Glenlyon Norfolk School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Progressive, International Baccalaureate
    • Mathematics: Traditional Math
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science:
    • Literature:
    • Social Studies : Expanding Communities
    • Humanities and Social Sciences :
    • Foreign Languages:
    • Fine Arts: Equal Balance
    • Computers and Technology: Heavy integration
    • Physical Education:
    • IB Diploma courses: 24 courses
    • Advanced Placement courses:
    • Sex and health education: British Columbia curriculum
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Academic
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Balanced
  • Special needs support: No support
  • Gifted learner support: No Support
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Progressive, International Baccalaureate
    [Show definition of Curriculum]

    Central to your child's school experience is the underlying curriculum taught in the classroom. "Curriculum" refers to both what is taught and how it's taught. When considering the different curricula outlined in the next few pages, keep in mind that few schools fall neatly into one category or another. Most schools' curricula comprise a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. Having said that, most schools do have a general overall curriculum type. These are identified for each school on OurKids.net.

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    Curriculum approach at GNS: Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    GNS has a Progressive, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Progressive, International Baccalaureate?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Progressive - 17%
      Traditional - 15%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Montessori - 17%
      Reggio Emilia - 17%
      Waldorf - 17%
    

    GNS has a International Baccalaureate approach to secondary curriculum.

    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.

    What GNS says: As an IB continuum school, Glenlyon Norfolk School offers a seamless approach to the International Baccalaureate programmes for students at all grade levels. Our uniquely designed and delivered educational program allows us to challenge and support students of all abilities, allowing them to do their best in everything they do. Students are inspired by knowledgeable, committed teachers who are IB experts, and are encouraged to take risks and make inquiries surrounded by supportive peers and classmates. Regular communication with parents allows us to foster a positive partnership between student, family and school for the benefit of all parties. We also provide comprehensive exposure to athletic, artistic and service opportunities that allow us to develop well-rounded students of character. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure students graduate with the tools necessary to find success in their post-secondary studies and to live happy and successful lives.

    International Baccalaureate offered:

    Program	offered
    Primary Years
    Middle Years
    Diploma program
    Career-related program

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Traditional Math
      Mathematics approach at GNS: Traditional Math

      GNS has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Traditional Math?]

      Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Traditional math - 34%
        Discovery math - 33%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: This information is not currently available.

      Calculator policy: This information is not currently available.

    • Early Reading Balanced Literacy
      Early Reading approach at GNS: Balanced Literacy

      GNS has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive , Whole Language approach).

      [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

      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.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

        Balanced literacy - 33%
        Phonics-intensive - 34%
        Whole language - 33%
      

      What GNS says: Reading is taught through the IB Primary Years Programme Units of Inquiry as well as a separate foundation skill. Teachers differentiate for all learners making it possible for all students to progress at their own pace.

      DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at GNS: Equal balance

      GNS has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach , Process approach approach).

      [Show: About Equal balance?]

      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.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 33%
        Systematic approach - 34%
        Process approach - 33%
      

      What GNS says: Students work on this skill by using a writing continuum that has been co-constructed by them. They develop their writing by being able to see where they are currently and where they are headed, making this a highly differentiated approach to learning. Writing is incorporated into all aspects of the curriculum. All teachers are considered teachers of writing, and this skill is part of every IB Primary Years Programme Unit of Inquiry.

    • Science

      Teaching approach: This information is not currently available.

      Treatment of evolution:

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

      Topics covered in curriculum:

      Subject	offered
      Biology
      Chemistry
      Ecology
      Geology
      Meteorology
      Physics
      Physiology
      Zoology

    • Literature

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Social Studies Expanding Communities
      Social Studies approach at GNS: Expanding Communities

      GNS has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge , Thematic approach).

      [Show: About Expanding Communities?]

      The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Expanding communities - 33%
        Core knowledge - 34%
        Thematic - 33%
      

      What GNS says: Social Studies is taught through the programme of inquiry which is the focus of the IB programme at the elementary years. There are overriding unit themes such as "Where We Are in Place and Time" and then broken into units of inquiry that reflect these broad ideas in age and stage appropriate ways. Key concepts are covered in every grade and, in the earliest grades, a global perspective is incorporated into these units of inquiry.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Fine Arts Equal Balance
      Fine Arts approach at GNS: Equal Balance

      GNS has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Creative approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 61%
        Receptive - 2%
        Creative - 37%
      

      Program offers:

      Subject	offered
      Acting
      Dance
      Drama/Theatre
      Graphic Design
      Music
      Visual Arts

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Computers and Technology Heavy integration
      Computers and Technology approach at GNS: Heavy integration

      GNS has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration , Medium integration approach).

