1279 Seaton Road, Sheffield, Ontario, L0R 1Z0, Canada
3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7J 3E8, Canada
1996
2004
179
345
JK to 8
JK to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
16
Varies
In-class adaptations
$13,500
$27,200 to $30,600
Yes
Yes
2%
0%
JK to 8
SK to 12
$14,000
$0
16
23
0%
0%
85%
0%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Feb 01, 2024
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes
No
No
information not available
information not available
Lee Academy has been committed to offering the finest elementary school experience in Ontario since its founding in 1996. This commitment is reflected in the school’s high academic standards, supportive environment, personalized education, and small class sizes. Attracting students from a broad range of communities, Lee Academy operates two campuses, both utilizing the outdoors as an integral part of education. The Lynden campus, placed amid 180 acres of farmland, trails, lake, and forest, provides a vibrant learning environment from JK to Grade 8. The Sheffield campus currently accepts students up to Grade 2 and is expanding each year, with the goal of becoming a full JK-8 school. In addition to core subjects and specialties like French, drama, physical education, and environmental studies, the school regularly organizes off-site field trips, including overnight trips for senior grades, and emphasizes a focus on creative and engaging learning experiences. Parents are drawn to Lee Academy for its combination of academic excellence, individual attention, immersive learning experiences, and its dedicated, qualified teaching staff.
View full reportFamilies rightly turn to Brockton for strong academics, and it certainly has that, undergirded by the IB program. But families turn to private school for other reasons as well, prime among them an environment in which students enter a community of peers of a like mind, and who are academically inclined, and Brockton offers that as well. Even more importantly though is an aspect of the school that perhaps parents don’t think to first, though they should, and that’s the opportunity to have authentic experience with a range of endeavor that they wouldn’t otherwise. The community of the Brockton School is close-knit, while the academic and extracurricular programs are broad. No, it’s not always easy to try new things, and the school is cognizant of the barriers to participation, anticipates them, and seeks to provide a sympathetic introduction. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a vibrant, active, supportive yet challenging academic environment.
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"I can't speak highly enough about the quality of the education here."
Jessica Law - Parent (Jan 25, 2024)
Our son just loves his school! All of his teachers are just wonderful and beyond kind. Each and ever...
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"The smaller size classrooms that are provided at Lee Academy (16 students) are wonderful."
Sarah Dailley - Parent (Jan 25, 2024)
My son started at Lee Academy in JK and is now halfway through GR. 1. From his very first day of sch...
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"The leadership team is extremely accessible and engaged."
Nasr Ali - Parent (Feb 20, 2024)
My son looks forward to going to school each morning and gets antsy every long weekend because he is...
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"At Lee Academy, each child is given an academically challenging education based on reading, writing and arithmetic. Recognizing that ability varies from child to child, we teach these fundamental skills as early as possible, starting in Kindergarten. Each student’s programme includes education in music, art, and specialty subjects such as French, physical education, science, computers, and environmental studies for an engaging, well-rounded curriculum."
"Brockton is a co-educational IB Continuum World School located in North Vancouver with programs from JK to Grade 12. At Brockton students are offered an inclusive, holistic, and challenging learning environment where personal experience and development is paramount. The program supports students in becoming life-long learners, and offers a variety of co-curricular, leadership, and service opportunities. At Brockton every student and every family is known, welcomed, respected, and valued."
"Lee Academy was founded on the belief that there is a need in our society for a school which has high expectations of the students, both academically and socially, to foster in the children confidence and high self-esteem. The education of our children must prepare each of them to develop into an intelligent, prosperous and productive member of society. We focus on the individual needs of our students, while also building community among our students, teachers and families."
"Within a challenging IB framework, Brockton School focuses on each child and on the whole child. It is a school where every student matters, every family matters, community matters, and learning for life matters. Students work to learn from successes and challenges to explore their sense of purpose and direction. Students are given the strong foundations that inspire them on a journey as outstanding humans."
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"Lee Academy was founded on the belief that there is a need in our society for a school which has high expectations of the students, both academically and socially, to foster in the children confidence and high self-esteem. The education of our children must prepare each of them to develop into an intelligent, prosperous and productive member of society.
Four kindergarten students were the only registrants that first September in 1996. Many people believed that with so few students and a leased facility that Lee Academy was not going to last.
The school was not built based on numbers and leases, however. It was built on a profound belief by its founders, Steven and Alison Will, that Lee Academy was the right thing to do. To build the finest academic elementary school in Ontario was, and remains, their goal. Each year the school has grown in its enrolment, in its programmes, in its staff and in its facilities."
