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TMS:
The Our Kids Report > Academics
Grades Preschool TO Gr. 12 — Richmond Hill, ON (Map)
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TMS:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT
REPORT CONTENTS:

TMS ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS


Curriculum Montessori, International Baccalaureate

[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 TMS School: Montessori, International Baccalaureate

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

[Show: About Montessori, International Baccalaureate?]

Our Kids definition: Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.

Compare TMS School's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Montessori - 11%
  Traditional - 39%
  Liberal arts - 14%
  Progressive - 34%
  Reggio Emilia - 1%
  Waldorf - 1%

TMS School has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.

Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


International curriculum & programs at TMS School: Duke of Edinburgh's Award

What TMS School says about their overall curriculum and approach:

Lower School - 18 months to Grade 6 Internationally Recognized Flagship Montessori Program Upper School - Grade 7 to 10 International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Grade 11 to 12 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) TMS students thrive in academics while developing the life-changing mindsets of entrepreneurial thinking, positivity, and resilience that build a foundation for Significance not just at university, but in life.


Montessori offered:

ProgramOffered
Montessori toddler
Casa
Elementary
Middle School
High School

International Baccalaureate program(s) offered

ProgramOffered
Primary Years
Middle Years
Diploma program
Career-related program

Approach

Focus
Academic

Pedagogies and subject courses:

  • Mathematics

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

    Textbooks and supplementary materials:

    This information is not currently available.

    Calculator policy:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Early Reading

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

    DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Writing

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Science

    Teaching approach:

    This information is not currently available.


    Treatment of evolution:

    SubjectOffered
    Evolution as consensus theory
    Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
    Evolution is not taught

    Topics covered in curriculum:

    SubjectOffered
    Biology
    Chemistry
    Ecology
    Geology
    Meteorology
    Physics
    Physiology
    Zoology

  • Literature

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Canadian lit
    American lit
    European (continental) lit
    World (non-Western) lit
    English lit
    Ancient lit

  • Social Studies

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Humanities and Social Sciences

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Foreign Languages

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.


    Language instruction offered in:

    SubjectOffered
    Chinese-Cantonese
    Chinese-Mandarin
    French
    German
    Greek
    Italian
    Japanese
    Hebrew
    Latin
    Russian
    Spanish
    ESL

  • Fine Arts

    Program offers:

    SubjectOffered
    Acting
    Dance
    Drama/Theatre
    Graphic Design
    Music
    Visual Arts

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Computers and Technology

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Computer science
    Robotics
    Web design

  • Physical Education

    What TMS School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • IB Diploma courses

    Group 1 (Language A)

      This information is not currently available.

      Group 2 (Language B)

        This information is not currently available.

        Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)

          This information is not currently available.

          Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)

            This information is not currently available.

            Group 5 (Mathematics)

              This information is not currently available.

              Group 6 (The Arts)

                This information is not currently available.

              • Advanced Placement courses
                This information is not currently available.

              • Sex and health education

                Ontario curriculum

                Sex and health education approach at TMS School: Ontario curriculum

                TMS School has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

                [Show: About Ontario curriculum?]

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

                Compare TMS School's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:
                  Follows provincial curriculum - 60%
                  Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 40%

                What TMS School says:

                This information is not currently available.

              Preschool/K Curriculum Montessori

              [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)

              Preschool/K Curriculum approach at TMS School: Montessori

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

              [Show: About Montessori?]

              Our Kids definition: Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

              If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

              Compare TMS School's Preschool/K Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
                Montessori - 26%
                Play-based - 24%
                Waldorf - 2%
                Reggio emilia - 7%
                Academic - 41%

              What TMS School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

              TMS has garnered a reputation for creating an extraordinary learning environment. Up to Grade 6, the curriculum is based on the core premise of a Montessori education: that students need to drive their own learning. Using materials and processes that make abstract ideas concrete, students initiate their learning and can assess their own progress. This balance between the freedom and responsibility of a child produces highly competent learners who are self-reliant, self-disciplined and self-confident.

              Montessori Approach Non-orthodox

              TMS's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.

              This information is not currently available.

              Overall approach

              Orthodox
              40% of schools

              Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.

              Moderately Orthodox
              40% of schools

              Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

              Moderately Non-Orthodox
              13% of schools

              Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

              Non-orthodox
              6% of schools

              Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but often supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

              Classroom practices

              • Specialist classes Moderately non-orthodox

                Orthodox

                We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.

                Moderately orthodox

                We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.

                Moderately non-orthodox

                We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.

                Non-orthodox

                We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.

              • Modern-day technology Non-orthodox

                Orthodox

                Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.

                Moderately orthodox

                Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.

                Moderately non-orthodox

                Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.

                Non-orthodox

                Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.

              Teaching assistants

              Language English

              Learn about TMS's languages of instruction and enrolment.

              TMS School offers English as the primary language of instruction.

              Language of enrolment include: English

              Curriculum Pace Student-paced

              [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.

              Curriculum Pace approach at TMS School: Student-paced

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

              [Show: About Student-paced?]

              Our Kids definition: The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

              Compare TMS School's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:
                Student-paced - 26%
                Standard-enriched - 56%
                Accelerated - 18%

              What TMS School says about their curriculum pace:

              Montessori Program - Toddler to Grade 6 IB MYP and DP- Grades 7 to 12


              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 TMS School says about their flexible pacing:

              Montessori Program - Toddler to Grade 6 IB MYP and DP- Grades 7 to 12 Varies by level

              Academic Culture Rigorous

              [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.

              Academic Culture approach at TMS School: Rigorous

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

              [Show: About Rigorous?]

              Our Kids definition: A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

              Compare TMS School's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:
                Rigorous - 50%
                Supportive - 50%

              What TMS School says about their academic culture:

              TMS offers a uniquely designed framework that combines a Montessori start and International Baccalaureate (IB) finish. Our academics are rigorous and each student is "known" and supported. We deliver an accredited educational experience designed to inspire and challenge students to discover the best of who they are and to achieve their full potential.

              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.

              Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced

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

              What TMS School says about their developmental priorities:

              At TMS every student is "Known". TMS provides an environment where students are cared for. TMS students are given a foundation to grow, to be ambitious and bold. TMS creates opportunities for children to be inspired by learning through experimentation, exploration, and self-discovery.

              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.

              TMS School offers No support

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

              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


              Academic support

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

              Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities

              TypeOffered
              Accommodations
              Modifications
              Extra support

              Additional support

              TypeOffered
              Social skills programs
              Occupational therapy
              Psychotherapy
              Speech-language therapy

              Gifted learner support Accelerated curriculum

              [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: This information is not currently available.

              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 TMS School says about their gifted learner support:

              This information is not currently available.

              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

              TMS offers 19 competitive sports and 5 recreational sports.

                Competitive offered          Recreational offered
              all sports]
              • Archery
              • Curling
              • Ultimate
              • 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

              TMS offers 18 clubs and extracurricular programs.

                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

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              THE OUR KIDS REPORT: TMS

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