      [Show: About Heavy integration?]

      A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Heavy integration - 33%
        Light integration - 20%
        Medium integration - 47%
      

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    • IB Diploma courses 24 courses
      Group 1 (Language A)

      • English Literature SL

      • English Literature HL

      Group 2 (Language B)

      • French SL

      • French HL

      • Spanish SL

      • Spanish HL

      • Spanish ab initio SL

      Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)

      • Economics SL

      • Geography SL

      • Geography HL

      • History SL

      • History HL

      Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)

      • Chemistry SL

      • Chemistry HL

      • Biology SL

      • Biology HL

      • Physics SL

      • Physics HL

      Group 5 (Mathematics)

      • Mathematical Studies SL

      • Mathematics SL

      • Mathematics HL

      Group 6 (The Arts)

      • Theatre SL

      • Theatre HL

      • Visual Arts HL
    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education British Columbia curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at GNS: British Columbia curriculum

      GNS has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]

      The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

        Follows provincial curriculum - 55%
        Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 45%
      

      What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • IB Diploma courses

    • Advanced Placement courses

    • Sex and health education
  • Preschool/K Curriculum Academic
    [Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]

    Preschools and kindergartens tend to have a particular curriculum or curricular approach. This refers to what is taught and how it's taught. Most preschools have a curriculum that comprises a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. A preschool's curriculum may or may not, though, reflect its higher-level curriculum (if it's part of a school with elementary or secondary programs)

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    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at GNS: Academic

    GNS has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).

    [Show: About 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.

    Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Academic - 20%
      Play-based - 20%
      Montessori - 20%
      Waldorf - 20%
      Reggio emilia - 20%
    

    What GNS says: Our students are engaged in an enriched, values-based curriculum delivered by well qualified teachers with warmth, friendliness and expertise. The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme provides a fabulous framework of inquiry to develop strong foundation skills that allows personalized learning to be at the forefront. Pastoral care is an important part of school life for our learners as it allows all students to challenge themselves to be their very best in a safe and supportive environment. Nature school each week complements our rigorous academic programme, as does our waterfront location allowing students to engage with nature in a meaningful way.

  • Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched
    [Show definition of Curriculum Pace]

    This refers to the rate at which students move through the curriculum (e.g., topics, textbook material, skills, etc.). Curriculum pace is often defined in comparison to provincial standards.

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    Curriculum Pace approach at GNS: Standard-enriched

    GNS has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

    [Show: About 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.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Standard-enriched - 58%
      Accelerated - 18%
      Student-paced - 24%
    

    What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

    Flexible pacing style

    Flexible pacing style	offered
    Subject-streaming (tracking)
    Multi-age classrooms as standard
    Ability-grouping (in-class) as common
    Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace)
    Regular guided independent study opportunities
    Differentiated assessment

    What GNS says about flexible pacing: This information is not currently available.

  • Academic Culture Rigorous
    [Show definition of Academic Culture]

    Through the collective mindset of teachers, administrators, students, and parents, each school develops and maintains its own academic culture. This generally relates to the norms and expectations created around academic performance. Many parents look to private schools because they want a specific type of culture. Some want a rigorous environment that will elevate their child to new heights. Others want a nurturing environment that will help their child develop a passion for learning.

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    Academic Culture approach at GNS: Rigorous

    GNS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).

    [Show: About 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”.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Rigorous - 50%
      Supportive - 50%
    

    What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

  • Developmental priorities Balanced
    [Show definition of Developmental priorities]

    Schools have specific goals regarding how they want their educate and develop their students. This is part of a school's overall philosophy or vision, which is contained in its mission statement. While they tend have several developmental aims, schools tend to priortize certain aims, such as intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, or physical development.

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    Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced

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

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

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

    What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

  • Special needs support No support
    [Show definition of Special needs support]

    Schools offer a wide range of approaches and services to support students with special needs. This may include individualized learning, one-on-one support, small classes, resource rooms, and learning aids. These supports may be provided in a number of different environments such as a dedicated special needs school or class, an integrated class, a withdrawal class, or a regular class with resource support or in-class adaptations.

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    GNS offers No support

    GNS offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.

