Meet Olivet School's admission team at the Private School Expo: Toronto (Oct 04). RSVP NOW
The big picture on Olivet School
We summarized the school ourselves
Olivet was established in 1893, though through moves and development, the school doesn’t reflect its age. Nevertheless, there is a continuity which, if less overt, remains within the life of the school. The academic program is strong, though families also turn to Olivet due to an appreciation of the context that the school provides, including an attention to spiritual and personal growth. The aim of the school is to provide a foundation for life, and for learning after the children go on to other schools after grade 5. The property accesses green space, allowing the lessons to extend to those about environment and environmental stewardship. Parental involvement in all aspects of the life of the school is very high, a function of the school’s size. All of that combines to create a community atmosphere that extends beyond the classroom, and beyond the walls of the school. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a challenging, close-knit academic environment.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Established in 1893, Olivet School is a private, not-for-profit elementary school. We follow a Christian-based perspective that values scientific inquiry, usefulness, and thoughtfulness. We average a small student-teacher ratio of 6:1 and offer an affordable tuition, possible through an endowment given over the years by alumni and friends. Let us join you in building your child’s foundations for a successful life. Book a tour on OlivetSchool.ca and follow us on Facebook/Instagram (@OlivetSchool on both platforms)."
Private elementary school with child-centered learning
Caring atmosphere and small class sizes
Increased interactive learning opportunities
Special focus on kindergarten
Solid character education for making successful decisions
Academic, moral and spiritual instruction
Supportive learning community built on caring Christian values
Enriched academics that extend beyond basic curriculum
An environment where every child is seen, valued, and supported
Teaching children to find joy in helping others.
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Individually focused leaning. Our small student to teacher ratio allows more attention to each child. Not everyone learns at the same pace so the smaller classrooms allow for the...(more)
"Individually focused leaning. Our small student to teacher ratio allows more attention to each child. Not everyone learns at the same pace so the smaller classrooms allow for the individual learning. We are very good at teaching the WHOLE child. We care concerned with their spiritual wellness, their social emotional learning, their physical growth and their academic pursuits."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
"At Olivet, we strongly emphasize teaching traditional values such as "scientific inquiry and usefulness." While we follow the standard Ontario curriculum, we’ve occasionally...(more)
"At Olivet, we strongly emphasize teaching traditional values such as "scientific inquiry and usefulness." While we follow the standard Ontario curriculum, we’ve occasionally chosen to diverge when it best serves our students' needs. For example, although the Ontario curriculum phased out the requirement for teaching cursive writing, we have continued to teach it because we believe it benefits our students.
As part of our commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students—many of whom come to us seeking refuge from bullying—we try to avoid enrolling children with significant social-emotional regulation challenges."
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
"Our school was founded to ensure that the children of our congregation could read and write. Some of our earliest teachers were mothers, committed to providing a nurturing,...(more)
"Our school was founded to ensure that the children of our congregation could read and write. Some of our earliest teachers were mothers, committed to providing a nurturing, personalized approach to education. We continue that tradition today, with literacy still at the heart of our curriculum. Our teachers remain dedicated to fostering the development of the whole child—academic, emotional, and social."
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
"The student who would benefit most from our school is the one who is often overlooked in traditional classrooms—the quiet, thoughtful child who doesn't demand attention and who...(more)
"The student who would benefit most from our school is the one who is often overlooked in traditional classrooms—the quiet, thoughtful child who doesn't demand attention and who rarely cause disruptions. The student who, despite their potential, may not always receive the recognition or support they need in larger, more conventional settings."
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
"At Olivet, we strive to integrate faith into all aspects of our educational day. The religious component of our curriculum is a core part of our program and is not...(more)
"At Olivet, we strive to integrate faith into all aspects of our educational day. The religious component of our curriculum is a core part of our program and is not optional.
While our small student-teacher ratio allows us to support students with a range of academic needs, we might not be the right fit for everyone. As a smaller school, we do not have specialized training, equipment, or personnel to address more complex or severe cases. We encourage you to reach out to discuss your child’s specific needs, and if we believe we cannot provide the best possible support, we will be transparent about that decision."
