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Trafalgar Castle School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Trafalgar Castle: Liberal Arts
Trafalgar Castle has a Liberal Arts approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Liberal Arts?]
International curriculum & programs at Trafalgar Castle: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What Trafalgar Castle says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Trafalgar Castle School offers a rigorous university preparatory curriculum from Grades 4 through 12. Our focus is to prepare our young women for post-secondary education through courses that emphasize the development of effective communication and inquiry skills, the ability to access and evaluate information, and develop self-assessment skills. We use information technology to deliver appropriate components of the curriculum and in the process encourage mastery of the technology skills essential for current and future success. Our courses meet and exceed Ontario Ministry of Education requirements and are delivered by a highly competent and dedicated faculty. Current research supports learning in a small-school environment, which enables our teachers to engage their students and support them as they achieve their true potential. Trafalgar Castle School is inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education, accredited by the Canadian Educational Standards Institute and a member of the Conference of Independent Schools (Ontario), the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools and a member of the National Coalition of Girls Schools and National Association of Independent Schools (Associate Member U.S.A.).
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Trafalgar Castle: Equal Balance
Trafalgar Castle has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
Our Grade 5 through 8 program incorporates elements of Singapore Math and Science. We emphasis learning number facts to support math fluency alongside the use of critical thinking, problem solving and investigations. Our Upper School Mathematics program features the academic level as well as enriched-level courses, which prepare students for Advanced Placement courses in Statistics and Calculus.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Trafalgar Castle: Balanced Literacy
Trafalgar Castle has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
This information is not currently available.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Trafalgar Castle says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Trafalgar Castle: Equal balance
Trafalgar Castle has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
Our students learn to develop effective thesis and supportive ideas based upon the adapted University of Chicago writing program. Through use of selected referencing, students build sound writing with the ultimate goal of refined expository writing.
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Science
Science approach at Trafalgar Castle: Equal Balance
Trafalgar Castle has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
At Trafalgar Castle School our inquiry-based science program, aligned with the Ontario curriculum, transforms learning into an engaging adventure. Beyond traditional textbooks, our classrooms prioritize hands-on exploration, nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Distinguished guest speakers, experts in their fields, inspire and connect students with real-world applications. Cutting-edge technologies, from virtual reality to advanced lab equipment, enrich the educational experience, mirroring the evolving landscape of science. Complemented by out-of-classroom experiences, such as field trips and industry collaborations, our program ensures students not only grasp scientific concepts but also witness their practical implications. Join us in cultivating a passion for science through innovation, inquiry, and a curriculum designed to prepare students for the challenges and wonders of the future.
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 Trafalgar Castle: Equal Balance
Trafalgar Castle has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
Our approach to literature incorporates many diverse voices and perspectives from across Canada and around the world.
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 Trafalgar Castle: Thematic
Trafalgar Castle has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
[Show: About Thematic?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Trafalgar Castle: Equal Balance
Trafalgar Castle has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Trafalgar Castle: Equal Balance
Trafalgar Castle has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
Trafalgar Castle School’s approach to teaching Foreign Languages can be described as holistic and inclusive. Our dedicated teachers welcome learners with all backgrounds and experience and guide them through their language development. Our various language classrooms place great emphasis on a communicative approach to teaching, and aim to develop all competencies with intention and genuine curiosity. Our students are challenged to listen, speak, read, and write in a way that not only emphasizes practical skills for real life and broadens their understanding of the foreign language, but broadens their understanding of themself. Our foreign language classrooms are a collaborative space where students are building on one another’s strengths and areas for growth. By learning a foreign language, the students develop a deeper appreciation for diversity and can connect with the global community. And, our hope at Trafalgar, is that their experience here would create a spark for lifelong language learning.
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 Trafalgar Castle: Equal Balance
Trafalgar Castle 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 Trafalgar Castle says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Trafalgar Castle: Heavy integration
Trafalgar Castle has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Trafalgar Castle says:
At Trafalgar Castle School, the approach to teaching Physical Education is grounded in a holistic and empowering philosophy. The school recognizes the vital role physical activity plays in fostering not only physical well-being but also mental and emotional health among its student body. The PE curriculum is designed to be inclusive, promoting a positive and supportive environment where students can explore a variety of physical activities. The school places a strong emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and the development of lifelong physical literacy skills. This approach not only enhances the students' physical abilities but also nurtures a deeper appreciation for a healthy and active lifestyle.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Studio Art: 2-D Design
- AP Studio Art: 3-D Design
- AP Studio Art: Drawing
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Chinese Language and Culture
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Trafalgar Castle: Ontario curriculum
Trafalgar Castle has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Trafalgar Castle has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Trafalgar Castle says:
Trafalgar Castle School's approach to teaching Health is student-focused, promoting open communication, critical thinking, and the development of lifelong skills for maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Language
Learn about Trafalgar Castle School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Trafalgar Castle offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Online Learning
Trafalgar Castle 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.
Trafalgar Castle School offers online courses to students.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
What Trafalgar Castle says about their academic support and services:
Special needs support: Trafalgar Castle School provides strength-based support to all students. Those with identified needs are accommodated and supported in both our day and boarding environments.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Trafalgar Castle: Standard-enriched
Trafalgar Castle has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Trafalgar Castle says about their curriculum pace:
Our enriched program can be seen across the curriculum through our Advanced Placement course offerings, enriched Mathematics program, expository writing program, integrative and inquiry-based thinking program, and our adaptation of diverse teaching strategies.
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 Trafalgar Castle says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Trafalgar Castle: Rigorous
Trafalgar Castle has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What Trafalgar Castle says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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 Trafalgar Castle says about their developmental priorities:
At Trafalgar, we implement a continuum of programming for students from Grade 4 to 12 that addresses the social, emotional, physical, mental health, and spiritual needs of girls. Student health, wellness, and learning supports are enhanced so that every girl can participate fully and productively in learning and life.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Trafalgar Castle offers Withdrawal Assistance
Students remain in a regular classroom for most of the day, but are pulled out for extra support from a qualified special education teacher.
What Trafalgar Castle says about their special need support:
Every identified student receives a learning plan. Supports and extension opportunities vary from minimal to moderate. Classroom teachers implement the majority of the accommodations and extension opportunities. Independence and self-advocacy are the primary goals for every identified student.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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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 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What Trafalgar Castle says:
Trafalgar Castle School offers full integration for students with mild to moderate learning challenges. A careful and collaborative approach to admissions ensures that the needs of students can be met. We emphasize the development of each girl's areas of strength and work closely with families to prepare them for post-secondary success.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of 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 |
|---|---|
| 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 Trafalgar Castle 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
Trafalgar Castle School offers 11 competitive sports and 6 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Archery
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Rowing
- Running
- Soccer
- Softball
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Trafalgar Castle School offers 17 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Math Club
Outdoor Club
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Robotics club
School newspaper
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Art Club
Band
Choir
Community Service
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
What Trafalgar Castle says about their extracurricular activities:
- Trafalgar Castle School among the first to launch a Girls Who Code Club in Canada!
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Trafalgar Castle School
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