AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Tapply Binet College vs. Claren Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Tapply Binet College's full report
VS.
View Claren Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    245 Garner Road West, Ancaster, Ontario, L9G 3K9, Canada

    201- 1085 Homer Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6B 1J4, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1997

    2017

    Enrolment

    16

    80

    Grades

    7 to 12

    K to 7

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day, eSchool

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    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."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    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.
    Standard-enriched
    Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    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

    1 to 6

    9 to 11

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    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

    $5,600 to $34,000

    $19,855

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    K to 8

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $9,000

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    3

    10

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    75%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Yes: grades K - 6

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Private schools are created in order to address different kinds of learners, and different learning styles, and Tapply Binet is a great example of that. It’s a small school, which for the students who attend, is its great strength. The average class size is just 3 students, with none exceeding 6. As such, the program is very much student focused, and student led, in something akin to a tutorial approach to learning. Instructors engage closely with students, allowing them to interact with the material and with each other around the concepts being presented. Lessons are built to address the specific curiosities and perspectives that the students bring with them into the classroom. The goal of the program is to reward personal curiosity, and grow students’ ability to access and process information through that lens. The expertise of the staff is also a draw for the families that enroll—all instructors have doctorates and are specialists in the areas in which they teach. The ideal student is one operating at the top of his or her peer group, one who longs for an environment that will nurture their academic instincts, and who is preparing to continue to university.  

    View full report

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Claren Academy is one of those places that, in every way, was clearly created with the the learner foremost in mind. The teaching environment is bright, clean, and inviting, with lots of colour and natural light. It’s just a very comfortable place for young people to spend their days. Instruction is student-centred, building on the skills, interests, and needs that the students bring with them into the room. The intention is to deliver the attributes and knowledge they will need in the future as they move on to secondary and post-secondary education, and life. Administration references future-focused skills, though it says something about the school that creativity, empathy and kindness make that list. The school leadership is accessible, and assessment and progress reporting is consistent and detailed. So, yes, the school looks charming, and indeed it is, in all kinds of ways. Founded in 2017, Claren Academy has quickly become an important and valued educational offering within the city.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "He graduated from TBC as an Ontario Scholar, received early offers of admission from all..."
    Nicholas Richter - Parent   (Jan 06, 2021)
    Our son attended TBC for grades 9-12 and liked it so much that he stayed an extra year (also known a... View full review

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    information not available

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "Flexibility best describes our approach to learning. We pride ourselves on accommodating student and parent needs. In consultation with students and their parents, TBC provides a program to suit the needs of the individual with full and part-time options with class sizes ranging from 1 to 6 students. Empowerment and responsibility given to students provide ownership and their personal sense of success and recognition as a member of their school and community."

    • Tapply Online School accepting new students
    • Interactive live courses with specialist teachers
    • Approved credits towards Ontario Secondary School diploma
    • Ideal for Academic Scholars and Elite Athletes
    • Proven success with students on an Individualized Education Program IEP
    • High teacher to student ratio
    • Career counseling programs
    • Extra-curricular activities for a full school experience
    • Highly engaging teachers
    • Staff are specialists in their teaching area

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    "Claren Academy is a future-focused independent school located in downtown Vancouver. Claren Academy has a brand new campus and a vibrant middle years program for students in grades 7, 8, and 9. With individualized learning plans, dedicated educators, strong fundamentals, and real, hands-on learning, Claren Academy gives students the tools to be creative, competent, and happy in their changing world."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "Our team approach to education sets us apart. Together, staff are committed to reviewing student progress on an ongoing basis, ensuring the plan is optimal. Students are encouraged be part of this process as this fosters engagement in their learning."

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    "What sets Claren Academy apart from other schools?
    ---
    Our dedicated staff, our school-wide focus on kindness, and our unique approach to levelled literacy and math.

    - Our dedicated, passionate teachers focus on individualized learning to help each student achieve their best work, and be excited about the results.

    - The most important focus to set our students apart from robots, which can never be automated, is kindness. Mindfulness, community, and service to each other are fundamental to the Claren Academy model, and it is a joy to see our students grow into individuals we are proud to care for and learn from in return.

    - For the core foundational subjects of literacy and math, Claren uses a levelled program that fits students into their ‘just-right’ group, regardless of grade. This approach allows students to have more support as needed, and to advance to the next lesson only when mastery of previous lessons has been demonstrated."

