Pear Tree School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Progressive
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Inquiry
    • Literature: Social Justice
    • Social Studies : Expanding Communities
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Pragmatism
    • Foreign Languages: Communicative
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Heavy integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Advanced Placement courses:
    • Sex and health education: British Columbia curriculum
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Academic
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Supportive
  • Developmental priorities: Balanced
  • Special needs support: No support
  • Gifted learner support: No Support
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Progressive
    [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 Pear Tree School: Progressive

    Pear Tree School has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Progressive?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Progressive - 17%
      Traditional - 15%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Montessori - 17%
      Reggio Emilia - 17%
      Waldorf - 17%
    

    What Pear Tree School says: Pear Tree School’s progressive model emphasizes hands-on, student-centered, theme and project-based learning. It includes a balanced mix of academics, integrated subjects, physical skills, socioemotional development and seamless integration of technology. Taking a whole child approach means Pear Tree School nurtures academic, social-emotional, and physical development. Integral to this is Pear Tree's healthy hot lunch program, cooking and food education, as well as its rigorous physical education program, which includes martial arts, swimming, yoga and ice skating. We believe in and apply: + Integrated subjects (through theme-based learning and project-based learning) + Hands-on learning + Student-centered learning + Collaboration + Creativity + Technology + Real-life application / Entrepreneurship The methodologies delivered by Pear Tree's outstanding masters-qualified teachers offer an engaging approach to the B.C. curriculum that develops well-rounded children who can be happy and successful in all aspects of life.

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at Pear Tree School: Equal Balance

      Pear Tree School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math , Discovery Math approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 33%
        Traditional math - 34%
        Discovery math - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: Math is a skills-based subject (in contrast to science and social studies, which are more knowledge-based). Math skills are to be used, not simply memorized. As such, at Pear Tree School, math skills embedded within themes; they are tied to social studies (quantities, statistics), science (weights, speeds, measurements), and business (financial literacy). As such, students at Pear Tree learn math in context. Math at our school is connected to real life and is truly meaningful. At the same time, working with real-life numbers means that it is challenging! Consequently, math at Pear Tree is more engaging and more challenging than traditional math classes.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: We don't use textbooks. As we teach through themes, all of our math is taught in context. This means that it is more realistic and more challenging than traditional math classes.

      Calculator policy: We balance the use of calculators. It is important for students to have a conceptual understanding of math in order to know whether the data output from a calculator is logical, as well as to know what information to input.

    • Early Reading Balanced Literacy
      Early Reading approach at Pear Tree School: Balanced Literacy

      Pear Tree School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive , Whole Language approach).

      [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

      Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

        Balanced literacy - 33%
        Phonics-intensive - 34%
        Whole language - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: Like math, language arts is a skills-based subject. Traditional approaches to reading and writing involve practicing such skills with no real purpose beyond mastering those skills. Reading and writing are skills to be applied, and that’s exactly what we do at Pear Tree School! At Pear Tree, reading and writing skills are interwoven into every part of our themes. We don’t use textbooks. Instead, students constantly read both fiction and non-fiction books related to the themes. From these books, their range of vocabulary goes beyond high-frequency words to include very technical language specific to the themes. Pear Tree students quickly develop truly amazing reading and writing skills for their ages from becoming familiar with these words over a semester and having constant opportunities to practice!

      DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

      What Pear Tree School says: We do formal reading and writing assessments at the beginning of every term.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at Pear Tree School: Equal balance

      Pear Tree School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach , Process approach approach).

      [Show: About Equal balance?]

      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.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 33%
        Systematic approach - 34%
        Process approach - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: Like math, language arts is a skills-based subject. Traditional approaches to reading and writing involve practicing such skills with no real purpose beyond mastering those skills. Reading and writing are skills to be applied, and that’s exactly what we do at Pear Tree Elementary! At Pear Tree, reading and writing skills are interwoven into every part of our themes. We don’t use textbooks. Instead, students constantly read both fiction and non-fiction books related to the themes. From these books, their range of vocabulary goes beyond high-frequency words to include very technical language specific to the themes. Pear Tree students quickly develop truly amazing reading and writing skills for their ages from becoming familiar with these words over a semester and having constant opportunities to practice!

