Kingsley Primary School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at Kingsley Primary School: Traditional, Reggio Emilia
Kingsley Primary School has a Traditional, Reggio Emilia approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
Kingsley Primary School has a Reggio Emilia approach to supplementary curriculum.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
What Kingsley Primary School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
At Kingsley we follow the Ontario Curriculum with enhanced programs in music, French and physical education taught by specialty teachers beginning in kindergarten. Our aim is to give students the skills to teach themselves and to empower them to reach their own unique potential. Building relationships, learning to understand themselves, their actions and interactions are the basis for our strong character development. Our seamless day provides students with a balance of nurturing and academics. Our school community allows the child to be seen, heard, and respected every day. Through Inquiry, Discovery, Exploration, and Analysis (I.D.E.A), we help each individual engage in the learning process. This same philosophy is carried through all portions of the day by our teachers including our before- and after-care programs.
Approach
Focus |
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Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Kingsley Primary School: Equal Balance
Kingsley Primary School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
Using a "hands-on" approach to math is at the core of our math studies. Students learn by doing, rather than memorizing. At Kingsley we use a wide range and variety of materials and assessment tools.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Kingsley Primary School: Balanced Literacy
Kingsley Primary School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
Engaging our students in early reading is essential to their success. Students learn to read in a variety of ways and our approach to reading is tailored to each student. It is our job as dedicated professionals to tap into methods that suit each child. Offering a wide range of literature and unfolding the students' interests is essential to getting them engaged and not just turning pages. We use a variety of tools to excite our young learners about reading.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Kingsley Primary School says:
We use a variety of assessment tools to track student progress.
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Writing
Writing approach at Kingsley Primary School: Equal balance
Kingsley Primary School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
At Kingsley the process is at the centre of our teaching philosophy. Having a lovely piece of finished work to hang on our walls is a wonderful way to show our talents, but how we get there is the most important part. While focusing on the process and giving students many opportunities to write for different audiences, we guide and support with instruction. Ensuring that we meet the students' needs through balanced instruction is our focus.
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Science
Science approach at Kingsley Primary School: Inquiry
Kingsley Primary School has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Our approach to science at Kingsley is inquiry based. Students are encouraged to Inquire, Discover, Explore and Analyze. As talented and committed teachers, our staff taps into the students' interests and finds creative ways to teach the curriculum around the interests. Teachers may also suggest a path or present ideas to the students that they then expand on.
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
Literature approach at Kingsley Primary School: Equal Balance
Kingsley Primary School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at Kingsley Primary School: Thematic
Kingsley Primary School has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
Although we work thematically with our social studies program at Kingsley School, we offer a wide range of opportunities and touch on several aspects of the core knowledge and expanding communities objectives. We use a variety of materials and a differentiated approach when teaching our students.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Kingsley Primary School: Communicative
Kingsley Primary School has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
Kingsley offers students French instruction beginning in junior kindergarten. Our students are introduced to language through songs, poems and fun interactive learning opportunities.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at Kingsley Primary School: Equal Balance
Kingsley Primary School has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Kingsley Primary School says:
MUSIC: Students receive four weekly periods of specialist music instruction and perform at two concerts per year. They begin recorder in Grade One, read music by Grade Two/Three, and join Band in Grade Four/Five. In choir, they learn proper singing techniques and sing in parts. We take fun music field trips, including a bus trip to the symphony every April. Students have the opportunity to join a lunchtime ukulele club or take private lessons after school in singing, piano, guitar, ukulele, and theory. ART: Our youngest students begin to build confidence in their artistic abilities while being exposed to the elements of design. As the students mature they work on expanding their knowledge of the elements of design and applying them to individual and group projects.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Kingsley Primary School: Medium integration
Kingsley Primary School has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
Our school technology is used on a regular basis. SMART technology is used for a variety of learning in different subject areas. Today's learners are accustomed to technology and use it in their daily lives. It is important to us to embrace technology and help students learn to embrace various avenues to their learning.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Kingsley Primary School says:
We have a fun and rigorous physical education program that begins in pre-K and is taught by a specialty teacher. There are also ample opportunities throughout the day for outdoor play engaging gross motor skills. Students are outdoors 2-3 times daily.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Kingsley Primary School: Ontario curriculum
Kingsley Primary School has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Kingsley Primary School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Kingsley Primary School says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Kingsley Primary School: Play-based
Kingsley Primary School has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
What Kingsley Primary School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Kingsley offers both a half-day and full-day kindergarten program. Our play-based (Reggio Emilia-inspired) class offers many avenues for our young learners to thrive. Our small class sizes allow for individual attention and a balance of teacher-led lessons as well as time for each child to explore on their own and with peers. Our enriched curriculum consists of French, music, and physical education classes taught by specialty teachers beginning in kindergarten.
