Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional, International Baccalaureate
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Inquiry
    • Literature: Traditional
    • Social Studies : Expanding Communities
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Pragmatism
    • Foreign Languages: Communicative
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Heavy integration
    • Physical Education:
    • IB Diploma courses: 15 courses
    • Advanced Placement courses:
    • Sex and health education: Alberta 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 Traditional, 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.

    ---

    Curriculum approach at STS: Traditional, International Baccalaureate

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

    [Show: About Traditional, International Baccalaureate?]

    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 - 44%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Progressive - 27%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    STS 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 STS says: At Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School, students thrive in a culture of academic excellence. Students are empowered in their learning and strive to exceed their own expectations for achievement. STS supplements the standard Alberta Education curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Programme beginning in the Elementary with the IB Primary Years Programme, moving to Middle School with the IB Middle Years Programme and ending with the IB Diploma Programme in Senior School. Excellence in teaching and learning is fostered through critical thinking and inquiry. Throughout our students' years at STS, we focus on new and effective practices, incorporating current research and literature into all of our courses. We educate our students in an environment that combines state of the art technologies, outdoor experiential education with opportunities to develop the individual as a whole.

    International Baccalaureate offered:

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

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at STS: Equal Balance

      STS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math , Discovery Math approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 69%
        Traditional math - 28%
        Discovery math - 3%
      

      What STS says: The STS math curriculum balances traditional skill acquisition with real-world application. Examples of real-world application include applying knowledge of exponents to pay-it-forward challenges, using statistical analysis to debate climate change, and turning learning about profit margins to running ones own mini-business.

      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 STS: Balanced Literacy

      STS 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 STS says: Elementary students work closely with their homeroom teachers and our Early Literacy Instructor to assess, build, and challenge reading skills. Students use multiple learning tools and approaches to build reading fluency including high-frequency site words, phonics, one-on-one reading with teachers and peers and iPads among others.

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

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at STS: Equal balance

      STS 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 - 82%
        Systematic approach - 10%
        Process approach - 8%
      

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Science Inquiry
      Science approach at STS: Inquiry

      STS has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Inquiry?]

      Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Inquiry - 21%
        Expository - 5%
        Equal balance - 74%
      

      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 Traditional
      Literature approach at STS: Traditional

      STS has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Traditional?]

      In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Traditional - 20%
        Social justice - 3%
        Equal balance - 77%
      

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

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

      STS 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 - 25%
        Core knowledge - 43%
        Thematic - 32%
      

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Pragmatism
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at STS: Pragmatism

      STS has a Pragmatism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Pragmatism?]

      Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Pragmatism - 9%
        Perennialism - 6%
        Equal balance - 85%
      

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages Communicative
      Foreign Languages approach at STS: Communicative

      STS has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Communicative?]

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

      Foreign Languages at schools on OurKids.net

        Communicative - 34%
        Audio-lingual - 2%
        Equal balance - 64%
      

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at STS: Creative

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

      Program offers:

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

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What STS says: This information is not currently available.

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

      STS 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 - 34%
        Light integration - 18%
        Medium integration - 48%
      

      What STS says: Technology is woven into the curriculum from Grade 1 on. Our 1-to-1 laptop program begins in Grade 6 with school provided laptops. Grades 10-12 students use laptops and/or tablets of their choice. Students in Grades 7-9 are required to take courses in design which includes engineering, architecture, digital media, and robotics.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What STS says: The Athletics Program at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School is consistent with our mission. Character and leadership are the cornerstones of our program and we look for ways to enhance them at every opportunity. Character is developed through successes and failures in team and individual sports including basketball, badminton, volleyball, field hockey, rugby, cross country running and track and field. It is through these athletic endeavours that students learn the values of sportsmanship and co-operation as well as determination and perseverance towards a common goal.

    • IB Diploma courses 15 courses
      Group 1 (Language A)

      • English Literature HL

      Group 2 (Language B)

      • French SL

      • Spanish SL

      • French ab initio SL

      • Spanish ab initio SL

      Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)

      • Economics HL

      • History HL

      Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)

      • Chemistry SL

      • Chemistry HL

      • Biology HL

      • Physics SL

      Group 5 (Mathematics)

      • Mathematics SL

      Group 6 (The Arts)

      • Music SL

      • Theatre SL

      • Visual Arts SL
    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education Alberta curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at STS: Alberta curriculum

      STS has an Alberta curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About Alberta 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%
      

      Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

      STS has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).

      [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

      By and large, students are taught about sex free of any particular moral or ethical standpoint. The school doesn't impose any particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) on students when teaching sex and related issues.

