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Laureate College ACADEMICS & Curriculum
Page Contents
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Laureate College: Progressive
Laureate College has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
What Laureate College says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Laureate College was founded on the belief that every student is unique and possesses an inherent yearning for learning, growth, and the ability to acquire knowledge, creating a meaningful pathway for life purposefully. At Laureate, every student actively shapes their learning experiences within an inclusive environment characterized by innovative teaching, personalized learning, abundant resources, and global connections. Through our vision, mission, and values, we aspire to create a transformative learning experience that empowers students to embrace opportunities and challenges with confidence, leveraging the knowledge and skill sets they acquire throughout their Laureate journeys.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Laureate College: Equal Balance
Laureate College has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Laureate College says:
The Math program at Laureate College is an Equal Balance program that incorporates both the traditional approach and the discovery method. Teachers use a traditional lesson plan and approach to ensure students understand the main expectations of the Ontario curriculum. During selected weeks, students use their knowledge and creative thinking skills to solve math problems. This requires students to think and collaborate with peers as they find a solution to the problem. Students use their communication skills to share their solution and the process followed to arrive at the solution.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Students complete activities in the Math Up textbook (by Marian Small) and Math Up Practise and Reflect workbook for homework activities. Teachers also use Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics by Peter Liljedahl as a supplementary resource for problem-solving activities.
Calculator policy:
Calculators may be used to help solve problems in upper grades.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Laureate College: Balanced Literacy
Laureate College has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Laureate College says:
The approach used at Laureate College resembles the Phonics-intensive approach more than the Whole Language approach; however, there are times when students are given opportunities to read material while inferring and guessing words using context and semantics. Direct teacher instruction focuses on phonetics and morphology so students understand the word and its relation to other similar words. Our approach is more traditional, and students receive individual and small group support on a regular basis. The achievement of reading goals reflects the benchmarks outlined in the Ontario Curriculum. However, we support students in exceeding these expectations.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Laureate College says:
Ministry-recommended assessments are administered regularly to monitor progress on literacy skill development.
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Writing
Writing approach at Laureate College: Systematic approach
Laureate College has a Systematic approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Process approach, Equal balance approach).
[Show: About Systematic approach?]What Laureate College says:
Our learning-to-write program most closely resembles the Systematic approach in that students are guided and coached as they learn to use new strategies. Students are taught to write by first planning and then using appropriate skills to refine their work through revision and editing of the original draft. Teachers encourage a love of writing and provide feedback that helps students progress to the next level of writing proficiency. However, teachers employ explicit teaching strategies and provide support to students in small groups and individual settings.
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Science
Science approach at Laureate College: Equal Balance
Laureate College has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
The Laureate College approach resembles the Inquiry model, but some weeks are reserved for textbook-based learning. Our approach is balanced so students have a solid understanding of the outlined topics before embarking on inquiry-based activities using these concepts.
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 Laureate College: Equal Balance
Laureate College has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Laureate College says:
The Laureate College approach can be described as Equal Balance. In the later grades, after students have begun to read more complex literature and discuss more complex topics, they will examine both contemporary and classical texts, while also learning to analyze materials for biases and underlying meaning critically. Critical thinking is a vital skill, and students will learn to apply it to the literature provided. Discussions and essay writing often focus on the topics covered in class, as well as the social issues discussed.
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 Laureate College: Expanding Communities
Laureate College has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What Laureate College says:
Our social studies program reflects the expectations of the Ontario curriculum. Students use Ministry-approved resources that provide a more “Expanding Communities” approach to learning about themselves and the expanding world in which they live. As students progress through the grades, more emphasis is placed on the historical events that shaped our community, province and country. Whenever possible, social studies topics are integrated with science and language arts topics, becoming part of our inquiry-based approach. By examining our environment and history through a critical lens, students become aware of their role in our immediate and global community and develop respect for the earth, themselves, and others.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Laureate College: Equal Balance
Laureate College has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Laureate College says:
The Laureate Approach can best be described as an “Equal Balance” program; however, we tilt more toward the Pragmatism style than Perennialism. Teachers help students develop critical thinking and a strong foundation of core knowledge and cultural literacy. However, projects and inquiries will have a real-world application.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Laureate College: Equal Balance
Laureate College has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Laureate College says:
Students learn French and Mandarin at Laureate College, with 5 months allocated to each language. Our approach is more Communicative than Audio-Lingual; however, the latter approach is used when it is beneficial to students. The goal of our second language program is to help students develop the vocabulary and language skills needed to communicate their needs and respond to questions with confidence.
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 Laureate College: Equal Balance
Laureate College 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 Laureate College says:
At Laureate College, we employ an Equal Balance approach to help students develop their skills, understand the significance and history of art, and cultivate a love of art by creating and sharing their original work. Students learn how to apply aesthetic features and principles before making art in a studio environment. An on-site artist supports our program and works alongside classroom teachers.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Laureate College: Medium integration
Laureate College has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Laureate College says:
We recognize that computers and technology play a crucial role in equipping students for success in the 21st century. We ensure students develop the skills to complete research and prepare different ways of sharing their information with others. The role of AI is also discussed, and students learn to apply AI appropriately and ethically. Time is not allocated for finding connections between computer applications and curriculum topics. Therefore, our approach is best described as Medium integration.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Laureate College says:
Physical Education at Laureate College is characterized as a fun respite from learning during the day. Students get to take a break from their studies and participate in games and activities, working on teamwork, coordination, and strength that help them grow as students outside of the classroom. A relaxed environment not only gives students a break from classes but also allows them to release stress and engage in physical activity. A fun approach is taken when playing games, allowing students to learn from and support one another in improving their skills.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Laureate College: Ontario curriculum
Laureate College 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:
Laureate College has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Laureate College says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Laureate College's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Laureate College offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, Spanish, Mandarin, Polish
Online Learning
Laureate College'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.