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Families choose Olivet School for our unique, grounded and caring approach to learning. For over 100 years, we have led the way in teaching with small class sizes and integrated...(more)
"Families choose Olivet School for our unique, grounded and caring approach to learning. For over 100 years, we have led the way in teaching with small class sizes and integrated learning. Our school is deeply rooted in strong morals and values that teach our students much more than academics - it teaches them how to be a "good" person in the world."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
"We are a hidden gem in the heart of Etobicoke. While we may often be overlooked, those who discover us are glad they did. Our school feels more like a small town—a close-knit...(more)
"We are a hidden gem in the heart of Etobicoke. While we may often be overlooked, those who discover us are glad they did. Our school feels more like a small town—a close-knit community where everyone knows and supports one another. This sense of connection goes beyond our faculty and extends to our student population. Our students embody this by looking out for and genuinely caring for each other."
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"Kindness, giving, and the fundamentals of learning the values of being a "good" person and a good Christian are significant reasons for enrolling at Olivet School. Here, your...(more)
"Kindness, giving, and the fundamentals of learning the values of being a "good" person and a good Christian are significant reasons for enrolling at Olivet School. Here, your children will begin a learning journey of academics and strong Christian values while experiencing a feeling of being cared for and supported.
Our students are genuinely happy to be here and often don’t want to leave at the end of the day. No matter the weather, it’s a daily occurrence at dismissal for multiple students to ask their parents if they can stay and continue playing with their friends. It’s not uncommon to see many students and their families still enjoying time together on our playground long after the final bell has rung. This sense of community is something we truly cherish."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Families find it surprising to learn that we have a rich history spanning 130 years and that we grew out of a growing need for faith-based learning, character development, and...(more)
"Families find it surprising to learn that we have a rich history spanning 130 years and that we grew out of a growing need for faith-based learning, character development, and overall growth.
When families visit our school, they often comment on how conveniently located we are— an ideal spot they often drive by every day. However, it’s what they experience during their visit that truly leaves a lasting impression. We often hear how warmly welcomed they feel and how the positive atmosphere within our walls. It’s a place where people immediately sense the caring atmosphere, connection, and community that define our school."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
"Many parents value the fact that our school has remained steadfast over the years, resisting the urge to follow every new trend and fad in education. Instead, we take pride in...(more)
"Many parents value the fact that our school has remained steadfast over the years, resisting the urge to follow every new trend and fad in education. Instead, we take pride in maintaining our history of Christian values and preserving the innocence of childhood. While we incorporate some technology in our older grades, our focus remains on fostering human connections, which we believe are far more effective in nurturing children."
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
"We don’t envision any large-scale changes over the next five years—and that’s intentional. We are proud of our history, traditions, and proven track record of success. When...(more)
"We don’t envision any large-scale changes over the next five years—and that’s intentional. We are proud of our history, traditions, and proven track record of success. When you have an amazing recipe, there’s no need to change it.
Our focus remains on preserving what makes our school special: a strong foundation of Christian values, a supportive community, and a commitment to providing the best possible environment for our students to thrive."
My 15 year old daughter graduated from Olivet. I have two boys that are currently enrolled. My children are able to express themselves and be heard. Teacher -Student communication is excellent. They are listened to with empathy and opinions are valued. Lots of social and environmental issues are discuss along with academics. They get great help to complete assignments.
My child's time at Olivet was a wonderful experience and both her and I wish that it could have continued longer. I felt that she liked the small setting and the opportunity that allowed one on one with her teachers and being able to go on educational and fun trips.
My overall experience at Olivet School was very positive. I remember being happy and comfortable within my school community. I attended Olivet for over 10 years and being able to grow up with my tight knit group of friends was an asset -- we are still best friends today. Students of all ages are able to have different relationships which I think helps develop patience and understanding amongst kids.
The small classroom sizes allowed me to find my voice and feel supported in my way of thinking and comprehension. I think this helped to build the confidence I still have today.
A prospective student should expect to feel valued in the classroom. Their daily presence adds to the life of the classroom and fellow students. Everyone will know their name and they might even find best friends for life!
Olivet nurtured my academic talents and helped to grow my social confidence. I became part of a true community there--a village that helped to raise me. This school introduced me to religion in an age-appropriate way that set the stage for a lifetime of spiritual growth. I was able to ask questions and learn about a moral and theological system that makes sense; it was integrated into the curriculum in a way that promoted a sense of wonder and intellectual curiosity. In very small classes, I was able to work exactly at my own level; sometimes this involved going beyond grade level, and other times in meant engaging with a broader curriculum. I was encouraged in my interests, especially writing, and supported in taking on independence and responsibility.
MY daughter loves going to school and she only dislikes the times I come earlier to pick her up or the days that she missed school. Most of the kids in the school are friendly towards her, know her name, and the same for most of the staff. FOr a shy little girl, I am impressed on how comfortable she feels with the school staff.
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