Indirect Support:
The Claremont School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at The Claremont School: Progressive
The Claremont School has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
What The Claremont School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Situated in the Beach, on Silver Birch Avenue, in Toronto, Ontario, Claremont School is an elementary co-educational school dedicated exclusively to the teaching of students with dyslexia from Grades K – 8. We offer a tailored curriculum designed by a Fellow of the Orton-Gillingham Academy for specific and intense remediation of reading, writing, and math skills. Our aim is to empower dyslexic students and prepare them for success in the mainstream once strong foundational knowledge is acquired, and to do so in the most effective and efficient manner.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
-
Mathematics
Mathematics approach at The Claremont School: Equal Balance
The Claremont School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What The Claremont School says:
Math is taught using a combination of traditional methodologies, multisensory strategies and guided discovery exploration. All concepts are related to real life projects in which application of mathematical principals are applied.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Jump Math IXL Orton-Gillingham Math
Calculator policy:
Calculators can be used as the teachers deem appropriate.
-
Early Reading
Early Reading approach at The Claremont School: Phonics-intensive
The Claremont School has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What The Claremont School says:
Using research-based best practices the following areas are the focus for students with dyslexia: phonological awareness, reading fluency, vocabulary acquisition and reading comprehension. The multisensory Orton-Gillingham/Practical Linguistics lesson plan is the central platform of reading instruction.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What The Claremont School says:
Claremont School uses standardized testing and Great Word House™ levelled evaluations.
-
Writing
Writing approach at The Claremont School: Equal balance
The Claremont School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What The Claremont School says:
Written expression includes grammar, syntax, and sentence to essay instruction. The Claremont Writing program integrates written instruction in all subject areas. Writing skills are often an area of weakness for students with dyslexia, and our curriculum seeks to emphasize instruction in this area. Our school offers several extra-curricular activities that promote the art of writing. We sponsor writing competitions in several genres: poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Students run and contribute to the Claremont School Newsletter.
-
Science
Science approach at The Claremont School: Equal Balance
The Claremont School has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Science is taught using hands on exploration and experimentation. In the older grades, students are taught subject specific vocabulary and the scientific method, that is development and testing of a hypothesis. Data collection and recording of results is integrated with mathematical instruction.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at The Claremont School: Traditional
The Claremont School has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What The Claremont School says:
The students study a variety of text from short passages to longer novel studies. Fiction and non-fiction are part of the curriculum in every grade.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at The Claremont School: Core Knowledge
The Claremont School has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What The Claremont School says:
Social Studies is a balanced program encompassing hands-on activities, key subject specific vocabulary and integration with Science, Language, The Arts and Math curriculum.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at The Claremont School: Equal Balance
The Claremont School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What The Claremont School says:
By looking at the past, the students make connections and look critically at conditions in the present.
Foreign Languages
What The Claremont School says:
This information is not currently available.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at The Claremont School: Equal Balance
The Claremont School has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What The Claremont School says:
Students are encouraged to express a multiplicity of viewpoints to a variety of experiences. Students are provided with an enriched creative environment that promotes skill development.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at The Claremont School: Light integration
The Claremont School has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What The Claremont School says:
Claremont School teaches Media Literacy; however, assistive technology is kept to the minimum. Students in upper elementary grades are taught typing skills and computer techniques.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What The Claremont School says:
Outdoor education, sports, physical and mental health is a priority at Claremont School. Throughout the day, these subjects are incorporated into the curriculum.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at The Claremont School: Not Ontario curriculum
The Claremont School has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
The Claremont School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What The Claremont School says:
We are completely value neutral. Our doors are open to all students who seek a non-judgemental, nurturing, and safe learning environment.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at The Claremont School: Academic
The Claremont School has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What The Claremont School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Claremont First Steps Kindergarten Program is a linguistic approach to teaching language, which means we teach the skills that need to be mastered in order to read and spell successfully. Math concepts and numeracy are taught through hands-on exploration and problem solving. A deep understanding of Number Sense is instilled through theoretical and experiential instruction. First Steps is a multi-sensory, structured program with built-in diagnostics; consequently, student's strengths and weaknesses are assessed for effective curriculum development for individual child.
Language
Learn about The Claremont School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
The Claremont School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at The Claremont School: Student-paced
The Claremont School has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What The Claremont School says about their curriculum pace:
Student progress is evaluated regularly and instruction is based on skill levels and mastery of concepts taught. Accommodations and modifications are made on an individual basis and lessons are scaffolded to support learning.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What The Claremont School says about their flexible pacing:
Standardized and criterion-reference testing is conducted annually, which determines the rate that curriculum is delivered. Assessment also determines the curriculum content.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at The Claremont School: Supportive
The Claremont School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What The Claremont School says about their academic culture:
We believe that students with dyslexia have abilities and gifts that our society needs. While respecting these strengths and imparting the knowledge that will unlock their academic potential, we will serve both the students and our community as a whole. Literacy is a priority. Students experience a literature-rich environment that will develop their reading and writing skills while emphasizing analysis and creativity. All students will receive Orton-Gillingham/Practical Linguistics instruction.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What The Claremont School says about their developmental priorities:
Our mission is to maximize the emotional, social, and intellectual potential of our students so that they can reach their optimal potential and become valuable members of society.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
The Claremont School is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
What The Claremont School says about their special need support:
Types of accommodations include: 1. Structured scaffolded lessons 2. Systematic step by step curriculum 3. Extra time for projects, assignments, and tests 4. Repetition review which is ongoing 5. Small class size 6. Organizational strategies 7. Frequent assessment and evaluation
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
-
Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
-
DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
-
Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
-
PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What The Claremont School says:
Class size is small which allows for focused intervention and attention to all students. Instruction is delivered using multiple methodologies and strategies which enable optimal progress.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What The Claremont School says about their gifted learner support:
Due to our small class size and dynamic curriculum, enrichment activities are included across the curriculum.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, The Claremont School students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| JK | SK | K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Claremont School | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 6 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins | 36 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 58 mins |
What The Claremont School says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 1 to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to K |
| Academic achievement reporting | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | JK to Gr. 8 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
The Claremont School offers 3 competitive sports and 10 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Archery
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Fencing
- Ice Hockey
- Ice Skating
- Martial Arts
- Running
- Soccer
- Track & Field
Clubs offered
The Claremont School offers 21 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Musical theatre/Opera
Outdoor Club
Outdoor Education
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Radio club
School newspaper
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Yoga
Animation
Art Club
Astronomy Club
Band
Chess Club
Choir
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: The Claremont School
Next steps to continue your research:
Add to shortlist
