Believing that a child’s first learning years are the most important, in 1947 The Priory School’s Founding Mothers, Frances Ballantyne and Alphonsine Paré-Howlett, succeeded in developing a school far ahead of its time. The Priory School's mission and philosophy is to nurture each child’s inherent curiosity, enable them to develop an enthusiasm for learning, and promote intellectual and creative growth and initiative. This also prepares their students to be responsible, tolerant, and self-confident global citizens. The Priory School has remained true to its roots throughout its 75 years of evolution, specializing in elementary education and providing its students with an environment that's caring, inspiring, and recognizes and addresses each child's individual needs.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"The Priory is a premier co-educational school renowned for its leadership in early childhood education, where all stakeholders recognize that 'Happy Children Learn Best.' The Priory is a place where a child's imagination and creativity are nurtured, and meaningful learning takes place in a caring and nurturing environment. Excellence in teaching and a passion for learning are at the heart of the school's mission. A Certificate for English Eligibility is not required."
Fully independent school, not requiring a certificate of eligibility
Small school with one classroom per grade level, providing a personalized, family environment
Highly active parent community with many opportunities to get involved
Whole child approach to education, prioritizing the social and emotional health of students
An English school with a strong French language program to promote success in a bilingual community
Strong, well-rounded curriculum and extra-curricular activities
Specialists in early childhood education
Situated in a quiet residential area, but close to the Mount Royal as well as downtown
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"As an intentionally small school, we firmly believe that every child is gifted. Our small class sizes and personalized approach to learning enable us to nurture and celebrate each...(more)
"As an intentionally small school, we firmly believe that every child is gifted. Our small class sizes and personalized approach to learning enable us to nurture and celebrate each child's unique talents and strengths. With our passionate and dedicated faculty, we provide a personalized learning experience where every child's needs are met, ensuring they have the tools and support necessary to thrive and reach their full potential."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"The Priory School is an intentionally small school, where each child receives individualized attention and a personalized education. The school offers a rigorous academic program...(more)
"The Priory School is an intentionally small school, where each child receives individualized attention and a personalized education. The school offers a rigorous academic program that challenges and engages students, helping them to reach their full potential. The faculty members are passionate and dedicated educators who are committed to the success and well-being of every child. The Priory School fosters a supportive learning environment, where each child feels valued, respected and loved."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"The Priory School places a strong emphasis on character development, helping students to develop the skills and values they need to become responsible, compassionate, and engaged...(more)
"The Priory School places a strong emphasis on character development, helping students to develop the skills and values they need to become responsible, compassionate, and engaged members of their communities."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"The Priory School teaches mindfulness techniques as part of its character development program. Students learn how to manage stress, cultivate resilience, and improve focus and...(more)
"The Priory School teaches mindfulness techniques as part of its character development program. Students learn how to manage stress, cultivate resilience, and improve focus and concentration. The Priory School offers a global perspective on education, with an emphasis on multiculturalism and diversity. Students learn about different cultures and traditions, and are encouraged to develop an understanding and appreciation of the world around them."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
Gr. 3 to Gr. 6,K to Gr. 6,Gr. 4 to Gr. 6 — As a parent, I cannot express how grateful I am for the wonderful experience my children had at Priory School. This gem of a school, with a wonderful tight-knit community, used innovative and fun approaches to learning that challenged my kids in the best way possible. And, in the end, they all were more than prepared for success in middle and high school. When I asked my kids what they liked best for this review, they all had a hard time choosing just one thing. I was peppered with accolades about "the best coach ever" and cherished teachers, stories of favorite overnight trips, exciting drama production memories, and lovely traditions that made the experience very special. The bottom line is, The Priory is a place they all loved going to and where they developed a true love for learning. It’s also a place they felt safe and cared for.
K (current),Gr. 3 to Gr. 6 — My children both enjoy the friendships they've made at Priory School. Socially in the early years, there is a deep sense of play and fun in the classes and as the students age and conflicts potentially arise, they are tended to with care, calmness, and professionalism. The small size of the school also allows for connection between grades (Covid-19 excepted) which my daughter in particular enjoys immensely - being mentored and now being a mentor herself to younger students. Priory School excels in providing opportunities for these types of leadership and role model activities. My son had only praise and adoration for all of his teachers, every year attended, grades 3-6. During his grade 7 interviews, this was often what he highlighted as his favorite part of being a Priory student.
My daughter loved The Priory. She flourished because she felt safe and loved by everyone, her teachers and friends.
As she grew up she learnt to take care of the younger grades and loved to read to her Reading Buddy.
She would always come home happy to share what she learnt at school that day.
She was well prepared for High School and most importantly, she learnt values that will stay with her forever.
Our son's experience at The Priory was outstanding from beginning to end. The Priory curriculum and culture provide a nurturing, inspiring and confidence-building environment. With each grade, from kindergarten to Grade 6, the teachers, principal and the administrative staff at the school ensured that all of the students felt safe and empowered to learn not only their subjects but also the art of public speaking, music through the school's band program, how to present in front of a class as well as the entire school, the importance of teamwork since they have collaborative events that involve the older students working with the younger students and the importance of sports. There is a lot to be impressed with at The Priory but for our family, the fact that the students are constantly engaged and introduced to new aspects of science, technology, art, community work and more, and that they want to go to the school everyday - was outstanding. It's hard to find a Priory student who wants to stay home from school!
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