Programs & Services
Kindergarten/Transitional Program
The Transition Class (JK/SK) maintains a very low, 1:3, adult-student ratio with EA support for children who are school aged but are not ready to participate in a typical classroom setting or still have ABLLS-R programs needed in order to participate fully.
The staff will make every effort to spend some one-on-one time with each student throughout the day. Students in the Transition Class participate each day in fun educational activities that promote social emotional learning, gross and fine motor development, and language development. Early math and early literacy skills will also be studied. The students will follow the Language for Learning program to promote language acquisition. The Transition Class is offered as a full day or half day program.
Primary Program
Our Primary classes maintain a 1:6 teacher - student ratio to better meet our students’ individual learning needs. Our students learn to develop active listening and self-regulation skills that help them make the best of their learning opportunities and take responsibility for their behaviour. Our teachers follow the Ministry of Education curriculum in all subject areas, as well as a specially designed Social Skills program.
The focus of the primary grades is to help students build a strong foundational knowledge of concepts and skills. Strong skills in Language, Reading and Math are crucial for future learning. Students at EPA learn the core subjects of Reading, Spelling, Writing, Language and Mathematics through evidence based Direct Instruction where fundamental skills are practiced until mastered. In other curriculum areas, students begin by first learning about themselves, their lives, their families, and their community. Eventually they expand their studies to a wider Canadian, and global perspective. Young children learn best by doing and our students are given a variety of opportunities to explore through hands-on activities and group participation. Our students benefit from an enriched, integrated Arts program and also enjoy a full Physical Education Program, which includes weekly yoga and swimming.
Junior Program
Our Junior classes maintain a 1:8 teacher - student ratio, as students are more able to follow directions and work independently. Our students learn six effective learning skills and work habits (i.e. responsibility, organization, independent work, collaboration, initiative and self-regulation) that lead to strong character development, good interpersonal skills and academic success.
Our teachers follow the Ministry of Education curriculum in all subject areas, as well as a specially designed Social Skills program. Students at EPA learn the core subjects of Reading, Spelling, Writing, Language and Mathematics through evidence based Direct Instruction where skills are practiced until mastered. The focus of the junior grades is to build on and apply the concepts and skills learned in the primary grades. For example, in the primary grades, students develop an understanding and appreciation for music through songs, rhymes and chants. In the junior grades, students begin to read music notation and play an instrument. In Primary, they learn about the early settlers in Canada, in Junior they study ancient civilizations. In the Junior grades, concepts become more complex and abstract and our teachers skillfully breakdown new learning into meaningful parts that students can understand. Students begin expanding their knowledge through experimentation, projects, and research. Our students benefit from an enriched Arts program and Physical Education Program, which includes weekly yoga and swimming.
Intermediate Program
Our Intermediate classes maintain a 1:12 teacher - student ratio where students are preparing for learning at the Secondary Level. Independent learning is fostered to help students make a smooth transition into high school. In many intermediate schools in Ontario, students follow a rotation schedule, where each subject is taught by a different teacher. At EPA our students typically enjoy studying all subjects from one teacher throughout the day. At this level students are engaged in inquiry-based learning where they make predictions, research information using technology, and guide their own learning. Students use self-assessment, reflections and class generated rubrics to help them understand what needs to be done to successfully reach the end goal.
Our teachers follow the Ministry of Education curriculum in all subject areas, as well as a specially designed Social Skills program. Students at EPA learn the core subjects of Reading, Spelling, Writing, Language and Mathematics through evidence based Direct Instruction where skills are studied until mastered. Intermediate subject matter becomes increasingly more complex and students study History and Geography. In Science, students build foundational skills for the future study of biology, physics, chemistry, earth and space science in high school. Our students benefit from an enriched Arts program and Physical Education Program, which includes weekly yoga and swimming.
Academic Stream
At Edelweiss Private Academy, reading, spelling, writing, math and comprehension skills are taught through evidence based Direct Instruction programs. Direct Instruction is an explicit teaching method that involves teachers giving specific instructions to deliver lessons. Skills and concepts are taught through demonstration and action, which are regularly reviewed and practised until fully mastered. Students will be placed in Direct Instruction groups based on his/her grade and skill level.
Individualized instruction is available at an additional cost. Students have to complete a baseline assessment to determine groups upon entry into the school.
Junior/Intermediate Applied Class ( Life Skills)
Our Applied Stream, through modified curriculum, helps our students become independent and successful at home, at school and in the community. Through the development of functional academic skills, daily living skills, occupational and interpersonal skills, student learn to live and work independently. Topics include Personal Care, Household skills, Essential Math and Reading, Leisure and Recreation, Community Living, Safety, Self-Awareness and Self-Confidence, Occupational Skills, and Interpersonal Skills. Activities are hands-on in nature and sensory integration activities are incorporated into the programming. Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS) is used as an additional curriculum tool for each student in this stream.
AFLS is used to determine a baseline of skills for each individual and identify individual and group acquisition targets. The Junior/Intermediate Applied Class ( Life Skills) maintains a very small teacher-student ratio (1:4). Additional EA support is available, if needed, at an additional cost.
Primary Applied Class
The primary applied class is designed for students in Grades 1 through 3, with a strong focus on communication and socialization. The program provides students with the opportunity to learn the academic, communication and social skills necessary throughout their education. Students will learn character development and social emotional learning; the skills needed to help them make friends, interact with others, regulate their emotions, ask for help, keep themselves healthy and safe and to follow school routines.
The core subjects of Language, and Essential Reading and Essential Math will be presented through direct instruction. In addition, the academic subjects of Science, Social studies and The Arts will be taught through experiential hands-on learning.
Physical Education and Yoga Program
Physical fitness is so important for a child’s overall health, body, and mind. In an effort to help our students develop a healthy lifestyle, EPA provides a thorough physical education program. Students participate in daily physical activities , daily outside sports and play, weekly physical education classes , weekly yoga and recreational swimming. Physical activity is a great way to manage stress.
There are several benefits gained from yoga. Yoga helps students with emotional regulation. Students learn breathing exercises and poses to help them relax, focus, and develop mindfulness.
Yoga helps improve gross motor skills and increase body awareness. It also helps increase concentration, coordination, flexibility, and strength. At EPA, our students enjoy weekly group yoga sessions which in turn help them develop good learning skills and work habits.
STEM Course
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. STEM activities help students succeed in our ever-increasing technological world. Hands-on science experiments and activities help students understand abstract scientific concepts. Technology is a powerful academic resource and tool.
Technology use is encouraged at EPA with all students being provided with an iPad for use at school (i.e. for conducting research, recording answers and thoughts, and as a means of assistive technology).
Additional Services
Before and/or After Care
Before care is available beginning as early as 8:15AM. After care is available from 3:30PM to 4:30PM each day at an additional cost.
The before and/or after care is led by EPA Educational Assistants who provide homework support, promote social interactions through games/ activities or guide students as they engage in self-chosen activities. Please contact your classroom teacher or the principal if you wish to have your child enrolled in the before care and/or after care.
* Before care and/or after care are not included in tuition *
