Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Progressive, Montessori
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Phonics-intensive
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Social Studies : Thematic
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages:
    • Fine Arts: Equal Balance
    • Computers and Technology: Medium integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Advanced Placement courses:
    • Sex and health education: Not Ontario curriculum
  • Montessori Approach: Moderately non-orthodox
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Montessori
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Intellectual
  • Special needs support: Indirect Support
  • Gifted learner support: In-class adaptations
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Progressive, Montessori
    [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 GBMS & DEPS: Progressive, Montessori

    GBMS & DEPS has a Progressive, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Progressive, Montessori?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Progressive - 27%
      Traditional - 43%
      Liberal arts - 18%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    GBMS & DEPS has a Montessori approach to secondary curriculum.

    Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.

    What GBMS & DEPS says: We offer an authentic Montessori curriculum for students 18 months to age 5. Emphasis is on Language, Math, French, Botany, Science, Culture, Music and Gym. Program Enhancements/ workshops/presentations are offered throughout the year.We offer 3 full report cards and 2 parent interviews each school year. Program Enhancements/ workshops/presentations are offered throughout the year. Students in grades 2 to 8 complete the Canadian Standardized testing each year. DEPS and Durham Academy focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics ) while following the Ontario Curriculum. Durham Academy will be offering specialized Business programs in starting September 2019.

    Montessori offered:

    Program	offered
    Montessori toddler
    Casa
    Elementary
    Middle School
    High School

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at GBMS & DEPS: Equal Balance

      GBMS & DEPS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math , Discovery Math approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 69%
        Traditional math - 28%
        Discovery math - 3%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: We follow the Ontario Curriculum at an enrichment level. Students are given extra help (tutoring one on one) and support if there is a weakness in mathematics. Students can be challenged and are given enrichment if they have a strong foundation and excel in the grade level expectations.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: Each student is given mathematical workbooks as well as online teaching.

      Calculator policy: This information is not currently available.

    • Early Reading Phonics-intensive
      Early Reading approach at GBMS & DEPS: Phonics-intensive

      GBMS & DEPS has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language , Balanced Literacy approach).

      [Show: About Phonics-intensive?]

      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.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

        Phonics-intensive - 42%
        Whole language - 2%
        Balanced literacy - 56%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: Our students are introduced to phonetic sounds in the Toddler class and this carries through to the Casa 1,2,3 class. At age 3 and 4 our students will recognize their sounds including short vowel. At age 4 our students will be reading short phonetic sentences and completing comprehension worksheets. In Casa 3 our students will recognize all of their phonetic sounds, short vowel, long vowel, diagraphs and they will be progressing through readers and completing the corresponding comprehension worksheets. Each year our students from grade 1 to 8 research a topic to write a speech and they compete and present in our annual speech contest at our school and in the province.

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

      What GBMS & DEPS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at GBMS & DEPS: Equal balance

      GBMS & DEPS has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach , Process approach approach).

      [Show: About 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.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 82%
        Systematic approach - 10%
        Process approach - 8%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: Our students start penmanship at age 3. They start with sandpaper letters and then start simple journal entries. In Casa 2 (age 4) our students focus on penmanship and daily printing as well as simple journals. In Casa 3 the students continue their daily penmanship, journal writing. Casa 3 is introduced to copying from the board and writing simple sentences in preparation for grade 1. The Montessori program also focuses on building words (spelling) Daily penmanship/cursive is a focus for students grades 1 to 8as well as weekly spelling tests.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at GBMS & DEPS: Equal Balance

      GBMS & DEPS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Inquiry approach).

      [Show: About 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 at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 73%
        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 22%
      

      Teaching approach: Our students are introduced to Science (Botany) at age 3, 4,5. We follow the Ontario Curriculum at an enrichment level for grades 1 to 8 through lessons, workshops and field trips. Each Fall we have our annual Science fair where students age 3 to grade 8 complete science strands at an enrichment level and transform their classrooms and present there work to their families.

      Treatment of evolution:

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

      Topics covered in curriculum:

      Subject	offered
      Biology
      Chemistry
      Ecology
      Geology
      Meteorology
      Physics
      Physiology
      Zoology

    • Literature Equal Balance
      Literature approach at GBMS & DEPS: Equal Balance

      GBMS & DEPS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional , Social Justice approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 77%
        Traditional - 20%
        Social justice - 3%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Social Studies Thematic
      Social Studies approach at GBMS & DEPS: Thematic

      GBMS & DEPS has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge , Expanding Communities approach).

