music, Art, Drama, Public Speaking, Character Ed, Mindfulness, Outdoor Ed, and Physical Fitness, with optional Mandarin. CGS keeps the heart in education."
Specializing in the critical early years of education (Pre-K - Grade 4) since 1986.
Co-ed, non-denominational nurturing environment; a 'home away from home' for your child.
French four times per week/Extended French after school program.
Mindfulness practices throughout the week.
Respected within the Independent School community.
Focus on public speaking, leadership and exceptional performance arts and visual arts opportunities.
Gymnastics, skating and swimming curriculum for Grades 1-4.
Outdoor Education Trips to UCC's Norval Centre every year for JK-Grade 4.
Exceptionally active, welcoming and positive Parent Association and community.
Real Food For Real Kids hot lunch available.
What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"The trademark of a CGS student is their strong academic foundation, balanced by their joyful discovery and curious exploration of a love for learning through specialty classes like language, visual art, music/drama, mindfulness, and physical education. Our highly acclaimed Language Arts Program, (reading and phonics) and Touch Math begin with our preschool students, and uniquely ensure each child is ready for a smooth and successful transition into our, or any, competitive school-age curriculum"
What type of student is a good fit for your school?
"The type of student to thrive at CGS is the child of a family who wants to be partners with our school, our educators and our administrative team. Our young students are just starting out on their educational journey, so our expectation at this age is reflective of the family, and how their values and expectations align with our own."
To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Our Early Start/Preschool, (2.5-4 yrs of age), builds the foundation for success by preparing our youngest student for their educational journey. This high-quality and balanced introduction to academics yields sustained benefits for our youngest learners as we focus on supporting the development of the whole child; addressing cognitive, social, emotional and physical learning. CGS creates a love for learning while fostering the necessary skills of a 21st century learner."
What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"Our small school advantage, and the welcoming sense of community each time you enter our building. At CGS, we are known for our academic focus, yet the balance of arts, character building, extracurriculars, and physical education are something that families find astounding about our curriculum. Our days are carefully balanced with a thoughtful focus on reading, math, and language plus mindfulness, social-emotional learning, and a collaborative environment to develop positive relationships."
What might families find surprising about your school?
"Our educators are committed to our school; some with 15+ years at CGS! We know the value in a consistent and experienced team of familiar-faced educators/support staff who deliver current and contemporary educational approaches in their classrooms. Our seasoned team of classroom educators also offer after-school tutoring, and exposure to a variety of after-school clubs to support students' special interests, such as robotics, dance, games, language and leadership opportunity."
Top-down influence on the school’s direction and tone
Message from school leadership
Marie Bates, Principal and Founder
Thank you for your interest in our school. CGS has been a home away from home for so many children, and their families, since it was founded in 1986. We pride ourselves on getting to know each child, to the fullest extent possible, while they are with us. Our young students, from Preschool to Grade 4 are protected, cherished, motivated and inspired during the first, and all important, years of their formal education. When you truly know your students it is easy to do what is best for them.
We are committed to our small class sizes and balanced curriculum. We believe that children can learn as much in Music class as they can in Math class. Along with our strong core curriculum, students are given the opportunity to immerse themselves in the arts and physical activity. Our goal is to provide an education that is rich and diverse by placing importance on all aspects of a wide and varied curriculum.
As founding Principal, I have been honoured to work with, and support, a staff that is known for their dedication and commitment to the CGS philosophy. Each and every student is celebrated for who they are. Our teachers deliver an exceptional program while keeping the heart in education. Please visit our website and see what makes CGS the special place it is.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: CGS (Children's Garden School)
