REVIEW OF Sidney Ledson Institute BY parent, Atchuthan Kathirithamby
- Date of Review
March 07, 2018 - Grades
Gr. 5 - Gr. 6
(5) Student Experience
Our son had a truly amazing experience at Sidney Ledson. At first, he was reluctant to move to a small school, but it ending up being one of the best decisions he ever made. From the helpful teachers to the small class sizes to the immersive academic program, all aspects of the school seemed to fit into place. In this time at Sidney Ledson, our son learned much more than he had in previous years and enjoyed going to school more than ever. He made close bonds with his peers, some of which still exist several years later. Overall, enrolling my our son at Sidney Ledson was one of the best decisions we have ever made.
(4.5) School Leadership
One of the positive aspects of Sidney Ledson that popped out to us, even before our son began attending the school, was the kind, supportive faculty. The administration was very helpful throughout the application and decision making process. We could tell that the faculty always maintained positive attitudes which enhanced the learning environment. The staff was strict with school policy and rules which helped develop good habits and maintain order around the school. Although they were stern around rules, punishment was always thought through and fair.
(4.5) Teaching
Some of the earliest feedback we received from our son was about the great teachers. Our son would come home and tell us about the exceptional teachers and how they were inclusive and supportive. They would guide each student through lessons at a personalized pace and fairly allocated time for those struggling in certain subjects. The teachers were always positive, trying to make students see mistakes as learning opportunities and use them as motivation to improve.
(5) Academics
Sidney Ledson has a very strong academic program. They teach a healthy breadth of subjects at varying levels, depending on each individual's ability. They accommodate well for students who are struggling as they are able to sow down the pace of the curriculum for those individuals. Students who are excelling also have a place in the academic program, as Sidney Ledson has the resources and teachers to be able to teach faster and at a higher level. All of this is possible because of the program's small classes where teachers can work individually with students.
(3.5) Extracurriculars
Extracurriculars at Sidney Ledson, though present, are not one of its strongest points. The school does its best to create an environment where students can spend outside the classroom, whether it be through small class field trips or fun 'house' activities such as dodge ball. There is always an opportunity to participate outside the classroom.However, due to the small size of the student body and the school grounds, there are few opportunities for very competitive extracurricular participation. Though our son did not find this unfortunate as he enjoyed the in-school activities very much, some students looking to participate in competitive extracurricular activities may have to consider this.
(4.5) Students
All students are supportive of each other, and there is never any cases of treating each other inappropriately. All of the students are prepared and ready to learn. Most importantly, they add to the positive environment of the school.
(5) School Life
The great school life at Sidney Ledson was possibly the best part of our son's experience at Sidney Ledson. Our son made many good friends at Sidney Ledson who he could always talk to. They would push each other to do better in academics, some friendly competition, which made my son more eager to learn than ever. Also, Sidney Ledson teaches in an interactive and fun way. Our son really enjoyed the academic side of Sidney Ledson, but he also loved the great bonding activities. He would tell us of playing soccer outside with his friends, going to chess club, and even helping younger students. All of these things made him wake up each day with a smile on his face, ready to head back to school for another great day.
(4.5) Community
The school was an welcoming environment for all parents. We were also welcome to gather together when we went to pick our kids up after school.
(4) School Location
Even though it is located in an office building, the school is isolated from the other parts of the building and it is a very safe place for kids.