Have you considered sending
your child to one of the many fine private schools in downtown Toronto? Toronto
has a wide variety of private schools, from prep schools to French language
schools, from single-gender institutions to schools based on a particular
philosophy, such as Montessori. Better private schools offer students many
advantages, including:
- A
culture of excellence. Private schools celebrate academic
achievement. Students who are not performing to their potential may be in
a school where excelling is not considered "cool.” At fine private
schools, students are expected to give their best effort. Older students
provide good role models for younger ones, and supports are in place to
help every student maximize their performance.
- Balance. Private
schools help students achieve balance in their lives. At better schools,
each student is expected to maintain high academic standards, but also
participate in athletics and extracurricular activities. Skills such as
time budgeting, planning, study skills and practicing self-discipline help
students achieve a healthy balance at school, and are invaluable in life.
- Values. Private
schools aim to educate the whole child. In addition to instilling a love
for learning and knowledge, better Toronto private
schools promote
the building of character and the practice of values like respect for
others, a strong work ethic, taking responsibility, service to the
community, integrity, and self-discipline.
- Size.
Private schools usually have fewer students than public schools. Classes
are smaller, leading to a better student-teacher ratio. These schools are
better able to build and maintain facilities for sports, drama, and other
activities. They also endeavour to
have the latest in technology available to students as soon as possible.
How to Choose a High School
An Internet search will
yield a list of private schools in downtown Toronto. Exploring school websites will tell you a lot about each school's
particular focus, philosophy, and other information. Many schools hold
"Open House” events where you can tour the facilities and learn more about
what is offered. When you have narrowed your list to a few schools, call to
make appointments with the enrollment officers of the school, who will answer
any questions you may have.
Consider your family’s
needs, as well as your own values, and choose a school that aligns with these.
If your child has learning challenges, make sure that the private or prep
school you choose offers homework support, enriched learning, and tutoring
services. Better private schools maintain an in-house tutor who students may
see during and after school hours for individual help.
Also look for a school with
limited class sizes. Smaller class sizes and lower teacher-student ratios lead
to more individual attention for each student. This in turn allows teachers to
assess students regularly, and to find ways to help each student in the class
complete the course work successfully. Smaller classes also lead to greater
opportunities for each student to participate in activities and discussions.
Explore your options today
-- give your child the gift of a private school education!