    What GNS says about their special need support: Please contact our Admissions Office for further information about what learning supports are available for students.

    Academic Support:

    Subject Type	offered
    Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
    Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD:

    Subject Type	offered
    Accommodations
    Modifications
    Extra support

    ---

    Summary: GNS has a team of learning strategists who are committed to inclusion and assistance in providing opportunities for all students to do their best. Through the collaborative partnership between subject and LS teachers, we nurture an environment that supports differentiation for each individual's learning differences. Support is provided through a model consisting of small group and in-class support. Emphasis is on individual learning in which students embrace how they learn and employ strategies independently to achieve success.

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:

    Modification:

    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:

    Resource Assistance:

    Withdrawal Assistance:

    Partial Integration:

    Full-Time Class:

    
    

    Special NeedNeed

    Forms of SupportA

    EnvironmentsB

    ADHD

    • 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.

    Read our guide to special needs schools and special education

  • Gifted learner support No Support
    [Show definition of Gifted learner support]

    Schools support students with gifted or advanced learning abilities in a several ways. Whether they offer a full-time gifted program or part-time support, they normally provide some form of accelerated learning (delivering content at a faster pace) or enrichment (covering content more broadly or deeply). Many schools also offer a wide range of in-class adaptations to support advanced learners, such as guided independent studies, project-based learning, and career exploration.

    ---

    Curriculum delivery: Enrichment (The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.)

    In-class adaptations:

    Program	offered
    Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement)
    Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement)
    Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement)
    Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement)
    Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others)
    Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement)
    Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement)
    Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement)
    Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement)

    What GNS says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    GNS offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English
  • Homework Policy
    [Show definition of Homework Policy]

    Homework is work that's assigned to students for completion outside of regular class time. There's a long-standing debate over homework. Should homework be assigned to school-age children? If so, in what grades? And how much homework should be assigned? In selecting the right school for your child, it's important to look closely at a school's homework policy.

    ---

    In grade Gr. 12, GNS students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	JK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
    GNS	0 mins	15 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins	60 mins	120 mins	120 mins	120 mins	120 mins
    Site Average	6 mins	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	29 mins	34 mins	40 mins	52 mins	56 mins	69 mins	80 mins	98 mins	107 mins

    What GNS says about their flipped classroom policy: This information is not currently available.

  • Report Card Policy
    [Show definition of Report Card Policy]

    While all schools measure individual progress and achievement in students, they have different ways of doing this. For instance, many traditional schools gauge progress through report cards, which give students lettered or numbered grades. Other schools, meanwhile, measure progress in other ways, either in addition to or instead of giving grades. For instance, they may offer prose-based feedback (i.e, comments), academic achievement reporting, habits and behaviour reporting, and parent-teacher meetings. In choosing the right school for your child, take a close look at its policy for measuring the individual progress of students.

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    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

    Lettered or numbered grades	Gr. 6 to Gr. 12
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	JK to Gr. 12
    Academic achievement reporting	JK to Gr. 12
    Habits and behaviour reporting	JK to Gr. 12
    Parent-teacher meetings	JK to Gr. 12

• Extracurriculars
  [Show definition of Extracurriculars]

  While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.

  ---

  What GNS says:

  • 100% of our students are engaged in the co-curricular life of the school
  • Our Fine Arts students excel each year in performances in the community (theatre companies, youth orchestra, music conservatory) as well as semi-annual theatre productions and regular concerts within the school.
  • 66% of our Grade 11 and 12 students participate in our Arts programs.
  • 71% of Senior School students played on at least one of our 22 athletics teams in 2019/2020.

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 13
  Recreational sports: 2

  Legend:     Competitive offered           Recreational offered

  all sports]

  • Archery
  • Curling
  • 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

  ---

  Clubs offered

  Glenlyon Norfolk School offers 22 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  Legend:     Clubs offered           Clubs not offered

  all clubs and programs]

    Foreign Language Club

    Habitat for Humanity

    Jazz Ensemble

    Math Club

    Musical theatre/Opera

    Ballet and Classical Ballet

    Online Magazine

    Outdoor Club

    Outdoor Education

    Paintball

    Photography

    Poetry/Literature club

    Radio club

    Robotics club

    Round Square

    School newspaper

    Science Club

    Scouting

    Student Council

    Yearbook

    Yoga

    Animation

    Art Club

    Astronomy Club

    Audiovisual Club

    Band

    Chess Club

    Choir

    Community Service

    Computer Club

    Dance Club

    Debate Club

    Drama Club

    Environmental Club

  
  
• Tuition & Financial Aid
  [Show definition of Tuition & Financial Aid]

  This can depend on a number of factors, including the type of school, living arrangements, what’s included in tuition, school location, resources, and facilities. Many private schools in Canada have tuition that ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 a year. While some schools, such as schools which provide room and board, can be more expensive, many of these schools provide ways to defray the costs of tuition. For instance, they may offer merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial aid (often referred to as “bursaries” or “subsidies”).

