St. Peter's ACHS College School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional, Montessori
    • Mathematics: Traditional Math
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Social Studies : Core Knowledge
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages: Equal Balance
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Medium integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Religious Education: We have one or two required religion courses.
    • Sex and health education: Not Ontario curriculum
  • Montessori Approach: Non-orthodox
  • Curriculum Pace: Student-paced
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Balanced
  • Special needs support: Resource Assistance
  • Gifted learner support: In-class adaptations
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Traditional, Montessori
    [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 St. Peter's ACHS: Traditional, Montessori

    St. Peter's ACHS has a Traditional, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Traditional, Montessori?]

    Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Traditional - 42%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Progressive - 28%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 2%
    

    St. Peter's ACHS has a Montessori approach to secondary curriculum.

    Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.

    What St. Peter's ACHS says: At St. Peter's ACHS we emphasize developing a healthy body and mind through athletics, but academics is paramount. Working at a student's individual pace and academic level allows our students to achieve Ontario Curriculum goals, in full, without worry of being left behind before a concept is grasped, or sitting in a classroom bored waiting for everyone else to catch up.

    Montessori offered:

    Program	offered
    Montessori toddler
    Casa
    Elementary
    Middle School
    High School

    Approach:

    Focus	Religious-based
    Academic	Christian (Roman Catholic)

    If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    If you want to learn more about Christian education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    If you want to learn more about Catholic education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Traditional Math
      Mathematics approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Traditional Math

      St. Peter's ACHS 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 - 30%
        Discovery math - 4%
        Equal balance - 66%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: Students work at their own pace throughout the year and receive individual instruction on concepts before putting these concepts to practice. Curriculum expectations are worked through linearly, building on previous knowledge, and students do not move on until a cumulative assessment of skills is completed and passed.

      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 St. Peter's ACHS: Balanced Literacy

      St. Peter's ACHS 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 - 56%
        Phonics-intensive - 42%
        Whole language - 2%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

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

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Equal balance

      St. Peter's ACHS 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 - 83%
        Systematic approach - 9%
        Process approach - 8%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Equal Balance

      St. Peter's ACHS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Inquiry approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      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.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 72%
        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 23%
      

      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 Equal Balance
      Literature approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Equal Balance

      St. Peter's ACHS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional , Social Justice approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 77%
        Traditional - 19%
        Social justice - 4%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Social Studies Core Knowledge
      Social Studies approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Core Knowledge

      St. Peter's ACHS has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities , Thematic approach).

      [Show: About Core Knowledge?]

      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).

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Core knowledge - 43%
        Expanding communities - 27%
        Thematic - 30%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Equal Balance

      St. Peter's ACHS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Pragmatism approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 84%
        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 10%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages Equal Balance
      Foreign Languages approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Equal Balance

      St. Peter's ACHS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual , Communicative approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Foreign Languages at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 65%
        Audio-lingual - 2%
        Communicative - 33%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Creative

      St. Peter's ACHS has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Creative?]

      Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Creative - 36%
        Receptive - 2%
        Equal balance - 62%
      

      Program offers:

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

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Computers and Technology Medium integration
      Computers and Technology approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Medium integration

      St. Peter's ACHS has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration , Heavy integration approach).

      [Show: About Medium integration?]

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

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Medium integration - 48%
        Light integration - 19%
        Heavy integration - 33%
      

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: We offer structured, thematic phys.ed. classes, on-ice hockey, swimming, and free play sports. Students are empowered to focus on the activity of their choosing, and teachers and coaches facilitate their passions. Sports offered are hockey, ball hockey, basketball, soccer, volleyball, tennis, archery, trampoline, paintball, and more. If a student is interested in a sport, we will promote their interest and support their exploration of the sport.

    • Religious Education We have one or two required religion courses.

      What St. Peter's ACHS says: St. Peter's ACHS follows and promotes the teaching of the Roman Catholic Church, although students from all denominations and faiths are welcome. The school is affiliated with St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Amherstburg and with the Augustinian Shrine at Mary Lake in King City. Students regularly visit both locations to pursue their studies in religion. Catholic students at our school are able to prepare in school for the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation.

    • Sex and health education Not Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at St. Peter's ACHS: Not Ontario curriculum

      St. Peter's ACHS has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).

      [Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]

      The sex education curriculum does NOT follow the provincial one taught in public schools - either in terms of structure, pacing, focus, and/or tone.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

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

      Approach to sex and health education: Fairly value-based

      St. Peter's ACHS has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).

