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Read Write Think Private School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at RWT Private School: Traditional
RWT Private School has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What RWT Private School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Our curriculum is rooted in a traditional, classical approach that emphasizes strong academic foundations, intellectual curiosity, and character development. We believe students learn best by gaining essential knowledge and skills before moving on, prioritizing depth of understanding over simply covering more content. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all model, students are placed in flexible cohorts based on their readiness in each subject, allowing them to be appropriately challenged while building confidence and mastery. Our enriched curriculum extends beyond Ontario expectations through advanced literacy, mathematics, science, financial literacy, world studies, public speaking, and independent study. Learning is purposeful, sequential, and meaningful, encouraging students to think critically, communicate clearly, and develop habits of responsibility and perseverance. By combining classical educational principles with streamed instruction, we prepare students not only for success in high school and university, but also to become thoughtful, capable, and lifelong learners.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at RWT Private School: Traditional Math
RWT Private School has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What RWT Private School says:
Our mathematics program follows a traditional instructional approach aligned with the Ontario curriculum and enriched through Singapore Math (Primary Mathematics and Dimensions), Nelson Mathematics, and Prism Math. Students first develop strong procedural fluency and computational accuracy through explicit instruction, guided practice, and regular review before applying these skills to increasingly complex problems. Singapore Math strengthens conceptual understanding through visual models, number sense, and mathematical reasoning, while Nelson and Prism Math provide comprehensive curriculum coverage, practice, and application. Together, these resources create a balanced program that develops both mastery and confidence. We believe that deep understanding comes from mastering essential skills before moving to advanced concepts. By combining procedural fluency with conceptual thinking and real-world problem solving, students build the mathematical foundation needed for success in higher-level mathematics and everyday life.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Our traditional mathematics program combines the Ontario curriculum with Singapore Math (Primary and Dimensions), Nelson Mathematics, and Prism Math. Students develop strong procedural fluency, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving skills through explicit instruction, regular practice, and mastery-based learning.
Calculator policy:
Calculators are introduced only after students have demonstrated mastery of underlying mathematical concepts and procedures. We prioritize strong mental math, computational fluency, and conceptual understanding before using calculators as tools to solve more advanced, multi-step problems and real-world applications.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at RWT Private School: Phonics-intensive
RWT Private School has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What RWT Private School says:
Early reading instruction is fundamental because reading is the foundation for success across all areas of learning. We believe every child deserves instruction that matches their current level of development. Our program is phonics-intensive, using a systematic, explicit sequence of phonics instruction with direct teaching, repetition, and regular practice to help students develop strong decoding skills. At the same time, our flexible cohorting model ensures that students who have already mastered early reading skills are not held back. Confident readers are placed in more advanced literacy groups where they continue to develop vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and critical thinking, while students who need additional support receive structured phonics instruction to help them "crack the code." This approach allows every student to make meaningful progress from their individual starting point.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What RWT Private School says:
We run diagnostic reading assessments through the academic year up to grade 8.
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Writing
Writing approach at RWT Private School: Equal balance
RWT Private School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What RWT Private School says:
We believe the strongest writers develop through a balance of explicit instruction and meaningful writing opportunities. In the early years, students receive systematic writing instruction, beginning with sentence construction before progressing to paragraphs and eventually multi-paragraph compositions. Grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure are taught explicitly and practiced separately to build a solid foundation. As students advance into the middle grades, they learn how to plan, organize, revise, and edit their work, while practicing writing in different forms, such as narratives, essays, reports, and persuasive writing. Alongside this structured approach, students write frequently for authentic purposes, allowing them to apply their skills creatively and develop confidence as writers. By combining systematic instruction with regular, meaningful writing experiences, students build both the technical skills and the motivation needed to become effective, independent writers.
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Science
Science approach at RWT Private School: Expository
RWT Private School has an Expository approach to Science (as opposed to Inquiry, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Expository?]Teaching approach:
We believe students develop a deeper understanding of science when they first build a strong foundation of scientific knowledge before applying it through investigation and experimentation. Our science program emphasizes explicit instruction of key concepts, vocabulary, scientific principles, and real-world applications. Students learn through direct teaching, structured discussions, demonstrations, textbooks, and guided practice before reinforcing their understanding through hands-on experiments, STEM challenges, and laboratory activities. We believe inquiry is most meaningful when students have the background knowledge needed to ask informed questions and interpret results accurately. As students progress, they are encouraged to analyze data, solve problems, and apply scientific concepts to unfamiliar situations. By combining strong content knowledge with practical experiences, students develop scientific literacy, critical thinking skills, and the confidence to understand and explain the world around them.