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  Day Day (Domestic: in province) Day (Domestic: out of province) Day (International) Homestay (Domestic: in province) Homestay (International)

   

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day	$17,135
  Day (Domestic: in province)		$18,955						$21,315			$23,035
  Day (Domestic: out of province)		$23,155						$25,465			$27,165
  Day (International)		$30,150						$32,380			$34,045
  Homestay (Domestic: in province)								$36,905			$38,625
  Homestay (International)								$47,970			$49,635

  
  

  What GNS says about their tuition: Additional fees are charged on a grade by grade basis for items such as technology supplies, curriculum-based field trips, grade camps, etc. Invoices are sent to families by the end of April, or are sent as part of the Admissions offer. Tuition and other fees are approved by the Board of Governors on an annual basis. Updated fee information is published each February.

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  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	all students	5%
  3rd child (sibling)	all students	10%
  4th child (sibling)	all students	10%

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  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	SK to 12
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	15%
  Average aid package size	$2,000
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	15%
  Total aid available	$1,000,000

  Application Deadline:

  March 31, 2020  (Repeats annually)

  More information:

  www.mygns.ca/admissions/tuition-and-financial-support

  Application Details:

  This school works with Apple Financial Inc. for processing financial applications
  Please note that at this time bursaries are only available to domestic day students. The application for financial assistance is separate from the application for admission. Both must be submitted at the time of application in order to be considered for financial assistance. Candidates wishing to apply for financial assistance must complete and submit the Financial Aid for Canadian Students (FACS) application form available via the Apple Financial Services website.

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  Merit based Scholarships

  • Glenlyon Norfolk SchoolAcademic
    Amount: 50%

    Deadline: Rolling

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    Eligibility Details: Students grade 6 to 12—

    Students applying for an entrance scholarship to Grades 6-12 should have an outstanding academic history, achieve the equivalent of an "A" standing on the entrance exams, have a demonstrated interest/commitment to the visual or performing arts and/or athletics, and have a willingness to participate fully in the life of the school.

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    Application Details:

    Students applying for an entrance scholarship to Grades 6-12 should have an outstanding academic history, achieve the equivalent of an "A" standing on the entrance exams, have a demonstrated interest/commitment to the visual or performing arts and/or athletics, and have a willingness to participate fully in the life of the school.

    For more details, visit:www.mygns.ca/admissions/tuition-and-financial-support
    

  • GNS Community ScholarshipsOther
    Amount: $10,000

    Deadline: 04/30/2016

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    Eligibility Details: Students grade 9 to 12—

    Glenlyon Norfolk School is proud to introduce the GNS Community Scholarships, which provide entrance scholarships of up to $10,000 for new Senior School students joining us in the 2020/2021 school year. These scholarships are renewable annually, provided that each recipient meet and exceed our expectations in terms of contributions to the GNS community.

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    Application Details:

    Step 1: Complete the ONLINE APPLICATION FORM and submit your application fee.

    Step 2: Submit copies of your two most recent report cards.

    Step 3: Submit two reference letters; one academic and one personal (coach, music teacher, etc.).

    Step 4: Submit your personal statement about why you would be a great Community Scholar in a format of your choosing. Make a 60-90 second video, write an essay, create a work of art or come up with another unique way to present yourself and show off your unique personality. Make sure that your submission answers:

    • Who you are, what grade you’re in and where you currently attend school;
    • What you enjoy most about school; and
    • How you’ll contribute to the GNS community.

    Steps 1 to 4 must be complete before April 30, 2016 for an applicant to be considered.

    Step 5: Contact the Admissions Office (250.370.6801 or [email protected]) to book a time to write your entrance test and have your personal interview. Testing and interviews will be held on April 27, May 4 and May 11.