      [Show: About Fairly value-based?]

      Sex is sometimes taught from a particular moral or ethical standpoint. Sometimes particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) are invoked when teaching sex and related issues .

      St. Peter's ACHS has a approach Progressive (as opposed to Traditional approach).

      [Show: About Progressive?]

      This approach might involve placing more emphasis on things like planned parenthood, different types of families, sexual and gender identities, diversity, and social justice.

      What St. Peter's ACHS 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

    • Religious Education

    • Sex and health education
  • Montessori Approach Non-orthodox
    School Policies

    	Lower Elementary	Upper Elementary	Middle
    Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.'	1 to 8	1 to 8	1 to 8
    Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.'	1 hours	1 hours	1 hours
    Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.'	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)
    Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.'	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)	Regularly (Non-Orthodox)
    Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.'	10%	10%	10%

    Classroom Practices:

    • Whole-class lectures Moderately non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.

      Moderately orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.

      Non-orthodox

      Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.

    • Special education Moderately orthodox
      Orthodox

      External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.

      Moderately orthodox

      External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.

      Non-orthodox

      External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.

    • Specialist classes Moderately non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.

      Moderately orthodox

      We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.

      Non-orthodox

      We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.

    • Modern-day technology Non-orthodox
      Orthodox

      Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.

      Moderately orthodox

      Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.

      Moderately non-orthodox

      Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.

      Non-orthodox

      Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.

    
    

    Overall approach : Which option best describes your overall curricular approach?

    Orthodox

    33% of schools

    Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.

    Moderately Orthodox

    46% of schools

    Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

    Moderately Non-Orthodox

    15% of schools

    Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

    Non-orthodox

    6% of schools

    Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but often supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

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    Teaching Assistants:

    This school uses teaching assistants.
  • Curriculum Pace Student-paced
    [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 St. Peter's ACHS: Student-paced

    St. Peter's ACHS has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).

    [Show: About Student-paced?]

    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Student-paced - 24%
      Standard-enriched - 59%
      Accelerated - 17%
    

    What St. Peter's ACHS says: Working at a student's individual pace and academic level allows our students to achieve Ontario Curriculum goals, in full, without worry of being left behind before a concept is grasped, or sitting in a classroom bored waiting for everyone else to catch up.

    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 St. Peter's ACHS 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 St. Peter's ACHS: Rigorous

    St. Peter's ACHS 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 - 49%
      Supportive - 51%
    

    What St. Peter's ACHS says: Students take pride in being academically elite, and are held to the highest standards of the curriculum while in a supportive learning environment. Individualized pace and learning styles are considered to turn struggling students into performing ones and to push gifted students to reach their potential.

  • 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: Spiritual

    The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."

    What St. Peter's ACHS says: We believe through developing a healthy body, our students build character and experience greater mental and emotional well-being. This allows them to thrive academically, emotionally, and develop important leadership skills.

  • Special needs support Resource Assistance
    [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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    St. Peter's ACHS offers Resource Assistance

    Students remain in a regular classroom for the whole day, and periodically receive break-out support (individually or in small groups) within the classroom from a qualified special education teacher.

    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

    ---

    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 In-class adaptations
    [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.

    ---

    Dedicated gifted programs:

    Program	offered
    Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school)
    Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class)

    Curriculum delivery: Acceleration and enrichment (There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.)

    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 St. Peter's ACHS says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    St. Peter's ACHS 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. 8, St. Peter's ACHS students perform an average of 45 mins of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
    St. Peter's ACHS	30 mins	30 mins	30 mins	45 mins	45 mins	45 mins	45 mins	45 mins
    Site Average	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	29 mins	34 mins	40 mins	52 mins	56 mins

    What St. Peter's ACHS 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. 1 to Gr. 8
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8
    Habits and behaviour reporting	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8
    Parent-teacher meetings	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8

• 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 St. Peter's ACHS says:

