AN OUR KIDS REPORT:TFS - Canada's International School vs. Nile Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View TFS - Canada's International School's full report
VS.
View Nile Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    306 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 1T7, Canada

    5 Blue Haven Cresent, Toronto, Ontario, M9M 1W6, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1962

    2005

    Enrolment

    1530

    235

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Boarding, Day

    Language of instruction

    English, French

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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.
    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."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
    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

    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”.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    12 to 22

    12 to 16

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    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.
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $23,070 to $39,020

    $8,400 to $8,900

    Boarding Tuition

    $30,000

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    7 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $35,000

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    90

    16

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    6%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    30%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, 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, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Dec 01, 2023

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Jun 30, 2021

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    The school celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2022, marking the end of an astonishing period of growth and development. The school really did start in a basement, moving from there into a range of branches throughout Toronto, in time consolidating onto the two campuses that the school occupies today. Schools don't grow that much, or that quickly, if they aren't servicing a specific need, and certainly that's true of TFS. The acronym stands for Toronto French School, which is the name that the school was founded with, though in time it was offering a lot more than the name suggested. Language remains an important part of the curriculum, though the culture of the school reaches beyond language. The environment is rich, varied, and supportive. The student body is culturally and academically diverse, all of which is encouraged through a robust bursary program.

    View full report

    NILE ACADEMY

    Nile was founded in 2005 and quickly grew to where it sits today, with an annual student population of 350. The program includes all grades from JK through 12, though is centred on academics with the mandate of preparing students for success at university. While not a STEM school in name, the school has brought science, math, and technology forward in the offering, and in a cross-curricular way, much as STEM programs do. The ideal student is one who thrives within a diverse, challenging, values-based academic environment.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "TFS’ mission is to develop multilingual critical thinkers who celebrate difference, transcend borders and strive for the betterment of humankind and the planet. As the pioneer of French immersion in Canada, our education is unparalleled in its excellence, preparing students for success in today’s global world. Bilingual and coed since 1962, TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario through the framework of the IB's three programs (PYP, MYP and bilingual Diploma Program). We want our students to be academically ambitious and well-rounded, with an international and intercultural perspective. Our students master French and English, while balancing rigorous science, arts and humanities programs. No prior knowledge of French is required, but all students graduate as bilingual due to our successful Intro program, offered up to Grade 7. TFS students are multi-faceted, passionate learners, who form friendships for life in our supportive community. Co-curricular programs include competitive sports, robotics, music, visual and dramatic arts. Students benefit from exceptional facilities, a 26-acre ravine and a diverse, non-denominational environment. TFS has campuses in Toronto and Mississauga."

    • High academic standards
    • Bilingual education
    • International perspective
    • Intro French program to Grade 7
    • IB World School, France and Ontario programs
    • Strong in science, math, sports and arts
    • Sports field, pool and gyms
    • Age two to University Entrance
    • Grade 7 Entrance Scholarship

    NILE ACADEMY

    "Excellence in Education and Ethics. Nile Academy will prepare your child not only to achieve greatness, but to live their life with a sense of moral and ethical responsibility. By providing a private school environment with small class sizes and low student to teacher ratio, while also following the Ontario Curriculum, we can ensure our students are well prepared for the rest of their educational pursuits here in Canada. Our school also welcomes and provides boarding for international students."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    "TFS is renowned for its academics. The rigour of our curriculum — in which we teach the curricula of France and Ontario through the framework established by the IB programs — is unparalleled. Our graduates leave TFS with an education that is rich in challenge, diversity and opportunity, and they study in universities and pursue the programs of their choice."

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Information not available

    NILE ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    After working as a Principal with Le Conseil Scolaire Viamonde here in Toronto, and in Georgia before that, as well as a Director of Curriculum in Nigeria and an Athletic Director in Yemen, M. Gaudet arrived at TFS as Principal of the Senior School in 2015, bringing with him an invaluable international perspective. In August 2020, M. Gaudet stepped into his new role of Executive Director of the Learning Forum at TFS. M. Gaudet is a bilingual educator with a master’s degree in educational administration. He has more than 20 years of experience working with high school students. His passion for academic ambition is felt school-wide through his innovative and informed ideas and programs.

