The Linden School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Progressive
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Social Studies : Thematic
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages: Communicative
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Heavy integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Advanced Placement courses: 3 courses
    • Sex and health education: Ontario curriculum
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Play-based
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Intellectual
  • Special needs support: No support
  • Gifted learner support: Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Progressive
    [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 Linden School: Progressive

    Linden School has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Progressive?]

    Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Progressive - 17%
      Traditional - 15%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Montessori - 17%
      Reggio Emilia - 17%
      Waldorf - 17%
    

    What Linden School says: We are the only school in Canada specifically created to incorporate innovative research on girls’ educational needs. Our speciality is applying feminist pedagogy through a social justice and interdisciplinary lens to inspire and engage girls. We balance the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements with best practices in girls’ education. Research supports what we know from experience—that girls thrive academically and socially in single-sex environments. Girls are more engaged in their studies when they are empowered to ask questions, debate with each other and their teachers, collaborate in groups, and analyze their course material with a critical lens. This is why we supplement the Ontario Ministry of Education’s curriculum by enriching our courses with relevant and interdisciplinary topics that girls find more meaningful and engaging.

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at Linden School: Equal Balance

      Linden School 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 - 33%
        Traditional math - 34%
        Discovery math - 33%
      

      What Linden School says: Math specialists teach our elementary students as well as high school students. All Linden students select math in high school and a majority of our alumnae select STEM subjects in their post-secondary studies. Our teachers inspire students to exceed their academic expectations; students who come to Linden and have feared math in the past end up excelling in the subject and taking more than the necessary number of math courses in high school.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: Our program draws from diverse resources based on current research and the needs of our students.

      Calculator policy: Although there are sometimes rich learning opportunities using calculators, students in Grades 1-8 usually perform calculations without calculators. Students with math-based exceptionalities may use calculators. High school students use calculators for most math-based problem solving.

    • Early Reading Balanced Literacy
      Early Reading approach at Linden School: Balanced Literacy

      Linden School 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 - 33%
        Phonics-intensive - 34%
        Whole language - 33%
      

      What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

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

      What Linden School says: Based on small class sizes that allow deep understanding of individual student needs, we use a variety of assessments.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at Linden School: Equal balance

      Linden School 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 - 33%
        Systematic approach - 34%
        Process approach - 33%
      

      What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at Linden School: Equal Balance

      Linden School 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 - 71%
        Expository - 6%
        Inquiry - 23%
      

      Teaching approach: We know that engaging girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) from an early age directly influences their choice of post-secondary education and career paths. Girls who have confidence in their ability in these fields are more likely to perform well in math and science courses. Improving girls’ belief in their abilities is essential as they move from elementary school into middle and high school. Girls are more engaged when taught math and science concepts in the context of real-world phenomena, using real materials to make connections between mathematic and scientific theory, technology, and their everyday lives. This is why even our youngest students conduct experiments in our science lab, participate in math fairs, and learn computer programming. As a result of our engaging pedagogical approach to STEM subjects, every Linden high school student chooses more than the required number of courses in math and science.

      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 Linden School: Equal Balance

      Linden School 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 - 20%
        Social justice - 3%
      

      What Linden School says: Research shows that learning improves when girls construct their own understanding of concepts by asking questions, and through discussion and experience rather than by memorizing rules or definitions. We offer a safe environment where our students are encouraged to influence class discussions, to take risks, and to ask questions without fear of failure. We encourage even our youngest students to pose challenging questions and to share their answers courageously. As a result, our students learn to love inquiry. Whether examining media or traditional curriculum materials, our girls ask, “Where is the girl or woman in this story? Who speaks? Who is spoken about? Who benefits? Who loses?” By encouraging students towards intellectual risk-taking and questioning the status quo, we go beyond traditional all-girls schools to incorporate the values of equity, diversity, and social responsibility within our curriculum.

    • Social Studies Thematic
      Social Studies approach at Linden School: Thematic

      Linden School has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge , Expanding Communities approach).

      [Show: About Thematic?]