  • 2017 Brampton Beast Int. Ice Hockey Champions. 2016 St. Timothy's Jr. Ice Hockey Champions 2013 Beacon Cup Int. Ice Hockey Champions. 2013 SSAF Jr. Ball Hockey Champions. 2012 SSAF Jr. Ball Hockey Champions 2011 SSAF Jr. and Int. Ball Hockey Champions 2011 Beacon Cup Jr. Ice Hockey Champions 2011 Brampton Battalion Int. Ice Hockey Champions. 2011 All Saints Jr. Ice Hockey Champions. 2011 St. Rita Int. Ice Hockey Champions. 2011 Tournament of Stars Jr. and Int. Ice Hockey Champions. 2011 Unionville Jr. Ice Hockey Champions. 2010 and 2011 Cross Country Fun Run School Champions. 2010 SSAF Cross Country School Champions. 2010 SSAF Int. Ball Hockey Champions. 2010 St. Rita Jr. Ice Hockey Champions. 2016 All Saints Jr. Ice Hockey Finalists. 2014 SSAF Jr. Ball Hockey Finalists. 2012 All Saints Jr. ice Hockey Finalists. 2011 St John the Baptist Jr. Ice Hockey Finalists. 2010 SSAF Outdoor Soccer Jr. Finalists

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 13
  Recreational sports: 19

  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

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  Clubs offered

  St. Peter's ACHS College School offers 8 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 Boarding Boarding (International)

   

  	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day	$11,400
  Boarding		$21,400
  Boarding (International)		$27,400

  
  

  What St. Peter's ACHS says about their tuition: Tuition based on early payment. Monthly payment plan available at a higher rate.

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  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	all students	30%
  3rd child (sibling)	all students	40%
  4th child (sibling)	all students	80%

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	1 to 8
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	35%
  Average aid package size	$6,000
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	35%
  Total aid available	$65,000

  Application Deadline:

  Rolling deadline  (Repeats annually)

  More information:

  achscanada.com

  Application Details:

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  • Sanderson ScholarshipSports
    Amount: 80%

    Deadline: 08/01/2017

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 1 to 8 For more details, visit:achscanada.com
    

  • Fr. Pollo ScholarshipAcademic
    Amount: 45%

    Deadline: Rolling

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 1 to 2 For more details, visit:achscanada.com
    

  • Shapiera ScholarshipOther
    Amount: 20%

    Deadline: Rolling

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 3 to 8 For more details, visit:achscanada.com
    
• Enrolment
  [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.

  ---

  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8	All boys	Day	13
  Group 2	Gr. 2 to Gr. 8	All boys	Boarding	6

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	19
  Average class size	Varies
  % of international students (total enrolment)	N/A
  Number of different nationalities within student population	N/A
  Five-day boarding program offered	N/A
  % in boarding (grade-eligible)	33%

  Student Distribution:

  	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Enrollment	N/A	N/A	1	1	2	4	3	1
  Boarding Enrollment		N/A	N/A	N/A	1	1	2	1
  Class Size			5	5	5	12	12	12

• 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.

  ---

  Application

  Admissions Assessments:

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		1 - 8
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

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

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: $200
  Registration fee: $1,000
  Deposit: N/A

  What St. Peter's ACHS says:

  Interview

  ---

  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 90%

  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 Boarding
  

  ---

  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	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	4 (90%)	6 (90%)	8 (90%)	10 (90%)	8 - 10 (90%)	6 - 8 (90%)	4 - 6 (90%)	2 (90%)
  Boarding Acceptance (Acceptance rate)		2 - 4 (90%)	2 - 4 (90%)	2 - 4 (90%)	3 - 5 (90%)	3 - 5 (90%)	2 - 4 (90%)	2 (90%)

  Type of student St. Peter's ACHS is looking for:
  Our school is great for students that are active, athletic, self driven and have a love for the outdoors. High academic and or athletic skills are very much valued here. Students that like interactive teaching should thrive in this unique environment.
• Principal's Message
  Peter Thyrring, Headmaster

  Since 1990 St. Peter's ACHS College School has helped active and athletic boys get ahead and prepare for a most awesome and challenging future. 

  Students here are able to excel at their own level, and pace, through interactive learning and individualized programming. Our school is extremely dedicated to the highest academic standards and stresses effort, responsibility, and self discipline to accomplish maximum success.

  Boys learn differently than girls and research confirms that boys thrive in an all boys learning environment. Our innovative approach has brought "FUN" back to learning. We ingrain old school values in our students to forge ahead of the pack. Our school also stresses "A HEALTHY BODY, A HEALTHY MIND". Daily athletics, along with leadership development, are large components at our school. By developing a healthy body, our students build character and experience greater mental and emotional well-being.

  As a private school, we are truly unique. With our small class sizes and family atmosphere, knowledge and friendships are made to last a life time.      

  After many successful years in the GTA and Haliburton we recently consolidated and relocated our schools to a larger facility in the Windsor/Essex Region. We are now proud to be a part of the Amherstburg community. I invite you and your family to consider our school along with all the benefits it has to offer your son.

  
• Associations
  
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