    • Science Inquiry
      Science approach at Pear Tree School: Inquiry

      Pear Tree School has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Inquiry?]

      Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Inquiry - 33%
        Expository - 34%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      Teaching approach: Like anything, you only learn something by actually doing it. Pear Tree School is very creative in finding ways for its students to learn about science in a safe, engaging, hands-on approach. One way that we do this is through cooking and cooking science. At the higher grades, students will even be introduced to molecular gastronomy. At least half of our themes are inspired by science topics.

      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 Social Justice
      Literature approach at Pear Tree School: Social Justice

      Pear Tree School has a Social Justice approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Social Justice?]

      In social justice- inspired programs, literature is not viewed as something to be merely decoded and “appreciated”: rather, it is viewed as a catalyst to social action. Choice of texts tends to favour contemporary works. If a classical text is used, it’s often in the context of social deconstruction: students are asked to critically examine possible prejudices and historical narratives inherent in the work. Like in traditional literature programs, students are often asked to engage in class discussion and critical essay writing, but more time might also be devoted to cooperative group projects and personal reflections. The goal is to teach students to think critically about what they read, while becoming intellectually and physically engaged in the social issues pertaining to their wider community.

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Social justice - 33%
        Traditional - 34%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: At Pear Tree School, we are constantly training our students to use critical thinking and critical literacy skills. As such, it is important for us to use a variety of texts that require such skills. We use a mixture of texts, such as picture books, graphic novels, poetry, short stories, and novels. These texts will also be chosen because of their relevance to the theme that were are studying.

    • Social Studies Expanding Communities
      Social Studies approach at Pear Tree School: Expanding Communities

      Pear Tree School has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge , Thematic approach).

      [Show: About Expanding Communities?]

      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.

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Expanding communities - 33%
        Core knowledge - 34%
        Thematic - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: We use an integrated skills, theme-based approach to our programs. As such, we don't study social studies in isolation. At the same time, our themes are much more meaningful that such topics as 'food'. Overall, we follow a similar pattern to the B.C. curriculum in focusing on the individual student and their immediate environment, and then expanding to large communities as the students get older. This is a more meaningful and empowering way to learn about the world.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Pragmatism
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Pear Tree School: Pragmatism

      Pear Tree School has a Pragmatism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Pragmatism?]

      Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Pragmatism - 33%
        Perennialism - 34%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: We use an integrated skills, theme-based approach to our programs. As such, we don't study social studies / the humanities in isolation. At the same time, our themes are much more meaningful that such topics as 'food'. Overall, we follow a similar pattern to the B.C. curriculum in focusing on the individual student and their immediate environment, and then expanding to large communities as the students get older. This is a more meaningful and empowering way to learn about the world.

    • Foreign Languages Communicative
      Foreign Languages approach at Pear Tree School: Communicative

      Pear Tree School has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Communicative?]

      The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.

      Foreign Languages at schools on OurKids.net

        Communicative - 33%
        Audio-lingual - 34%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: Pear Tree School introduces French studies from Grade 2 onwards. Our approach is to recognise that language and culture are one and the same thing. Language isn't a grammatical construct; it is a cultural construct. As such, we always study languages in cultural context. This helps our students to understand authentic language use, French-speaking cultures, and common body language.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at Pear Tree School: Creative

      Pear Tree School has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Creative?]

      Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Creative - 33%
        Receptive - 34%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      Program offers:

      Subject	offered
      Acting
      Dance
      Drama/Theatre
      Graphic Design
      Music
      Visual Arts

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What Pear Tree School says: Fine arts are integrated into every aspect of our program. Therefore, Pear Tree School students are continually learning about and using fine arts. We often work with external professionals who are able to support our classroom teachers with specialised art skills. At the same time, our classroom teachers ensure that any art learned is done so in context to make it meaningful and useful!

    • Computers and Technology Heavy integration
      Computers and Technology approach at Pear Tree School: Heavy integration

      Pear Tree School has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration , Medium integration approach).

      [Show: About Heavy integration?]