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"Lee Academy supports our students, their families and our teaching staff so that all of us can contribute positively to a global community. We believe in the importance of academic excellence, experiential learning, volunteerism and the development of lifelong learners. We remain committed to our small class sizes of 16 because we fundamentally understand the importance of individual attention, fostering a love of learning and raising our students to be productive members of our society."
"Families choose Brockton because of the authentic connections made between students, staff, and families that, when married to the program delivery, lead to thriving and confident learners. The environment is warm, welcoming, and supportive. The academic standard is high and students are inspired to learn how to learn. Inspiring and supporting students to pursue their dreams with a sense of purpose is a priority."
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"Our teachers are among the finest in Ontario. They go through a rigorous application process to ensure we are hiring intelligent, engaging, creative and committed teachers. We know that having a strong school begins and ends with our educators. They must be committed professionals who are "teachers of children, rather than teachers of subjects". Our teachers are dedicated individuals who value education and put our students first."
"Brockton has an impressive number and diversity of programs.
Students find extraordinary success in multiple arenas.
The student leadership program is innovative and engaging of all students in one capacity or another.
The culture of the school and the associated supports attracts accomplished and outstanding staff."
"At Lee Academy, our students have countless opportunities to learn in ways that foster engagement, creativity and excitement about learning. Through presentations, projects, science fairs, creative writing contests and more, our students are inspired learners. We participate in an off-site field trip experience at least once per month, including overnight trips in Grade 6, 7 & 8. Our students are exceptionally well prepared for high school and post-secondary school."
"Brockton walks the talk. It is not words on a website or other; Brockton lives its mission and guiding principles.
Brockton is an incredibly innovative school and works with students and families to be successful today and in the future. Brockton is not afraid to be ahead of the curve."
"Lee Academy is a school that has never been like any other school. Our students receive a personalized education from teachers who are among the finest in Ontario. Our students and staff define us. Our families support us. We look forward to offering the best programmes to their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In late fall of 2022, Lee Academy purchased the former public school on Seaton Road, on the edge of Hamilton/Cambridge, in the village of Sheffield. In our newly renovated primary wing, we began offering Kindergarten and Grade One in the fall of 2023. Both campuses embrace all the foundations that make Lee Academy exceptional."
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"Our new campus, located in the village of Sheffield, opened in September 2023, with Kindergarten and Grade One in our newly renovated primary wing. We will continue to add one grade each year until we reach Grade 8, becoming a full JK-8 elementary school."
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Imagine a school where students are excited about getting to class; where students are encouraged to be risk-takers; where every opportunity is seen as one for learning. Imagine a school where parents, teachers and students collaborate to create their best possible educational adventure. Imagine Brockton!
Brockton is a safe, caring environment where students are challenged academically through a broad and balanced curriculum which surpasses the expectations of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and British Columbia Education Ministry requirements. The academic programme is complemented by a range of co-curricular activities, from athletics and leadership, to service and our World Music Program. Students are encouraged to engage with our local and global communities as they are guided to become life-long learners.
As an IB World School we embrace the concepts of 21st century learning, providing challenging programs in a culture of inquiry, and fostering the importance of giving service to others. At Brockton we encourage all students to achieve their true potential by being active learners and global citizens.
Students at Brockton don’t simply attend school, they embark on an educational adventure where they are encouraged to take risks and inquire about the world around them. I am really proud to be the Head of Brockton School. It is an honour to lead a truly dedicated and highly trained staff and to serve the families of the Brockton Community. I would like you to be able to experience everything that is brilliant about Brockton, and I welcome you all to come and see what makes our school so special.
Progressive
International Baccalaureate
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.
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.
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.
Our mandate is to be the finest academic elementary school in Ontario. We follow the Ontario Ministry Guidelines as our minimum standards and then broaden our plans as well as introduce topics of study and projects that are unique to Lee Academy. We aim to ensure all students establish a strong academic foundation and at the same time are introduced to a wide variety of lessons so that all students discover their true strengths. Every teacher assesses each student carefully and individualizes lessons accordingly. Unless a particular modification must be made for a student with a specific learning profile, grades are earned against Lee Academy’s grade guidelines. We expect a lot from our students and they rise to that challenge.
