St. Michael's College School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at SMCS: Liberal Arts
SMCS has a Liberal Arts approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
International curriculum & programs at SMCS: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What SMCS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
St. Michael’s College School provides a modern, Liberal Arts, Catholic education for young men in grades 7-12. The Grade 7-8 Intermediate programme academically prepares students for our university preparatory high school curriculum. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for the young men to transition seamlessly into the high school setting. Grade 7-8 students participate in a 1:1 iPad programme, developing the technological competencies that complement the Intermediate curriculum. Our Grade 9-12 academic programme provides a Liberal Arts education for students bound for university. A pedagogical approach that embraces character, citizenship, collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking develops the learning skills that students need for living productive and meaningful lives in the 21st Century. All courses are taught at the Academic level in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training Guidelines.
Approach
Focus | Religious-based |
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Academic | Christian (Roman Catholic) |
If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Read our detailed guide to learn all about Christian education.
If you want to learn more about Catholic education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at SMCS: Traditional Math
SMCS has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
Students use the TI-84 calculator
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Science
Science approach at SMCS: Equal Balance
SMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
This information is not currently available.
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 SMCS: Equal Balance
SMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMCS says:
We use our English curriculum to further develop character and citizenship in our students. For example, in grade 9, students read The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time which tells the story of a boy with A.S.D. Students are asked to create a public service announcement about Autism and address common misconceptions.
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 SMCS: Equal Balance
SMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at SMCS: Equal Balance
SMCS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
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 SMCS: Equal Balance
SMCS 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 SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at SMCS: Medium integration
SMCS has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What SMCS says:
The philosophy of education at St. Michael's focuses on developing the mind, body and spirit. Our Physical and Health Education programme encourages students to pursue physical fitness as well as teaching them about mental and physical well-being. We expose them to a number of sports and activities and encourage them to be life-long healthy and active people.
Religious Education
What SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Calculus AB
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP European History
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at SMCS: Ontario curriculum
SMCS has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]What SMCS says:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about St. Michael's College School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
SMCS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Online Learning
St. Michael's College School's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.
St. Michael's College School offers online courses to students.
Course format
Type | Offered |
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Distance | |
Asynchronous | |
Synchronous |
Academic support and services
Type | Offered |
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Dedicated teacher per course | |
Exam proctoring | |
Student progress tracker | |
Regular office hours | |
Additional support | |
Study groups | |
Special needs support |
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at SMCS: Standard-enriched
SMCS has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
What SMCS says about their curriculum pace:
We promote a student-centred approach to education. Students are encouraged to develop their critical thinking and collaboration skills by solving real-world problems and following an inquiry- or problem-based approach.
Flexible pacing style
Type | Offered |
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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 SMCS says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at SMCS: Rigorous
SMCS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
What SMCS says about their academic culture:
St. Michael's College School provides a modern, Liberal Arts, Catholic education for young men in Grades 7-12. The Grade 7-8 Intermediate programme prepares students for our university preparatory high school curriculum, and provides an opportunity for young men to transition into the high school setting seamlessly. Grade 7-8 students participate in a 1:1 iPad programme that develops 21st century learning and compliments the Intermediate curriculum. Our Grade 9-12 academic programme provides a Liberal Arts education for university bound students. All courses are taught at the Academic or University level in accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training Guidelines.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
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 SMCS says about their developmental priorities:
While St. Michael’s College School strives to prepare our students for university, we are also fully committed to preparing them to be future Catholic leaders in the world. Guided by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we prepare young men to recognize and choose the good, to contribute to society, to be a neighbour, to nurture family, and to seek eternal life in union with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Special needs support
SMCS offers Indirect Support
Students remain in a regular classroom for the whole day; the teacher receives special training in accommodating special needs and/or learning disabled students.
What SMCS says about their special need support:
Learning Enrichment Centre: Accommodations -development of IEP's -monitoring of student progress and individual assistance with organization, time-management, and workload -alternative location for testing/exams (quiet space) -memory aids, audio books (USB) -use of computers for testing/exams -assistive technology (computer apps, programs, devices for specific learning challenges) -referral of peer support (tutor or note-taking) -referral of psych ed assessments and to CCAC for Occupational Therapists -workshops developed and offered throughout the school year on organization, note-taking, time-management, study skills, exam prep -"Return to Learn" support to help students stay on top of their courses after an illness, concussion, or injury
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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 |
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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 |
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Accommodations | |
Modifications | |
Extra support |
What SMCS says:
Typically, a student who evidences signs of a possible learning difficulty or exceptionality is referred to our Student Success Team. There is follow up with the student and family to suggest options for further investigation, testing, and referral to community resources. If testing leads to a diagnosis warranting further intervention, a Learning Strategist may develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to note any environmental and/or instructional accommodations the student may require to access the curriculum more successfully. Our Team can provide support and coaching for students with wide-ranging diagnoses. A diagnosis of learning disability should not, in and of itself, discourage a parent from applying, and parents are encouraged to ask questions about the range of supports available.
Additional support
Type | Offered |
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Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment
The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.
Class structure
Program | Offered |
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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 |
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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 SMCS says about their gifted learner support:
As the academic standards at St. Michael's College School are already quite high, we do not offer a separate gifted programme. All students at St. Michael's are on an accelerated curriculum, whether they are classified as gifted or not.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, SMCS students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.
7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
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SMCS | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins |
Site Average | 54 mins | 58 mins | 75 mins | 86 mins | 102 mins | 109 mins |
What SMCS says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
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Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
Extracurricular Activities
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.
Sports offered
St. Michael's College School offers 20 competitive sports and 7 recreational sports.
- Archery
- Curling
- Badminton
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Downhill skiing
- Football
- Golf
- Ice Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Mountain biking
- Rugby
- Running
- Snowboarding
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Weightlifting
Clubs offered
St. Michael's College School offers 26 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What SMCS says about their extracurricular activities:
- 56 interscholastic teams across 20 different sports, engaging 800 student-athletes
- Full service Athletic Therapy Clinic & Strength and Conditioning Centre
- Intramural offerings include: Bubble Soccer, 3v3 Basketball & Badminton,