Toronto Waldorf School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
Curriculum approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Waldorf
Toronto Waldorf School has a Waldorf approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia approach).
What Toronto Waldorf School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
The Waldorf curriculum revolves around child development and the key concept of "doing the right thing at the right time." An emphasis on a three-fold approach, integrating "head, heart and hands" is a fundamental component in all classes. Cross-curricular connections are made wherever possible, using arts, movement, music and drama in the learning process, bringing greater engagement and emotional connection to the child's experience.
Approach
Focus |
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Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Toronto Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
See our Teaching Approach in the Lower School: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/lower_school/teaching_methods/index.php#.VtiYJubju4M and in the High School: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/high_school/deeper_perspective_on_HS/index.php#.VtiYm-bju4M
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
Calculators are not used until later in middle school - sometimes even as late as Grade 8. The focus is instead on mental math, pen and paper math thus ensuring a concept has been deeply cemented before moving to the tool to aid in calculations.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Balanced Literacy
Toronto Waldorf School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
See this for details on our teaching approach: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/grade1/english.php
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Toronto Waldorf School says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Equal balance
Toronto Waldorf School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
Details can be found on our website by looking at teaching writing in different grades: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/grade1/english.php
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Science
Science approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Inquiry
Toronto Waldorf School has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Learn more here: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/grade1/science.php
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 Toronto Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Toronto Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
Refer to this chart for details: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/index.php
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 Toronto Waldorf School: Thematic
Toronto Waldorf School has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
Our approach to teaching social studies can be found here: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/grade1/social_sciences.php
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Toronto Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
Our teaching approach can be found here: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/grade7/social_sciences.php
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Toronto Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
We offer French from Grade 1 to 12. Here's a closer look at each grade: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/grade1/languages.php
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 Toronto Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Toronto Waldorf School 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 Toronto Waldorf School says:
Please refer to our curriculum page for details: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/index.php
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Light integration
Toronto Waldorf School has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What Toronto Waldorf School says:
The Waldorf perspective is that computer exposure should not be based on capability but on developmental appropriateness. Computers and digital technology are not part of the early grades curriculum, although mechanical technology and the practical arts are incorporated at all levels. In our school, Grade 7 and above can access to our computer lab and time in the lab is balanced with Cyber Civics- discussions about the role of technology in our lives, social media and how one can trust information on the web. We strive to give our students to tools to understand the history of computing and how to keep the human being at the centre of our relationship to technology.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Toronto Waldorf School says:
Please refer to our curriculum chart for details: http://www.torontowaldorfschool.com/why_waldorf/curriculum_chart/index.php
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Not Ontario curriculum
Toronto Waldorf 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 Toronto Waldorf School says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Waldorf
Toronto Waldorf School has a Waldorf approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
What Toronto Waldorf School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Toronto Waldorf School's early years programs have a play-based approach and learning through experience, art and movement. Healthy rhythm and routine, ample outdoor time as well as time for rest are built into each day. Participation in crafts, painting and chores are some of the daily activities of the preschool and kindergarten child. A rich oral story telling tradition, including puppet shows, help build the young child's language capacities as well as imaginative thinking.
Language
Learn about Toronto Waldorf School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Toronto Waldorf School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, Mandarin
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Standard-enriched
Toronto Waldorf School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
What Toronto Waldorf School says about their curriculum pace:
At TWS, our rich Waldorf Curriculum is a unique and integrated program where walls between subjects disappear. We are a school where students learn through experience and discovery, and where inspiring academics, human connection and artistic expression are foundational.
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 Toronto Waldorf School says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at Toronto Waldorf School: Supportive
Toronto Waldorf School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
What Toronto Waldorf School says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
What Toronto Waldorf School says about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
Toronto Waldorf School 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.
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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 |
Additional support
Type | Offered |
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Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
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 Toronto Waldorf School says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Toronto Waldorf School students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.
NS | PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
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Toronto Waldorf School | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins | 120 mins |
Site Average | 0 mins | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 17 mins | 23 mins | 29 mins | 35 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 59 mins | 76 mins | 88 mins | 104 mins | 113 mins |
What Toronto Waldorf School 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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Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 1 to Gr. 12 |
Parent-teacher meetings | Nursery/Toddler 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
Toronto Waldorf School offers 5 competitive sports and 3 recreational sports.
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Field Hockey
- Gymnastics
- Running
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Toronto Waldorf School offers 9 clubs and extracurricular programs.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Toronto Waldorf School
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