507 Lakeshore Rd E, Unit 203, Mississauga, Ontario, L5G 4L1, Canada
10 Elm Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 1N4, Canada
0
1903
100
900
9 to 12
JK to 12
Coed
Girls
Day
Boarding, Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
8 to 16
16 to 22
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Learning
In-class adaptations
$20,325 to $24,785
$38,990 to $42,490
$75,100 to $78,600
Yes
Yes
4%
5%
9 to 12
7 to 12
$6,500
$0
25
60
0%
6%
95%
30%
6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 01, 2023
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
Yes: grades 9 - 11
information not available
Clans and tartans, prefects and polo shirts—the initial gestalt is very traditional. Some of the buildings on campus are heritage buildings, which adds to the luster, though they pre-date the founding of the school. Still, the spirit of the school is strikingly modern. The IB program starts early, as does the view to globalism. Branksome has a sister campus in South Korea, offering a hint of the dedication to an international gaze. Lists of notable alumni don't always reflect the work of the school—princes, for example, appear on those lists no matter what they achieve at school or afterward—though Branksome might prove the exception, in part because of the consistency of the achievement it demonstrates. Arts, letters, philanthropy, and leadership are all well represented in the list of notable alumni, just as they are within the school itself. Branksome Hall sets its sights very high, to be sure, and the ideal student is one who shares the core vision and is able to function in a very diverse, challenging, expansive environment.
Read The Our Kids Review of Branksome Hall
Sam Blyth founded Blyth Academy in an understanding that, as the world changes the needs of students change, and education therefore must to evolve to meet them. Throughout the decades of its life, Blyth Academy has consistently proven its ability to meet that mandate. It began by offering a global curriculum, one that covered the basic literacies as well as collaborative and leadership skills. In addition to 10 brick-and-mortar campuses, Blyth Academy Online, launched in 2014, offering asynchronous courses that students can start at any time throughout the calendar year. In response to the COVID crisis, Blyth Academic Orbit added a synchronous virtual school to the offering, bringing all the schedules, teachers, peers and relationships of a traditional academic experience, the only difference being that all was mounted entirely . In all, it’s hard to imagine a school more suited to our time, or making more out of the technologies available for program delivery. Blyth Academy is now effectively the largest single private school network in Canada, the student experience remains intimate; in the both the physical and virtual synchronous classrooms there are never more than 15 students. True to Sam Blyth’s original vision, there remains a focus on global learning, citizenship, and ethical leadership. There might have been a time when Blyth was an anomaly within the world of education—smaller schools, virtual offerings, an agile approach to learning—though it certainly isn’t now. It’s hard to imagine a school better suited to our time and the needs of the current generation of learners.
View full reportClans and tartans, prefects and polo shirts—the initial gestalt is very traditional. Some of the buildings on campus are heritage buildings, which adds to the luster, though they pre-date the founding of the school. Still, the spirit of the school is strikingly modern. The IB program starts early, as does the view to globalism. Branksome has a sister campus in South Korea, offering a hint of the dedication to an international gaze. Lists of notable alumni don't always reflect the work of the school—princes, for example, appear on those lists no matter what they achieve at school or afterward—though Branksome might prove the exception, in part because of the consistency of the achievement it demonstrates. Arts, letters, philanthropy, and leadership are all well represented in the list of notable alumni, just as they are within the school itself. Branksome Hall sets its sights very high, to be sure, and the ideal student is one who shares the core vision and is able to function in a very diverse, challenging, expansive environment.
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"Most of the teachers I had were very kind and did their best to ensure that the lectures were entertaining and engaging for all of the students."
Jovan Dhanju - Alumnus (Feb 27, 2023)
Went to Blyth for their sports program. Found it very beneficial, and the teachers were great! I fou...
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"We definitely made the right decision to send our daughter to Blyth for her high school education."
Vicky Yang - Parent (Feb 27, 2023)
Our family has been with Blyth Academy since September 2020. We definitely made the right decision t...
