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Trusted by families since 1998.
The Learning Common logo
OUR KIDS REPORT:

The Learning Common

Grades 3 — 8 — Toronto, ON (Map)
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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
The Learning Common
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • Grades
    3 — 8
  • Gender
    Coed
  • Class Size
    8 — 10 students
  • Tuition
    $22,000/year
  • Language of instruction
    English
  • Special Needs Support
    Special needs school
  • Enrolment
    30 day students
  • Curriculum
    Progressive
  • Associations
    N/A
  • LOCATION
    Toronto, ON (View address)

The big picture on The Learning Common

We summarized the school ourselves

It’s true that not all students learn in the same way, though it's also true that not all schools address the full range of learning within the populations that they serve. TLC was created to offer an option to students who, for a whole range of reasons, weren't finding the kinds of support, teaching, and student experience that they needed to learn best. In that, and much else, this isn’t your average school, which is exactly what makes it, for those who enroll, such a strong offering. The school is small, class sizes are very small, meaning there is pronounced personal attention. There is a focus on gaining a sense of confidence in academic and social abilities, and relationships with peers and instructors, rightly, is seen as the foundation of learning. Robyn Keystone, Head of School, is an Orton-Gillingham practitioner, applying a multi-sensory approach to instruction, and included in that is a desire to work with students to find approaches that work best for them. The staff is exceptionally experienced, empathetic, and work in collaboration with the families that enroll. It’s a unique offering, and for those who attend, an exceptionally welcome one.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"TLC offers specialized education for learners with ADHD and Dyslexia. We work with kids from grades 3 to 8 who are struggling to achieve their potential within a traditional academic environment. We nurture "out of the box" thinking while developing foundational and essential hard and soft skills that are necessary for navigating the landscape of our future. We specialize in creating a positive, student-centred environment that helps children develop a passion for learning in the classroom and beyond."

  • Small class sizes
  • Expertise and specialization in Reading and Math
  • Innovative teaching methods that are grounded in proven and effective strategies
  • Progressive curriculum that’s relevant to today’s changing society
  • Collaborative and compassionate team that is dedicated to offering 360 support to each learner.

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

Our teaching methodology is grounded in the scientifically proven strategies of Orton-Gillingham based education. We offer multisensory learning strategies and active experiences so that students are processing the educational space using their visual, auditory, and kinesthetic/tactile learning pathways. We also offer direct and explicit instruction within the classroom, a student-centred and individualized learning environment, and a basic to complex skill development trajectory.

3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

To best serve our families, we've chosen to maintain small class sizes, which fosters personalized attention but limits overall enrollment. This approach ensures each student receives a tailored educational experience, although it means we might not accommodate all interested families. Additionally, our investment in specialized training and resources, such as the Orton-Gillingham approach, requires significant commitment but results in transformative learning experiences.

4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

Our journey began with a vision to dismantle barriers for students with learning differences, setting the foundation for our current philosophy. The adoption of the Orton-Gillingham approach marked a pivotal moment, equipping us with a powerful tool to support students with Dyslexia. Expanding our services with Novel Tutoring allowed us to extend our reach beyond the classroom, providing accessible online support. Our commitment to community grew with the introduction of parent communication tools like Grasshopper Communication, ensuring an inclusive and collaborative environment. These key junctures have shaped our reputation for excellence and innovation, driving us to continually adapt and meet our students' evolving needs.

5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?

Students who thrive at The Learning Common are those with ADHD and Dyslexia who seek a supportive and inclusive educational environment. Our school is ideal for "out of the box" thinkers who benefit from personalized learning plans and innovative teaching methods. We welcome students eager to develop foundational literacy and soft skills while engaging in a community that values creativity, collaboration, and resilience, providing them with the tools for future success.

6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

We may advise against choosing our school if a family seeks a traditional educational environment or if a student thrives in larger, conventional classrooms. Our specialized focus on ADHD and Dyslexia may not align with the needs of students without learning differences, potentially limiting their experience. Additionally, families looking for highly competitive academic settings or those not open to an innovative, tailored educational approach might find our unique methodologies and community-centred focus less suitable for their expectations.

7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

Parents choose TLC School because of our commitment to supporting students in finding their passion for learning, providing a safe and nurturing environment, and our strong parent-school connection and community. We provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for success and ensures their individual needs are met.

8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

The Learning Common is recognized in the community as a nurturing and innovative educational institution dedicated to students with ADHD and Dyslexia. We are known for our specialized teaching methods, particularly the Orton-Gillingham approach, and for creating a supportive, personalized learning environment. Our reputation for fostering creativity, resilience, and confidence in students positions us as a leader in specialized education, admired for our inclusive and collaborative community.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

The school's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment stands out to parents. They witness firsthand the sense of belonging and camaraderie among students, facilitated by caring educators who prioritize social-emotional development alongside academic achievement. Parents are delighted to see their children thriving in an atmosphere that values empathy, respect, and diversity.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

One aspect that leaves parents in awe of The Learning Common is the school's dedication to personalized education. Each child is recognized as a unique individual with distinct strengths, interests, and learning styles. Through personalized learning plans and small class sizes, educators tailor instruction to meet the specific needs of each unique learner.

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

At The Learning Common, we have recently strengthened our approach by expanding Novel Tutoring to provide one-on-one and online literacy support, extending learning beyond school hours. Our educators have deepened their expertise through advanced training in Orton-Gillingham and The Science of Reading, ensuring students benefit from evidence-based strategies. We also introduced updated assessment tools to personalize learning profiles with greater accuracy. Improved parent communication platforms, such as Grasshopper Communication, have further enhanced transparency and collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to each child’s success.

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

Recently, we have expanded our offerings with Novel Tutoring, providing one-on-one online tutoring and intensive reading courses to support students beyond the classroom. We've continued to enhance our educational approach by integrating the latest research and technology into our teaching practices, ensuring our students benefit from effective strategies and resources. Additionally, we've strengthened our community engagement through improved communication tools, fostering a more


 

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