PROGRAMME

Leonardo Da Vinci Academy's programmes fall within the Pre-School, Primary (Early Elementary), Junior, and Intermediate levels. Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines are adapted to provide an enriched curriculum in all the elementary grades. Subjects or areas of study include: Language Arts/English, Mathematics, Science, French, Italian, Physical & Health Education, Social Studies, History & Geography, Religion, Guidance, Computer Studies, Arts, and Music. The school programme is enriched by a variety of meaningful excursions at all levels.

After school or outside of regular class time students participate in various extra-curricular actives. These may include team or recreational sports, choir, computer club, various contests, drama, chess club, yoga, student newspaper, student council, yearbook club, or science fair. These not only serve to broaden the student's experiences but contribute to a healthy social life and strong school spirit.

In 2007 a decision was taken to extend the Montessori methodology into the Primary Grades(ages 6-9). The resulting Lower Elementary Montessori programme
is a natural progression for our LDVA preschool graduates with the following added advantages:
-the primary years are critical to establishing a love of learning, independence,and self-confidence (fundamentals to the Montessori classroom that are also in keeping with the Academy's overall objectives);
-the Montessori approach is in perfect harmony with the Academy's "Thinking Like Leonardo" philosophy.
Children who complete the Lower Elementary programme will be very well prepared to make the transition into LDVA's more traditional Grade 4 programme. The Lower Elementary Montessori curriculum more than covers the core subjects taught in traditional grades. These are covered through a variety of creative activities that inspire interest, minimize boredom, and promote good work habits. In a Montessori classroom children of various ages are encouraged to work independently at their own level of interest and ability. Actively engaged in their individualized work, the children learn to set goals, manage their time, organize projects, and use resources. In addition to employing advanced Montessori materials, they read and discuss books and express themselves through art, music, drama and poetry. Reading and Creative Writing are daily activities. The programme is also enriched with physical education, field trips and specialty teachers including French and Italian. The objective is to nurture a healthy foundation that will serve as a stepping stone to further learning by helping each child become a confident, independent, and self-directed learner who is prepared for life and not only for a test.

The Academy's unique Italian Studies programme provides both intellectual and cultural enrichment for students at all levels. The study of the language of the Renaissance is a valuable background for careers in Music, Fine Art, Modern Languages, Architecture, Design, Linguistics, and International Affairs. On August of 2005, LDVA received official recognition from the Italian government. As a result, qualifying graduates of the Academy may apply for a certificate of equivalency for Italian secondary schools.

LDVA is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education as an independent Roman Catholic elementary school. Students at all grade levels are introduced to Religion through the Gospel and other readings from the Bible. These are supplemented with exercises from Canadian Catechetical texts and related activities. The goal is to heighten spiritual awareness while preparing eligible students for the sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation. The school's Chaplain, a Catholic priest, serves as a valuable resource to staff and students.