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"The teachers are dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate about fostering a nurturing learning environment."
Shelly Huang - Parent (Oct 23, 2023)
My daughter loves Branksome Hall so much, I remember clearly she told me Branksome Hall and the teac...
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"My experience at Branksome Hall overall was wonderful."
Sara Akbari - Alumnus (Jan 24, 2024)
My experience at Branksome Hall overall was wonderful. I had many supportive teachers throughout the...
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"I was very happy with the quality of instructors and teachers at Branksome."
Deniz Mutlu - Alumnus (Feb 28, 2024)
I had a wonderful experience at Branksome. I joined Branksome in the 3rd grade and continued until m...
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"Blyth Academy Mississauga is a community of diverse and committed students, teachers, and parents. We provide an intimate educational environment sensitive to the individual needs of its students, where academic and emotional needs are met and every family is a fundamental partner in the school community."
"Branksome Hall is Toronto’s only leading all-years International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for girls (JK-12). Our IB Advantage for Girls sparks students’ curiosity and passion for new challenges through our unique combination of outstanding academics, well-being, international mindedness and strong focus on innovation. Our inquiry-based Liberal Arts curriculum is enriched by our four core values: sense of community, inclusiveness, creativity and making a difference. An independent school, Branksome Hall educates 900 students on our 13-acre campus, nestled in the heart of the Rosedale neighbourhood in downtown Toronto, within walking distance of the University of Toronto, public transit, libraries, theatres and the vibrant intersection of Yonge and Bloor Streets. Our state-of-the-art facilities include an Athletics and Wellness Centre, STEAM Studio, Innovation Hub, Makerspaces and flexible learning environments. We offer a Boarding Program for Grades 7-12 and an immersive Study Abroad Program with our sister school, Branksome Hall Asia on Jeju Island, South Korea. Our graduates are welcomed by leading universities in Canada, the U.S. and around the world, most with scholarships. More than $1.4 million in student financial assistance is provided each year. Discover more at www.branksome.on.ca."
"Communication is priority; we have strong ties with our families. Parents/guardians receive weekly updates from the principal and teachers. They also have access to our online student platform, EDSBY, which houses grades, classwork, important dates, and a platform to contact teachers. In addition, our unique timetable offers flexibility inside and outside of school. Senior students study two of three periods per day, leaving time for leadership programs, homework support, and extra curriculars."
"As the only independent day and boarding school for girls in Toronto to offer the International Baccalaureate programs (Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and IB Diploma Programme), Branksome students are empowered to discover their passions, find their voice and actively shape positive change. The school has broken ground on a new Innovation Centre and Studio Theatre (iCAST) for the arts and STEM, a first-of-its-kind facility for any JK-Grade 12 institution in Canada."
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"Our guidance program is extraordinary. The attention provided to each student in academics and mental health far exceeds the expectations of most. With university admissions becoming more competitive each year, students deserve one on one support from a knowledgeable and supportive counsellor. At Blyth, students don't wait weeks to see their counsellor, we have an open-door policy. Mental health plays a pivotal role. We are proud to have the necessary resources for social and emotional support."
"Branksome's enriched liberal arts program is viewed as the gold standard by universities worldwide. Our excellent location and amazing facilities attract families from all areas of the city, and the world, creating a diverse environment where everyone feels included. The breadth of extra-curricular and leadership opportunities ensure students feel connected to and empowered by our community. Student well-being and social-emotional learning are prioritized to foster healthy relationships."
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"The IB is not just about a comprehensive academic experience. The IB curriculum is adaptable and flexible, providing students the opportunity to personalize their educational experiences by selecting subjects that are a good fit for both their interests and their skill development. Grounded in the liberal arts tradition, IB teaches students – at every age – to become critical thinkers and effective communicators of their ideas and opinions. As a result, they develop habits that last a lifetime."
"Our staff are committed to student success. Students are greeted daily before entering class, guidance and principal doors are always open, and teachers have innate qualities of patience, flexibility, curiosity, and tricks to engage all types of learners. Teachers teach classes in which they shine, as they hold bachelors and masters degrees in those subject-specific areas. They inspire students with experiential lessons and inquiry-based projects, while knowing each pupil’s profile."
