The big picture on Leonardo Da Vinci Academy of Arts & Sciences
We summarized the school ourselves
Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's and Maria Montessori's philosophies, Leonardo Da Vinci Academy of Arts & Sciences (LDVA) integrates Montessori and traditional education methodologies. This involves the Italian immersion Scuola Materna preschool and the authentic Casa Montessori for younger students. From Grades 4 to 8, the academy transitions to an enriched traditional curriculum, emphasizing whole-brain thinking and independence. Specialist classes in French, Italian, and Music, from preschool to Grade 8, complement this holistic educational approach. Inspired by the "Seven Da Vincian Principles," the curriculum cultivates creativity, problem-solving, and balanced mind-body development. The school's renovated facilities, as well as small class sizes, further enhance this innovative learning environment of LDVA. In its four decades, LDVA has consistently delivered exceptional education, guided by a mission to develop well-rounded individuals who possess a lifelong love for learning.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Founded in 1984, LDVA is an independent Catholic school in the GTA that provides exceptional education from Preschool to Grade 8. Programs include accredited Montessori and Italian Immersion Preschools, Lower Elementary Montessori, and traditional Grades 4 to 8. LDVA enables students to achieve their full potential and fosters a love of learning by promoting independence and whole-brain thinking. Core subjects follow an enriched Ontario curriculum, with specialist teachers for Music, French, and Italian."
Co-educational, independent, Catholic school serving families in the GTA for over 40 years
Preschools are licensed under the CCEYA
Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators accredited member
Italian immersion Scuola Materna preschool
Authentic Casa Montessori preschool and Lower Elementary Montessori
Enriched traditional education from Grades 4 to 8
Specialist classes in French, Italian and Music from Preschool to Grade 8
Small class sizes ensure students are appropriately challenged and individual needs are met
Unique curriculum inspired by the Seven Da Vincian Principles
Newly renovated facilities
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Our unique curriculum combines Montessori and traditional education with a Da Vincian approach to learning. From our Casa Montessori and Scuola Materna Preschools, students...(more)
"Our unique curriculum combines Montessori and traditional education with a Da Vincian approach to learning. From our Casa Montessori and Scuola Materna Preschools, students progress to our Lower Elementary Montessori program for Grades 1 to 3. Our Upper Elementary program begins in Grade 4 and transitions students into a traditional classroom setting where they follow an enriched curriculum up to Grade 8. Across all levels, we foster a 'Thinking Like Leonardo' approach for lifelong learning."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
Information not yet available.
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"From preschool to Grade 8 teachers of the Leonardo Da Vinci Academy employ “Seven Da Vincian Principles” to help students explore and cultivate their own creativity and...(more)
"From preschool to Grade 8 teachers of the Leonardo Da Vinci Academy employ “Seven Da Vincian Principles” to help students explore and cultivate their own creativity and thinking skills. By using strategies inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci children are encouraged to develop their full potential. Along with a heightened appreciation of the world, areas of development that are promoted include: problem solving, creative thinking, self-awareness, and the balancing of mind and body."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
Information not yet available.
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
Preschool to Gr. 8 — Our daughter received a wonderful education at LDVA and is currently thriving in a demanding high school program. Examples of some of these benefits that she continues to use today include:
1. Receiving a well-rounded education that exposes students to all subjects;
2. Focusing on enjoying the love of learning new things as opposed to just marks;
3. Learning how to manage their time and learning how to study
After her time at LDVA, our daughter was able to thrive in the International Baccalaureate program in high school and at the same time hold a responsible position in a part-time job. The education she received at LDVA prepared her very well for taking on a very busy schedule and at the same time doing very well in a difficult academic program.
Preschool to Gr. 8 — My time at Leonardo Da Vinci Academy was truly memorable. From the moment I began in the Scuola Materna Italian program at age 3 and a half, until the time I graduated in 2009 Leonardo was a home away from home. Caring and passionate educators, small class sizes, enriched learning material, unique extracurricular activities and a welcoming environment are only some of the many reasons LDVA holds a special place in my heart and shaped me into the lifelong learner I am today. I have also carried my knowledge and love of the Italian language and culture with me today, making friendships and connections all over the world! I would highly recommend Leonardo Da Vinci Academy to any prospective students who are eager to learn and grow in a nurturing, explorative, and supportive academic environment.
Early childhood is the brain’s most flexible period for acquiring new skills and development. During this time, children are more adept at mimicking pronunciation, often leading to fluency without much effort.
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