      What STS 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)

    ---

    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at STS: Academic

    STS 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 - 44%
      Play-based - 22%
      Montessori - 26%
      Waldorf - 2%
      Reggio emilia - 6%
    

    What STS says: Kindergarten at Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School is an innovative, collaborative and inquiry-based program that instills a joy and love for life-long learning. It promotes the development of the whole child in a safe and nurturing learning environment. We believe each day should be filled with laughter, shared stories and learning experiences so their unique talents will emerge and flourish.

  • 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.

    ---

    Curriculum Pace approach at STS: Standard-enriched

    STS 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 - 17%
      Student-paced - 25%
    

    What STS 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 STS 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.

    ---

    Academic Culture approach at STS: Rigorous

    STS 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 - 51%
      Supportive - 49%
    

    What STS 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.

    ---

    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 STS says: Our mission – to develop well-balanced students for a life of purpose by inspiring excellence in scholarship, leadership and character.

  • 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.

    ---

    STS offers No support

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

    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 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.

    ---

    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: 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 STS says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    STS 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, STS students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
    STS	0 mins	15 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	45 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins	60 mins	90 mins	90 mins	90 mins
    Site Average	6 mins	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	30 mins	35 mins	40 mins	53 mins	57 mins	69 mins	80 mins	97 mins	106 mins

    What STS 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.

    ---

    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

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

  • Exploration beyond the classroom is not "extra" at STS. It's essential. We call these studies "co-curricular" rather than "extra-curricular". We believe our robust co-curricular program contributes to the poise and confidence of our students. The program is also an important part of what creates strong connections between students, and with the faculty. The combination of academics, options and co-curriculars give your child the chance to satisfy their curiosity and broaden their horizons in unexpected ways. While our teacher-led co-curriculars are energizing and mind-opening, they're also an opportunity to make strong connections with regular class studies. Faculty are intentional in strengthening coursework through co-curriculars. They are also quick to recognize when a student's interest is piqued during class, and will guide the student to a fitting co-curricular to further the classroom experience. Co-curricular activities contribute to your child's academic skills, leadership abilities and character.

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 8
  Recreational sports: 7

  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

  Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School offers 19 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”).

  ---

  Day

   

  	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day	$16,548	$21,148			$22,588			$23,478			$24,028

  
  

  What STS says about their tuition: Private school tuition can be prohibitive for some families. If your child is a new, ideal candidate for a Strathcona-Tweedsmuir education or a current student, we can help. We are committed to making STS accessible to as many families as possible. In 2019/2020, thanks to our donors, we distributed $535,000 to Middle and Senior School students.

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	K to 12
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	11%
  Average aid package size	$5,700
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	11%
  Total aid available	$535,000

  Application Deadline:

  February 14, 2020  (Repeats annually)

  More information:

  www.strathconatweedsmuir.com/admissions/scholarships-and-financial-assistance/

  Application Details:

  This school works with other. for processing financial applications
  Need-based bursaries are offered to families who demonstrate a gap between their available income and the expected cost of a STS education. Qualification is determined by the Financial Assistance Committee in conjunction with a recommendation from Apple Financial Services. Families apply for assistance through Apple Financial’s Financial Assistance for Canadian Students (FACS) application found on their website (www.applefinancialservices.ca). Apple Financial in turn makes a recommendation for bursary directly to STS. The Financial Assistance Committee reviews each application and awards assistance in accordance with School policy. For more information on the various bursary funds and STS awards, please visit: www.strathconatweedsmuir.com/admissions/financial-assistance/

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  • STS Entry Scholarship Other
    Amount: $5,000

    Deadline: 02/14/2020

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 5 to 12—

    Are you a new student entering Grade 5 to 12? Based on your excellence in scholarship, your compassionate character, and your leadership abilities, you can receive up to $5000 your first year at STS from the STS Entry Scholarship program. 

    ---

    Application Details:

    Your STS Entry Scholarship is due at the time of your application for admission to STS. Only new students to STS are eligible for STS Entry Scholarships. 

    Apply for an STS entry scholarship now 

    If your application for entry to the School is approved, you'll receive the result of your STS Entry Scholarship with your notification of acceptance. 

    For more information about the STS Entry Scholarship program, please email the Director of Strategic Enrollment Management and Communications, Lara Unsworth '95 at [email protected] 

    For more details, visit:https://www.strathconatweedsmuir.com/admissions/financial-assistance/
    

  • Forever Woods ScholarshipOther
    Amount: $5,000

    Deadline: 02/10/2017

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 10—

    Merit scholarships are awarded to students who, along with criteria specific to each scholarship, are demonstrating the potential to achieve excellence in scholarship, leadership and character. We currently offer the following merit scholarships:

    Forever Woods Scholarship
    The Forever Woods Endowment Fund supports scholarships for students entering Grade 10 at STS in the form of the Forever Woods Scholarships. Both students new to STS and continuing their education at STS are eligible to apply.