    Nile Academy’s mission is to enable its students to reach the highest levels of achievement and acquire the skills, knowledge, and values they need to become productive individuals. We aim to develop intellectual and personal qualities so that our students can become confident, effective and responsible citizens of the World.

    Our vision is to be the most outstanding private school in the greater Toronto area.

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      Liberal Arts

      NILE ACADEMY

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      International Baccalaureate

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.

      NILE 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

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      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.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      Academic ambition is our bedrock. TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario through the framework established by the IB programs (PYP, MYP and bilingual IB Diploma Program) from Jardin d'éveil (age 2) to Grade 12 in a fully bilingual French/English environment. We provide our students with an education that is rich in challenge, diversity and opportunity.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Nile Academy's Grade 1 to Grade 8 curriculum is taught within the framework of the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum. Specialist educators teach our comprehensive curriculum in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Information Technology, Physical Education, Music, and Visual Arts for Grade 6 to 8 classes. At Nile Academy, children are encouraged to discover their emerging capabilities and achievements. Our teaching staff is dedicated to nurturing their students’ individual needs in an accommodated atmosphere where they can grow emotionally, socially, and academically – freely at their own learning pace. Support programs are conducted for individual students who need extension or acceleration in various key learning areas; remedial sessions in English and Mathematics; a Reading Recovery program; and specialist support for ESL students. We offer an Aftercare Homework Program (for Grades 1-8): Students can register for this supervised time to work on homework and connect with some peers after school.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Balanced Literacy

        NILE ACADEMY

        Phonics-intensive


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        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.

        NILE ACADEMY

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        The early reading program focuses on phonics instruction in French and English, with guided reading and levelled literacy that suits individual needs and abilities.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        DIBELS testing

        Approach

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
        Regular running records and miscue analysis, CTBS testing

      • Writing


        Approach

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        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.

        NILE 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

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Cursive writing instruction begins in SK, and students have access to a handwriting app developed by a TFS teacher for the iPad. The writing process is taught thoughout the grades, including writing reflections and reading for authentic purposes, as part of the IB programs.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        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.

        NILE 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

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        The study of science is integrated into units of inquiry in the primary grades, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, digital tools and robotics. In Grade 6, science is taught as a specialized subject, leading to biology, chemistry and physics study in later years.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

        NILE 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)

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Physics

        NILE ACADEMY

        Physics

      • Literature


        Approach

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Grades 2-5: Students receive daily instruction in English and French. Language experiences support the Program of Inquiry and fulfil the Ontario curriculum’s Language expectations. The language curriculum is organized into four strands: Reading, Writing, Media Literacy and Oral Communication. In later grades, through our literature program, students will expand their knowledge of literary genres. Reading various kinds of texts will help students to discover what interests them most and to pursue and develop their interests and abilities.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

        NILE ACADEMY

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

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        NILE ACADEMY

        Core Knowledge


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        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.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Students explore social studies through the PYP's program of inquiry, with central ideas and key concepts relating to the themes of who we are, where we are in place and time, how we express ourselves, how the world works, how we organize ourselves and sharing the planet.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        NILE ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.

        NILE 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

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        TFS is a bilingual French-English school. In addition to becoming fluent in both languages, students also learn a third language.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

        NILE 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)

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Information not available

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Medium integration

        NILE ACADEMY

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

        NILE 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

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        TFS has made the integration of information technology into the curriculum a priority. Students have access to a wide array of technology, including Apple laptops and desktops, iPads, digital cameras, production equipment, robotics, interactive whiteboards and projectors in every classroom, and much more.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        NILE 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

        TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

        Health and Physical Education courses are part of the regular curriculum. TFS appreciates the benefits of physical activity to academic performance. Students with higher levels of fitness have a more developed brain structure, perform better on cognitive tests, and have heightened levels of focus and retention. Skating and swimming programs are scheduled throughout the year as part of the curriculum in different grades.

        NILE ACADEMY

        Information not available

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      NILE ACADEMY

      Academic


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      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.