    Array

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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    "When Claren Academy was founded in 2017, our goal was to prepare our students for the future as it will actually be when they graduate around 2030. We boiled it down to skills that robots do not have, such as collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Along with strong academic foundations and access to the best resources and educators, these are the skills and tools that will help our children succeed and be happy in their future."

    Array

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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "Families appreciate the dedication to their children's security and educational needs. "The Tapply staff are kind and helpful", as stated by one current Grade student."

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "As we operate from a heritage building, once the home of the Marshall potato farming family, we reference the importance of family and community. The single dwelling offers a homey atmosphere to their educational experience. For example, we all share the kitchen!"

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    "Backwards Design Approach

    The Claren Academy Learner Profile is a framework that guides our students towards becoming independent, reflective, and curious learners.

    We start by identifying the core attributes that we want our students to develop, such as creativity, critical thinking, empathy, and resilience. From there, we design learning experiences that help students develop and practice these skills.

    This backwards design approach ensures that everything we do at Claren Academy is aligned with our ultimate goal of developing well-rounded learners. It's not just about memorizing facts and figures - it's about developing the transferrable skills and growth mindset that will enable students to succeed in all areas of life.

    The Claren Academy Learner Profile is an integral part of our approach to education. It's a roadmap that guides our students towards becoming the best version of themselves, and it helps us ensure that every learning experience is purposeful and meaningful."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    "We profess to accommodate and empower our students. Families are surprised by the length we go to make this a reality. This year, a Grade 12 student sat in on the interviews to hire a Chemistry teacher. Another Grade 12 student taught the Grade 7 science class. Our Science Fair event included all science students."

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Information not available

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Let me introduce myself, Sue Davidson, proud Principal of Tapply Binet College, a Brick and Mortar School established in 2003 and Principal of Tapply Online High School launched in April 2020.

    Education for our young people is an essential service. We will continue to engage them. That is the key to students’ success. Our flexible program delivery, always considerate of the students’ schedules and needs, provides the students with a personalized program. This will ultimately lay the foundation for a bright future and tailored-fit career path. Our philosophy is simple – Engage, Empower, Encourage in a fluid world. Students will have access to post-secondary preparation by our Guidance Counselor Specialist.

    Please contact us to learn more about how we are putting STUDENTS FIRST

    information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Traditional

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      TAPPLY BINET 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.

      CLAREN 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

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Tapply Binet College delivers the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and meets the requirements as it passes the Ministry inspections.

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Claren Academy prepares students for the world of the future, with strong academic foundations and creative use of technology. We strive to develop critical thinkers who are caring, confident, lifelong learners in a diverse community. We foster creativity, joy, and passion for learning through our personal connections with each student and their family. We provide opportunities, encouragement, inspiration, and mentoring for each child. We use the B.C. curriculum to provide strong fundamentals using developmentally appropriate practices and materials, while also exposing students to forward-looking areas of study such as programming, virtual reality, robotics, and much more. Our technology-enhanced personalized learning takes place in a school environment that emphasizes creativity, independence, entrepreneurial skills, and academics. There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment. All students are immersed in a creative learning process through exploration, critical thinking, and reflection. Together the students think, work, and create in a way that demonstrates their new understanding.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Students too often have a fear or reluctance in mathematics. Our staff encourage a love for the subject with confidence building as well as a sense of humour.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        For the core foundational subjects of literacy and math we used a levelled program that fits students into their just-right group, regardless of grade. That allows students to have more support as needed, and to advance with mastery.


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Information not available

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Information not available

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Balanced Literacy


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Information not available

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        For the core foundational subjects of literacy and math we used a levelled program that fits students into their just-right group, regardless of grade. That allows students to have more support as needed, and to advance with mastery.


        DIBELS testing

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Not applicable

        CLAREN 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

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Information not available

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        For the core foundational subjects of literacy and math we used a levelled program that fits students into their just-right group, regardless of grade. That allows students to have more support as needed, and to advance with mastery.

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        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.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        We encourage students to study science as an essential component of the way the world works. Everyone should take Physics.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        No matter how much the world changes, creativity and inventiveness are skills that will always be in demand. The Oxford study The Future of Employment states, “Specialist occupations involving the development of novel ideas and artifacts, are the least susceptible to computerisation.” This includes occupations in the fields of science and engineering, but it also includes work in the fields of entertainment, helping, and the arts. We foster creativity in our students by reducing emphasis on rote memorization, and by teaching them to find answers for themselves, critically assessing the information available.