    ---

    Application Details:

    Candidates for scholarships will be selected by the Scholarships Committee on the basis of merit and financial need. All scholarships are annual and renewable, and the Committee will consider students who best fit the various criteria outlined for each scholarship. In the event a recipient fails to sustain a satisfactory record as to scholarship and character their award may be revoked. 
    
    To download application forms for printing please click here and submit to [email protected]. 

    For more details, visit:www.sts.ab.ca/ForeverWoods
    
• 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	K to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	675

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	675
  Average class size	18
  % of international students (total enrolment)	14%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	15

  Student Distribution:

  	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	32	36	36	36	36	54	54	66	66	66	80	80	80

• 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		K - 12
  SSAT		6 - 12
  SSAT (out of province)		6 - 12
  Entrance Exam(s)		1 - 12
  Entrance Essay		7 - 12

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: February 10, 2020
  Offer mid-year entry: N/A

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: N/A
  Registration fee: N/A
  Deposit: N/A

  What STS says:

  Early decision - November 30, 2019

  Regular decision - February 10, 2019

  Rolling admission begins February 11, 2020

  The full application to STS includes:

  1. Online Application

  2. Confidential School Report Form

  3. Final Report Cards from previous two years

  4. Most Recent Report Card or Progress Report

  5. Interview

  6. Individual or Group Assessment

  ---

  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 80%

  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
  

  ---

  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	K	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	0	32 (93%)	4 - 6 (100%)	0 - 2 (33%)	4 - 6 (83%)	15 - 20 (90%)	0 - 5 (71%)	6 - 10 (60%)	0 - 2 (80%)	0 - 2 (66%)	15 - 20 (100%)	0 - 2 (100%)	0 - 2 (100%)

  Type of student STS is looking for:
  The Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School experience encourages students to find their passions, give back to their community, and prepare themselves for a life of purpose. To that end, our students are inspired to seek excellence in scholarship, leadership, and character.
• 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.

  ---

  Key Numbers

  Average graduating class size	70
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	100%

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	18%
  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)	5

  Post-Secondary Schools Attended

  
  

  • Canada 37 universities
    • Acadia University
    • Brescia University College
    • Brock University
    • Capilano University
    • Carleton University
    • Concordia University
    • Dalhousie University
    • Huron University College
    • McGill University
    • McMaster University
    • Mount Allison University
    • Mount Royal University
    • Queen's University
    • Red Deer College
    • Ryerson University
    • Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology
    • Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
    • Simon Fraser University
    • St. Francis Xavier University
    • St. Mary's University College
    • Trinity Western University
    • University of Alberta
    • University of British Columbia
    • University of Calgary
    • University of King's College
    • University of Lethbridge
    • University of Manitoba
    • University of New Brunswick
    • University of Ottawa
    • University of Regina
    • University of Saskatchewan
    • University of Toronto
    • University of Victoria
    • University of Waterloo
    • Western University
    • Wilfrid Laurier University
    • York University
  • United States 19 universities
    • Boston University
    • Colorado College
    • Harvard University
    • Johns Hopkins University
    • Louisiana State University
    • New York University
    • Northeastern University
    • Pace University
    • Purdue University
    • Texas A&M University, College Station
    • Texas Tech University
    • Thomas Aquinas College
    • University of California, Berkeley
    • University of California, Santa Barbara
    • University of Notre Dame
    • University of South Carolina
    • University of Southern California
    • University of the Pacific (CA)
    • Vassar College
  • International 17 universities
    • Belarusian State University
    • Delft University of Technology
    • Edinburgh Napier University
    • London School of Economics and Political Science
    • Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
    • University College Dublin
    • University College London
    • University of Aberdeen
    • University of Birmingham
    • University of Bristol
    • University of Central Lancashire
    • University of East Anglia
    • University of Edinburgh
    • University of Groningen
    • University of Southampton
    • University of St Andrews
    • University of Stirling

  
  

  Areas of Study

  • Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    47% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    17% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    6% - Business/Commerce
    12% - Fine and Performing Arts
    11% - Applied Health Sciences
    0% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    7% - Other
  

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    25% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    25% - Business/Commerce
    5% - Fine and Performing Arts
    13% - Applied Health Sciences
    2% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    6% - Other
  

  
  

  Services Offered to Students

  Career planning
  Internships	N/A

  Mentorship Program	N/A
  University counseling

  What STS says:

  • The STS Class of 2019 had a total of 70 graduates, with confirmed attendance at 45 post-secondary institutions in Canada, USA, England, and Scotland, with offers made from 77 schools across the world, and close to $1,000,000 offered 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.

