REVIEW OF Fieldstone School BY parent, Ben Verhaaren
- Date of Review
April 16, 2025 - Child 1
Gr. 5 (Female, Current Day Student) - Child 2
Gr. 6 (Male, Current Day Student)
(5) Student Experience
Our children like that they are more challenged than in the public school system. This is, of course, thanks to the curriculum made by the University of Cambridge (#3 university worldwide), but certainly also because of the teachers who are very warm and committed. My children love them. That there is also much attention to French, arts, sports, and music keeps them happy. Furthermore, they love competing in contests for public speaking, French, sports and music with students from other schools, which is encouraged by the school. Their outings (e.g., museum, farm, skiing day) are much appreciated. The many extracurricular activities, like the French night and coding classes, are also enjoyed. Last, but not least, they love the school's lunch program.
(5) School Leadership
The school fosters a positive school environment. The school is respectful and communicative with parents and children. Input from parents is appreciated. There is a clear teaching program, of course, also related to the Cambridge curriculum. The school has a proactive approach, for example, by encouraging the students to participate in different contests. In general, if there are any issues, it is not difficult to reach out to the teachers or the principal. Response to emails is very quick without exception.
(5) Teaching
We are very happy with the teachers at Fieldstone. They are very warm, committed, and very well aware of the development of our children. They know their subjects well. They are also actively involved in trying to get the best out of them. Weaknesses and strengths are addressed appropriately. In addition, there is room for a student to work at a higher pace or get more in-depth study material, for example, with French. We really like that with music, they have their own instrument and are taught to play it. My daughter plays the violin, and my son plays the cello. Also, the sports program is very versatile and aimed at learning to play different sports. It helps that the gym teacher is an ex-professional soccer player.
(5) Academics
The curriculum that is made by the University of Cambridge (#3 university worldwide) keeps the level high. We have experienced different school systems in different countries, and we can see that this curriculum is really providing a solid basis that is more advanced than the Ontario curriculum. The fact that the school has a relatively high number of students reaching top universities (e.g. University of Toronto, Ivy League universities) is in further support of this. Moreover, the school provides a complete educational package with much attention to French, arts, music and sports. That during music, they really learn to play an instrument and play together is great. Finally, it is noted that the school actively encourages the students to compete in contests, which makes them engaged and further stimulates their development.
(5) Extracurriculars
We feel there are enough extracurricular opportunities offered at Fieldstone School. These includes for example coding classes, drama, French night, and sport teams. Participation in contests is much encouraged. We believe the school is providing the right context to develop well-rounded students. There adequate opportunities to participate for competition as well as for fun. We feel the school is providing the right context in which to develop well-rounded students.
(5) Students
In general classes are 8-12 children. There is a positive environment in general, where children help each other and are active in various working groups.
(5) School Life
They love the school, especially because of the teachers and the diverse curriculum. The class sizes are just right for optimal learning, teamwork, and social interaction.
(5) Community
Parents are involved in organizing events and providing each other with updates if necessary.
(5) School Location
The school is within a residential neighbourhood. No safety issues. Not far from shops and public transport. The school has a very big grass field where the children can play.
(5) Admissions
The school has a good website, and there is a lot of info on ourkids.net. The application process is relatively straightforward. Would recommend a trial day to see if the school is a good fit.
