906 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 2J2, Canada
216, rue Victoria, Baie-D'Urfé, Montreal, Quebec, H9X 2H9, Canada
906 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 2J2, Canada
216, rue Victoria, Baie-D'Urfé, Montreal, Quebec, H9X 2H9, Canada
2012
1980
100
300
JK to 8
Preschool to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, Mandarin
English, French, German
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Traditional
18 to 20
10 to 12
In-class adaptations
$23,950
$9,950 to $12,350
Yes
Yes
0%
0%
4 to 8
1 to 12
$0
$5,000
9
19
0%
0%
90%
80%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 4 - 8
Yes: grades K - 12
No
No
No
No
information not available
information not available
The Dalton School is a dual-language school, so it doesn't use the language immersion model that most Canadians are familiar with. First off, no prior Mandarin or English proficiency is required to enroll. Further, both languages are given equal weight, unlike in many public school immersion programs where students all share a first language and are all learning the same second language—at The Dalton School, 50% of the day’s instruction is in Mandarin, and 50% in English. The curriculum is balanced in order to allow students to achieve academic proficiency in both languages. So, it’s different, and as such, visiting the school can be, and often is, a striking experience. Most Canadians, truly, have never experienced an academic environment quite like it, with very young children functioning easily, casually in two languages. Both languages naturally open up a range of learning areas—both social and academic—not the least being an exposure to a wider range of culture influence, providing the groundwork for an expanding and empathetic world view. All academics follow an enriched presentation of the Ontario curriculum. Dalton has a very close, community feel, and parents are welcome to be involved in the life of the school. A new home for the school is set to open in 2018, allowing space to further grow the program and the enrollment.
View full reportThe program at Alexander von Humboldt is unique in Canada, principally because it admits students for whom either English, French, or German is the language spoken at home. Students need to use those languages not just to interact with the coursework, but also to make themselves understood to their peers, something which creates a particularly rich academic environment. Students arrive speaking different languages, with different life experiences, yet all share the experience of difference, and are faced each day with the social and linguistic challenges of making themselves understood to others. While they learn languages, they also have a more authentic experience of language than students in the more typical immersion programs found in Canada. Likewise, the atmosphere is particularly conducive to the development of social competencies, including empathy and cooperation, as well as an authentic global perspective through which the core curriculum is taught. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a challenging, diverse academic and social environment.
View full report
Kind, caring, dedicated instruction
Julie Majic - Parent (Mar 29, 2018)
I have 3 children at the Dalton School and this is our 4th year here, so we have experienced prescho...
View full review
information not available
"Established in 2012, The Dalton School is a warm, enriched environment where young minds can truly grow and develop. We are a dual-language school for children in JK - Grade 8, where all core grade level academic subjects, including reading, writing, math, science and social studies are taught in two languages by native speaking teachers."
"From pre-K through Grade 12, AvH offers multilingual (German, French and English) private, internationally recognized German general education with special focus on languages, math and sciences. AvH is the only school in Canada to offer the German International Abitur which provides students with the opportunity to fast-track straight from high school to university where they are able to study at Canadian, German or international universities."
"Our curriculum is unlike any other school in Toronto. We are the only totally immersive English/Mandarin school in our city with a curriculum designed to help our students achieve superior academic proficiency in both languages. We do this, by exposing our students to an enriched program that not only focuses on academic excellence, it also promotes inquisitiveness, curiousity and innovation from an early age."
"We offer Trilingual learning environment :
We believe in opening doors for our students and pathing the way for future success – AvH-graduates leave our school trilingual (German, English & French)
We offer excellence in the STEM-subjects :
A major focus of AvH are STEM-subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths). Adhering to the German Education curriculum we build applied learning spaces and project-oriented units into our curriculum."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"In a safe and close-knit environment our highly qualified and dedicated teachers provide the very highest standard of education, from Preschool right up until Grade 12. Children benefit from small classes and feel nurtured in a modern and immersive learning setting."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"Why German?
Germany has the biggest economy in the European Union and the fourth largest worldwide. It is home to numerous international corporations and at the forefront of technological innovation. German is the most widely spoken mother-tongue language in Europe. And just like at AvH, English, French and German are the three official working languages of the European Union."
"According to research, English speakers use mainly the left side of their brain, while those who speak English and Mandarin use both of their brain’s temporal lobes, dramatically improving their chances of both academic and career success. For example, this stretching of cognitive muscles has been proven to improve a child’s proficiency in subjects such as math, as well as improve their executive functioning and decision-making ability."