Language
Learn about Kingsley Primary School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Kingsley Primary School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at Kingsley Primary School: Student-paced
Kingsley Primary School has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
What Kingsley Primary School says about their curriculum pace:
Kingsley School is undeniably a place where there is an emphasis on community. We consider and understand the needs of each student in many different ways. Growing, excelling, and tapping into each student’s unique potential while building confidence and focusing on individualized learning is at the centre of our approach.
Flexible pacing style
Type | Offered |
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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 Kingsley Primary School says about their flexible pacing:
Our school approach is to meet each child from the place of their development and work from there. We believe in a differentiated approach for all children at our school. Classes are teacher led, and differentiation then applied.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at Kingsley Primary School: Supportive
Kingsley Primary School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
What Kingsley Primary School says about their academic culture:
Kingsley has a tradition of having a supportive academic culture. This does not exclude our attention to academics or achievement. What it means for us is that we support each and every student to reach their unique potential. We address the whole child and all the aspects of their learning experiences.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What Kingsley Primary School says about their developmental priorities:
Kingsley has a 40+ year history of a balanced approach to learning. We help build emotionally confident individuals who feel that they belong and are valued. We teach and practice leadership through our character curriculum. We promote physical activity through play, sport, and wellness. We encourage artistic expression through an in-depth music program. We guide our students to become creative and critical thinkers.
Special needs support
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (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.DyscalculiaThis 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.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis 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 DeficitA 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.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers 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 SyndromeOn 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 syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis 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 syndromeThis 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.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled 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 DepressionThis 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 anxietyThis 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 thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis 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.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis 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 palsyhis 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 dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis 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.BlindnessVisual 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."DeafnessHearing 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 FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
Type | Offered |
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Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
Type | Offered |
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Accommodations | |
Modifications | |
Extra support |
What Kingsley Primary School says:
At Kingsley we believe in partnering with our parents. If a child is demonstrating learning difficulties we make sure to bring this to the parents attention. We work together to find the right solution for the family that we are able to support as a school. Families often have a team in place that we will work with, and if appropriate to our school environment as a whole, we welcome them into the school as support for the child.
Additional support
Type | Offered |
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Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment
The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.
Class structure
Program | Offered |
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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 |
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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 Kingsley Primary School says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 5, Kingsley Primary School students perform an average of 15 mins of homework per night.
JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
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Kingsley Primary School | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins |
Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 36 mins |
What Kingsley Primary School says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
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Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 1 to Gr. 5 |
Academic achievement reporting | JK to Gr. 5 |
Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 5 |
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
Kingsley Primary School offers 0 competitive sports and 6 recreational sports.
- Basketball
- Cycling
- Ice Skating
- Running
- Soccer
- Track & Field
Clubs offered
Kingsley Primary School offers 13 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What Kingsley Primary School says about their extracurricular activities:
- We have our own school song: "Welcome to Kingsley!"
- Wheely Fun!
- Mardi Gras Fundraiser
- February Skate Fridays at a nearby outdoor rink.
- Two school concerts each year, plus school trips to hear the TSO.
- Spirit Weeks, Toonie Dress Down Days to raise money for community causes, and the 100th Day of School celebration.
- End of year Picnic in the Park
- Cooking, Shopping, Neighbourhood excursions
- Many clubs: Talent Club, Drama Club, Dance Club, Ukulele Club, Recorder Club, and more.
- Kamp Kingsley is our annual summer daycamp for the month of July. Weekly themes, park excursions, water play: FUN!
- Thursday, May 19th is our Family Night event at Kingsley. This is a wonderful way for you to get an up-close inside glimpse into what we really do here. You do not want to miss it!
- In person concerts and music recitals!
- Dress-Down Days every month: Backwards Day, Crazy Hair and Hats Day, Favourite Storybook Character Day, Team Jersey Day, Dress-up for Picture Day, and more!