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 RWT Private School: Equal Balance
RWT Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RWT Private School says:
We believe literature should both deepen students' appreciation of great works and encourage thoughtful reflection on the world around them. Our literature program includes a balanced selection of classic and contemporary texts, exposing students to diverse voices, cultures, historical periods, and perspectives. Students learn to analyze plot, characterization, themes, literary devices, and author’s craft while developing strong reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. They also explore the historical and cultural contexts of texts to enrich their understanding and engage in respectful discussions about the ideas and issues literature presents. Students are encouraged to consider multiple viewpoints, support their interpretations with evidence, and make meaningful connections between literature, history, and contemporary society. Through class discussions, written responses, essays, presentations, and collaborative activities, students develop strong communication skills, empathy, and an appreciation for literature as both an artistic expression and a lens through which to better understand the human experience.
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 RWT Private School: Core Knowledge
RWT Private School has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What RWT Private School says:
Our elementary social studies program follows a core knowledge approach, with history and geography taught as distinct but complementary subjects beginning in the early grades. Students study history chronologically, exploring ancient civilizations before progressing through the medieval, early modern, and modern periods as they advance through elementary school. This sequential approach helps students develop a coherent understanding of historical events, people, and their connections over time. Geography is introduced as a separate subject beginning in Grade 1, where students learn about maps, landforms, countries, cultures, physical geography, and human geography. Geography lessons are sometimes connected to the historical period being studied and, at other times, are explored independently to broaden students' understanding of the world. Canadian history, geography, and civics are woven throughout the curriculum to ensure students develop a strong understanding of Canada's people, heritage, geography, and place within the global community.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at RWT Private School: Perennialism
RWT Private School has a Perennialism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Pragmatism, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Perennialism?]What RWT Private School says:
Our humanities and social sciences program is grounded in a strong foundation of history, geography, philosophy, economics, and the study of enduring ideas that have shaped civilizations. Students explore history chronologically, from ancient civilizations through the medieval, early modern, and modern eras, developing a broad understanding of historical events, influential figures, and the evolution of societies. Through literature, historical sources, discussion, debate, and essay writing, students learn to analyze evidence, evaluate different perspectives, and communicate their ideas clearly. We believe that studying the past provides valuable insight into the present and helps students develop informed opinions about contemporary issues. Alongside this strong historical foundation, students also explore practical subjects such as financial literacy, digital literacy, economics, and current events, enabling them to connect historical knowledge with the modern world. Our goal is to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and articulate citizens who think critically and engage respectfully with diverse ideas.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at RWT Private School: Equal Balance
RWT Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What RWT Private School says:
We believe students develop the strongest language skills through a balance of explicit instruction and meaningful communication. Students first build a solid foundation in vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and sentence structure through intentional instruction, guided practice, repetition, and regular review. These skills are then reinforced through authentic communication, including conversations, role-playing, games, reading, listening, and writing activities that encourage students to use the language in meaningful contexts. Cultural learning is integrated throughout the program to help students understand the traditions, perspectives, and everyday life associated with the language they are studying. As students gain confidence, they are encouraged to communicate more independently while continuing to strengthen accuracy through ongoing feedback and practice. By combining structured language instruction with authentic communication opportunities, students develop both the confidence and competence to use the language effectively in real-world situations.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts What RWT Private School says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at RWT Private School: Light integration
RWT Private School has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What RWT Private School says:
We believe technology is a powerful educational tool when introduced purposefully and at the appropriate stage of a student's development. Our priority is to ensure students first develop strong foundational skills in reading, writing, mathematics, critical thinking, and communication before relying on technology to support learning. Once students are academically and developmentally ready, digital tools are integrated in meaningful ways to enhance—not replace—high-quality instruction. Students participate in dedicated digital literacy learning, where they develop skills such as effective online research, evaluating the credibility of sources, digital citizenship, responsible use of artificial intelligence, online safety, digital identity, media literacy, and maintaining a healthy balance between technology and everyday life. We believe these competencies are essential for success in today's world and are best taught intentionally rather than assuming students will acquire them simply through regular exposure to technology.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What RWT Private School says:
