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OSA Private School logo
The OUR KIDS Report: OSA Private School
Grades Gr. 3 TO Gr. 12 — Kanata, ON (Map)

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
OSA Private School
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

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OSA Private School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS

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.

Curriculum approach at OSA Private School: Progressive

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

[Show: About Progressive?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare OSA Private School's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Progressive - 37%
  Traditional - 39%
  Liberal arts - 12%
  Montessori - 9%
  Reggio Emilia - 1%
  Waldorf - 2%

What OSA Private School says about their overall curriculum and approach:

At OSA Private School, our progressive curriculum offers a balanced education, integrating academic excellence with high-level sports and arts training. Following the Ontario Curriculum, we provide a strong foundation in core subjects like math, science, and language arts, while offering specialized courses aligned with students’ individual interests. Small class sizes ensure personalized learning and support for academic success. Our holistic approach fosters both academic achievement and personal growth. Students participate in elite sports or arts programs during the school day, working with expert coaches and instructors in areas like hockey, soccer, baseball, football, dance, music, and strength and conditioning. This unique integration of academics with extracurricular passions promotes discipline, time management, and a well-rounded education. At OSA, students thrive both in and out of the classroom, preparing for future success with a combination of rigorous academics and specialized training. Our student-centered philosophy nurtures well-rounded individuals by blending academic rigor with real-world experiences and passions.


Approach

Focus
Sports: Ice Hockey • Baseball • Soccer • Track & Field • Football • Snowboarding/Skiing • Rowing • Swimming • Tennis

Pedagogies and subject courses:

  • Mathematics

    What OSA Private School says:

    The Ontario Curriculum is generally considered to strike a balance between traditional and discovery math approaches. It includes elements of traditional math, such as practicing core skills and algorithms, while also incorporating aspects of discovery math, encouraging students to explore concepts, solve problems creatively, and apply real-world problem-solving strategies. The curriculum aims to foster both procedural fluency and conceptual understanding.

    Textbooks and supplementary materials:

    We use Nelson textbooks and supplementary tools like Edwin, Gizmos, Mathletics, Kodable, and CodeHS to enhance learning, creativity, and problem-solving, all aligned with the Ontario curriculum.

    Calculator policy:

    Students may use calculators for specific tasks in line with the Ontario curriculum guidelines, primarily for problem-solving and complex calculations. However, we encourage students to develop strong mental math skills and ensure they understand underlying concepts before relying on calculators for classroom assignments and assessments.

  • Early Reading

    Balanced Literacy

    Early Reading approach at OSA Private School: Balanced Literacy

    OSA Private School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).

    [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare OSA Private School's Early Reading with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Balanced literacy - 54%
      Phonics-intensive - 44%
      Whole language - 2%

    What OSA Private School says:

    At OSA Private School, our balanced literacy approach to early reading combines the best practices of phonics-based instruction with whole-language strategies. We emphasize foundational skills like phonemic awareness, decoding, and vocabulary development, while also promoting reading comprehension, fluency, and a love for reading. Our approach includes guided reading sessions, shared reading, and independent reading, allowing students to apply phonics and vocabulary skills in real contexts. We integrate a variety of reading materials, including leveled books and engaging texts, to ensure that students are exposed to both structured learning and the joy of exploring stories. This balance between explicit instruction and exposure to rich language experiences helps develop confident, proficient readers. By focusing on individual student needs and progress, we support literacy growth at every level, laying a strong foundation for future academic success.

    DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

    What OSA Private School says:

    This information is not currently available.

  • Writing

    Equal balance

    Writing approach at OSA Private School: Equal balance

    OSA Private School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).

    [Show: About Equal balance?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare OSA Private School's Writing with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 81%
      Systematic approach - 9%
      Process approach - 10%

    What OSA Private School says:

    At OSA Private School, our approach to teaching writing in the younger grades balances both systematic instruction and a process-based approach. We provide students with ample opportunities to express themselves through writing, encouraging creativity and personal voice from an early age. Simultaneously, we offer structured lessons on grammar, sentence structure, and writing strategies to build strong foundational skills. Our writing program incorporates activities like journaling, storytelling, and descriptive writing, allowing students to practice writing regularly while applying the grammar and sentence construction skills they learn. Through guided writing sessions and feedback, students develop an understanding of how to organize their thoughts, revise their work, and improve their writing over time. This balance between creative expression and technical instruction ensures that students not only enjoy writing but also build the essential skills needed for clear, effective communication as they progress through their academic journey.

