AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Mentor College vs. The Cole Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Mentor College's full report
VS.
View The Cole Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    40 Forest Avenue, Mississauga, Ontario, L5G 1L1, Canada

    2423 Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4E 1H6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1982

    2022

    Enrolment

    1500

    15

    Grades

    JK to 12

    JK to 8

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Arts

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    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.
    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    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.
    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

    16 to 19

    5 to 10

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    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
    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

    $15,965 to $23,200

    $25,000

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    100

    1

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    0%

    Day entry years

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes

    Yes: grades K - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Mentor College and TEAM School are closely associated, something that brings unique strengths to both. They are overseen by a single administrative body, and they share some facilities, services, and extracurricular programs. The benefits are in a shared infrastructure and organizational efficiency. The facilities are modern and robust, as are student services and transportation. There is a robust, rich program of extra-curricular activity, something that, again, is a benefit of not only the school's size, but also the intra-school associations and programs. That said, the division of the campuses gives each—high school, intermediate, and primary—its own sense of propriety and identity. It's a unique model, one that gains both the benefits of a large student population, as well as those of smaller communities of students. In numbers, this is one of the largest schools in Canada, though the lived experience of the families that attend doesn't bear that out. Frequent and casual communication between parents and teachers, as well, underscores a personal, student and family-centered approach.

    View full report

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    A holistic approach to learning, richly infused with the arts, self-expression, environmental education, and social awareness, sets The Cole Academy apart as a uniquely progressive school. Central to its curriculum is outdoor learning, with one day each week dedicated to environmental studies, cultivating a connection with nature. The Cole Academy carefully tailors individual education plans to each student's needs, benefitting from small class sizes and the Student Mapping and Success program, celebrating each student’s unique talents and interests. Core subjects like mathematics and science are supplemented with lessons about under-represented communities, cultivating a deeper sense of citizenship and social consciousness among students. Beginning in Grade 7, the academy offers comprehensive guidance on high school preparation, encompassing school choice, application processes, and the development of essential skills. This holistic approach at The Cole Academy is designed to cultivate well-rounded individuals, thoroughly prepared to embrace the challenges of secondary education and beyond.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    "The school is small, so lots of attention can be given to kids who need a challenge."
    Emmy Pantin - Parent   (Jan 24, 2024)
    When my son started at the Cole Academy in September, he could barely read. His reading ability has ... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    "Mentor College provides a strong academic program for its students. A caring environment rich in personal attention has been established, and this positive atmosphere both allows and encourages students to think and reason for themselves. The school places emphasis on communication between the teacher, parent, and student. The homework book, monthly teacher phone call, and regular assessment ensure that this communication is clear and current. Located in Port Credit, Mississauga, the High School (Grades 9 to 12) and Intermediate (Grades 5 to 8) levels are housed at the Main Campus. An adjacent Primary Campus is home to the JK to Grade 4 students. The facilities include an indoor pool, artificial turf field, seasonal dome, multiple age and grade-appropriate gyms, science labs, and music rooms. Co-curricular trips to the school's Outdoor Education Centre in Muskoka enhance in-class learning in the upper grades. Extracurricular activities abound, and include learning opportunities in sports, music, drama and special-interest clubs."

    • Very strong academic program
    • 1:1 Laptop Program (Grades 9-12)
    • Turf Field & Winterized Dome
    • Mobile Technology
    • Two visual art studios
    • Separate campus for JK to Grade 4
    • Outstanding classroom facilities
    • High school: ROPSSAA Athletics
    • Elementary school: PSAA Athletics
    • Transportation available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    "The Cole Academy supports & nurtures children, celebrates their uniqueness, & sets them up for success. We use the arts to promote independence, confidence, & self-expression. Environmental education is embedded in all subjects & one day each week is devoted to learning outside. Curriculum is taught through stories of under-represented communities, including 2SLGBTQ+, BIPOC, & women. Hands-on learning, cooking, community service, environmental awareness, and artistic expression are touchstones of our programming."

    • All students receive individual education plans
    • Weekly cooking classes
    • Hands-on learning
    • Small class sizes
    • Extensive arts and theatre program
    • Progressive curriculum
    • Leadership and community service
    • Character development
    • Restorative justice

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    "Mentor College offers a consistently high quality of education from JK through to university entrance. Students benefit from this continuity as they progress through the grades and transition from the Primary to Intermediate to High School Divisions."