      [Show: About Thematic?]

      The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Thematic - 32%
        Core knowledge - 42%
        Expanding communities - 26%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at GBMS & DEPS: Equal Balance

      GBMS & DEPS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Pragmatism approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 85%
        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 9%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages

      What GBMS & DEPS says: We teach French to students age 3 to grade 9. We also offer Mandarin and Cantonese language after school programs. Each year our students age 3 to grade 8 present a French concert showcasing strands of the music and French curriculum by presenting song and dialogue in French as well as playing instruments.

    • Fine Arts Equal Balance
      Fine Arts approach at GBMS & DEPS: Equal Balance

      GBMS & DEPS has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Creative approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 61%
        Receptive - 2%
        Creative - 37%
      

      Program offers:

      Subject	offered
      Acting
      Dance
      Drama/Theatre
      Graphic Design
      Music
      Visual Arts

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What GBMS & DEPS says: Our schools boast 3 concerts a Christmas celebration concert, French concert and Musical Theatre Spring concert.

    • Computers and Technology Medium integration
      Computers and Technology approach at GBMS & DEPS: Medium integration

      GBMS & DEPS has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration , Heavy integration approach).

      [Show: About Medium integration?]

      Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Medium integration - 48%
        Light integration - 18%
        Heavy integration - 34%
      

      What GBMS & DEPS says: Our students are introduced to computers in grade 2. Grades 3 to 8 have computers in their classes. Students at Durham Academy are given a laptop to use at the school. Both schools own five 3D printers and workshops and camps are given to the students throughout the year to familiarize and introdcue the students to different computer applications.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What GBMS & DEPS says: GBMS & DEPS boasts a huge gymnasium fully equipped with sports equipment. We also have a huge field with a baseball diamond, running track and adjacent soccer field. Durham Academy Secondary School boast a huge gymnasium which is fully equipped with sports equipment and a weight room for students to workout at their leisure (before/after school, breaks or lunch). Both schools attend track and field meets throughout the year as well as hosting and participating in sports tournaments throughout the school year.

    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education Not Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at GBMS & DEPS: Not Ontario curriculum

      GBMS & DEPS has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).

      [Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]

      The sex education curriculum does NOT follow the provincial one taught in public schools - either in terms of structure, pacing, focus, and/or tone.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

        Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 45%
        Follows provincial curriculum - 55%
      

      Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

      GBMS & DEPS has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).

      [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

      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 GBMS & DEPS says: This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Advanced Placement courses

    • Sex and health education
  • Montessori Approach Moderately non-orthodox
    School Policies

    	Toddler	Primary	Lower Elementary	Upper Elementary	Middle	High
    Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.'	18 months to age3	3 to 5	1 to 3	4 to 6	7 to 8	9 to 12
    Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.'	2 hours	2 hours	2 hours	2 hours	2 hours	2 hours
    Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.'	–	–	Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox)	Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)
    Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.'	–	–	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)
    Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.'	30%	30%	15%	15%	15%	5%

    Classroom Practices:

    • Whole-class lectures Moderately non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.

      Moderately orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.

      Non-orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.

    • Special education Moderately non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.

      Moderately orthodox

      External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.

      Non-orthodox

      External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.

    • Specialist classes Non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.

      Moderately orthodox

      We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.

      Non-orthodox

      We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.

    • Modern-day technology Moderately non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.

      Moderately orthodox

      Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.

      Non-orthodox

      Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.

    
    

    Overall approach : Which option best describes your overall curricular approach?

    Orthodox

    35% of schools

    Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.

    Moderately Orthodox

    48% of schools

    Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

    Moderately Non-Orthodox

    13% of schools

    Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

    Non-orthodox

    4% of schools

    Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but often supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

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    Teaching Assistants:

    This school doesn't use teaching assistants.

    What GBMS & DEPS says: GBMS is Montessori from 18 months to age 6. DEPS follows the Ontario Curriculum grades 1 through to 8. Durham Academy Secondary Schools follows the Ontario Curriculum and all subjects/ courses are taught at the academic level.

  • Preschool/K Curriculum Montessori
    [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)

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    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at GBMS & DEPS: Montessori

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

    [Show: About Montessori?]

    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
    
    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Montessori - 26%
      Play-based - 22%
      Waldorf - 2%
      Reggio emilia - 6%
      Academic - 44%
    

    What GBMS & DEPS says: A Montessori education emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own individual pace and according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. The environment is arranged according to subject area, and children are always free to move around the room instead of staying at desks. At any one time in a day all subjects; math, language, science, history, geography, art, music, French,etc., will be studied at all levels.

