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Metropolitan Preparatory Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Insider community voices
Hear directly from Metropolitan Preparatory Academy community as they share insights into the Academics.
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Metro Prep: Traditional, International Baccalaureate
Metro Prep has a Traditional, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional, International Baccalaureate?]
Metro Prep has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
What Metro Prep says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Metropolitan Preparatory Academy offers a rigorous, future-focused curriculum for students in Grades 7–12. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, we combine academic excellence with individualized learning, ensuring every student is challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. Our small class sizes and personalized mentorship allow students to build a strong foundation in mathematics, sciences, business, technology, the humanities, and the arts while developing critical thinking, creativity, leadership, and communication skills. Distinctive Signature Programs, including GENIUS Biotechnology, Toronto's first high school biotechnology program, SMITH Performing Arts, IMPACT Leadership, and VENTURE Entrepreneurship, provide authentic, real-world learning experiences that prepare students for university and lifelong success.
International Baccalaureate program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Primary Years | |
| Middle Years | |
| Diploma program | |
| Career-related program |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Metro Prep: Equal Balance
Metro Prep has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, we believe mathematical excellence requires both procedural fluency and conceptual understanding. Our balanced approach combines the strengths of Traditional and Discovery Math to develop confident, analytical, and adaptable problem solvers. In the earlier grades, students build a strong foundation by mastering essential algorithms, computational fluency, and core mathematical concepts through guided instruction and purposeful practice. As they progress, they increasingly apply these skills to open-ended investigations, real-world problems, and collaborative learning experiences that strengthen critical thinking and mathematical reasoning. Teachers use both approaches intentionally, sometimes introducing a concept through exploration and inquiry, and other times teaching a method directly before applying it in meaningful contexts. This balanced approach prepares students for advanced mathematics, university-level study, and lifelong success in an increasingly analytical world.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Science approach at Metro Prep: Equal Balance
Metro Prep has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, science is more than a subject, it is a cornerstone of our academic identity. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and home to Toronto's first high school biotechnology program, we provide exceptional hands-on scientific learning rarely available at the secondary school level. Our science program balances direct instruction with inquiry-based learning. Students build a strong foundation in scientific knowledge while engaging in hands-on experiments, research projects, and real-world problem solving. From the early grades onward, students learn to think like scientists by asking questions, designing investigations, analyzing data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions. Through our signature GENIUS Biotechnology Program, students gain hands-on experience in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology, and DNA analysis using professional laboratory equipment. By combining rigorous scientific study with authentic laboratory research, students are exceptionally well prepared for university STEM programs and future scientific innovation.
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 Metro Prep: Equal Balance
Metro Prep has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, our literature program combines the enduring insights of classic literature with the relevance of contemporary perspectives. Students study both classic and modern works to develop strong analytical, writing, and communication skills while exploring the human experience through diverse voices, cultures, and ideas. Through close textual analysis, thoughtful discussion, persuasive writing, and guided inquiry, students examine literature within its historical, cultural, and social contexts. They learn to appreciate great works while thinking critically, respectfully evaluating different perspectives, and making meaningful connections between literature and the world around them. Our goal is to develop thoughtful readers, confident communicators, and compassionate global citizens who appreciate literature as both an art form and a powerful means of understanding themselves, others, and the world.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Metro Prep: Equal Balance
Metro Prep has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, our humanities and social sciences program reflects the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy by combining rigorous academic study with inquiry, critical thinking, and global-mindedness. Students explore significant historical events, influential ideas, and diverse perspectives while applying their learning to contemporary issues and an increasingly interconnected world. Through the study of history, philosophy, economics, psychology, geography, and global politics, students develop analytical thinking, persuasive writing, research, and communication skills. Discussion, debate, and inquiry-based learning encourage students to evaluate evidence, appreciate multiple perspectives, and become thoughtful, informed global citizens. By connecting timeless ideas with present-day challenges, our program prepares students to think independently, lead with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the wider world.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Metro Prep: Equal Balance
Metro Prep has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, our French and Spanish programs combine strong language foundations with meaningful communication and cultural understanding. Reflecting our International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, students develop confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing while learning to communicate effectively in authentic contexts. Our balanced approach combines structured instruction in grammar and vocabulary with conversation, collaboration, and real-world applications. As students progress, they build fluency while developing an appreciation for diverse cultures, global perspectives, and the connections that language creates. More than learning another language, students develop curiosity, confidence, and intercultural understanding—skills that prepare them to communicate effectively and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