      The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Thematic - 33%
        Core knowledge - 34%
        Expanding communities - 33%
      

      What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Linden School: Equal Balance

      Linden School 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 - 33%
        Perennialism - 34%
        Pragmatism - 33%
      

      What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages Communicative
      Foreign Languages approach at Linden School: Communicative

      Linden School 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 - 33%
        Audio-lingual - 34%
        Equal balance - 33%
      

      What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at Linden School: Creative

      Linden School 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 Linden School says: We encourage creative experimentation and ensure that student artwork is exhibited and celebrated throughout the school on an ongoing basis. Students also become art appreciators and critics by being introduced to the major periods in art history. Linden’s music program teaches students not only to play music, but to analyze and appreciate it as well. Our small classes allow teachers to help each student with playing and singing. Once a girl becomes comfortable on stage, she becomes even more confident using her voice in all areas of her life. This is especially true for our drama program where developing confidence in one’s voice is a critical component. Girls perform and write a wide variety of pieces, including monologues, movement pieces and short plays, culminating in highly successful public performances.

    • Computers and Technology Heavy integration
      Computers and Technology approach at Linden School: Heavy integration

      Linden School 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 - 33%
        Light integration - 20%
        Medium integration - 47%
      

      What Linden School says: Bridging the Gender Gap in Computer-Related Fields: Girls and women continue to be under-represented in technology-related fields. Our program gives girls the encouragement, motivation, and skills needed to pursue opportunities in these areas. From the earliest grades, Linden girls are taught to use technology in safe, ethical, and creative ways, and are encouraged to view themselves as producers of technology, not just consumers or end users. Therefore, girls learn programming skills in each grade. We begin with basic logic that explains how computers “think,” and progress toward creating programs using user-friendly interfaces that allow girls to build code, and finally work toward text-based code (such as the Python language) in the middle years. Media literacy is also an important part of the computer studies program and students learn to use a variety of digital tools including word processing software, design and layout tools, spreadsheets, slide-shows, audio-editing software, and movie-making programs.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What Linden School says: Athletics at Linden is a well-rounded curriculum of physical education, health class, and daily physical activity. Our athletics program is recognized for innovative instruction and student engagement. Smiles, sweat, and self-confidence are the products of team training and phys-ed classes at Linden! Linden students have the opportunity to participate in sports such as soccer, ball hockey, basketball and track and field. Joining a sports team does not require tryouts. No one is cut from an after school sports team or judged on their beginning skill level. This unique environment allows students to improve their technique. Breeding self-esteem and a strong sense of self is our way of using sports to empower our students.

    • Advanced Placement courses 3 courses
      AP Biology

      AP Calculus AB

      AP French Language
    • Sex and health education Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at Linden School: Ontario curriculum

      Linden School has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About Ontario 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

      Linden School 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 Linden School says: Our health education program is based on the most-recent and credible research about what is best for girls and young women. We follow the Ontario sex education curriculum - we have been implementing its core values for more than a decade.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Advanced Placement courses

    • Sex and health education
  • Preschool/K Curriculum Play-based
    [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)

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    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Linden School: Play-based

    Linden School has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).

    [Show: About Play-based?]

    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

    Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Play-based - 20%
      Montessori - 20%
      Waldorf - 20%
      Reggio emilia - 20%
      Academic - 20%
    

    What Linden School says: The Linden School offers a girl-centred, full-day Kindergarten program for four and five-year-old children. Our program helps establish a strong foundation for learning in the early years within a safe and caring play and inquiry-based environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of all children. Our program consists of a balance of exploration and investigation, play, guided instruction, and explicit instruction. Inquiry-based learning allows children to actively participate in their own learning by asking questions and sharing ideas. To learn more visit http://www.lindenschool.ca/earlylearning

  • 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.

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    Curriculum Pace approach at Linden School: Standard-enriched

    Linden School 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 - 18%
      Student-paced - 24%
    

    What Linden School 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 Linden School 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 Linden School: Rigorous

    Linden School 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 - 50%
      Supportive - 50%
    

    What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

  • Developmental priorities Intellectual
    [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: Intellectual

    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced

    "Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation."

    What Linden School says: This information is not currently available.

  • Special needs 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.

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    What Linden School says about their special need support: We provide a variety of supports for students with many different learning needs according to their IEPs (Individual Education Plans). We are not currently able to modify the expectations of the Ontario curriculum. Although our teachers are trained in accommodating different needs, we do not offer withdrawal support to a specialized special education classroom. Our smaller class sizes allow teachers to help students overcome challenges through encouragement and greater attention in specific areas of need. Girls are encouraged to ask questions, and are mentored to develop their own learning and coping strategies. Study Hall is offered four days a week.

