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Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.:
The Our Kids Report > Academics
Grades Nursery/Toddler TO Gr. 12 — Oshawa, ON (Map)


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Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT
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Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS

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?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare GBMS & DEPS's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Progressive - 34%
  Traditional - 39%
  Liberal arts - 14%
  Montessori - 11%
  Reggio Emilia - 1%
  Waldorf - 1%

GBMS & DEPS has a Montessori approach to supplementary 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 about their overall curriculum and approach:

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 Secondary Private School offers full time and part time programs in person and online. All courses are at the highest academic level.


Montessori program(s) offered

ProgramOffered
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?]

    Our Kids definition: These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Mathematics with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 70%
      Traditional math - 25%
      Discovery math - 5%

    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. Our secondary school offers a weekly math club.

    Textbooks and supplementary materials:

    Each student is given mathematical workbooks as well as online teaching.

    Calculator policy:

    Each class has calculators which are allowed at certain times. Students whom have difficulty in math are allowed to utilize the calculators.

  • 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?]

    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 GBMS & DEPS's Early Reading with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Phonics-intensive - 44%
      Whole language - 2%
      Balanced literacy - 54%

    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, working at a grade1 level. 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. Our secondary school teaches English at the Academic level. Our schools purchase Canadian resources that cover penmanship, cursive writing, spelling tests, grammar and literature.

    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?]

    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 GBMS & DEPS's Writing with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 79%
      Systematic approach - 9%
      Process approach - 12%

    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 8 as 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?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Science with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 68%
      Expository - 5%
      Inquiry - 27%

    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. Durham Academy teachers are trained specialists , they teach to inspire all students and to deepen their understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through demanding and rigorous instruction. We ensure that STEM curricular instructional time well exceeds curriculum expectations.


    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

    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?]

    Our Kids definition: These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Literature with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 76%
      Traditional - 21%
      Social justice - 3%

    What GBMS & DEPS 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

    Expanding Communities

    Social Studies approach at GBMS & DEPS: Expanding Communities

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

    [Show: About Expanding Communities?]

    Our Kids definition: The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Social Studies with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Expanding communities - 29%
      Core knowledge - 38%
      Thematic - 33%

    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?]

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

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Humanities and Social Sciences with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 83%
      Perennialism - 7%
      Pragmatism - 10%

    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.


    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 GBMS & DEPS: Equal Balance

    GBMS & DEPS 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 GBMS & DEPS's Fine Arts with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 65%
      Receptive - 2%
      Creative - 33%

    Program offers:

    SubjectOffered
    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?]

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

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Computers and Technology with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Medium integration - 52%
      Light integration - 18%
      Heavy integration - 30%

    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:

    SubjectOffered
    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?]

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

    Compare GBMS & DEPS's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 41%
      Follows provincial curriculum - 59%

    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?]

    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 GBMS & DEPS says:

    This information is not currently available.

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)

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?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare GBMS & DEPS's Preschool/K Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Montessori - 26%
  Play-based - 24%
  Waldorf - 2%
  Reggio emilia - 7%
  Academic - 41%

What GBMS & DEPS says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

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.

Montessori Approach Moderately non-orthodox

Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.'s Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.

  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%

Overall approach

Orthodox
40% of schools

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

Moderately Orthodox
40% 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
6% of schools

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

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.

Teaching assistants

This school doesn't use teaching assistants.

What GBMS & DEPS says about teaching assistants:

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.

Language English

Learn about Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.'s languages of instruction and enrolment.

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

Language of enrolment include: English, German, Spanish

Online Learning

Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.'s online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.

Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. offers online courses to students.


Course format

TypeOffered
Distance
Asynchronous
Synchronous

Academic support and services

TypeOffered
Dedicated teacher per course
Exam proctoring
Student progress tracker
Regular office hours
Additional support
Study groups
Special needs support

What GBMS & DEPS says about their academic support and services:

Dedicated teacher per course: We hire specialized teachers for each subject.
Exam proctoring: A teacher is assigned to proctor an exam.
Student progress tracker: Each student has a portfolio that tracks their progress and parents are communicated with regularly to keep them updated on their child's progress.
Regular office hours: Our school offices are open 7:45 am to 4:00pm and emails are monitored in the evenings and on weekends. Teachers communicate with famiies through agendas and apps.
Additional support: Our teachers offer before and after school mentoring and study hall .
Study groups: Our teachers offer before and after school opportunities for students to come in and study.

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 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?]

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 GBMS & DEPS's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Standard-enriched - 56%
  Accelerated - 18%
  Student-paced - 26%

What GBMS & DEPS says about their curriculum pace:

Our schools boast small class sizes. All of our subjects are enriched by yearly workshops, field trips and presentations.


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 GBMS & DEPS 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 GBMS & DEPS: Rigorous

GBMS & DEPS 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 GBMS & DEPS's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Rigorous - 49%
  Supportive - 51%

What GBMS & DEPS says about their academic culture:

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 confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

What GBMS & DEPS says about their developmental priorities:

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.

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.

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

Additional support

TypeOffered
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy

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.

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 GBMS & DEPS 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, GBMS & DEPS students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.

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Site Average0 mins2 mins6 mins7 mins15 mins18 mins24 mins30 mins35 mins42 mins54 mins59 mins76 mins88 mins104 mins112 mins

What GBMS & DEPS 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 gradesGr. 1 to Gr. 12
Prose (narrative)-based feedbackNursery/Toddler to Gr. 12
Parent-teacher meetingsNursery/Toddler to Gr. 12

Extracurricular Activities

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.

Sports offered

Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. offers 9 competitive sports and 8 recreational sports.

  Competitive offered          Recreational offered
all sports]
  • Archery
  • Curling
  • Ultimate
  • 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 11 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  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

What GBMS & DEPS says about their extracurricular activities:

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

THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.

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