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    "Student input is essential in TCA's programming as we strive to fine-tune our approach to meet each student's learning styles. All students receive an individualized approach through our unique Student Mapping and Success plan that follows them throughout their time at TCA. Arts and environmental studies are part of all classes and students learn the curriculum in exciting and practical ways."

    Array

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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    "At Mentor, we pride ourselves on providing clear and consistent communication. The monthly phone call by the child's homeroom teacher (beginning with an introductory call in early September) provides parents with steady, clear, two-way communication. The homework book is another key component that begins in JK and continues to Grade 12. Evaluations take place throughout the entire school year and every student receives a detailed, formal progress report three times per year."

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    "We believe that the Mentor extracurricular program offers a club or team for just about every interest. There are clubs, teams, and special events at Mentor that have been running for decades. Many of these groups were initiated by a student or staff member's passion and knowledge in a specific area. Most clubs, teams, and events are grade/division-specific and schoolwide events like the Culture Show and the charity Fashion Show bring together students of all ages."

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    "Families are pleased when they discover how long Mentor College has been in existence. For over 40 years, Mentor has had a steady presence in Mississauga - preparing generations of students for success in university and in life. Parents are also reassured by the fact that all of the members of our leadership team - from director Mr. Macdonald to the principals - were at one time teachers in a Mentor classroom."

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Hello and thank you for taking the time to visit the Mentor College page at the Our Kids website. I am sure you will like what you see when you read about our school. Mentor College has been offering excellence in education since the school's founding in 1982. With our high standard of academics, extensive extracurricular programme, and superb teaching staff, we are able to prepare students for success in post-secondary education and beyond! If you would like to know more about the school, I kindly invite you to our next open house. Please click on the "Events" link for the next open house date. If you cannot make it on that day, one of our principals will be more than happy to meet with you and your child on a more convenient date.

    information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Traditional

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Information not available

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      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.

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Academic

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Whole Language


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Whole Language reading programs eschew sublexical (under the word-level) training, focusing instead on getting students to infer and guess at words based on their understanding of the larger meaning of the sentence (“context-clues”). Students are given ample opportunity to read actual literature (age-appropriate) along with strategies for using semantic-based clues to pronounce unrecognized words.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        DIBELS testing

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        No

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Social Justice


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        In social justice- inspired programs, literature is not viewed as something to be merely decoded and “appreciated”: rather, it is viewed as a catalyst to social action. Choice of texts tends to favour contemporary works. If a classical text is used, it’s often in the context of social deconstruction: students are asked to critically examine possible prejudices and historical narratives inherent in the work. Like in traditional literature programs, students are often asked to engage in class discussion and critical essay writing, but more time might also be devoted to cooperative group projects and personal reflections. The goal is to teach students to think critically about what they read, while becoming intellectually and physically engaged in the social issues pertaining to their wider community.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Information not available

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        MENTOR COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        THE COLE ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Academic

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      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.

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      All-day JK & SK.

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Standard-enriched

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Student-paced


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      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.

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Information not available

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Our Student Mapping & Success Plan creates an indiviualized plan for each student.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Supportive

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      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 COLE ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Information not available

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Information not available

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."


      Secondary

      Secondary

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Not applicable
      Not applicable

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      What the school says

      What the school says

      MENTOR COLLEGE

      Information not available

      THE COLE ACADEMY

      Information not available

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    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.
    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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    Information not available

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • 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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

    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

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    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

    MENTOR COLLEGE

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    0%

    Day entry years

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes

    Yes: grades K - 8

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes

    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

    THE COLE ACADEMY

    Step 1

    EMAIL [email protected] to schedule an initial information discussion with Jamie Milroy, founder & principal.

    Step 2

    Download the application form from our website, or email [email protected]  for an application package.

    Step 3

    Send the following items to [email protected]:

    • A copy of the student’s most recent report card

    • Any IEP or Special Education documentation, including psycho-educational reports and relevant diagnostics

    • A written statement as to why the student wants to join TCA (younger students can provide a drawing)

    • Example(s) of student’s artwork (visual, creative writing, acting/dancing video, etc…)

    Step 4

    Once we receive your information, we’ll email you to schedule an interview and provide next steps.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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MENTOR COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

THE COLE ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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