    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

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    Summary: The Linden School views accommodations for students as a partnership with families. We expect families to provide medical, social-emotional, and academic support outside of school as needed.

    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 Dedicated class; 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.

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    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 Linden School says: Gifted girls who need more challenge and intellectual engagement flourish in our inquiry-based classes. They work with caring and dynamic teachers in a warm community-based environment. We enrich the Ontario curriculum by providing a broader selection of topics, more in-depth analysis, and greater expectation of our students to ask questions, be creative, and stretch their intellectual abilities. Linden students are university-bound, and our graduates are leaders and innovators in a wide range of disciplines.

  • Language English
    Linden School 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.

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    In grade Gr. 12, Linden School students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
    Linden School	15 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins	60 mins	90 mins	90 mins	120 mins	120 mins
    Site Average	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	29 mins	34 mins	40 mins	52 mins	56 mins	69 mins	80 mins	98 mins	107 mins

    What Linden School 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	Gr. 2 to Gr. 12
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	JK to Gr. 12
    Academic achievement reporting	JK to Gr. 12
    Habits and behaviour reporting	JK to Gr. 12
    Parent-teacher meetings	JK to Gr. 12

• 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.

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  What Linden School says:

  • Our wide range of co-curricular activities nurture leadership development and intellectual growth. Students are encouraged to create clubs that meet their interests and showcase their talents. Leadership in civic engagement and community building is an inherent part of our school culture and Linden students actively initiate and organize community service projects.

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 6
  Recreational sports: 11

  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

  The Linden School offers 22 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

   

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day	$24,550		$29,950						$31,350

  
  

  What Linden School says about their tuition: Fees are set in January for the coming year. Upon acceptance of admission, parents/guardians must confirm registration by sending a completed registration form with the initial tuition fee instalment, as well as the one-time New Student Registration and Infrastructure Fee of $6,000 which is included in the annual fee as follows: JK-SK: $24,550 | Grade 1-6: $29,950 | Grade 7-12: $31,350

  ---

  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	all students	10%

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	JK to 12
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	20%
  Average aid package size	$6,000
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	20%
  Total aid available	$250,000

  Application Deadline:

  October 27, 2020  (Repeats annually)

  More information:

  www.lindenschool.ca/financial_assistance

  Application Details:

  This school works with Apple Financial Inc. for processing financial applications
  Linden's Commitment to Equity The Linden School lives up to its values of diversity and inclusivity. Last year, 20% of our students benefited from a Linden education thanks to the school’s generous bursary policy. Bursary awards are based solely upon the family’s demonstrated need, as determined by Linden’s Bursary Committee. While we are unable to provide bursaries that cover full tuition, our Bursary Committee will do its best to meet demonstrated need. We expect that parents, as much as they are able, will bear the primary responsibility for financing their daughter’s education, which can sometimes be at the expense of other discretionary expenditures. Bursary Application Process The process to apply for a bursary begins with the submission of an application to Apple Financial Services, a third-party organization that provides an unbiased evaluation of an applicant’s financial resources and ability to fund their private education. Application deadlines for the 2022-2023 school year: Returning Families: Applications must be received by Apple Financial by Friday, November 26, 2021, in order to be prioritized for consideration for the 2021-2022 school year. New Families: Applications must be received by Apple Financial by January 7th, 2022 to receive a response by the Common Offer Date, Friday, February 25, 2022. Applications received after these dates will be evaluated as space and funds allow. Families who have been awarded bursaries previously must re-apply each year. Awards may be adjusted if family financial circumstances change significantly. Supporting Linden We ask recipient families to volunteer their time at the school in various capacities. We value your willingness to share your time and expertise. Contact Us Please contact our Admissions Office if you have any questions about your application.

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  Merit based Scholarships

  The Linden School does not offer merit-based financial awards.
• Enrollment
  [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	JK to Gr. 12	All girls	Day	122

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	122
  Average class size	12
  % of international students (total enrolment)	1%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	4

  Student Distribution:

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	10	10	10	10	12	12	12	12	15	15	12	12	12	12
  Class Size	12	12	12	12	12	12	12	12	15	15	15	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.