  • 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.

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    Curriculum Pace approach at GBMS & DEPS: Standard-enriched

    GBMS & DEPS has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

    [Show: About 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.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Standard-enriched - 58%
      Accelerated - 17%
      Student-paced - 25%
    

    What GBMS & DEPS says: Our schools boast small class sizes. All of our subjects are enriched by yearly workshops, field trips and presentations.

    Flexible pacing style

    Flexible pacing style	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 GBMS & DEPS says about 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.

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    Academic Culture approach at GBMS & DEPS: Rigorous

    GBMS & DEPS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).

    [Show: About 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”.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Rigorous - 51%
      Supportive - 49%
    

    What GBMS & DEPS says: We believe that each student deserves a chance to meet their individual potential. We offer an excellent foundation in academics and a love for learning by offering a strong academic program in a supportive, positive environment. We offer in school tutoring and mentoring should a student need extra support. Although we promote excellent attendance we do support students who also have extra curricular activities.

  • 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: Emotional

    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and con?dent individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

    What GBMS & DEPS says: Our students exceed grade level academic expectations which gives them confidence to excel. Our school prides ourselves on excellent manners and respect. We continue to focus on penmanship/cursive writing, spelling tests and presentation skills which are essential for confidence and success.

  • Special needs support Indirect 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.

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    GBMS & DEPS offers Indirect Support

    Students remain in a regular classroom for the whole day; the teacher receives special training in accommodating special needs and/or learning disabled students.

    Academic Support:

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

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD:

    Subject Type	offered
    Accommodations
    Modifications
    Extra support

    ---

    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

  • Gifted learner support In-class adaptations
    [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.

    ---

    Dedicated gifted programs:

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

    Curriculum delivery: This information is not currently available.

    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 GBMS & DEPS says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    GBMS & DEPS offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English
  • 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.

    ---

    In grade Gr. 9, GBMS & DEPS students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	NS	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
    GBMS & DEPS	0 mins	0 mins	15 mins	15 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	45 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins	60 mins	90 mins
    Site Average	0 mins	2 mins	6 mins	7 mins	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	30 mins	35 mins	40 mins	53 mins	57 mins	69 mins

    What GBMS & DEPS says about their flipped classroom policy: This information is not currently available.

• Extracurriculars
  [Show definition of Extracurriculars]

  While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.

  ---

  What GBMS & DEPS says:

  • Full size gym
  • Large outdoor sports area with track and soccer fields

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 2
  Recreational sports: 7

  Legend:     Competitive offered           Recreational offered

  all sports]

  • Archery
  • Curling
  • Badminton
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Canoeing/Kayaking
  • Cricket
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Cycling
  • Downhill skiing
  • Equestrian
  • Fencing
  • Field Hockey
  • Figure Skating
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Gymnastics
  • Ice Hockey
  • Ice Skating
  • Lacrosse
  • Martial Arts
  • Mountain biking
  • Racquet Ball
  • Rowing
  • Rugby
  • Running
  • Sailing
  • Skateboarding
  • Snowboarding
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Squash
  • Swimming
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Volleyball
  • Weightlifting
  • Wrestling

  ---

  Clubs offered

  Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. offers 8 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  Legend:     Clubs offered           Clubs not offered

  all clubs and programs]

    Foreign Language Club

    Habitat for Humanity

    Jazz Ensemble

    Math Club

    Musical theatre/Opera

    Ballet and Classical Ballet

    Online Magazine

    Outdoor Club

    Outdoor Education

    Paintball

    Photography

    Poetry/Literature club

    Radio club

    Robotics club

    Round Square

    School newspaper

    Science Club

    Scouting

    Student Council

    Yearbook

    Yoga

    Animation

    Art Club

    Astronomy Club

    Audiovisual Club

    Band

    Chess Club

    Choir

    Community Service

    Computer Club

    Dance Club

    Debate Club

    Drama Club

    Environmental Club

  
  
• Tuition & Financial Aid
  [Show definition of Tuition & Financial Aid]

  This can depend on a number of factors, including the type of school, living arrangements, what’s included in tuition, school location, resources, and facilities. Many private schools in Canada have tuition that ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 a year. While some schools, such as schools which provide room and board, can be more expensive, many of these schools provide ways to defray the costs of tuition. For instance, they may offer merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial aid (often referred to as “bursaries” or “subsidies”).