      NILE ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      From Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 1, TFS teaches the curricula of the Ministry of Education of Ontario and the Ministry of Education of France through the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization. From the moment children join TFS, through Grade 1 (CP), they are instructed only in French. Children quickly embrace the language and are gently encouraged to increase their use of French during classroom activities. As of Grade 2 through high school, the language of instruction of the various subjects is approximately 30% in English and 70% in French.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Nile Academy’s Kindergarten program is uniquely designed for the educational, emotional and social needs of four- and five-year-old students. The Kindergarten curriculum reflects the importance of early literacy and numeracy activities, as well as self-initiated inquiry-based pursuits. Our broad program also includes daily physical education, French language classes, as well as science, creative arts and computer time. Our child-centred classrooms are led by skilled, dedicated teachers who are experts in early childhood education, guiding and developing each child’s individual approach to learning.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      NILE ACADEMY

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

      NILE 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

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      Flexible and self-paced programs include Math XL and Mathletics, coding, digital citizenship programs.

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      NILE ACADEMY

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      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”.

      NILE ACADEMY

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      Information not available

      NILE ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

      NILE ACADEMY

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

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

      NILE ACADEMY

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


      Secondary

      Secondary

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

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

      NILE 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

      TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

      Information not available

      NILE 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

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    NILE 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

    NILE ACADEMY

    • Nile Academy offers a vigorous sports program that teaches our students the importance of health, strength, teamwork, and discipline. We instill in our students that a healthy individual is made up of a healthy mind and body. Nile Academy’s wrestling, soccer, and badminton varsity teams compete with other area secondary schools. Nile Academy is a member of TDCAA (Toronto District College Athletic Association) that is a member of the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA). The Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) is an organization of student-athletes, teacher coaches, student coaches, teachers, principals, and sports administrators in Ontario, Canada. OFSAA is the second-largest high school athletic association in North America, second only to the California Interscholastic Federation.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $35,000

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    30%

    90%

    Day entry years

    Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, 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, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Dec 01, 2023

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Jun 30, 2021

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Yes: grades 1 - 12

    SSAT required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 2 - 12

    Yes: grades 2 - 11

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    High average to excellent academic performance; motivated and determined; respectful of others; positive attitude; makes a positive contribution to TFS; values a bilingual education; internationally minded; parents are committed to the TFS vision, mission and values.

    NILE ACADEMY

    We are looking for hard working, energetic, and motivated students to join us here at Nile Academy.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

    Admissions application plus:

    • Current photo
    • Proof of date of birth
    • Current report card (if applicable)
    • Copies of two most recent end-of-year report cards (if applicable)
    • Applicable application fee
    • Confidential School Report (for applicants to Grade 3 and above)
    • SSAT score and SSAT Character Skills Snapshot (for applicants to Grade 6 and above)

    NILE ACADEMY

    Students must attend an in-person interview and complete an Admissions Test in order to apply. To schedule an appointment, you can reach the school office at 647-748-6453.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Martha Baillie (1977)
    Bestselling author and Giller Prize nominee (2009), University of Edinburgh, l’Université Paris-Sorbonne and University of Toronto.
    Molly Shoichet (1983)
    Professor of Chemical Engineering, University of Toronto, Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, Ph.D., Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Recipient of the Order of Ontario (2011).
    Samantha Nutt (1987)
    Founder & Executive Director of War Child Canada and bestselling author. Recipient of the Order of Ontario (2010) and Order of Canada (2011). M.D., McMaster University.
    Alastair Rucklidge (1982)
    Professor of Applied Mathematics, University of Leeds (UK), Ph.D., University of Cambridge.
    Karandeep Sonu Gaind (1986)
    Psychiatrist and Psycho-Oncology Consultant, Princess Margaret Hospital. Associate Professor, University of Toronto. M.D., University of Toronto.
    Justin Poy (1987)
    Creative Director, The Justin Poy Agency. B.A. (Radio and Television), Ryerson University.
    Carole Piovasan (1995)
    Associate, McCarthy Tétrault LLP. M.Sc., Social Policy and Planning in Developing Countries, London School of Economics and Political Science. J.D., Osgoode Hall Law School, York University.
    Ruth Milkereit (2004)
    Ph.D. Candidate, Biochemistry, University of Toronto. Direct entry from B.Sc., Immunology, McGill University.
    Daniel Posen (2005)
    Ph.D. Candidate, Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University (US), Master of Research in Green Chemistry, Imperial College, London, Master of Science in Economics, London School of Economics/Political Science.
    Gabriela DeBues-Stafford (2013)
    Two-time Olympic athlete
    information not available

Compare:

TFS - CANADA'S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

NILE ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




x

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