"New families to Branksome often comment on the welcoming and caring environment they experience once they join the community. Our inspiring and supportive faculty make learning fun and help students to develop a growth mindset. Students love learning in Branksome's state-of-the-art facilities, including an Athletics and Wellness Centre, STEAM Studio, Innovation Hub, indoor rock-climbing wall, playgrounds, tennis courts, Makerspaces, and through our business incubator program, Noodle."
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Blyth Academy Mississauga is a boutique secondary school for students from grades nine through twelve which celebrates the intersection of academic rigor, post-secondary preparation, and student inclusivity.
Central to our pedagogical approach is the incorporation of personalized and experiential learning which translates theory into practice for students entering high school right through to their graduating year. Coupled by the masterful expertise of our teachers and support provided by our guidance counsellor, students are provided the opportunity to excel in an academically motivated environment which will set them up for university success.
Prior to leading our Mississauga campus, I spent four years travelling and managing our Global High School from Europe to Asia with a dual background in English, history, as well as international studies. As principal, my faculty and I are committed to providing an exceptional education in a fresh environment to cultivate thought and provide a holistic approach to learning, academics, and student wellbeing.
“Branksome Hall will change your life.”
This is something I've told new students and families countless times over my more than two decades serving as Branksome’s Principal.
Since our founding in 1903, thousands of great women have walked our halls as Branksome students. They have been routinely welcomed into the finest colleges and universities around the world, with many receiving scholarships. Branksome alumnae have gone on to make a difference in just about any and every imaginable field and endeavour. I can't help but be awed by the impact they have had, and continue to have, on the world around us.
But I shouldn’t be surprised. Our alumnae's inspiring achievements are, in many ways, a direct reflection of their Branksome experience. Everything we do is guided by our powerful mission: each day, we challenge and inspire girls to love learning and shape a better world.
Branksome is a unique school. As Toronto’s only all girls, all years IB World School, we offer our students an academically excellent program in tandem with unmatched commitments to global engagement and well-being. At Branksome, girls are taught the skills they need to thrive in our changing world. They learn how to find their own strong voices and develop as lifelong learners.
As you read through this website, you’ll discover more about the Branksome difference and what sets us apart. When you’re ready to learn more, drop by our campus for an Open House or reach out to our Admission team. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing more about what makes our school so very, truly remarkable.
Sincerely,
Karen L. Jurjevich
Principal
Liberal Arts
International Baccalaureate
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
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.
Blyth Academy offers a private school experience that focuses on personalized education, very small class sizes and experiential learning. Our unique approach allows us to tailor the curriculum to the individual student, not the other way around. By taking into account each student’s learning style and extra-curricular responsibilities, we are able to customize a plan unique to the individual.
Branksome Hall is Toronto’s only all-years International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for girls. Our IB Advantage sparks students’ curiosity and passion for new challenges through our unique combination of outstanding academics, well-being, international mindedness and strong focus on innovation. Our inquiry-based Liberal Arts curriculum is enriched by our four core values: sense of community, inclusiveness, creativity and making a difference. A Kindergarten to Grade 12 independent school, Branksome Hall educates 900 girls on our 13-acre campus in downtown Toronto. Our state-of-the art facilities include an Athletics and Wellness Centre with two saltwater pools, STEAM Studio, Makerspaces and numerous flexible learning environments. We offer a Boarding Program and an immersive Study Abroad Program with our sister school, Branksome Hall Asia in South Korea. Our graduates are welcomed by leading universities in Canada and around the world, most with scholarships. More than $1.4 million in student financial assistance is provided each year. Branksome continues to set the pace for innovation in girls’ education, ensuring today’s students are well-prepared to solve tomorrow’s complex problems.
Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
We use an inquiry-based approach to instruction, supplemented with traditional direct instruction. New topics are presented using real-world scenarios and students are then prompted with questions such as: “What do you notice?” or, “What do you wonder?” This open-ended questioning allows students to begin engaging with concepts without being limited by preconceptions. At this point, the teacher may ask additional open ended questions, or offer prompts if students are stuck. After they have had a chance to brainstorm, it is up to students to articulate what materials and skills they might need to solve the problem. The teacher then provides some direct instruction to introduce the necessary new skills. Having students engage with a problem prior to direct instruction not only makes math more meaningful, but also fosters more engagement, as students will be more invested in learning new skills if they are instrumental to a pre-existing task.
The Mathematics program at Branksome provides opportunities for university-bound students to develop a strong understanding of mathematics; practise strategies for applying knowledge and skills to solve complex problems in both real-life and abstract situations; communicate reasoning using mathematical conventions and terminology; and become proficient in using graphing calculators and relevant computer software. Students will learn new mathematical concepts and skills through class discussion, group work and individual practice. In all grades, students will be encouraged to develop specific study strategies that can promote academic success here at Branksome and later at university.
Nelson textbooks are used across grade levels, with supplementary learning facilitated by Desmos online graphing calculator, as well as Gizmos virtual manipulatives (explorelearning.com).
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Only non-graphing scientific calculators are permitted during test and exams. (Smart phones are also not permissible, as they do not always handle order of operations appropriately.) Students are encouraged to use their own calculators during regular practice, so that they are comfortable with their devices during tests and evaluations.
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Phonics-intensive
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
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Reading instruction in the early years is both explicit and systematic. Teachers in the early grades focus on essential early literacy skills through structured literacy lessons. Important skills include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. This instruction may take place in a whole class and small differentiated groups. Unit of Inquiry provides students with an opportunity to utilize newly learned skills during content area instruction. A variety of assessment practices and measures are used to gather data to support instruction and goal setting from benchmark assessments to diagnostic tasks, progress monitoring to outcomes evaluation assessments.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
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Inquiry
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
At Blyth Academy, we like to focus on experiential learning, and there is no real better subject in which to be able to do that than Science. From collecting and consolidating the knowledge of students entering in primary grades, to the complex examination of biological process, physical systems, and chemical reactions in grade 12. In grade 9, students build an understanding of the world around as they develop their practical and inquiry skills. In grade 10 we shift focus to Cells and Systems, Chemical Reactions, Climate Change, and Light; By grade 11 and into 12, students are encouraged to study each of the subjects individually, where we start to truly explore the nature of the sciences in ever more complex and elaborate ways. Our prime asset, though, is our team of passionate and knowledgable staff, communicating their love of the subject in every lesson.
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
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These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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Our English program encourages students to collaborate in their analysis through the use of formal and informal seminars on a variety of texts and forms of media. Students read a wide array of texts ranging from literary classics to contemporary pieces. Teachers seek to build creative thinking skills within their students by balancing their courses with traditional literary criticism, creative writing, and media analysis.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
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Not applicable
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Blyth Academy emphasizes experiential learning and so a pragmatic approach is important to making learning memorable and relevant. History, whilst grounded in facts, nonetheless has at its core inquiry skills and the appraisal and interpretation of evidence. Whilst this aspect is often seen as perennialism or the preserve of the liberal arts, the application is very much pragmatic. History, though political and social bias, is created as much as it is studied and the students will reflect critically on this process of creation. This skill can then can be applied to real life scenarios such as political and social education, and applications to social justice. Students will complete projects and be encouraged to reflect on the success of their approaches to learning new topics. The relevance and appropriateness of pragmatism in the social sciences must be critically appraised before it can be usefully employed.
