An integrated curriculum and inquiry-based approach helps students delve into problem solving skills, develop resilience and encourage mindfulness.

Students are introduced to large concepts and problems, to which the solution requires an understanding of numerous core subject areas including math, literacy, science and the arts. These large scale projects require students to conduct research, discussion and link their learning to real life.

Resiliency lives at Urban Academy as our approach teaches students that there’s always more than one way to solve a problem. Students learn that it takes effort to acquire new skills and they are introduced to sports, physical activities and extra-curricular clubs to further expose them to new concepts, ideas and challenges.

Urban Academy also focuses on helping students discover their passions. Drama and Music specialists teach children new skills, as well as the impact of art and culture. These programs help students uncover talents and develop potential lifelong skills and interests.

Challenging Curriculum

While following the Ministry of Education Curriculum, Urban Academy teachers approach learning by harnessing the natural interests of the students. By navigating curriculum through inquiry and linking curriculum together through broader units, students are able to better understand how various skills can be applied to real world ideas.

Inquiry-Based Learning

We help students learn by focusing teaching around their questions. By embracing investigation, we optimize retention, encourage discussion and help students take ownership of their education. Inquiry-based learning leads to more interdisciplinary lessons, more creative thinking and more complex solutions.

Weekly French, Music, Drama & Technology

Exposing students to a variety of subjects while they are young helps them develop an appreciation for the arts, language and expands their skills. Through music and drama performances, they also develop confidence that leads to public speaking and presentation skills. Technology is taught as a tool to help students further their academic learning as well as to begin learning the basic ideas around coding and various apps.

Mindfulness

During the primary years, students begin to understand the world and how they fit into it as individuals. They learn that actions have an impact, how to interact with others, as well as how their identity and passions can make them insightful global citizens.

Students attend field trips linked to their areas of study and have an opportunity to participate in a constantly growing array of clubs – either before school, at lunch or after school. They explore and engage with the school community through activities like our Remembrance Day assembly, Sports Day, at-school camp week, Terry Fox run, Halloween party and Body Science Awareness. Parent integration also plays a role in extracurricular activities such as Mother’s Day Tea, Winter Concert, Spring Play and parent teacher conferences.

Student Services

The “extras” beyond the classroom create meaningful experiences and ensure every student is connected, learning and invigorated.

• Out of School Care
• Introduction to technology
• Library
• Drama and Music specialist instruction.
• Ongoing academic assessment
• Bus transportation
• Mindfulness instruction
• Opening Circle Assembly twice a week
• Mentorship opportunities (as both a mentor and a mentee)
• A variety of clubs each term
• Field study linked to units of inquiry