      A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Heavy integration - 33%
        Light integration - 34%
        Medium integration - 33%
      

      What Pear Tree School says: Technology is seamlessly integrated into all of our programs. In grades K-1, students use iPads. From grades 2 and above, we use a mixture of iPads and laptops. We want our students to become adept at using technology in meaningful ways.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What Pear Tree School says: At Pear Tree School, our daily Physical Education Program is directly tied to our whole-child education approach. Through our Physical Education Program we develop your child's academic, social-emotional and physical performance every school day. Physical + Improved physical fitness + Skill and motor skills development Socio-Emotional + Teaches self discipline + Facilitates development of student responsibility for health and fitness + Influence moral development, leadership, cooperate with others + Stress reduction – an outlet for releasing tension and anxiety + Strengthened peer relationships + Improve self-confidence and self-esteem + Respect - for your body, classmates and teammates + Experience in setting goals Academic + Subject integration (science, math, social studies) + Through sports, we study about physiology, psychology, nutrition, problem solving, and strategy + Exercise helps to strengthen and stimulate your brain. Increased fitness = improved academics

    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education British Columbia curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at Pear Tree School: British Columbia curriculum

      Pear Tree School has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]

      The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

        Follows provincial curriculum - 50%
        Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 50%
      

      Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

      Pear Tree School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).

      [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

      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 Pear Tree School says: Child safety, welfare, and self-empowerment are our key reasons for teaching sex education from kindergarten. While the content of sex ed classes changes as students get older, they will learn about the human body, about tolerance, about STDs, about myths, about (in)appropriate body contact, and about responsible decision making.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Advanced Placement courses

    • Sex and health education
  • Preschool/K Curriculum Academic
    [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)

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    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Pear Tree School: Academic

    Pear Tree School has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).

    [Show: About Academic?]

    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Academic - 20%
      Play-based - 20%
      Montessori - 20%
      Waldorf - 20%
      Reggio emilia - 20%
    

    What Pear Tree School says: Pear Tree School’s Early Years Program sets the foundations for your child’s education and the rest of their life. Our (M.Ed-educated) teachers are here to offer your child a warm welcome to grade school through creative, hands-on learning that centres students’ social, emotional, physical and academic well-being and nurtures their unique interests and abilities. Your child will shine, as their confidence, curiosity and love of learning grow with us in a small, intimate classroom setting.

  • 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.

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    Curriculum Pace approach at Pear Tree School: Standard-enriched

    Pear Tree School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

    [Show: About Standard-enriched?]

    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.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Standard-enriched - 34%
      Accelerated - 33%
      Student-paced - 33%
    

    What Pear Tree School says: Pear Tree School's themes connect education to real life at all times, making learning meaningful, engaging and challenging. We differentiate learning based on the ability of the child, and we use individualised goal-setting to ensure that all students are constantly progressing.

    Flexible pacing style

    Flexible pacing style	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 Pear Tree School says about flexible pacing: Pear Tree School's combined-grade approach means that our students have access to a greater range of academic potential and influence.

  • Academic Culture Supportive
    [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.

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    Academic Culture approach at Pear Tree School: Supportive

    Pear Tree School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).

    [Show: About Supportive?]

    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Supportive - 50%
      Rigorous - 50%
    

    What Pear Tree School says: We strive for our students to become exceptional, well-rounded individuals. This means that we work with our students on both their strengths and weaknesses. With the support of our masters-qualified teachers, we expect our students to continually try to do better, to become the best that they are capable of, and to take pride in the quality of the work that they create.

  • Developmental priorities Balanced
    [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.

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    Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced

    "Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation."

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    What Pear Tree School says: Pear Tree School creates well-rounded individuals. We don't view one attribute as more important than another. Through our unique education method, we continuously develop our students academic, socio-emotional, and physical skills.

  • Special needs support No 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.

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    Pear Tree School offers No support

    Pear Tree School offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.

    What Pear Tree School says about their special need support: At Pear Tree School, we avoid the use of labels (e.g. 'gifted', 'ADHD', 'ESL', etc). We find that labels generally have a negative, long-term impact on students. Our learning method engages all forms of learners, while also challenging them to try other approaches. Our teachers are not specialised or trained in special needs or 'giftedness', nor do we qualify for funding for this.