Laureate College operates as an online school.
What Laureate College says about their course flexibility:
Laureate College offers two distinct online learning models—LC Virtual and LC Online—for students to choose from. LC Virtual features 10 to 30 hours of live sessions with peers and teachers, with term-based courses that have specific start and end dates. LC Online is an entirely self-paced, asynchronous learning program. Students can start their courses at any time and complete them within two months, with the option to extend the completion date for an additional fee. Students can register as part-time (registered for fewer than four courses a semester) or full-time students (registered for four courses a semester up to eight courses a school year)
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
What Laureate College says about their course format:
Distance: Students can choose this option - LC Online without the four office-hour sessions.
Asynchronous: LC Online is a fully self-paced, asynchronous learning program. Students can start their courses at any time and complete them within a two-month period. All coursework is completed online through LC’s learning platforms, and teacher support is available via virtual office hours and email. For students who would like additional support, we offer an option to purchase 5 or 10 hours of live sessions with instructors at an extra cost. These live sessions provide personalized guidance and help address any specific challenges you may encounter during your studies.
Synchronous: The LC Virtual program includes 10 to 30 hours of live sessions, led by an experienced teacher. In addition to these live sessions, students complete self-study activities on the LC learning platforms. The program follows a structured, scheduled plan that requires students to attend live sessions on a regular basis. Live sessions are conducted via the Teams platform, where you can interact with your instructor and classmates in real-time. You’ll participate in discussions, ask questions, and receive immediate feedback during these sessions. For a one-on-one class, a 10-hour live session is included in LC Virtual. For one-on-two, 20-hour live session is included, and for a class with three or more students, a total of 30 hours of live sessions will be provided.
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
What Laureate College says about their academic support and services:
Dedicated teacher per course: Every teacher provides resources and interactive discussions and activities to keep students engaged throughout the program. Progress is monitored and a parent/student/teacher interview is offered at mid point to discuss student progress.
Exam proctoring: Using a camera, students can complete an online exam within a specified start and end time. At the end, all student work is to be submitted to the teacher for review and marking. Feedback is provided after exams and tests are evaluated by the teacher.
Student progress tracker: Using the School Information System, students and teachers will see the marks as they are completed and marked by the teacher. Any inquiries can be directed to the teacher or program counsellor.
Regular office hours: Administration staff are available between 9 to 5 daily from Monday to Friday. Program Counsellor is available at various times to accommodate time differences when students are taking courses who reside in other countries.
Additional support: All our teachers provide personal support through emails or individual sessions online as required. It is important that the students inform the teachers that they require additional help.
Study groups: Students who are taking the same courses can informally set up their own study group. Some of the virtual sessions accommodate time for small groups to meet online.
Special needs support: Modified support is available for special needs students. We do encourage them to try out the program for a week before they decide to continue or discussions will occur to modify or accommodate the support they require.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Laureate College: Standard-enriched
Laureate College has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Laureate College says about their curriculum pace:
There is some flexibility to accommodate personal needs and adjust the learning pace to ensure success and sustainable learning.
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 Laureate College says about their flexible pacing:
Teachers will cover all the required expectations and meet the individual needs of the students because of the small class size.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Laureate College: Rigorous
Laureate College has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What Laureate College says about their academic culture:
At Laureate, our academic culture is rooted in curiosity, creativity, and continuous growth. We set high expectations while honouring each student’s unique learning journey through personalized support and clear learning goals. Students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate respectfully, and take ownership of their learning. Our interdisciplinary STEAM approach nurtures intellectual curiosity and innovation, while enriched leadership opportunities build confidence and responsibility. We believe in celebrating both effort and achievement, fostering a culture where students are motivated to pursue excellence not just for grades, but also for personal fulfillment and meaningful contributions to the community.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
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: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What Laureate College says about their developmental priorities:
First and foremost, Laureate is an educational institution committed to meeting the intellectual needs of our students through academic excellence and inquiry-driven learning. Aligned with our core values, we recognize that education goes beyond academics. That’s why we prioritize the holistic development of each student—supporting their social, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. We nurture well-rounded individuals who lead with integrity, grow with purpose, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Our goal is to cultivate lifelong learners equipped not only with knowledge, but with the empathy, resilience, and confidence to thrive in a complex and ever-changing world.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Laureate College offers No support
Laureate College offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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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 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of 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 |
|---|---|
| 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 Laureate College says about their gifted learner support:
Laureate College offers an enriched high school curriculum in music, drama, and visual arts. In addition to meeting ministry requirements, students participate in special workshops and explore topics presented by professional artists. Gifted students have the option of completing co-op placements in art schools and organizations. The after-school programming includes guided independent study, project-based learning tailored to their interests, and mentorships with professionals or experts in their field.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Laureate College students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laureate College | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
What Laureate College says about their flipped classroom policy:
Flipped classes are designed to align with specific activities and the teacher's lesson plans for each session. This approach to education encourages students to engage actively in their learning, providing a more dynamic and interactive classroom experience.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
