Senior School students are introduced to further subject specialists, and they take on the added responsibility of moving from class to class each period. At this age, students are developing learning habits and strategies to help them succeed in high school. Exams are completed in Grade 7 & 8 to gain valuable practice prior to high school. Although we utilize the Ontario Curriculum as a base, our teachers bring much more to their classrooms. Student teacher ratio 15/1 in all core subjects, allowing differentiation and individual attention for each child.
Technology
The use of technology increases in the senior grades. Grade 7 & 8’s use personal tablets in their daily program. Teachers at St-Laurent Academy use hands-on, multi-sensory, audio visual, online, digital media, as well as other strategies to reach every one of their students. Guided by the principles of the Multiple Intelligences Theory (MI Theory) our students are actively engaged with all their senses in every subject. Classes are limited to 15 students, allowing teachers to differentiate for each student. Learning through the different intelligences helps to enhance and strengthen their learning experiences.
English & Math
English and math are core subjects across all Junior and Senior School grades. Many of our students have uncovered their “gifts” in these areas through our application of the MI theory. Others experience success and pride, often for the first time, in subjects they have traditionally found difficult. Our teaching staff works hard to ensure every child is reached in these two crucial subjects.
Social Studies
Social Studies is a very exciting and hands-on subject at St-Laurent Academy. Students are naturally interested in the world around them, so we engage all of their senses by digging deeply into the history and geography of the world. Classroom learning occurs in creative and stimulating environments and is further enhanced by excursions to the many cultural and historical attractions offered in the National Capital region and beyond.
Art, Drama, Vocal & Instrumental Music
Art, Drama, and Music are part of our regular weekly curriculum, offered to all students. Students who have gifts in the arts may further develop their abilities in these areas through teacher mentoring, classroom projects, exhibits, and performances. In keeping with our multiple intelligences approach, Art, Drama and Music are also interwoven into other subject areas.
Science
Science is a much-loved class by many of our students. It is richly explored with all the senses, beginning in Preschool. Our Science classroom is also somewhat of a museum, with its intriguing displays and amazing artifacts. Students regularly visit our outdoor classroom at Macoun Marsh. This unique location is the perfect environment to learn about nature, in nature. Learn more about our award-winning environmental science program.
Learn more about our award-winning environmental science program.
Physical Education
Physical Education is offered daily to our students, either in our fully equipped gymnasium or weather permitting, at Forbes Park, just outside the school. The students also take part in weekly off-site Physical Education at the Ottawa Athletic Centre (OAC), participating in activities such as tennis, squash, swimming, spinning, circuit training, and golf with OAC instructors. Our Senior School students are also very involved in the Independent Sport Federation.