  ---

  Day

   

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day	$9,700										$11,500

  
  

  What GBMS & DEPS says about their tuition: This information is not currently available.

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  This information is not currently available.

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  This information is not currently available.

• Enrolment
  [Show definition of enrolment]

  Private schools come in all shapes and sizes. Some larger schools have enrolment numbers in the thousands, while some smaller schools have only a few dozen students. Boarding schools tend to be on the larger side, while alternative schools, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, are normally smaller. Besides the overall size of school, there are other important facts you’ll want to know about a school’s enrolment. For instance, here you can learn about a school’s enrolment for separate streams (if they have them), such as day and boarding, its average class size, and its average enrolment per grade.

  ---

  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	140
  Group 2	Gr. 8 to Gr. 12	Coed	Boarding	Varies
  Group 3	Gr. 8 to Gr. 12	Coed	Homestay	Varies

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	140
  Average class size	8 to 15
  % of international students (total enrolment)	10%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	4
  Five-day boarding program offered	N/A

  Student Distribution:

  	NS	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Boarding Enrollment												N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Homestay Enrollment											1	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Class Size	13	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	12	12

• Admission
  [Show definition of Admission]

  Private schools in Canada have admissions policies. All schools have some required application materials, though these vary between schools. These may include letters of application, application fees, essays, and exams (such as the SSAT). Many schools also require interviews with prospective students, either with their parents, on their own, or both. Schools also have different standards and priorities when evaluating student applications, different acceptance rates (which may vary between grade levels), and target different kinds of students. To improve your child’s chances of acceptance, you should find out everything you can about a school’s admissions policies and how they assess applicants.

  ---

  Application

  Admissions Assessments:

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		9 - 12
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Boarding students: N/A
  Homestay students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: N/A
  Registration fee: N/A
  Deposit: N/A

  What GBMS & DEPS says:

  We suggest that families come in for a tour and have their child visit at no obligation for a morning or a day. D.E.P.S and Durham Academy students are required to bring in previous report cards. Durham Academy Secondary School students are required to answer simple questions in written form and have an interview with the Principal.

  ---

  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 98%

  This is the percentage of applicants typically accepted into the school. So if 50 students are admitted out of 100 applicants, the school has an overall acceptance rate of 50%.

  
  

  Day Boarding Homestay
  

  ---

  Student Entry Points

  This shows approximately how many openings there are likely to be in each grade in a typical year, as well as the estimated acceptance rate for each grade level.

  
  

  Student Type	NS	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)	0 (100%)
  Boarding Acceptance (Acceptance rate)												0	0	0	0	0
  Homestay Acceptance (Acceptance rate)												0	0	0	0	0

  Type of student GBMS & DEPS is looking for:
  This information is not currently available.
• University Placement
  [Show definition of University Placement]

  Where graduates of a school do their post-secondary studies can be an important factor in choosing a private school. Do you want your child to go to a Canadian university, an Ivy league school in the US, or some other institute? Regardless of your inclinations, take a look at a school’s university placement record, and the services they offer to support university applications and decisions.

  ---

  Key Numbers

  Average graduating class size	N/A
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	N/A

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	N/A
  Students who attended a Ivy+ school Number of students in the past 5 years that that attended one of Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, University of Chicago, Oxford or Cambridge (UK)	N/A

  Post-Secondary Schools Attended

  This information is not currently available.

  Areas of Study

  • Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

  This information is not currently available.

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    25% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    25% - Business/Commerce
    5% - Fine and Performing Arts
    13% - Applied Health Sciences
    2% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    6% - Other
  

  
  

  Services Offered to Students

  Career planning	N/A
  Internships	N/A

  Mentorship Program	N/A
  University counseling	N/A

• Principal's Message
  Suzanna Mason, Principal

  As Principal since 2008 I've led our three schools which continue to grow in enrollment, programming, facilities and community involvement. We boast fantastic communication and customer service. Our teachers are experts in their fields and are devoted to helping our students reach their full potential. We are welcoming and warm, as well as serious about setting high standards and achieving goals.

  Our three schools have a 35 year history of graduating students with high academic achievement. We welcome students from across the Durham Region, the Greater Toronto Area and around the World. Boarding and Home Stay programs for students in Grades 8 through 12. 

  I encourage you to discover what our educational programs can offer your child.

  Sincerely,

  Suzanna Mason

  (Principal)
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