"Multilingualism breaks down communication barriers, broadens horizons and allows us to learn about other cultures and ways of life. Numerous studies have shown that speaking multiple languages provides many advantages that go far beyond the knowledge of the languages themselves. Multilingual speakers can concentrate better, resolve conflicts easier and empathize better with others. Overall, the multilingual brain is much more flexible, even into old age."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to The Dalton School! I am sincerely grateful that you have chosen us as one of the potential places to educate your child.
The Dalton School offers your child the truly unique opportunity to be fully immersed in both an English and Mandarin environment that integrates language and academics.
There are so many advantages to attending our school. Your child will build on their English academic skills, while learning Mandarin and thus become bilingual in two languages.
Research has proven that there are developmental benefits associated with a bilingual education. It is highly stimulating to the brain, stretching cognitive muscles and dramatically improving a child’s proficiency in subjects such as math. Importantly, the rewards continue in later years. A dual-language English/Mandarin education improves a child’s chances of both future academic and career success.
Learning in a highly nurturing environment will provide your child with the cultural awareness and sensitivity they need to engage and succeed in today’s multicultural world. Students will become conversant, in arguably, the two most significant languages on our planet - spoken by billions of people – opening all kinds of doors and opportunities.
I am proud to be the Principal at what I believe to be a school that is unlike any other in our city. I hope you enjoy learning about us and I would be happy to schedule a tour for you at our wonderful new facility.
I look forward to welcoming you and your child to our community.
Mrs. Rebecca Soil
Principal
AvH is a member of a network of over 140 German schools abroad. In 2018, we were once again awarded the official “Excellent School Abroad” seal of approval by the German government. We are recognized by the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement supérieur du Québec. Therefore, we can offer two degrees: the internationally respected and globally recognized German International baccalauréat (Abitur), which allows a seamless transition to university studies, as well as the Quebec Secondary School Diploma, which leads to CEGEP. Our school’s academic success is clearly reflected in the fact that our graduates go on to the world’s leading universities.
Since its founding in 1980, AvH has been educating students of German, Canadian and international origin. Our graduates acquire a wide range of skills and competencies and they master three languages: German, French and English. All this prepares them especially well for the challenges of our global world.
Information not available
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Not applicable
Our curriculum is designed to challenge young minds and build confidence. All core grade level academic subjects such as reading, writing, math, science and social studies are taught in both English and Mandarin by native speaking teachers.
Our challenging program adheres to both German and Quebec curricular requirements. The curriculum of every German school abroad offering the "German International Abitur' (DIA) is that of the German state of Thuringia. The subjects "Geography of Quebec and Canada", "History of Quebec and Canada" and "Politics & Economics" reflect the syllabus of the Province of Quebec.
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.
Our math program is innovative and uses a variety of approaches. Using the JUMP Math systematic approach, along with a variety of hands on manipulative materials students develop a strong foundation in basic math skills. Teaching students to understand fundamental operations, along with the memorization of math facts helps students work quickly and accurately through daily math work.
Information not available
JUMP Math Program, Montessori Math Materials, Mathletics and Chinese National Math Textbooks
Information not available
Calculators may be used at the upper grades once the process of an operation is fully understood.
Information not available
Not applicable
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Not applicable
The Dalton School has developed a very strong reading/literacy program beginning at the JK level in both Mandarin and English. In English, we have developed our reading program around the 5 Pillars of Reading: Phonetic Awareness, Phonemic Understanding, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension and Fluency. In Mandarin, recognition of characters begins at the JK level. We focus on simplified character development and the use of pinyin is introduced at the later SK/Grade 1 level. Guided reading and novel study is done in both languages throughout the elementary grades.
Information not available
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
As well as a strong emphasis placed on reading development, our program exposes students to the different writing genres. Our writing program begins with understanding words, development of the different types of sentence writing leading to paragraph writing and finally to writing for purpose/audience. Development of strong spelling and grammar skills rounds out our literacy program. Mandarin writing skills focus on the development of proper character strokes and sequence. In elementary students write journals, reading responses and stories
Information not available
Not applicable
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.
Not applicable
Our program develops a foundation for understanding the world through various scientific strands such as: biology, ecology, matter, experimentation, energy, weather, structures and mechanics. Collecting, sorting, comparing, observing and analyzing data help our young students to develop a scientific approach to the world. Exposure to scientific vocabulary, as well as experimentation, allows our students to build the skills needed for future scientific learning.
