Junior School (Kindergarten - Grade 7)
The Junior School is a vibrant place for elementary school aged children to grow, learn, and begin to explore and discover their unique abilities, talents, and interests. We strive to create a community where everyone feels safe, connected, and cared for. We embrace an educational experience that supports each student’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development. We believe in nurturing strong minds and good hearts.
The Junior School proudly offers both the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) and the Middle Years Program (MYP) within our Kindergarten to Grade 7 learning continuum. Both programs provide a research-based, international philosophy and framework that engages our students in rigorous and globally significant, inquiry-based teaching and learning.
Core aspects of learning and student life in the Junior School include:
- The International Baccalaureate Primary and Middle Years Programs provide the philosophy and framework for our Kindergarten - Grade 7 academic program.
- A focus on building positive relationships amongst students and teachers through daily, extended homeroom time.
- Social Emotional Learning (SEL) through the Second Step® program.
- A student services department that provides learning strategies support in and out of the classroom, and counsellors who support social and emotional wellness.
- Core and specialist subject teachers across all grades.
- Technology enhanced learning, with access to iPads and Chromebooks in K-Grade 4 and a 1:1 school-issued laptop program that starts in Grade 5.
- Opportunities for outdoor learning (e.g. school garden) and outdoor education (e.g. overnight camp experiences for students in Grade 4 and up).
- An extensive co-curricular clubs and athletics program.
- Opportunities to participate in representative athletic competitions (e.g. cross-country, track, and swimming) and competitive athletic teams (e.g. volleyball, soccer, basketball, ultimate frisbee) in Grades 5-7.
- Opportunities for student-initiated action and service in the school and beyond.
- Opportunities for leadership development through contribution to the school (e.g. Grade 7 Ambassador program).
- Student-led assemblies that celebrate student voices and support community building.
- Special events and opportunities for students across Kindergarten - Grade 12 to build community and connection (e.g. house events, full school assemblies, feasts, Gr. 5-7 musical, K-4 arts showcase, PYP Exhibition, Mandy Richmond Public Speaking Celebration).
- Spacious facilities that include well-equipped classrooms, a Great Hall, library, design lab, music room, two art rooms, a science lab, large playground, and fields.
- A team of caring, collaborative, and committed teachers, support staff, and school leaders.