  • Science

    Equal Balance

    Science approach at OSA Private School: Equal Balance

    OSA Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare OSA Private School's Science with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 68%
      Expository - 6%
      Inquiry - 26%

    Teaching approach:

    At OSA Private School, our approach to teaching science strikes a balance between expository learning and inquiry-based exploration. Students engage in a blend of direct, textbook-based instruction to build foundational knowledge, and hands-on experiments to foster curiosity and critical thinking. This combination ensures that students not only understand core scientific concepts but also learn how to apply them through experimentation and real-world problem-solving. Throughout the grades, we emphasize both tests to assess conceptual understanding and student-centered projects that encourage independent exploration. Our science curriculum covers key areas like biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science, while incorporating STEM activities and interactive tools like Gizmos to deepen engagement. By blending traditional instruction with inquiry-based learning, students develop a strong grasp of scientific principles and gain the confidence to explore, question, and analyze the world around them, preparing them for future academic and real-world challenges.


    Treatment of evolution:

    SubjectOffered
    Evolution as consensus theory
    Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
    Evolution is not taught

    Topics covered in curriculum:

    SubjectOffered
    Biology
    Chemistry
    Ecology
    Geology
    Meteorology
    Physics
    Physiology
    Zoology
  • Literature

    Equal Balance

    Literature approach at OSA Private School: Equal Balance

    OSA Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

    Compare OSA Private School's Literature with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 76%
      Traditional - 21%
      Social justice - 3%

    What OSA Private School says:

    At OSA Private School, our literature program balances traditional texts with a focus on social justice, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of both classic literature and diverse, contemporary voices. Throughout the grades, students explore time-honored works, such as novels, poetry, and plays from various literary movements, fostering a deep appreciation for literary history, structure, and themes. At the same time, we incorporate texts that address current social justice issues, promoting critical thinking about equity, diversity, and inclusion. This blend allows students to engage with a wide range of perspectives, enhancing their ability to empathize with different experiences and cultures. Our approach includes discussions, literary analysis, and creative projects that encourage students to connect the themes and values from literature to their own lives and the world around them. By blending traditional and socially relevant texts, we cultivate a well-rounded understanding of literature that fosters both academic and personal growth.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Canadian lit
    American lit
    European (continental) lit
    World (non-Western) lit
    English lit
    Ancient lit
  • Social Studies

    Expanding Communities

    Social Studies approach at OSA Private School: Expanding Communities

    OSA Private School has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).

    [Show: About Expanding Communities?]

    Our Kids definition: The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

    Compare OSA Private School's Social Studies with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Expanding communities - 29%
      Core knowledge - 40%
      Thematic - 31%

    What OSA Private School says:

    The Ontario Social Studies curriculum primarily follows an Expanding Communities approach. In the early grades, students learn about themselves, their families, and local communities, and as they progress through the grades, the focus gradually broadens to include the province, country, and global communities. The curriculum places an emphasis on understanding how people interact with each other and their environments, though history and geography are introduced and integrated later, rather than being the primary focus from the beginning. This approach fosters students' understanding of the world, starting with familiar experiences and gradually expanding to more complex concepts.

  • Humanities and Social Sciences

    Equal Balance

    Humanities and Social Sciences approach at OSA Private School: Equal Balance

    OSA Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

    Compare OSA Private School's Humanities and Social Sciences with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 80%
      Perennialism - 8%
      Pragmatism - 12%

    What OSA Private School says:

    The Ontario curriculum for humanities and social sciences tends to reflect an Equal Balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approaches. It incorporates elements of both classic works and historical perspectives while also emphasizing relevance to contemporary issues and students' everyday experiences. In subjects like history and philosophy, students engage with "Big Ideas" and past works to develop critical thinking and cultural literacy, fostering a deeper understanding of the human condition. At the same time, there is a strong focus on making learning practical and applicable to modern life, often incorporating projects with real-world relevance. Social sciences such as sociology, psychology, and contemporary geography are prominent, encouraging students to think critically about current societal issues. The curriculum also integrates themes like social justice and community, preparing students with both intellectual insight and practical life skills. This balance ensures students develop a well-rounded understanding of both historical and contemporary topics.