  ---

  Admissions Requirements

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		JK - 12
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)		7 - 12
  Entrance Essay

  Day students: December 13, 2021
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  Fees:

  Application fee: $150
  Registration fee: $6,000
  Deposit: 48%

  What Linden School says:

  Admissions Application Guide

  1.  Book a Virtual Tour

  Meet Linden students and faculty, and explore our program and philosophy with a personalized virtual tour of the school. An admission application is not necessary for booking a tour. Learn more about booking a virtual tour.

  ---

  2.  Apply 

  Admission for the 2021-2022 School Year: We have a small number of available spaces in most grades and we are accepting applications on a rolling basis as space permits.

  Admission for the 2022-2023 School Year:  The deadline for admission applications is Monday, December 13, 2021. Applications received after this deadline will be considered on a rolling basis as space permits.

  • Please complete and submit our application form.
  • Submit a non-refundable application fee of $150. You can either pay online, or send an e-transfer to [email protected].
  • Provide supporting documentation:
    • School reports from the two previous years, and the most recent report card.
    • Copy of birth certificate.
    • Our confidential teacher reference form, completed by a former teacher.
    • Any other psychological or educational assessment that will assist us in evaluating your daughter and ensuring we can offer the right support.

  ---

  3.  Interview & Assessment

  • Once we have received your application form, we will schedule an informal, conversational interview with our Director of Admissions. This is an opportunity for us to get to know you, and for you to learn more about our program and ask questions. The interview can last up to one hour.
  • Applicants to Grades 7–12 are required to complete our Academic Assessment in mathematics and English. The assessment usually takes 1–2 hours; currently we are scheduling times for the assessment to be completed remotely.

  ---

  4.  Admission Offer

  • Admission offers will be made on the common offer date on Friday, February 25, 2022.
  • Your responses are due by Friday, March 4, 2022.

  ---

  5.  Experience Linden

  • Once you have accepted your offer of admission, we will do our best to offer interesting and enjoyable ways to experience Linden and to get to know new classmates, families and teachers. We want you to feel like part of the Linden family well before the first day of school.

  ---

  Contact Us!

  If you have a question about applying to Linden please get in touch:

  • Email: [email protected] 
  • Telephone: 416-966-4406

  ---

  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	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	10 (80%)	10 (80%)	4 - 10 (80%)	4 - 10 (80%)	4 - 6 (80%)	4 - 6 (80%)	4 - 6 (80%)	4 - 6 (80%)	12 - 15 (60%)	12 - 15 (60%)	6 - 8 (80%)	6 - 8 (80%)	6 - 8 (80%)	6 - 8 (80%)

  Type of student Linden School is looking for:
  We welcome girls from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate intellectual curiosity as well as academic and personal potential. Girls who are excited to learn, to share their ideas, and be active participants in our community thrive at Linden.
• 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	15
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	100%

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	5%
  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)	N/A

  Post-Secondary Schools Attended

  University of Toronto																					20%
  University of Waterloo																					20%
  McGill University											10%
  University of Victoria											10%
  Western University											10%

  % of Graduates

  
  

  • Canada 11 universities
    • Concordia University
    • McGill University
    • Queen's University
    • Ryerson University
    • University of British Columbia
    • University of Toronto
    • University of Victoria
    • University of Waterloo
    • Western University
    • Wilfrid Laurier University
    • York University

  
  

  Areas of Study

  • The Linden School
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  The Linden School Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    20% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    30% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    15% - Business/Commerce
    15% - Fine and Performing Arts
    10% - Applied Health Sciences
    5% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    5% - Other
  

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    25% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    24% - Business/Commerce
    4% - Fine and Performing Arts
    14% - Applied Health Sciences
    2% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    6% - Other
  

  
  

  Services Offered to Students

  Career planning
  Internships	N/A

  Mentorship Program
  University counseling

  What Linden School says:

  • Linden offers an enriched, challenging academic program that helps students gain the knowledge, work habits, research, writing, and critical-thinking skills they need to succeed at university. Although we emphasize math and science, we offer a range of high school courses including AP courses, visual and performing arts, social sciences, languages (Spanish, and French), business and computer studies. Grade 12 students meet with our Guidance and Learning Counsellor on a weekly basis to receive individual advice that helps ensure they maximize their post-secondary choices by carefully selecting universities and completing their applications. As a result, we have a 100% university acceptance rate, and Linden graduates are able to choose from a range of universities, often with generous scholarships. Our graduates not only achieve academic success, but also become leaders in their post-secondary careers. Whether leading their school’s debating club, excelling in athletics, performing in drama productions, or simply having the confidence to ask questions in a lecture hall of 500 people, Linden graduates use their strong voices to make their mark. Our alumnae have gone on to achieve success in a wide range of careers spanning the performing arts, global advocacy and education, business and technology, and science and engineering.
• 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
  Alannah Bloch	2011	Alannah Bloch is the talented creator and director of a newly minted Fringe show, The Wyrd Sisters which also happens to be a Shakespearean mash-up. More: http://www.timescolonist.com/entertainment/curtain-up-on-victoria-fringe-theatre-festival-1.2041997#sthash.SIwBjpi2.dpuf
  Emma Ruby-Sachs	1999	Emma Ruby-Sachs is Deputy Director at the global advocacy organization Avaaz, and has authored The Water Man’s Daughter, a book which explores activism. More: http://magazine.utoronto.ca/all-about-alumni/emma-rubysachs-novel-water-mans-daughter/
  Zinta Zommers	1996	Zinta Zommers, received the Ontario Rhodes Scholarship for her outstanding academic performance and pursued graduate studies at Oxford University in England.
  Lauren Margison	2010	Accomplished singer and song-writer Lauren Margison has shared the stage with Gordon Lightfoot, Rufus Wainwright, Louise Pitre, Sheila McCarthy, the Canadian Tenors and Richard Margison, her world-famous father. More... http://www.timescolonist.com/singing-is-the-margison-family-business-1.1394832

  ---

  Alumni Highlights

  • At Linden, our definition of alumnae includes an ever-expanding network of former students, teachers, parents, and friends. Our talented and unique alumnae often return to attend their favourite Linden events, eager to share their stories and successes with the community. Many alumnae go on to become lifelong friends and we have regular opportunities to stay connected, including an annual holiday gathering. Read more about our alumnae here: https://www.lindenschool.ca/conversations_with_linden_alumnae
• Principal's Message
  Tara Silver, Principal

  B.A. (English & Theatre), M.A. (Women & Gender Studies), Ph.D. Education (ABD)

  The Linden School is where girls thrive! We offer a uniquely holistic approach to girls’ K-12 education, balancing social and emotional learning with academic achievement. For almost 30 years, our long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion has given our graduates strong critical thinking skills and an open-minded view of the world. Our award-winning STEM and physical education teachers have been recognized nationally for their creativity and dedication to girls’ learning. 

  Linden’s small class sizes allow for more teacher-student engagement and a strong sense of community across all grades.  Linden’s exceptional physical education program with a no “try-outs” policy fosters confidence, teamwork and resilience in our students. Above all, we strive to instill a life-long love of outdoor activity in girls, whether through team sports, camping or cycling along a trail.

  At Linden, we value civic engagement and community-building through a range of experiential learning projects, from environmental stewardship to media arts and citizen journalism. Even the youngest members of our community know that they have the power to create change and make a difference in their communities. As one primary school student exclaimed, “I never knew school could be so much fun!”

  As Principal, it is a joy to stay connected to our alumnae and hear about their exciting careers in a range of professions —  engineering, computer science, performing arts, international development, and law to name a few. I invite you to learn more by exploring our website and joining us at our upcoming open house events. 

  Tara Silver

  
• In the News
  

  July 25, 2021
  Athletics Director receives PM’s 2020 Certificate of Achievement!

  With 33 championship banners, 90 percent of middle and high school students are on a team...
  Read full article

  

  July 25, 2021
  How Feminist Pedagogy Plays out in Linden’s Senior English Curriculum

  Students are challenged to read, annotate, reflect and evaluate texts, and then to create Socratic seminars, essays, presentations and...
  Read full article

  

  July 25, 2021
  Approaching Black History Month Through the Lens of Black Educators

  This year’s All-School celebration of Black History and Black Joy intentionally disrupted common-place approaches to the topic...
  Read full article

  
  

  Read more school news
• Associations
  
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