Indirect Support:
The New School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Summary
- Curriculum
Progressive, International Baccalaureate Candidate - Preschool/K Curriculum
Montessori - Montessori Approach
Non-orthodox - Language
English - Curriculum Pace
Student-paced - Academic Culture
Supportive - Developmental priorities
Balanced - Special needs support
No support - Gifted learner support
No Support - Extracurriculars
Available
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at The New School: Progressive, International Baccalaureate Candidate
The New School has a Progressive, International Baccalaureate Candidate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive, International Baccalaureate Candidate?]
The New School has a International Baccalaureate Candidate approach to supplementary curriculum.
IB Candidate School is an official term used to identify schools that have applied to IBO for permission to teach one or more of the IB Programmes.
What The New School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
The NEW School’s curriculum integrates Montessori, Forest School, Project-Based Learning (PBL), and the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework to create a dynamic, holistic education. Our Montessori approach fosters independence, curiosity, and self-discipline, allowing students to explore their interests while building strong foundational skills. The Forest School model ensures daily outdoor learning, nurturing resilience, creativity, and problem-solving. PBL engages students in real-world challenges, developing critical thinking, collaboration, and innovation. As we transition into an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, we will further emphasize inquiry-based, globally minded education, preparing students for leadership in an interconnected world. This well-rounded approach nurtures academic, emotional, social, and spiritual growth, empowering students to discover their purpose and thrive.
International Baccalaureate Candidate program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Primary Years | |
| Middle Years | |
| Diploma program | |
| Career-related program |
Approach
| Focus | Religious-based |
|---|---|
| Arts | Christian (Non-denominational) |
If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Read our detailed guide to learn all about Christian education.
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at The New School: Discovery Math
The New School has a Discovery Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Discovery Math?]What The New School says:
At The NEW School, our approach to teaching mathematics is rooted in holistic, real-world application, guided by Gillian Berard's philosophy. We focus on weaving math into Big Idea Projects, where mathematical concepts are explored through inquiry-based, hands-on learning, rather than through rote memorization or lower-level thinking. Students engage in complex problem-solving that connects math to everyday life, encouraging them to think critically, reason abstractly, and see math as a tool for understanding the world around them. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for mathematics as both a creative and practical discipline, and allows students to excel at their own pace, applying their mathematical knowledge to real-world scenarios. This method aligns with our mission of nurturing independent, curious thinkers who approach learning with purpose and creativity, making mathematics relevant, engaging, and empowering.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
We don’t use traditional textbooks. Instead, we make math relevant through real-world exercises, projects, and problem-solving. Our focus is on hands-on learning and critical thinking, helping students apply mathematical concepts in meaningful, practical ways.
Calculator policy:
At The NEW School, we emphasize mental math and speed math to strengthen students' foundational mathematical skills. Calculators are not used in everyday lessons; instead, students focus on developing strong problem-solving abilities and number fluency through practice and real-world application.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at The New School: Balanced Literacy
The New School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What The New School says:
At The NEW School, our approach to teaching early reading is centered around high literacy exposure and fostering a love for books. We incorporate a reading buddy program, where older students mentor younger ones, creating a supportive and engaging environment for developing reading skills. Books are read aloud regularly, and we focus on interactive storytelling to enhance comprehension and vocabulary. Early readers are encouraged to explore a wide range of texts, from picture books to simple chapter books, building confidence and curiosity. Through phonics instruction, sight words, and contextual learning, we help students grasp the foundations of reading in a natural, joyful way. This approach ensures that children not only develop the technical skills for reading but also cultivate a lifelong passion for learning through literature. By making reading a shared experience, we support independent reading skills and a love for stories.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What The New School says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at The New School: Equal balance
The New School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What The New School says:
At The NEW School, we foster a love for writing from the earliest grades through daily journaling and creative expression. Writing is an integral part of the daily routine, allowing students to reflect on their thoughts and experiences while building strong writing habits. We place a high focus on grammar, punctuation, and penmanship, teaching both printing and cursive to ensure clear, legible writing. Rather than relying on minimal handouts, we encourage students to write extensively—be it through stories, reflections, or projects—empowering them to articulate ideas freely. Through personalized guidance and regular practice, students develop a strong foundation in writing mechanics while gaining confidence in their unique voices. The goal is to inspire a lifelong love for writing, equipping children with the skills to express themselves clearly, creatively, and effectively across various forms of communication.
