Indirect Support:
Glenlyon Norfolk School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
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?]
GNS has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary 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.
International curriculum & programs at GNS: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What GNS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
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 program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Primary Years | |
| Middle Years | |
| Diploma program | |
| Career-related program |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at GNS: Equal Balance
GNS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]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.
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Early Reading
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?]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.
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Writing
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?]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.
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Science
Science approach at GNS: Inquiry
GNS has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]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
Literature approach at GNS: Equal Balance
GNS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What GNS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
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?]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
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at GNS: Equal Balance
GNS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What GNS says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at GNS: Communicative
GNS has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What GNS says:
This information is not currently available.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
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?]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
Computers and Technology approach at GNS: Medium integration
GNS has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]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
Group 1 (Language A)
- English Literature SL
- English Literature HL
- English language and literature SL
- English language and 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
- History SL
- History HL
Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
- Chemistry SL
- Chemistry HL
- Biology SL
- Biology HL
- Physics SL
- Physics HL
- Environmental Systems SL
Group 5 (Mathematics)
- Mathematical Studies SL
- Mathematics SL
- Mathematics HL
Group 6 (The Arts)
- Music SL
- Music HL
- Theatre SL
- Theatre HL
- Visual Arts SL
- Visual Arts HL
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
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?]What GNS says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
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?]
What GNS says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
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.
Language
Learn about Glenlyon Norfolk School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
GNS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
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?]
What GNS says about their curriculum pace:
This information is not currently available.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | 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 their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at GNS: Rigorous
GNS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What GNS says about their academic culture:
This information is not currently available.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
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 about their developmental priorities:
This information is not currently available.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
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:
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
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (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.DyscalculiaThis 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.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis 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 DeficitA 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.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers 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 SyndromeOn 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 syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis 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 syndromeThis 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.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled 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 DepressionThis 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 anxietyThis 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 thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis 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.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis 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 palsyhis 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 dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis 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.BlindnessVisual 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."DeafnessHearing 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 FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What GNS says:
Please contact our Admissions Office for further information about what learning supports are available for students.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
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.
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
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 about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, GNS students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| 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 | 30 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 29 mins | 35 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 58 mins | 76 mins | 88 mins | 104 mins | 112 mins |
What GNS says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | 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 |
Extracurricular Activities
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.
Sports offered
Glenlyon Norfolk School offers 13 competitive sports and 2 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Rowing
- Rugby
- Sailing
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Weightlifting
Clubs offered
Glenlyon Norfolk School offers 22 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Jazz Ensemble
Musical theatre/Opera
Outdoor Club
Outdoor Education
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Robotics club
Round Square
School newspaper
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Art Club
Audiovisual Club
Band
Choir
Community Service
Computer Club
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
What GNS says about their extracurricular activities:
- 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.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Glenlyon Norfolk School
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