  • Foreign Languages

    Communicative

    Foreign Languages approach at OSA Private School: Communicative

    OSA Private School has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Communicative?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare OSA Private School's Foreign Languages with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Communicative - 33%
      Audio-lingual - 3%
      Equal balance - 64%

    What OSA Private School says:

    The Ontario curriculum for French as a Second Language (FSL) primarily follows a Communicative approach. It emphasizes the use of French in authentic, real-life contexts, encouraging students to engage in interactive activities like group work, role-playing, and games. The goal is for students to develop practical communication skills, with a focus on listening, speaking, reading, and writing in meaningful situations. While drills and quizzes are still present to reinforce language structures, they are less prominent than in an audio-lingual method. Cultural understanding of French-speaking communities is also a key component, helping students connect language learning to broader cultural contexts.


    Language instruction offered in:

    SubjectOffered
    Chinese-Cantonese
    Chinese-Mandarin
    French
    German
    Greek
    Italian
    Japanese
    Hebrew
    Latin
    Russian
    Spanish
    ESL
  • Fine Arts

    Equal Balance

    Fine Arts approach at OSA Private School: Equal Balance

    OSA Private School has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

    Compare OSA Private School's Fine Arts with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 63%
      Receptive - 1%
      Creative - 36%

    Program offers:

    SubjectOffered
    Acting
    Dance
    Drama/Theatre
    Graphic Design
    Music
    Visual Arts

    Visual studio philosophy:

    Expressive
    Disciplined

    What OSA Private School says:

    Our arts program at OSA Private School strikes an equal balance between receptive and creative approaches. Students engage in studio-driven activities, creating visual, musical, and theatrical works, while also studying art history and reflecting on the aesthetic principles of various movements. This blend allows students to not only develop their artistic skills through hands-on practice but also gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of historical and cultural contexts, fostering both creative expression and cognitive growth.

  • Computers and Technology

    Heavy integration

    Computers and Technology approach at OSA Private School: Heavy integration

    OSA Private School has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).

    [Show: About Heavy integration?]

    Our Kids definition: 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.

    Compare OSA Private School's Computers and Technology with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Heavy integration - 29%
      Light integration - 18%
      Medium integration - 53%

    What OSA Private School says:

    At OSA Private School, digital literacy is heavily integrated throughout our curriculum, reflecting its importance as a fundamental 21st-century skill. We believe that technology should enhance learning in meaningful ways, so our teachers connect lessons across all subjects to relevant technological tools and platforms. From using interactive simulations like Gizmos in science to coding platforms such as Kodable and CodeHS, students are regularly engaged with technology that deepens their understanding of core subjects. We emphasize not only the use of computers for research and assignments but also skills like coding, digital collaboration, and problem-solving. Students develop proficiency in various software and digital tools, preparing them for future academic and career opportunities. Our approach ensures that technology is not just an add-on but a vital part of the learning process, helping students gain skills they can apply beyond the classroom.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Computer science
    Robotics
    Web design
  • Physical Education

    What OSA Private School says:

    At OSA Private School, our physical education program emphasizes a well-rounded approach to health, fitness, and personal development. We focus on building physical literacy, promoting lifelong healthy habits, and fostering teamwork and leadership skills. Students engage in a variety of activities, from traditional sports to strength and conditioning, ensuring that they develop agility, coordination, and endurance. Our program is enhanced by partnerships with community experts, offering specialized training in sports such as hockey, soccer, baseball, and dance. This allows students to pursue athletic excellence while balancing their academic responsibilities. We also prioritize individual fitness goals, encouraging students to set and achieve personal milestones in their physical development. Physical education at OSA is not just about athletics—it’s about promoting mental well-being, resilience, and overall health, ensuring students grow into well-rounded individuals with the skills and confidence to stay active throughout their lives.

  • Advanced Placement courses

    1 courses
    • AP Computer Science A
  • Sex and health education

    Not Ontario curriculum

    Sex and health education approach at OSA Private School: Not Ontario curriculum

    OSA Private School has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).

    [Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]

    Our Kids definition: The sex education curriculum does NOT follow the provincial one taught in public schools - either in terms of structure, pacing, focus, and/or tone.

    Compare OSA Private School's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 42%
      Follows provincial curriculum - 58%

    What OSA Private School says:

    This information is not currently available.

Language English

Learn about OSA Private School's languages of instruction and enrolment.

OSA Private School offers English as the primary language of instruction.

Language of enrolment include: English

Online Learning

OSA Private School'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.

OSA Private School offers online courses to students.

What OSA Private School says about their course flexibility:

As enrichment, OSA Private School offers flexible online courses designed to accommodate various student schedules and learning preferences. There are no strict registration deadlines, allowing students to enroll at any time throughout the year. Courses are self-paced, with no minimum course load required, giving students the freedom to manage their own progress. While we encourage timely completion, students have extended deadlines to ensure they can balance their coursework with other commitments. This flexibility allows for personalized learning that fits around athletic, artistic, or personal goals.