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

        CLAREN 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)

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Zoology

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Developing process work skills is the focus in the English department. Proficiency in literacy is encouraged by honing reading and writing skills.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

        CLAREN ACADEMY

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

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        both perennialism and pragmatism are important in the teachings of these disciplines

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Equal Balance

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Not applicable


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        students are encouraged to use only the foreign language during class therefore optimizing language fluency

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

        CLAREN 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)

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Information not available

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Medium integration

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        In a tech-savvy world, students need to be efficient on the keyboard and confident with their personal electronic devices. All aspects of computers are encouraged

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Humans evolved to enjoy play because play helps us to learn about our environment and prepare for our adult lives. However, learning only feels like play when it is hands-on, self-directed, and self-motivated. Students are excited about learning when they can see how the subject at hand will be relevant to their lives. Most high school students are not excited about learning the quadratic formula because they don't see how it will ever be useful to them outside of school. At Claren Academy, we expose students to aspirational fields in a hands-on way to show that their studies will indeed help them to excel in the areas they most enjoy. Our students are introduced to: Computer programming Digital art & music Robotics & electronics Entrepreneurship Science experiments 3D printing Broadcasting & streaming Digital film making & animation Virtual reality Molecular gastronomy (cooking!) Game design and much more!


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

        At Tapply Binet College, we believe all students need a healthy balanced lifestyle. With a Goodlife gym nearby and numerous outdoor activities in the area, students in elementary school take part in regular exercise. The high school students will take Grade 9 gym as a compulsory course and encouraged to continue this routine throughout their school life and beyond.

        CLAREN ACADEMY

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Not applicable

      CLAREN 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

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      We have developed a method of teaching to personalize learning for each child. Teachers prepare materials, centre play activities and projects with our students' interests and needs in mind. Our programs are inspired by the approaches used in Reggio Emilia, Montessori and Play-based programs. Humans evolved to enjoy play because play helps us to learn about our environment and prepare for our adult lives. However, learning feels like play most often when it is hands-on, self-directed, and self-motivated. Students are excited about learning when they can see how the subject at hand will be relevant to their lives.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Standard-enriched

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TAPPLY BINET 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.

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Our students have opportunities each day to learn across grades in a large group setting as well as smaller groups based on ability and/or on curriculum.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Supportive

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TAPPLY BINET 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.

      CLAREN 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

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      CLAREN ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

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

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

      Information not available

      CLAREN ACADEMY

      We foster creativity in our students by reducing emphasis on rote memorization, and by teaching them to find answers for themselves. Similarly, we encourage diversity over conformity, and instead of a "one size fits all" program, our students are at liberty to explore their own areas of interest, permitted that a strong grasp of core subjects has been demonstrated.

  • 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

    TAPPLY BINET 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

    CLAREN 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

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    • With such as small student body, students are encouraged to get involved in activities outside of school.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    K - 8

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $9,000

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    100%

    75%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    Yes: grades K - 6

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    Students at Tapply Online School are as varied as at any school. All academic levels and learning styles are accommodated in our small familial setting.

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Admission to grades K-8 at Claren Academy is based on: - The candidate's social, emotional, and developmental readiness - The family's interview - The candidate's actions during the play-based observation - The school's assessment of references and past academic records The following may also be considered: - Availability of space in the year to which the candidate is applying - Diversity and gender balance - Siblings of students already enrolled

    What the school says

    What the school says

    TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE

    All students are welcome to attend Tapply Binet College.

    CLAREN ACADEMY

    Please visit our admissions page to learn about our requirements and process. 

    Claren Academy is accepting applications for kindergarten to grade 8, adding a grade each year up to grade 12. Children born from 2010 to 2018 are eligible to apply for 2023. 

    Application steps:

    1. Complete our simple Applicant Information Form, above.
    2. If your application is in order we will contact you within 2 business days to collect the necessary supporting documents, and the $200 application fee.
    3. Visit us for a family interview and play-based evaluation.

    Interviews and play evaluations take place on a rolling basis. Placement decisions will be announced within two weeks of your interview and observation. Successful applicants will then be asked for a deposit to secure enrolment.

    Please visit our admissions page to learn about our requirements and process. 

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

TAPPLY BINET COLLEGE:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

CLAREN ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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