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Trusted by families since 1998.
Somerset Academy logo
OUR KIDS REPORT:

Somerset Academy

Grades JK — 8 — Markham, ON (Map)
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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Somerset Academy
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

School overview

  • Grades
    JK — 8
  • Gender
    Coed
  • Class Size
    18 students
  • Tuition
    $6,425 to 16,000/year
  • Language of instruction
    English, French, Mandarin
  • Special Needs Support
    No support
  • Enrolment
    0 day students
  • Curriculum
    Traditional & Montessori
  • Associations
    Cognia
  • LOCATION
    Markham, ON (View address)

The big picture on Somerset Academy

We summarized the school ourselves

Somerset has established its reputation in offering a challenging, supportive academic program to prepare students for success in high school and beyond. The school is small, something that is a primary draw for families looking for a more personal approach to instruction. The core curriculum is augmented by an overt attention to fostering communication and interpersonal engagement. The offering of French and Mandarin language instruction is also a notable draw. The ideal student is one operating toward the top of his or her peer group, who will thrive in a very close-knit, community oriented educational environment, and is able to work effectively through an accelerated curriculum.

We questioned the school administration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"Established in 1974, Somerset Academy is an independent, not-for-profit private school providing education to students from JK to Grade 8. Our school provides an enriched, accelerated curriculum; a variety of extra-curricular activities; enhances your child's self-esteem; and encourages team building skills. We offer classes in French and Mandarin, as well as the Reach Ahead program, which enables our Grade Eight students the opportunity to gain high school credits. Somerset is a certified STEM school."

  • Success comes from working together.
  • Our aim is to cultivate responsible, well-rounded, and independent students.
  • Somerset is a certified STEM school.
  • Somerset offers three languages: English, French, and Mandarin.
  • We offer Reach Ahead program our Grade Eight students to gain high school credits.
  • We place a strong emphasis on sport programs promoting healthy competition and sportsmanship.
  • Our Gifted Program for Grade 3 -7 is structured to align with each student's current academic level.
  • Our music program offers choral and instrumental including piano, violin, recorder, band instruments
  • We offer interest clubs on every Friday, such as robotics, chess, coding, and cooking.
  • Our dramatic department has hosted remarkable drama performances annually.

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

At Somerset Academy, we uniquely excel in creating a nurturing and enriching academic
environment that emphasizes STEM education while integrating a broad range of programs like
Visual Arts, Music, and French Language. Our inquiry-based and hands-on approach allows
students to apply classroom concepts to real-world problems, fostering intellectual curiosity and
critical thinking. With small class sizes and a House System that promotes community spirit, we

ensure personalized attention and holistic development. Additionally, our strong community
partnerships and inspiring guest speakers expose students to diverse perspectives and limitless

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

To serve families effectively, we have prioritized small class sizes, which allow us to offer
personalized attention and foster strong student-teacher relationships. While this limits the
number of spots available, it ensures a nurturing and focused learning environment. We have
also made significant investments in our STEM program and extracurricular activities, which
may mean fewer resources for other traditional programs.*Take out highlighted part*
Additionally, our emphasis on early application and academic screening means some families
may not secure placement if they do not apply promptly. We strive to maintain our high
standards and offer a comprehensive, well-rounded education.
**Take out the following: These trade-offs are essential to maintaining our high standards and
offering a comprehensive, well-rounded education.

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

The establishment of Somerset Academy as a certified STEM school was a pivotal moment,
reinforcing our commitment to innovative education. Our partnership with professionals and
community organizations, such as the inspiring collaboration with female pilots from Ninety-
Nines Inc., as well as our work with “Little Inventors” has enriched our STEM program and
motivated students. The introduction of our House System fostered a strong community spirit,
emphasizing teamwork and global responsibility. Expanding our curriculum to include
comprehensive programs in Visual Arts, Music, and French Language has further shaped our
holistic educational approach. These key junctures have contributed to our reputation as a
nurturing environment that prepares students for academic and personal success.