Course format

TypeOffered
Distance
Asynchronous
Synchronous

Academic support and services

TypeOffered
Dedicated teacher per course
Exam proctoring
Student progress tracker
Regular office hours
Additional support
Study groups
Special needs support

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.

Curriculum Pace approach at OSA Private School: Standard-enriched

OSA Private School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

[Show: About Standard-enriched?]

Our Kids definition: 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.

Compare OSA Private School's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Standard-enriched - 56%
  Accelerated - 18%
  Student-paced - 26%

What OSA Private School says about their curriculum pace:

At OSA Private School, our standard-enriched curriculum goes beyond the provincial guidelines by exploring topics more in-depth and with greater rigor. We also offer specialized courses in sports and the arts, allowing students to engage in a broader, more dynamic educational experience tailored to their interests and strengths.


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 OSA Private School says about their flexible pacing:

This information is not currently available.

Academic Culture Supportive

[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.

Academic Culture approach at OSA Private School: Supportive

OSA Private School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).

[Show: About Supportive?]

Our Kids definition: A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

Compare OSA Private School's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Supportive - 49%
  Rigorous - 51%

What OSA Private School says about their academic culture:

At OSA Private School, we foster a supportive academic culture that balances high standards with individualized attention. While we challenge students to excel, we prioritize the learning process and personal growth over short-term outcomes. Our small class sizes allow for personalized guidance, ensuring that each student is encouraged to reach their full potential in a nurturing environment. We focus on instilling a lifelong love of learning, curiosity, and resilience, equipping students with the tools they need for both academic and personal success.

Developmental priorities Balanced

[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.

Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced

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

Secondary Developmental Priority: Physical

The goal is to cultivate "strong, ?exible - bodied and active individuals, in tune with the joys of movement, sport and wellness."

What OSA Private School says about their developmental priorities:

At OSA Private School, we strive to develop well-rounded individuals who excel intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Our goal is to nurture creative and critical thinkers who can lead themselves and others with confidence and emotional intelligence. We foster a sense of social responsibility, encouraging students to engage with and positively impact their communities. Additionally, we prioritize physical development, promoting fitness, agility, and a lifelong appreciation for health and wellness. Through our balanced approach, students grow into strong, resilient individuals equipped for success in all areas of life.

Special needs support Full-time Dedicated Class

[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.

OSA Private School offers Full-time Dedicated Class

Students are placed in a separate special education class.

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


Academic support

TypeOffered
Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities

TypeOffered
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support

What OSA Private School says:

At OSA Private School, we provide personalized support for students who develop learning difficulties while enrolled. Our small class sizes allow us to closely monitor each student's progress, and we tailor our teaching strategies to meet their individual needs. We collaborate with parents, specialists, and teachers to ensure students receive the necessary accommodations, such as modified lessons or additional support. While we offer a nurturing and supportive environment, we may not have the specialized resources needed for students with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities. In such cases, we advise parents to consult with us to determine if our school is the best fit, ensuring their child receives the appropriate level of support for their academic success.


Additional support

TypeOffered
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy

Gifted learner support 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.

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 OSA Private School says about their gifted learner support:

At OSA Private School, we provide gifted learners with enrichment opportunities, advanced coursework, and personalized attention to ensure they are challenged and engaged. Our small class sizes allow us to tailor learning experiences to meet their individual needs, fostering intellectual growth and encouraging creative problem-solving. We aim to nurture their talents while supporting their overall academic and personal development.

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.

Nightly homework

In grade Gr. 12, OSA Private School students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.

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OSA Private School15 mins15 mins30 mins30 mins45 mins45 mins45 mins60 mins60 mins60 mins
Site Average25 mins30 mins36 mins43 mins54 mins58 mins75 mins86 mins101 mins107 mins

What OSA Private 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

TypeGrades
Lettered or numbered gradesGr. 3 to Gr. 12
Prose (narrative)-based feedbackGr. 3 to Gr. 12
Academic achievement reportingGr. 3 to Gr. 12
Habits and behaviour reportingGr. 3 to Gr. 12
Parent-teacher meetingsGr. 3 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

OSA Private School offers 19 competitive sports and 14 recreational sports.

  Competitive offered          Recreational offered
all sports]
  • Archery
  • Curling
  • Ultimate
  • 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

OSA Private School offers 16 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  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

 

THE OUR KIDS REPORT: OSA Private School


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