    Academic Support:

    Subject Type	offered
    Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
    Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD:

    Subject Type	offered
    Accommodations
    Modifications
    Extra support

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    Summary: Pear Tree School prides itself on being an inclusive environment. We attract a tremendous range of families and demographics who all share our common goal for a progressive, whole-child education. Pear Tree does not receive any government funding, including special needs funding. This means that any specialized or intensive in-class support must be paid for by the family. Some aspects of our learning methodologies and requirements may be unrealistically challenging for students with certain levels of needs. This can include the need for strong literacy skills, executive functioning skills, collaborative skills, and critical thinking skills.

    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

  • Gifted learner support No Support
    [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: 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.)

    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 Pear Tree School says: Pear Tree School provides a whole-child approach. As such, we do not focus exclusively on a child’s current strengths or their current weaknesses. We aim for all of our students to be well-rounded, so that no matter what path they choose in life, they will be happy and successful.

  • Language English
    Pear Tree School offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English
  • 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.

    ---

    In grade Gr. 9, Pear Tree School students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
    Pear Tree School	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	30 mins	45 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins	60 mins	60 mins
    Site Average	6 mins	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	29 mins	34 mins	39 mins	51 mins	55 mins	69 mins

    What Pear Tree School 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.

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    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	K to Gr. 9
    Academic achievement reporting	K to Gr. 9
    Habits and behaviour reporting	K to Gr. 9
    Parent-teacher meetings	K to Gr. 9

• Extracurriculars

  [Show definition of Extracurriculars]

  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.

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  What Pear Tree School says:

  • What other schools call 'extracurricular', Pear Tree School embeds into its daily program. We believe that your child's after-school time is better spent with family and friends. However, we do offer after-school programs!

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: N/A
  Recreational sports: 15

  Legend:     Competitive offered           Recreational offered

  all sports]

  • Archery
  • Curling
  • 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

  Pear Tree School offers 12 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  Legend:     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

  
  

• Tuition & Financial Aid

  [Show definition of Tuition & Financial Aid]

  This can depend on a number of factors, including the type of school, living arrangements, what’s included in tuition, school location, resources, and facilities. Many private schools in Canada have tuition that ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 a year. While some schools, such as schools which provide room and board, can be more expensive, many of these schools provide ways to defray the costs of tuition. For instance, they may offer merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial aid (often referred to as “bursaries” or “subsidies”).

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  Day (Domestic) Day (International)

   

  	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day (Domestic)	$17,615
  Day (International)	$22,889

  
  

  What Pear Tree School says about their tuition: Tuition fees shown for 2022/23 school year New Student Registration Fee (one-time per family, non-refundable) $3,000 (due upon signing contract) Annual fees are paid in 3 x instalments: 1st Payment due May 31, 2022: $5,872 ($7,630 international) 2nd Payment due September 30, 2022: $5,872 ($7,630 international) 3rd Payment due January 31, 2023: $5,871 ($7,629 international)

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  Need-based financial aid

  Pear Tree School does not offer need-based financial aid.

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  Pear Tree School does not offer merit-based financial awards.

• Enrollment

  [Show definition of enrolment]

  Private schools come in all shapes and sizes. Some larger schools have enrolment numbers in the thousands, while some smaller schools have only a few dozen students. Boarding schools tend to be on the larger side, while alternative schools, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, are normally smaller. Besides the overall size of school, there are other important facts you’ll want to know about a school’s enrolment. For instance, here you can learn about a school’s enrolment for separate streams (if they have them), such as day and boarding, its average class size, and its average enrolment per grade.

  ---

  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	K to Gr. 9	Coed	Day	80

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	80
  Average class size	16
  % of international students (total enrolment)	15%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	2

  Student Distribution:

  	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Enrollment	8	8	8	8	8	8	8	8	8
  Class Size	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16	16

• Admission

  [Show definition of Admission]

  Private schools in Canada have admissions policies. All schools have some required application materials, though these vary between schools. These may include letters of application, application fees, essays, and exams (such as the SSAT). Many schools also require interviews with prospective students, either with their parents, on their own, or both. Schools also have different standards and priorities when evaluating student applications, different acceptance rates (which may vary between grade levels), and target different kinds of students. To improve your child’s chances of acceptance, you should find out everything you can about a school’s admissions policies and how they assess applicants.