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 Metro Prep: Equal Balance
Metro Prep 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 Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, the Fine Arts are both a creative outlet and an essential part of a well-rounded education. Through our flagship SMITH Performing Arts Program, students develop creativity, artistic skill, and confidence while exploring music, drama, visual arts, and graphic design in an engaging and supportive environment. Our balanced approach combines the study of artistic traditions and major movements with hands-on creative experiences. Through studio work, performances, productions, and collaborative projects, students strengthen their communication, creativity, discipline, and leadership while developing an appreciation for artistic excellence and cultural expression. We believe the arts inspire curiosity, confidence, and lifelong creativity. At MetroPrep, students are encouraged to develop their talents, appreciate diverse artistic traditions, and express themselves with skill, purpose, and confidence.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Metro Prep: Heavy integration
Metro Prep has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, technology is thoughtfully integrated throughout the curriculum to enhance learning, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Students develop digital literacy, computational thinking, and responsible AI skills while using technology to conduct research, analyze data, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively. Our computer science, coding, biotechnology, and digital innovation programs provide hands-on experience with emerging technologies. Through our GENIUS Biotechnology Program, students work with professional laboratory technologies, bioinformatics, DNA analysis, and scientific software rarely available at the secondary school level. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, we believe technology, including artificial intelligence, should deepen understanding rather than replace thinking. Students learn to use digital tools ethically, responsibly, and creatively, preparing them to succeed in university and an increasingly technology-driven world.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Metro Prep says:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, physical education promotes lifelong health, fitness, teamwork, and personal well-being. Students participate in a variety of activities that develop physical literacy, confidence, resilience, and sportsmanship while encouraging healthy, active lifestyles. Through individual and team sports, fitness training, and skill development, students learn the value of perseverance, leadership, and collaboration. Our goal is to help every student develop the knowledge, habits, and confidence to make physical activity a lifelong part of a healthy, balanced life.
IB Diploma courses
Group 1 (Language A)
- English language and literature SL
Group 2 (Language B)
- French ab initio SL
Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)
- Economics HL
Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
- Biology HL
Group 5 (Mathematics)
- Mathematics SL
Group 6 (The Arts)
- Theatre HL
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Metro Prep: Ontario curriculum
Metro Prep 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:
Metro Prep has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Metro Prep says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Metropolitan Preparatory Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Metro Prep offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Metro Prep: Standard-enriched
Metro Prep has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Metro Prep says about their curriculum pace:
This information is not currently available.
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 Metro Prep says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Metro Prep: Rigorous
Metro Prep has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What Metro Prep says about their academic culture:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, academic excellence is both an expectation and a mindset. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, we foster a rigorous academic culture that challenges students to think critically, embrace curiosity, and strive for their personal best. High expectations are paired with individualized support, ensuring every student is encouraged to reach their full potential. Through small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and innovative programs, students develop the knowledge, confidence, resilience, and discipline to succeed at leading universities and beyond. We cultivate a culture where intellectual curiosity, integrity, perseverance, and a lifelong love of learning are valued as highly as academic achievement.
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 Metro Prep says about their developmental priorities:
At Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, our purpose is to develop intellectually curious, confident, and well-rounded students who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world. Our primary focus is intellectual development, challenging students to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, solve complex problems, and engage deeply with ideas. Equally important is our commitment to educating the whole person. Through small classes, individualized mentorship, and meaningful relationships with teachers, students develop confidence, resilience, creativity, integrity, and leadership alongside academic excellence. MetroPrep graduates leave not only prepared for university, but equipped to thrive, contribute, and continue learning throughout their lives.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
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: 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 Metro Prep says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Metro Prep students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Prep | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
What Metro Prep says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