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Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
We follow the Ontario curriculum, with a focus on oral language and practical knowledge and skills. At the Grades 10-12 level, students are combined in a core/extended/immersion classroom, and are credited based on the competencies they attain during the course. While we are not a French Immersion school, we do offer credit for the French Immersion course. In addition, ESL courses are offered as needed, resulting in a possible maximum of 3 English credits.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
The arts program at Blyth Academy is very much tailored to the students' strengths and interests. In music, for example, if the students wish to study guitar, we locate a music studio in the neighbourhood and provide the appropriate setting and instruction. If students in Visual Arts wish to pursue pottery, classes take place in a nearby pottery studio. Individual creativity is very much the focus of our arts programming.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
Students are highly encouraged to bring their own device to class each day. Laptops are used extensively in each class, and the majority of resources and assignments are posted on our educational portal, ensuring that students always have access to class notes, upcoming assignments, and pertinent digital resources. In addition, students who opt to delve further into Information Technology, Media or Film Studies are encouraged to equip their devices with appropriate and efficient software.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Physical Education takes many forms at Blyth Academy. Outdoor education is the backbone of our programming, however we do regularly access a nearby facilities as needed, as well as pools, basketball courts, hockey arenas, martial arts studio, and fitness centres. As part of our extracurricular programming, physical education is delivered by means of school soccer teams and clubs. Students are required to complete the pertinent theory components to all Physical Education classes, which is delivered in the classroom.
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Play-based
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
The Junior School sparks a joy and interest in learning that will stay with a student for life. Caring teachers stimulate natural curiosity. Small classes allow for the personal attention that helps a young girl thrive and develop her self-esteem. Students follow a curriculum that provides a solid grounding in basic skills and promotes good study habits. From the earliest age, girls learn to express themselves as competent communicators and to develop self reliance. Students learn through inquiry-based instruction within a variety of subject disciplines, including English and French, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, and Physical Education.
Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
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Rigorous
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
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”.
At Blyth Academy, we have high academic expectations, and provide students with the supportive and flexible environment in which to reach those high standards. Teachers are very much focused on student learning and success, ensuring understanding for each individual, and engaging the entire class in the learning process. The academic success of each student is based entirely on the individual's learning style and academic goals.
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"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Graduates of Blyth Academy will step into post secondary education with an appreciation for hard work and their fellow peers. While supportive by nature, our staff pushes students to strive for academic excellence, without sacrificing the human element. Empowering each student to be emotionally mature, socially balanced, academically driven, and personally open and accepting is an inherent goal for each student who spends time with us.
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FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
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.
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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. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Accommodations
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Information not available
As Branksome Hall is an independent school with a rigorous admissions process, our students with identified learning needs are generally high-functioning students. They have formal, individual, written plans based on a psycho-educational assessment, medical documentation or social emotional documentation. Provincial funding is not available for our Learning Strategies program. For this reason, Branksome is unable to support students whose learning needs exceed the inclusive classroom.
Academic success presents itself in many forms, and requires diverse learning situations. At Blyth Academy, we are well versed in the role of accommodating students with various challenges. Differentiated learning is common place in each classroom. These accommodations, by way of student support plans, are developed in cooperation with the student, family, teacher, guidance counsellor and administration, as a whole team approach.
Branksome Hall follows an inclusion and Learning Diversity Policy where every student is the responsibility of every classroom teacher and where our teachers take ownership of the special learning needes of students in their classroom and differentiate their instruction to meet those needs.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
9 - 12
7 - 12
4%
5%
$6,500
$0
95%
30%
6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 01, 2023
Not available
Rolling
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 12
No
Yes: grades 9 - 11
No
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
No
No
Students wishing to attend Blyth Academy should be academically oriented, with post-secondary education as the goal.
Students who thrive at Branksome Hall are thoughtful learners who seek knowledge and think critically. Even at a young age, Branksome Hall students are comfortable with differing points of view and they ask challenging questions and solve complex problems. It is important that students are interested in engaging with the school, their community and the world around us. Some key words that describe the Branksome Hall student include risk-taker, communicator, thinker, inquirer, principled, caring, open-minded, balanced, reflective, spirited and awe-inspiring.
Students and families are required to meet with both administration and guidance as part of the initial application to ensure the goals of the student are in line with the philosophy of Blyth Academy. Formal application and registration may then take place online, or in person.