AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Calgary Waldorf School vs. Christ Church Cathedral School

one-to-one comparison:

View Calgary Waldorf School's full report
VS.
View Christ Church Cathedral School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    515 Cougar Ridge Dr. SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3H 5G9, Canada

    912 Vancouver Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 3V7, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1985

    1989

    Enrolment

    240

    270

    Grades

    JK to 9

    JK to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Social
    The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Waldorf

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    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.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    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.

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Waldorf
    Highly group-oriented and with a strong emphasis on creative and imaginative play, Waldorf preschool and Kindergarten programs have very little to no emphasis on academics. A Waldorf environment will often feel more like a home than a traditional classroom -- the goal being to instill comfort and and a sense of predictability in students’ day. This emphasis on comfort and predictability also manifests through a heavy use of repetition: for example, teachers might read the same story multiple days in a row. Waldorf schools ask parents to refrain from offering children TV or computers at home, and aim to develop in children a connection to the natural world. If you want to learn more about Waldorf education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $6,170 to $12,130

    $8,196 to $16,950

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    6%

    Eligible grades for FA

    Preschool to 9

    K to 8

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $3,925

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    20

    25

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    The program is established and proven, having been founded in 1985. Facilities are frankly excellent, having been purpose built for the CWS program in 2002, and created through consultation and cooperation with the entire school community. Spaces are ample, well appointed, and naturally lit. The aesthetic throughout is energizing. A wealth of outdoor space is a plus, to with more than four acres combining multi-use fields, play spaces, and sports fields. The proximity to the Canada Olympic Park isn’t perhaps meaningful in any substantive way, but is nice all the same. In the creation of the facility, to the day-to-day experience of the school, the school prides itself on the community that it both serves and represents, and well it should. There’s a village feel throughout, which only amplifies the academic work being done. Parents feel as much a part of the school as the students, which supports the work of the school in lots of overt and subtle ways. Staff are dedicated and experienced, and the daily routines—from drop off to aftercare—are friendly and sympathetic to the needs of parents and everything that can pop up in the course of a day.

    View full report

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Located in the heart of Victoria, B.C., Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) provides a first-rate education for boys and girls from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. While it’s an Anglican school that promotes Christian values, it welcomes kids from all religious backgrounds. Many families choose CCCS for its tight-knit community and its supportive and welcoming environment. But it’s also known for having exceptional teachers, small class sizes, and a broad scope of curricular and extracurricular programs. A distinguishing feature of CCCS is that its students learn to make a difference in the world through various activities such as preparing food for the hungry, singing and reading to seniors, and organizing fundraising events for charities.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    "The school is very blessed to have experienced, passionate teachers and educational assistants."
    Lindsay Loomer - Parent   (Apr 13, 2023)
    We had a wonderful experience at Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS). Despite starting in the midd... View full review

    "There isn’t enough space here for me to sing the praises of the teachers both my children have encountered."
    Philippa Carrie - Parent   (Apr 13, 2023)
    My children and I love the sense of community - the students in other grades and the teachers know t... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Central to Waldorf education is a deep respect for childhood. Our enriched curriculum is designed to meet children where they are in their development. Movement and time in nature is built into every student’s daily rhythm. The Waldorf learning experience is hands-on, with unwired and low-tech classrooms. The arts — music, story, drawing, painting, and drama — are interwoven through all subjects. Students also learn two world languages, French and German."

    • Beginning in grade one children learn two world languages, French and German.
    • Handwork and Woodwork are part of the curriculum
    • Middle School students take part in a series of elective classes including wrestling, robotics, etc.
    • Independent School athletics program begins in grade seven with after school sports.

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    "Founded in 1989, Christ Church Cathedral School provides an outstanding and inspiring education to children JK-8. Ranking among the very top performing schools in our city and rooted in the Anglican ethos, we provide a well-rounded curriculum accessible to students of all beliefs, nurturing the spiritual, social, physical and intellectual growth of every child. We aspire to be the school of choice for families who seek an excellent education for their children in a vibrant, caring and inclusive community."

    • Faith: All children participate in daily grace at lunch time. We attend chapel once a week.
    • Emergent curriculum: Whenever possible we facilitate small group learning.
    • We offer Art Class and Music Class, (Kindergym, Yoga and Movement with the JKs) and more!
    • We offer French from Kindergarten through to Grade 8
    • We provide choristers with a world-class musical education in partnership with the Cathedral.
    • We create a supportive and challenging atmosphere conducive to hard work, focus, fun, and reward.
    • We foster mentorship between older and younger students, and support relationships between peers.
    • We deliver excellent music within the school and in cathedral services.
    • STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programming where the ‘A’ matters.
    • Our location offers exceptional options in after-school care for parents working downtown.