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

Our school is an ideal fit for curious, motivated students who are eager to explore and apply
STEM concepts, engage in creative arts, and embrace teamwork. Those who thrive in small,
nurturing environments with personalized attention and a sense of community will find Somerset
Academy particularly rewarding.

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

Families seeking a highly competitive environment focused solely on academics may not find
our holistic approach aligning with their priorities. Additionally, if a family prefers larger class
sizes and less emphasis on community spirit or collaboration, Somerset may not be the best fit.
Our approach prioritizes balanced development and teamwork.

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

Families choose Somerset Academy for our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals
through a comprehensive educational approach that balances academic excellence with

personal growth. Our certified STEM program, integrated with 21st-century skills, provides
students with the tools they need to address real-world challenges confidently. The small class
sizes ensure personalized attention, helping students thrive academically and socially. Our
diverse extracurricular activities, from coding to drama, offer opportunities for students to
explore their interests and develop new skills. Additionally, the House System fosters a sense of
belonging and teamwork, while strong community partnerships expose students to inspiring role
models and global perspectives. Families appreciate our supportive and inclusive environment,
which encourages students to be responsible, curious, and innovative thinkers prepared for
future success.

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

Somerset Academy is viewed as a nurturing and innovative institution committed to providing a
well-rounded education. Our certified STEM program and emphasis on 21st-century skills have
established us as a forward-thinking school that prepares students for future challenges. Our
involvement in the community and partnerships with inspiring professionals, such as female
pilots from Ninety-Nines Inc., showcase our dedication to offering students diverse perspectives
and opportunities. The school is appreciated for its small class sizes and personalized attention,
fostering a supportive environment where students thrive. Our holistic approach, balancing
academics, arts, and athletics has built a positive reputation among families seeking
comprehensive and enriching educational experiences.

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

Our Visual Arts program is often underappreciated, yet it plays a crucial role in fostering creative
expression and cultural appreciation among our students. While our STEM program receives
much of the spotlight, the Visual Arts curriculum provides students with opportunities to develop
their artistic talents and express themselves in unique ways. By exploring various mediums and
techniques, students cultivate a deeper understanding of art and its impact on society.
Additionally, our Arts program enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for
success in any field. The collaborative projects and art exhibitions showcase student talent and
creativity, enriching our school's cultural fabric and contributing to their overall development.

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

Families may be surprised by the extent of our commitment to fostering global responsibility
among students. Through the House System, we engage students in community projects like
tree planting and international outreach, instilling a strong sense of civic duty and environmental
stewardship. These initiatives encourage students to think beyond themselves and understand
the impact they can have on the world. Additionally, our diverse extracurricular offerings, from
robotics to drama, may also surprise families, highlighting our dedication to nurturing well-
rounded individuals with varied interests and skills. This comprehensive approach prepares
students to be compassionate, innovative leaders in their communities.

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

Recently, Somerset Academy has made several improvements to enhance the educational
experience for our students. We have expanded our STEM program, integrating emerging
technologies and offering more hands-on, inquiry-based learning opportunities. This includes

new partnerships with industry professionals who provide real-world insights and inspiration. We
have also increased our focus on sustainability and global responsibility, incorporating
environmentally conscious practices within our curriculum and school operations. Our Visual
Arts program has been enriched with additional resources and collaborative projects to
encourage creative expression. Furthermore, we have extended our Before and After Care
Program hours to better support working families, ensuring flexibility and convenience.

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

Over the next five years, Somerset Academy will continue to evolve by integrating more cutting-
edge technologies into our STEM program and expanding our community partnerships to
provide students with diverse learning opportunities. We plan to enhance our curriculum with
additional focus on sustainability and global citizenship, preparing students to address future
challenges. Our extracurricular offerings will also grow, introducing new clubs and activities that
align with emerging interests and skills. We aim to strengthen our community connections,
fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for students and families. Our
commitment to personalized education and holistic development will remain at the core of our
mission.


 

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