Physical education is taught as a dedicated subject and is an essential part of our commitment to educating the whole child. We believe regular physical activity supports not only physical health, but also concentration, resilience, emotional well-being, and academic success. Students participate in a variety of activities in our stand-alone gymnasium and make extensive use of our beautiful outdoor spaces, including our soccer field, basketball court, and green spaces. Lessons focus on developing fundamental movement skills, teamwork, sportsmanship, fitness, coordination, and confidence while encouraging students to lead active, healthy lifestyles. We emphasize the connection between mind and body by helping students understand how physical activity contributes to overall wellness, self-regulation, and mental health. Beyond the school day, students have opportunities to further develop their interests and skills through extracurricular sports and after-school activities, fostering lifelong habits of physical fitness, teamwork, and personal growth.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at RWT Private School: Not Ontario curriculum
RWT Private School has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]What RWT Private School says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Read Write Think Private School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
RWT Private School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Hebrew
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at RWT Private School: Standard-enriched
RWT Private School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What RWT Private School says about their curriculum pace:
Our enriched curriculum goes beyond Ontario expectations by exploring concepts in greater depth while introducing a broader range of subjects. Students develop strong academic foundations through meaningful learning that builds critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and lifelong learning skills.
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 RWT Private School says about their flexible pacing:
Students are grouped into flexible cohorts based on their readiness in each subject rather than by grade level. This personalized approach ensures appropriate challenge, builds confidence, strengthens foundational skills, and allows every student to progress at a pace that supports their individual growth.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at RWT Private School: Supportive
RWT Private School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What RWT Private School says about their academic culture:
Our school fosters a supportive academic culture where students learn to value the process of learning more than the outcome attached to it. We believe that when students develop a genuine love of learning, academic success naturally follows. High expectations are paired with individualized support, helping each student grow from their own starting point. We emphasize curiosity, critical thinking, structure, and perseverance, encouraging students to ask questions, embrace challenges, and take ownership of their learning. Our goal is to develop lifelong learners who are motivated by understanding and personal growth rather than external rewards, equipping them with the mindset and habits needed for success both in school and throughout life.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
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 RWT Private School says about their developmental priorities:
We believe the purpose of education is to develop well-rounded individuals who are equipped to thrive academically and personally. Our primary focus is on maintaining a healthy balance between intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development, recognizing that each area contributes to long-term success and well-being. Within this balanced approach, we place particular emphasis on intellectual growth by fostering curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, strong communication skills, and a lifelong love of learning. Students are encouraged to think independently, solve problems thoughtfully, and pursue academic excellence while developing resilience, confidence, healthy relationships, and positive habits. By nurturing the whole child, we prepare students not only for future academic achievement but also for meaningful, responsible, and fulfilling lives.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
RWT Private School offers Full-time Dedicated Class
Students are placed in a separate special education class.
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 |
What RWT Private School says:
We effectively support students with learning disabilities through individualized instruction, small class sizes, targeted remediation, and indirect support within the classroom. Our flexible cohorting model allows students to receive instruction at their current level while continuing to build confidence and independence. As providers of Direct Instruction, we may provide structured, explicit, and evidence-based teaching methods to students who may benefit from it. We use research-based methods to develop strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and written language. Our goal is to identify and address learning gaps early while providing the academic and emotional support students need to succeed. Through this approach, students are equipped with the skills, confidence, and strategies necessary for long-term academic growth.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
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 RWT Private School says about their gifted learner support:
Our flexible cohorting model ensures gifted learners are challenged according to their readiness rather than their age. Students are grouped by subject-specific ability, allowing them to move into advanced cohorts when they demonstrate mastery. This approach provides enriched learning experiences, greater academic challenge, and opportunities for accelerated progress while maintaining age-appropriate social development. By meeting students where they are, we foster intellectual growth, curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, RWT Private School students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RWT Private School | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 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 RWT Private School 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. 1 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
