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Erindale Academy ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at The Erindale Academy: Progressive, Montessori
The Erindale Academy has a Progressive, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive, Montessori?]
The Erindale Academy has a Montessori approach to supplementary curriculum.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
What The Erindale Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Our approach to education rests on the understanding that all our students are individuals who have different strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Thus, for each student to have a comprehensive education, our learning strategies are personalized and designed to support each student as individual learners.
Montessori program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Science and technology |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at The Erindale Academy: Equal Balance
The Erindale Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What The Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Science approach at The Erindale Academy: Equal Balance
The Erindale Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]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
Literature approach at The Erindale Academy: Traditional
The Erindale Academy has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What The Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at The Erindale Academy: Equal Balance
The Erindale Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What The Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at The Erindale Academy: Equal Balance
The Erindale Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What The Erindale Academy 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 Erindale Academy: Equal Balance
The Erindale Academy 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 Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at The Erindale Academy: Medium integration
The Erindale Academy has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What The Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What The Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
- AP Statistics
- AP World History
- AP Biology
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Chemistry
- AP Computer Science A
- AP English Literature and Composition
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at The Erindale Academy: Ontario curriculum
The Erindale Academy has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
The Erindale Academy has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What The Erindale Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Montessori Approach
Erindale Academy's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Middle | High | |
|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
12 to 14 | 15 to 18 |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
5 hours | 3 hours |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
40% | 40% |
Overall approach
Moderately Non-Orthodox
16% of schools
Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school uses teaching assistants.
Language
Learn about Erindale Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
The Erindale Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Online Learning
Erindale Academy's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.
Erindale Academy operates as an online school.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
What The Erindale Academy says about their course format:
Asynchronous: Each 110-hour course includes about 20 to 30 hours of face-to-face teaching.
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
What The Erindale Academy says about their academic support and services:
Dedicated teacher per course: es. Each course at The Erindale Academy is taught by at least one dedicated subject teacher who is responsible for curriculum delivery, student engagement, and progress monitoring. Our teachers are specialists in their fields and work closely with students to support both academic achievement and personal growth. This structure ensures consistency, accountability, and personalized attention throughout the course. For interdisciplinary or project-based courses, teachers may collaborate across departments, but each student still benefits from direct guidance by a lead instructor who knows them well.
Exam proctoring: Yes. All exams and tests at The Erindale Academy are proctored by qualified teachers or designated staff to ensure academic integrity and a fair testing environment. Proctors monitor students throughout the assessment period, provide necessary instructions, and address any technical or procedural issues that may arise. For online or blended courses, remote proctoring tools may be used when appropriate. Our goal is to maintain high standards of assessment while supporting students with a calm, organized testing experience.
Student progress tracker: Yes. The Erindale Academy uses a combination of digital tools and teacher assessments to track student progress throughout each course. Teachers monitor performance through assignments, quizzes, participation, and projects, providing regular feedback to students and parents. Our online learning platform allows students to view grades, upcoming tasks, and progress reports in real time. For personalized support, advisors and mentors review student progress regularly and adjust learning plans as needed. This system ensures timely intervention, promotes accountability, and helps each student stay on track toward academic success.
Regular office hours: Yes. Teachers and staff at The Erindale Academy maintain regular office hours each week to provide additional support outside of class time. During these hours, students can ask questions, review course materials, seek academic guidance, or receive mentorship. Office hours are held both in person and online to ensure accessibility. This open-door approach fosters strong teacher-student relationships and ensures that students receive timely, personalized support to enhance their learning experience and academic success.
Additional support: Yes. The Erindale Academy offers a range of extra academic support services to help students succeed. This includes after-school tutoring, personalized academic coaching, study skills workshops, and one-on-one meetings with subject teachers. Support is available for both core and elective courses, and may be tailored to individual learning needs. Students are encouraged to seek help early and often, and teachers proactively identify those who may benefit from additional guidance. Our goal is to ensure every student has the resources and encouragement needed to reach their full academic potential.
Study groups: Yes. The Erindale Academy encourages and supports student-led and teacher-guided study groups to promote collaboration and deeper learning. Study groups are organized by subject, project, or exam preparation, and may be facilitated during lunch, after school, or online. These groups help students reinforce key concepts, develop communication skills, and learn from peers in a supportive environment. Teachers may recommend or coordinate groups based on student needs, ensuring that all learners have opportunities for academic enrichment and peer connection.
Special needs support: Yes. We provide limited support for students with special needs.
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at The Erindale Academy: Student-paced
The Erindale Academy has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What The Erindale Academy says about their curriculum pace:
Inquiry-based, project-based, interdisciplinary studies
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 Erindale Academy says about their flexible pacing:
Inquiry-based, project-based, interdisciplinary studies
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at The Erindale Academy: Rigorous
The Erindale Academy has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What The Erindale Academy says about their academic culture:
Guide students through active inquiry to promote deep learning and critical thinking.
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: Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
What The Erindale Academy says about their developmental priorities:
At The Erindale Academy, we aim to develop well-rounded individuals who are intellectually curious, emotionally intelligent, socially engaged, and physically well. We place a strong emphasis on emotional development—helping students build confidence, resilience, and self-awareness through mentorship and inquiry-based learning. Our balanced approach ensures that academic excellence is paired with character growth, creative exploration, and personal well-being. We believe that students thrive when they are seen, heard, and supported as whole individuals. By nurturing both heart and mind, we prepare our students not only for success in university, but for meaningful lives as compassionate leaders, thoughtful collaborators, and capable changemakers in an ever-evolving world.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
The Erindale Academy offers No support
The Erindale Academy offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 |
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 Erindale Academy says about their gifted learner support:
We assess each student’s abilities and customize learning plans to meet their individual needs. For gifted learners, we provide enrichment opportunities through accelerated content, interdisciplinary projects, and mentorship. Whether through differentiated instruction, small-group challenges, or integration into advanced courses, we ensure gifted students remain engaged, supported, and inspired.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, The Erindale Academy students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Erindale Academy | 90 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 54 mins | 58 mins | 75 mins | 86 mins | 101 mins | 107 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
What The Erindale Academy says about their flipped classroom policy:
Yes, all course materials are available online. Teachers assign content for students to preview in advance, allowing them to come to class prepared to share their thoughts and engage in discussion.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 7 to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 7 to Gr. 12 |
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
Erindale Academy offers 4 competitive sports and 4 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Football
- Soccer
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Erindale Academy offers 19 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Math Club
Musical theatre/Opera
Online Magazine
Outdoor Club
Photography
Poetry/Literature club
Robotics club
Science Club
Student Council
Yearbook
Art Club
Band
Chess Club
Community Service
Computer Club
Dance Club
Debate Club
Drama Club
Environmental Club