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  Admissions Requirements

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		K - 8
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)		K - 8
  Entrance Essay		5 - 8

  Day students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  Fees:

  Application fee: $300
  Registration fee: N/A
  Deposit: N/A

  What Pear Tree School says:

  1. Apply online with a nonrefundable fee of $300 + GST

  • Pear Tree Elementary admits students on a rolling basis (subject to spaces available)
  • Applicants for our full-day Kindergarten program must be at least 5 years old on December 31st of the year of entry to Pear Tree Elementary.
     

  2. Submit required documents:

  • For Kindergarten applicants: a reference letter from a preschool, daycare, or caregiver
  • For Grade 1 - 8 applicants: a copy of most recent report card
  • Proof of your child's citizenship or permanent residence (i.e. birth certificate, passport, PR card)
  • A copy of your child's CareCard (if applicable) 
     

  3. Student assessment and observation

  • Student assessment and observation will take place within one month of application.
     

  4. Family interviews

  • Family interviews will take place will take place within one month of application.
  • Every student and family will have an interview with Pear Tree's directors
  • Placement decisions will be announced within one month of application.

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  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 40%

  This is the percentage of applicants typically accepted into the school. So if 50 students are admitted out of 100 applicants, the school has an overall acceptance rate of 50%.

  
  

  Day
  

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  Student Entry Points

  This shows approximately how many openings there are likely to be in each grade in a typical year, as well as the estimated acceptance rate for each grade level.

  
  

  Student Type	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	8 (50%)	1 - 2 (30%)	1 - 2 (30%)	0	1 - 5 (40%)	1 - 5 (40%)	3 - 5 (50%)	3 - 5 (50%)	8 (60%)	0

  Type of student Pear Tree School is looking for:
  Admissions are based on the number of spaces available, the child’s academic potential, as well as the synergy and compatibility between the school, family, and child. Our decision to (not) accept a student has as much to do with the child's family as the child her/himself. Pear Tree Elementary and Pear Tree Secondary are looking for Vancouver families that share and support our educational philosophy. This is essential to ensure that the approach we foster in our school is continued at home. Such things include healthy eating, an active lifestyle, etc. At the same time, we are looking for students that are well-behaved, kind, and receptive to our learning method.

• Principal's Message

  Alexis Birner, Principal

  M.Ed. (Ed.D in progress)

  Early, formative, positive school experiences set the foundation for lifelong intellectual and social growth.

  The traditional approach to teaching places students in homogeneous age groups. All twelve year olds in this room. All eight year olds in this room. They sit in desks facing the front and learn the core subjects one at a time for a set period of time each day. 45 minutes of math, followed by 60 minutes of English, followed by a short break, and then 45 minutes of science. Everything is compartmentalized and isolated.

  This, quite frankly, has nothing to do with how we best learn.

  Pear Tree School is Vancouver's most progressive school. We focus on developing strong academic, emotional, social, and physical skills in children. Our approach to the B.C. curriculum adopts a 21st century approach through meaningful integration of technology, student collaboration, learning through themes (rather than subject areas), public speaking, and project based learning.

  Students work independently, with each other, and as a class in proportions expertly balanced by their teachers to provide each student with what they need. No cookie cutter solutions. No one-size-fits-all philosophies.

  That’s how we learn. So that’s how we teach.

  That’s Pear Tree School.

  We invite you to experience the difference.

  

• Associations

  

  

  

• Social Feeds

   

   

   

   

• Frequently Asked Questions

  Does Pear Tree School have good reviews?
  You can read 4 reviews about Pear Tree School via this link.

  When is the application deadline for Pear Tree School?
  The application deadline for day students is typically open year-round based on availability. More application details are available here.

  What is the acceptance rate at Pear Tree School?
  The overall acceptance rate at Pear Tree School is 40%. This rate varies depending on the grade. More details about acceptance rates per grade are here.

  What is the curriculum pace at Pear Tree School?
  Pear Tree School has a Standard-enriched approach to curriculum pace (as opposed to Accelerated or Student-paced). Learn more about curriculum pace here.

  How many students attend Pear Tree School?
  There are 80 students enrolled at Pear Tree School from K to Gr. 9. 15% are international students. More details about enrollment are available here.

  Do students at Pear Tree School wear uniforms?
  Yes

  Does Pear Tree School offer a hot lunch program?
  Yes