  ---

  Alumnus	Grad Year	Accomplishment
  Dan Hays	1954	Retired Senator, member of the Privy Council of Canada, partner at Norton Rose Canada
  Nick Graham	1976	Owner of Fresh Happy People & former Chief Underwear Officer of Joe Boxer Corp.
  Shanoon Bowen-Smed	1982	President and CEO, Bowen Workplace Solutions
  Jill Nation	1970	Physician and professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Calgary
  Justice Rosemary Nation	1971	Justice of the Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench
  Albert Schultz	1981	Actor, director and founding artistic director of Toronto’s celebrated Soulpepper Theatre Company
  Jamie Clarke	1986	Extreme adventurer, Everest summiteer, owner of Out There Adventure Centre & Live Out There web business
  Dave Pierce	1990	Emmy award-winning songwriter, composer, producer
  Judd Palmer	1990	Owner of the Old Trout Puppet Workshop
  Craig Adams	1995	Professional NHL player
  Heather Gilley	1978	Physician
  Harvey Locke	1975	Conservationist, writer and photographer, co-founder of the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative
  James Cross	1980	Professor, University of Calgary
  Ryan Harris	1990	Marine Archaeologist
  Alim Mitha	1993	Neurosurgeon
  Mark Alexander	1982	President – Americas, Campbell Soup Company
  Susan Elliott	1989	Scientist, Entreprenuer, Principal and Co-founder, Virtus Insights Inc.
  Robert-Falcon Oullette	1995	Member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre

  ---

  Alumni Highlights

  • The STS Alumni Association fosters a lifelong relationship with alumni, keeping our school’s deep-rooted traditions alive, while providing opportunities to be engaged with the STS community. Our ever-growing alumni community consists of more than 6,000 former students, parents, retired teachers and staff – and this family loves to get together together and reconnect with each other and the School. We hold many alumni events on the STS campus and around the globe each year. These events give our alumni the chance to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate. They also bring our current students and successful alumni together to share stories of their experiences, paths taken and lessons learned. These invaluable mentorship opportunities add to the STS student experience, giving them a supportive and nurturing network, far beyond their grade school years.
• Principal's Message
  Mrs. Carol Grant-Watt, Head of School

  M.A., B.Ed.

  As Head of School, I am enthusiastic about creating meaningful opportunities and dwelling in possibility. Saying Yes to Your Best is a commitment that STS students, teachers, parents, alumni and staff illustrate each and every day. Rooted in our School's motto, Nil Nisi Optimum, or nothing but our best, this commitment to becoming your best self develops a genuine empathy and care for others, combined with an insatiable curiosity, and the courage to say yes to new adventures, discovery, possibility, belonging and future-preparedness. This is what sets STS apart. 

  Great schools exist with a strong, vibrant community, and a shared priority for the well-being and educational success of our students and alumni. We are proud to welcome exceptional students from across the globe, with a wide array of backgrounds, interests, and talents. I fervently believe in the importance of creating impactful and personalized learning opportunities, both in the classroom and through a diverse co-curricular program, and I can assure you that our dedicated teachers and staff are focused on ensuring your children have access to all they need to succeed and flourish. 

  I can think of no higher priority than the future of our children, and my vision is that as a team at STS, we contribute to moving them forward in their journey towards their hopes, dreams, and goals. We will do so in a respectful manner, honouring the individuality and diversity of our community. As we prepare to deliver on a new strategic plan and inspire commitment, trust, and belief in our collective abilities to change the world for the better, I say to you, the future is bright. 

  The STS spirit and ethos are infectious and inspiring. We have a history of innovation, tradition and extensive collaboration with the community, and we will continue to build on our humble roots, be unapologetic in our pursuit of academic excellence, and continue to offer a myriad of experiences to nurture the spirit and passion of our students. As the educational landscape is rapidly changing, it is imperative that we stay current, protect our core and ensure our young charges are cared for, ready for the challenges and opportunities that today presents as well as an exciting future. 

  I have never been more optimistic about our ability to deliver a rigorous and relevant educational experience for current and prospective students, and I give you my word that I will continue to work tirelessly to provide the best environment for your children. 

  
• Associations
  

  

  
• Social Feeds
    Visit our YouTube channel

    Visit our Instagram

  Tweets