    For more details, visit:www.mygns.ca/community-scholarships
    
• Enrollment
  [Show definition of enrolment]

  Private schools come in all shapes and sizes. Some larger schools have enrolment numbers in the thousands, while some smaller schools have only a few dozen students. Boarding schools tend to be on the larger side, while alternative schools, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, are normally smaller. Besides the overall size of school, there are other important facts you’ll want to know about a school’s enrolment. For instance, here you can learn about a school’s enrolment for separate streams (if they have them), such as day and boarding, its average class size, and its average enrolment per grade.

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  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	JK to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	700
  Group 2	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12	Coed	Homestay	30
  Group 3	Gr. 8 to Gr. 12	Coed	Boarding	24

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	754
  Average class size	16 to 18
  % of international students (total enrolment)	15%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	20
  Five-day boarding program offered	Yes
  % in boarding (grade-eligible)	4%

  Student Distribution:

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	48	36	35	35	40	43	44	52	55	59	85	97	77	51
  Boarding Enrollment										1	4	6	5	1
  Homestay Enrollment									N/A	N/A	1	12	9	4
  Class Size	16	18	18	18	20	22	22	17	18	20	21	19	19	17

• Admission
  [Show definition of Admission]

  Private schools in Canada have admissions policies. All schools have some required application materials, though these vary between schools. These may include letters of application, application fees, essays, and exams (such as the SSAT). Many schools also require interviews with prospective students, either with their parents, on their own, or both. Schools also have different standards and priorities when evaluating student applications, different acceptance rates (which may vary between grade levels), and target different kinds of students. To improve your child’s chances of acceptance, you should find out everything you can about a school’s admissions policies and how they assess applicants.

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  Admissions Requirements

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		PS - 12
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)		3 - 12
  Entrance Essay

  Day students: Rolling
  Boarding students: Rolling
  Homestay students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  Fees:

  Application fee: $250
  Registration fee: $2,500
  Deposit: N/A

  What GNS says:

  Application requirements include receiving a completed application form along with a $250 application fee and the two most recent report cards for the applying student. Older students must then complete the entrance exams. We also require the completion of a confidential student report from a current teacher. For international students, we also require copies of passports for both the student and his or her parents, as these are necessary for preparation of custodianship documents. Once these items are received, we perform an onsite or Skype interview. We also prefer, where possible, for the applying student to visit the school for a day.

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  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 72%

  This is the percentage of applicants typically accepted into the school. So if 50 students are admitted out of 100 applicants, the school has an overall acceptance rate of 50%.

  
  

  Day Homestay
  

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  Student Entry Points

  This shows approximately how many openings there are likely to be in each grade in a typical year, as well as the estimated acceptance rate for each grade level.

  
  

  Student Type	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	23 - 30 (72%)	0	7 - 11 (72%)	2 - 3 (72%)	3 - 4 (72%)	3 - 12 (80%)	2 - 6 (72%)	16 - 17 (80%)	10 - 19 (80%)	10 - 15 (80%)	11 - 19 (72%)	15 - 21 (72%)	14 - 16 (72%)	0 - 4 (90%)
  Homestay Acceptance (Acceptance rate)								0	0	0	0	0	0	0

  Type of student GNS is looking for:
  We are looking for well-rounded students that exhibit the 5 As: Academics, Athletics, Arts, Adventure, and Active Citzenship. A student who is curious, engaged and kind and who will appreciate the small, close-knit community that is GNS and will take advantage of all of the opportunities given to them here whether it be in the arts, athletics, the IB program, service, or the Round Square.
• University Placement
  [Show definition of University Placement]

  Where graduates of a school do their post-secondary studies can be an important factor in choosing a private school. Do you want your child to go to a Canadian university, an Ivy league school in the US, or some other institute? Regardless of your inclinations, take a look at a school’s university placement record, and the services they offer to support university applications and decisions.

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  Key Numbers

  Average graduating class size	75
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	100%

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	11%
  Students who attended a Ivy+ school Number of students in the past 5 years that that attended one of Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, University of Chicago, Oxford or Cambridge (UK)	4

  Post-Secondary Schools Attended

  University of Victoria																																		33%
  University of British Columbia																							22%
  Queen's University																		17%
  University of Toronto															14%
  Dalhousie University											10%

  % of Graduates

  
  