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "This whole-child approach to education is rooted in the Waldorf concepts of "feeling, thinking, willing," and "heart, head, hands." These concepts are based on Dr. Rudolf Steiner's philosophies, and adapted for a changing world. We strive to honour, nurture, and protect the childhood of our students; to guide them into healthy adolescence; and to help them mature in ways that go beyond the simply material aspects of our nature and our world."

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    "Our low student-to-teacher/educational assistant ratio allows us to “know your child.” All our teachers support and challenge our students to effectively draw out their best efforts. The result is students who are ready to take on challenges and step into leadership roles. If you are not yet part of our school community, please get in touch with us to arrange your personal tour."

    Array

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Our philosophy prioritizes the integration of arts, imagination, and movement into all academic disciplines. Our curriculum fosters intellectual flexibility and creative thinking, with an eye to ethics and morality. Knowledge is important, but understanding what to do with that knowledge is critical. We believe that becoming a successful human is a function of weaving together a rich tapestry of capacities and abilities."

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    "Our downtown Victoria location provides three unique campuses for JK-8 and after-school care for parents working downtown. Our small class sizes, low teacher-to-student ratio and access to nearby community facilities and outdoor spaces provide diverse opportunities for our programs and curriculum within and beyond the school."

    Array

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

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "The use of electronic media, particularly television, by young children is discouraged in Waldorf schools. So too is the over-emphasis of commercialism and busy extra-curricular schedules. The importance of a balanced and strong family life is emphasized, encouraged and supported at our school."

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    "Waldorf class teachers build strong relationships with their students. Our methodology is rooted in rhythm and routine, and supported by having a Class Teacher. The teacher stays with their class for several consecutive years, acting as mentor, role model, and guardian. A Class Teacher is better able to assess each individual's development needs, and fosters shared experience and a strong bond between the teacher and the students and their families."

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    "One consistently praised aspect of CCCS is the strong sense of community fostered among students, parents, and staff. Families joining our school are warmly welcomed into a close-knit community characterized by a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Our inviting environment makes it easy for families to acclimate to the unique culture of our school quickly, and we take great pride in creating a welcoming and engaging space for all who are a part of our community."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    Information not available

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    information not available

    Welcome to Christ Church Cathedral School. When I ask parents why they chose to send their children to our School, their answers are unique, of course, but there are common threads in their responses. Most choose Christ Church Cathedral School for its strong sense of community, an appreciation for the Christian values of the school, our outstanding teachers that always go that extra mile, small classes, and the variety of extra- and co-curricular programming one would expect only at a much larger school.

    When I ask the teachers and support staff what it is about our school that they are most proud of, they too speak of a supportive and connected community, the values we live by, and the wonderful programming we offer.  But they are most proud of our students.

    With one class at each grade level, every student becomes part of a close-knit cohort that feels like family—a family that offers support and encouragement and celebrates the success of each individual.  This is summed up by our school motto, “Let your light shine!”

    Upon graduating from CCCS in grade 8, our students stand out in Victoria’s high schools as mature and confident learners, ready to get involved in the positive opportunities available to them.  They are ready to make a real difference in their high school and in the community beyond. I would be pleased to show you around so you can learn how we can help your child shine.

    I look forward to meeting you,

    Stuart Hall
    Head of School

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    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

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL

    • Our School is a member of the I.S.A.A. (Independent Schools’ Athletic Association), a league of independent schools in Calgary that coordinates the sporting season for its students.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Preschool - 9

    K - 8

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    6%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $3,925

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    0%

    Day entry years

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    Yes: grades JK - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

    What the school says

    CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

    We are thrilled you are considering our school for your child’s education and childcare needs!

    Step 1

    Come to the school or our JK for a personal tour and a consultation regarding your child’s education. Contact the school office at 250-383-5125 or email [email protected] to set up a time.​

    Contact our JK Director, Caitlin Wynne [email protected] for Junior Kindergarten.

    Step 2

    The next step is to submit an application. After we receive your application and all required documents, your child will be considered for placement. If we determine your child is well-suited for a Cathedral School education and we have a spot for your child, we will then invite your child into the school for a visit as part of a group (Kindergarten entrance) or individually. 

    Step 3

    Our admissions team will contact you with our decision and guide you through the rest of the registration process.  

    ​If you have any questions about enrolling your child at any time, please reach out to speak with us.  We accept children throughout the year if space is available and give priority to siblings so they can attend together. Other, consideration for admission is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




x

By logging in or creating an account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Information presented on this page may be paid advertising provided by the advertisers [schools/camps/programs] and is not warranted or guaranteed by OurKids.net or its associated websites. By using this website, creating or logging into an Our Kids account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Please also see our Privacy Policy. Our Kids ™ © 2023 All right reserved.