Brockton is an IB World Continuum School hosting the Primary Years Programme (JK-Gr.5), Middle Years Programme (Gr.6-Gr.10), and Diploma Programme, with a choice of pathways at Grade 11&12. At Brockton, student learning and personal experience are paramount. Students are acknowledged as individuals and are supported according to their respective gifts and areas for growth. Brockton’s small class sizes and close knit community allow for the outstanding faculty and staff to guide students in a journey of inspired learning. The Brockton program is challenging, innovative, and holistic and integrates an array of co-curricular, leadership, service, and character-development opportunities. From the students entering as early as JK through to our Brockton Graduates (and Alumni), Brockton aims to nurture (among other things) self-awareness, resiliency, ingenuity, open-mindedness, international-mindedness, principled behaviours, social responsibility, effective communication, and a sense of purpose. Brockton students are guided on a journey of learning that provides them opportunities to chart a course for success during their school years, at their choice of post-secondary, and in life beyond.
Equal Balance
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.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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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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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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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.
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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
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These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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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
Not applicable
Not applicable
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Not applicable
Not applicable
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Not applicable
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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
Information not available
Not applicable
Not applicable
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Not applicable
Not applicable
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Play-based
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.
Students must be educated in all the core subjects and learn to love school and the work associated with it. They must also be trained in working as a group and respecting those around them. Our Junior Kindergarten programme is designed to give children a balanced programme of stimulating work and fun play to develop key social and academic skills.
Early Years Education at Brockton School emphasizes the facilitation of intentional and experiential learning opportunities through a play-based inquiry model. Our unique approach builds upon the framework and curricular requirements of both the BC Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate's Primary Years Programme. While play-based in nature, there is a strong academic framework that sets a foundation for early elementary school success. At Brockton, we believe that children learn through doing, and therefore our students are provided with opportunities to explore their interests and passions in a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment.
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.
Brockton is an innovative school where creative opportunities for learning are optimized. Personalized approaches to teaching/learning, a well-resourced Student Services team, and multiple pathways of grade 11/12 programming are among the aspects that support diverse learning needs.
Rigorous
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”.
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”.
Please note: we would like to be listed in both rigorous and supportive categories. To define us in one and not the other would be misleading. Brockton provides a unique combination of a rigorous academic program within a supportive academic culture. Students are inspired to want to learn and to engage a life-long curiosity. This inspiration is nurtured within the challenging IB academic curricular program, a program that is process based while preparing students for optimal post-secondary and future success. Brockton works with each student (and family) to establish goals for each student relative to their particular potential.
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Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Brockton attends to the whole child development. While there is a focus on intellectual growth, this is achieved through a balanced approach with attention paid to the multiple aspects that lead to a student's overall development. Brockton exists within a compassionate community where students are encouraged to explore their own growth in multiple dimensions.
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RecreationalRec. |
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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
JK - 8
SK - 12
2%
0%
$14,000
$0
85%
0%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Feb 01, 2024
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
It is our job to challenge and support all our students so that the programmes work for them. All students are assessed before entering the school and every opportunity is taken to help your child thrive at Lee Academy.
Student selection is based on both academic and non-academic considerations. These include but are not limited to: The ‘fit’ of the child and family with the school. The availability of space and class composition at the particular grade level. Character traits such as curiosity, independence, responsibility, self-discipline, and creativity.
To enroll your child is a simple process. Please know that because we maintain small classes (at 16 students maximum), you are wise to apply as early as possible. The application does not require a fee until you have visited Lee Academy and placement is arranged.
We are currently accepting applications for both campuses. On the application, please indicate which campus you are applying to:
South Campus at 1978 2nd Concession West in Lynden
North Campus at 1279 Seaton Road in Sheffield
Fill out the application and background information form available, either by downloading them or contacting the school. Please ensure that you provide all the information requested.
STEP 1: DISCOVER BROCKTON
Start by exploring our website for information about the school, our programming, fees, deadlines for admissions, and culture.
Dive deeper into our unique programming by downloading our Admissions Information Package or registering for an Open House.
Once you know that Brockton is the right fit for your family, click the apply button. You will be prompted to create an account and fill out an online application.
Please note that applications are not considered complete until we receive all supporting documentation, and the non-refundable $300 application fee has been paid.
For more detailed information on the application process, download our application guide and required documentation checklist.
STEP 3: SCHEDULE ASSESSMENTS
Student applicants are required to participate in an entrance assessment to determine ‘fit’ and evidence of the applicant’s potential for success within our program. Parents will also be invited to meet with a member of our admissions/leadership team for a personal interview.
These can be booked in your admissions checklist.