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Science
Science approach at The New School: Inquiry
The New School has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
At The NEW School, our approach to teaching science is inquiry-based, allowing students to explore, question, and discover through hands-on experiences. We believe that science is best learned through active experimentation, where students engage in real-world projects and challenges that spark curiosity. Our students use specialized STEM equipment to conduct experiments, weigh hypothesis, and solve complex problems, integrating technology and engineering into their learning. This approach encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, as students apply the scientific method to investigate the world around them. We emphasize interdisciplinary learning, connecting science with math, art, and nature, ensuring that students understand the relevance of science in everyday life. Through outdoor exploration and nature-based projects, children deepen their understanding of natural systems, fostering a sense of wonder and responsibility for the environment. Our goal is to inspire students to be innovative thinkers and lifelong learners who embrace the evolving world of science.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at The New School: Traditional
The New School has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]What The New School says:
At The NEW School, our approach to teaching literature emphasizes the exploration of classic and timeless works that offer deep lessons in both personal growth and universal themes. Our students engage with a curated selection of traditional literature, including iconic texts like Macbeth, The Outsiders, The Alchemist, The Greatest Salesman in the World, and Stuart Little. These works are chosen for their ability to challenge students' thinking and ignite thoughtful discussions. We foster a love of reading by encouraging critical analysis, understanding complex characters, and relating timeless lessons to modern-day life. Our curriculum integrates literature with creative expression, such as writing reflections, debates, and projects that connect students' experiences with the stories they read. This allows students to dive deeply into the themes of moral development, resilience, and personal growth, ultimately equipping them to become strong, empathetic readers and critical thinkers who can engage meaningfully with literature across all genres.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at The New School: Core Knowledge
The New School has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What The New School says:
At The NEW School, our approach to social studies combines critical thinking with a global perspective and sequential learning of history. We present historical facts and social studies topics, encouraging students to ask questions, think deeply, and form their own conclusions. Our curriculum is designed to give students a broader understanding of the world, connecting past events to present-day issues from various global viewpoints. History is taught sequentially, helping students build a strong foundation of knowledge that ties together key events, people, and places over time. This method not only fosters analytical thinking but also develops a comprehensive understanding of how history shapes our present and future.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at The New School: Communicative
The New School has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What The New School says:
Through a Montessori-inspired approach, students engage with the language in practical, real-world contexts, allowing them to build vocabulary and comprehension naturally. This method fosters independence and a love for learning, as students explore language through activities like storytelling, role-playing, and hands-on language tools. Incorporating theatre, we encourage students to use the language through dramatic play, skits, and performances, which helps reinforce vocabulary and pronunciation in an engaging and expressive way. This not only strengthens their language skills but also builds confidence and social interaction. This integrated, creative approach helps students learn a foreign language in a way that feels natural, dynamic, and deeply connected to real-world use, preparing them for global communication.
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 New School: Creative
The New School has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What The New School says:
At The NEW School, we enhance our fine arts curriculum by collaborating with specialized organizations The ArtCart for visual arts, offering art classes that allow students to explore various artistic techniques and develop fine art skills. Additionally, we partner with Unio Productions, which offers in person workshops and masterclasses in musical theatre and drama, connecting students with professional artists and deepening their appreciation for the arts. These organizations help us provide targeted, expert-led instruction in the fine arts, ensuring our students receive specialized learning experiences in these subjects.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at The New School: Light integration
The New School has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What The New School says:
We incorporate technology in meaningful, practical ways, ensuring that it enhances creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application rather than just being a tool for passive learning. Our students regularly use computers and STEM equipment, such as coding tools, to engage in projects that link technology with other subjects, like math, science, and art. Starting in grade 4, students are introduced to the computer lab and guided in ethical use of computers, where they develop key skills like keyboarding, research, and digital communication. This approach ensures that they not only become proficient in technology but also understand how to use it responsibly and safely. These skills prepare students for the future, fostering independent learners who can navigate the digital landscape confidently. Overall, our technology use is aimed at supporting critical thinking and enabling students to express their creativity, rather than simply focusing on digital literacy in isolation.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What The New School says:
Our physical education program is dynamic, well-rounded, and rooted in outdoor activity. Students engage in daily physical movement, making use of trails, green spaces, and the Weston Rec facilities. We prioritize both structured and free play, ensuring students develop physical literacy, coordination, and teamwork skills. Beyond traditional PE, we offer specialized lessons in skating and tennis, providing students with unique opportunities to build confidence and master new skills. Outdoor time is a key component of our curriculum, with morning sessions dedicated to intentional movement such as STEM-based physical activities, while afternoon sessions focus on free play and exploration. We believe in the importance of movement for both physical and mental well-being. Our "rain or shine" policy ensures students are equipped with all-weather gear, allowing them to experience the benefits of outdoor activity year-round. Through this approach, we instill a lifelong love for movement, resilience, and overall well-being.
Religious Education
What The New School says:
At The NEW School, we take a Christ-centered approach to education, focusing on cultivating faith, character, and values in students without being a religious institution. We believe that education and spiritual growth go hand in hand, and that faith provides a solid foundation for a balanced, purposeful life. While we are not a religious school, we emphasize the importance of biblical teachings, love, kindness, and community in our daily interactions and curriculum. We offer Bible study as an optional after-school program, where students can dive deeper into Christian teachings. Our approach allows students of all faiths to feel welcome and respected, while still integrating Christian values into the way we engage with one another and approach learning. The heart of our mission is to teach students to be compassionate, thoughtful, and ethically-driven individuals, prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world. Faith, in this context, becomes an integral part of their overall growth and development.