Information not available
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
Not applicable
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
Not applicable
Students are introduced to the mechanics of reading in English and Mandarin at the JK/SK level. Once solid mechanics have been developed students progress to independent reading, group guided reading and finally to novel study discussion groups where emphasis is placed on inferential and evaluative skills. Students are introduced to a variety of genres within our programs Students coming out of our JK/ SK program enter the Elementary with solid reading skills in both languages. Those graduating from our elementary program are thoughtful, reflective readers who read for meaning and understanding.
Information not available
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
Not applicable
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Not applicable
Our Social Studies program is thematic in nature. At each grade level we incorporate the main aspects of the Ontario curriculum, while enriching the students' learning of world geography through stories, traditions, and holidays of the major cultures of the world.
Information not available
Not applicable
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Not applicable
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The Dalton School is a dual language program following a 50/50 model. Subject areas are taught in two languages; Mandarin and English. Mandarin is used as a medium for instruction rather than as a "subject" that is taught. All aspects of the language and culture are incorporated through our diverse, innovative curriculum. French and Spanish classes are offered as an extended day option. These classes are offered daily from 3:30-5:30 and run throughout the school year.
Information not available
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
Information not available
Not applicable
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Not applicable
Art exploration along with art appreciation are regularly incorporated into our program. We value student creativity and exploration, and encourage the use of a variety of mediums. Students are exposed to a wide range of activities such as dance, music, and drama in preparation for our yearly concert performances.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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.
Computers and technology are incorporated into everyday classroom activities. Students are introduced to word processing at the grade one level beginning with keyboarding skill development and simple document formatting. More advanced skills are introduced throughout the elementary grades. Internet safety is introduced as students begin to use the computers for research. A variety of online programs in English, Mandarin and Spanish are used for learning/skill development throughout all grade levels.
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
The Dalton School uses the SPARK Physical Education Curriculum. SPARK (Sports, Play, and Active Recreation for Kids) is a researched-based, public-health organization dedicated to creating, implementing and evaluating physical education principles that promote lifelong wellness. Instructional units are designed to develop students’ motor, cognitive, and social skills.
At AvH, we promote physical health through regular physical education classes. Our exceptional athletic facilities include two gyms, a soccer field, a running track and an outdoor multi-purpose court. In average 3 hours/week of sports classes are given per grade.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
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 Dalton School JK/SK dual language program offers children a solid foundation in language, math, social studies and social skill development in two languages. Throughout their day children are engaged in a variety of activities such as small group lessons, guided inquiry and play based centres. Students eagerly participate in activities that promote and reinforce the building blocks to all future learning success.
Each child goes through developmental stages at his or her own pace. We take our time, gently guiding each child through these stages while fostering individual skills.
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.
Information not available
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 “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.
The elementary school s small and comfortable. The school size provides ideal conditions for personal development and encouragement of the individual child. A strong sense of community imparts a sense of security and the children enjoy learning. The secondary level curriculum complies with the requirements stipulated by the German "Kultusministerkonferenz" (KMK, The Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in the Federal Republic of Germany). The individual talents and needs of students are taken into account whenever possible and where physical and staffing resources permit.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Independent Free Thinker Multilingual Bilingual Global Citizens STEM and enriched science
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
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
4 - 8
1 - 12
0%
0%
$0
$5,000
90%
80%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 4 - 8
Yes: grades K - 12
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
The Dalton School accepts children from Jk to grade eight who have an obvious enthusiasm and a love for learning. Our enriched academic curriculum is taught in English and Mandarin, and our students have an openness to the world around them that is not found in those learning a single language. We believe that all young children who are placed in a highly stimulating academic setting and a nurturing, caring environment will thrive regardless of their initial aptitudes however the child and their parents must fully engage in our curriculum to get the most out of it.
A multilingual education (especially a trilingual education) can be challenging for both students and parents, yet the benefits of that hard work are incalculable. We look for students and parents who are want to accept this challenge and will put in the required work and effort to achieve them.
Our application process begins with a tour of the school. This will allow you to learn about our unique, progressive fully immersive dual language program and to see if it is the right fit for your child. To apply to the school please fill out our online application which can be found on our website at: www.thedaltonschool.ca.
Families who are interested will be invited for a tour and an interview with the principal.
Skype interviews can be arranged for all parents and students who do not live in the area.
The purpose of the interview is to give a general idea about the school and provide an opportunity to ask questions. It is also important to get to know each other and prevent false expectations.