  • Canada 19 universities
    • Carleton University
    • Concordia University
    • Dalhousie University
    • McGill University
    • McMaster University
    • Queen's University
    • Royal Military College of Canada
    • Ryerson University
    • Simon Fraser University
    • University of Alberta
    • University of British Columbia
    • University of Calgary
    • University of King's College
    • University of Northern British Columbia
    • University of Ottawa
    • University of Toronto
    • University of Victoria
    • University of Waterloo
    • Western University
  • United States 7 universities
    • Boston University
    • Purdue University
    • Stanford University
    • University of California, Berkeley
    • University of California, Davis
    • University of Southern California
    • University of Washington, Seattle
  • International 5 universities
    • King's College London
    • London School of Economics and Political Science
    • University of Edinburgh
    • University of Glasgow
    • Yokohama National University

  
  

  Areas of Study

  • Glenlyon Norfolk School
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  Glenlyon Norfolk School Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    30% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    30% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    15% - Business/Commerce
    10% - Fine and Performing Arts
    5% - Applied Health Sciences
    0% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    10% - Other
  

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    25% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    24% - Business/Commerce
    4% - Fine and Performing Arts
    14% - Applied Health Sciences
    2% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    6% - Other
  

  
  

  Services Offered to Students

  Career planning
  Internships	N/A

  Mentorship Program
  University counseling

  What GNS says:

  • An average of $995,051 in Scholarships was earned by our last five graduating classes.
  • An average of 94% of our IB Diploma Candidates earn their full IB Diploma with a score of 24 or higher.
  • The 70 members of the Class of 2020 have earned 257 offers of acceptance from post-secondary institutions across Canada and around the world, an average of 3.6 per grad. Collectively, they have earned offers of over $1,388,500 in scholarships.
• Notable Alumni
  [Show definition of Notable Alumni]

  Many private schools in Canada have numerous graduates who have gone on to great things. Learn about a school’s most influential, important, successful, and famous alumni.

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  Alumnus	Grad Year	Accomplishment
  Jonnie Penn	2004	Jonnie Penn is the creator, executive producer and cast member of MTV series The Buried Life and co-author of the book “What Do You Want To Do Before You Die?”.
  Atom Egoyan	1978	Atom Egoyan is one of the most celebrated contemporary filmmakers on the international scene. His body of work includes theatre, music, and art installations.
  Timothy Williams	1983	Timothy Williams is a multi award-winning composer and orchestrator of film, TV, video games and theatre, with over 63 feature film credits.

• Principal's Message
  Mr. Chad Holtum, Head of School

  I am honoured to be the head of the Glenlyon Norfolk School community school, entrusted with ensuring a quality education for our students from Gryphon First Steps (3 years old) to Grade 12.

  We are a proudly Canadian school with a global viewpoint, as demonstrated by our International Baccalaureate (IB) World School designation.

  If you’re reading these words you’ve already begun an important process. If you explore further you will find detailed information and vivid descriptions of student life, both inside and outside the classroom, at each of our two unique and idyllic campuses.

  You’ll discover the depth and breadth of the IB curricula that underpins every aspect of our academic life, and you’ll learn about the first-class co-curricular opportunities that ensure each and every GNS student has the opportunity to embrace an experience that is well-rounded, challenging and fun.

  In that sense, GNS is no different from so many of the other fine schools in BC, across Canada, and around the world.

  But GNS is so much more than that.

  The GNS experience is an enriched one that meets every student where they are and supports them to do their very best. This is possible because of our people. Our community. The partnership built between the school and our families creates a strong environment for student growth. The relationships forged between students and teachers who know them and care about them as individuals set us apart and make our great school truly exceptional.

  As I often state, the foundation of GNS lies in Our Core Values. Truth. Courage. Caring. Individuality. Community. These principles guide each member of the “GNS Family,” as we ensure the school remains an exceptional place for students, parents, families, alumni, faculty and staff. I know that my two boys love it here!

  Our collective philosophy is to never miss an opportunity to celebrate one another’s achievements, but to also never miss a chance to grow and to learn. As in many schools, excellence at GNS is measured in part by academic success, but it’s also gauged by the development of empathy, by the discovery of new passions, by a willingness to push beyond comfort zones, and by the ability to create and maintain enduring relationships and friendships that last a lifetime.

  We’re so excited that you’re considering joining our community, and we look forward to assisting you through the process. If you have questions, please ask. If you have comments, I hope you’ll share them with our Director of Enrolment, Trevor Mannion.

  The journey you are about to embark on is one that is shared and enhanced by every other member of this community. Together, we’ll ensure that the future is brighter for you, for your family, and for our school.

  Warmly,
  Chad Holtum
  Head of School

  
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