
GMA Academy was established by a group of qualified, experienced teachers with a goal to create a day school that offers academic excellence & holistic education rooted in individualised studies & outdoor, experiential learning - where students learn by doing. This belief is the philosophy for all of our programs; as the students are engaged through inquiry-based exploration and effective classroom teaching, which leads to a growth mindset based on creativity, passion and dedication.
In order to achieve our goal we have borrowed from the best and most-relevant aspects of several teaching/learning pedagogies to create our unique, innovative curriculum, including:
By combining all of these innovative approaches to education together with a touch of wonderful Muskoka, we have developed a hands-on approach to learning that engages a wide variety of learners and is relevant in today's changing world. Low class numbers and lots of 1:1 time with the teachers ensures each student enjoys and succeeds in their school life.
The Kindergarten Class continues to allow each individual child to flourish by utilising our outdoor education as a platform for inspiring imagination & inquiry based learning, developing problem solving skills and children’s natural curiosity about the world around them. Academic foundations are also developed further with regular classes in phonics & mathematics.
Students enjoy a comprehensive curriculum that includes instruction in English Language, Math, STREAM (Science, Tools & Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art & Math), Social Studies (Geography & History), Art & Design, PSHE (Personal, Social & Health Education), Physical & Outdoor Education (POE), French and Music. The heart of our educational approach is the belief that all students can achieve success and meet their learning goals with the proper support. Mixed grade classes and our individualised approach to academic studies removes ceilings on success and allows each child to progress and excel at their own pace.
Our older students continue learning through our rich curriculum but are also exposed to teachings and opportunities to prepare them for high school and beyond. This includes the Intermediate Leadership Program (ILP), where students are given opportunities at school and through our summer camp to gain experience in leadership , community connections and employment related activities.
We recognise that each individual child may have different learning requirements and as such there is some flexibility to allow students to join classes above or below their age, to meet social, emotional and academic needs.
Assessments of each student's progress and learning take place regularly throughout the year, in the form of more formal summative assessments for older students and also formative assessments made by teachers on a daily basis. The focus is always on the progress each individual child is making rather than just labelling their achievements.
Reports are completed by the class and specialist subject teachers twice a year. These not only describe progress but also set targets for future learning. Twice a year we invite parents to meet their child's core teachers to discuss their child's education and development.
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