IB Diploma courses
Group 1 (Language A)
Group 2 (Language B)
Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)
Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
Group 5 (Mathematics)
Group 6 (The Arts)
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at The New School: Not Ontario curriculum
The New School has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
The New School has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).[Show: About Fairly value-based?]The New School has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).[Show: About Traditional?]What The New School says:
Our approach to sex and health education is rooted in traditional, values-based instruction grounded in Christian principles and biblical truths. We emphasize purity, personal responsibility, and the sanctity of the family unit, upholding the traditional nuclear family as a model. Our curriculum focuses on physical health, well-being, and character development, teaching students to honor their bodies as temples of God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We promote age-appropriate discussions centered on respect, self-discipline, and God’s design for relationships, while reinforcing biblical teachings on love, marriage, and moral integrity. We do not teach gender theory or ideologies that contradict Christian values. Instead, we guide students toward understanding their identity through a biblical lens, equipping them with wisdom to make God-honouring choices that support their emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at The New School: Montessori
The New School has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What The New School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
At The NEW School, our kindergarten programs are deeply child-centered and curiosity-driven. We prioritize student-led exploration, allowing children to guide their learning through hands-on experiences and inquiry-based projects. Using the Montessori approach, we create an environment where children develop independence, critical thinking, and self-direction. Our Big Idea Projects stem from the children's own interests and questions, allowing them to dive deep into topics they are passionate about. This fosters creativity, problem-solving, and a love of learning, while also nurturing social and emotional growth. Our curriculum emphasizes exploration, outdoor play, and developing a strong foundation for lifelong learning, all within a Christ-centered framework that cultivates character and spiritual development.
Montessori Approach
The New School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
4 to 6 | 4 to 6 | 6 to 9 |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
1.5 hours | 2 hours | 2 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) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
20% | 20% | 20% |
Overall approach
Moderately Orthodox
41% of schools
Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they 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 doesn't use teaching assistants.
What The New School says about teaching assistants:
At The NEW School, we do not use teaching assistants (TAs). Instead, we provide specialized instruction through expert-led workshops and specialized teachers. Monthly workshops with experts allow students to deepen their learning in various subjects, while specialized instructors handle subjects like piano, French, theatre, and tennis. This approach ensures that students receive focused, expert-led learning experiences while maintaining a supportive environment in their core subjects.
Language
Learn about The New School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
The New School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at The New School: Student-paced
The New School has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What The New School says about their curriculum pace:
The NEW School’s curriculum adapts to each student’s pace through differentiated instruction, project-based learning, and individualized support, ensuring mastery before progression.
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 New School says about their flexible pacing:
Our curriculum is accelerated because learning is deeply relevant and hands-on. By engaging students in real-world projects and inquiry-based learning, children are able to excel rapidly as they connect what they’re learning to meaningful experiences. This practical approach fosters mastery, enabling students to advance earlier than their provincial peers.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at The New School: Supportive
The New School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What The New School says about their academic culture:
At The NEW School, our academic culture is supportive, focusing on the learning process rather than just outcomes. We maintain high standards but emphasize curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. By fostering a passion for learning, students build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong curiosity for knowledge. Mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth.
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 New School says about their developmental priorities:
At The NEW School, we aim to shape students into balanced, thoughtful, and resilient individuals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of life. Our focus on emotional development ensures that students learn to manage their emotions, build strong relationships, and develop empathy and resilience. Through a Christ-centered and growth-oriented approach, we encourage curiosity, independence, and a love of learning. Our students are not only prepared to excel academically but also to become compassionate leaders who make a positive impact on their communities and the world. By fostering both intellectual and emotional growth, we strive to cultivate confident, creative individuals who are equipped with a strong moral compass and the ability to think critically and compassionately.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
The New School offers No support
The New School offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
What The New School says about their special need support:
At The NEW School, we are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for all students. However, due to the nature of our program, we are not equipped with the specialized resources to support children with physical or psychological learning difficulties. While we emphasize a hands-on, individualized approach, we recommend that families with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities consider schools with specialized support services tailored to those needs. Our focus is on fostering a balanced, Christ-centered education, and we believe that for some children, another school might be better suited to provide the comprehensive support they require.
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 |
What The New School says:
At The NEW School, we are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for all students. However, due to the nature of our program, we are not equipped with the specialized resources to support children with physical or psychological learning difficulties. While we emphasize a hands-on, individualized approach, we recommend that families with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities consider schools with specialized support services tailored to those needs. Our focus is on fostering a balanced, Christ-centered education, and we believe that for some children, another school might be better suited to provide the comprehensive support they require.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Enrichment
The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.
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 New School says about their gifted learner support:
At The NEW School, we embrace the individuality of every student, including those who are gifted. We provide opportunities for gifted learners to thrive by offering a flexible, inquiry-driven curriculum that allows them to explore their interests at a deeper level. Through our project-based learning approach, we tailor challenges to stretch their thinking, encourage creative problem solving, and foster leadership skills. We ensure that gifted students are continually challenged through differentiated learning opportunities.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 6, The New School students perform an average of 15 mins of homework per night.
| JK | SK | K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The New School | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 5 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 25 mins | 30 mins | 36 mins | 43 mins |
What The New School says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | JK to Gr. 8 |
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
The New School offers 0 competitive sports and 3 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Ice Skating
- Soccer
- Tennis
Clubs offered
The New School offers 2 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Art Club
Chess Club
