An Overview

The Leonardo Da Vinci Academy (LDVA) was founded in 1983, almost 500 years after Leonardo's birth. Inspired by the universal scope of his genius and untiring quest for learning, the founders could not imagine a more suitable name for the school they envisioned. A co-educational, independent school, LDVA is situated in central Etobicoke and services families residing in the Greater Toronto Area of Ontario, Canada. The school, sought after by discerning parents, offers exceptional programmes from pre-school to grade 8. Academic excellence, independent thinking skills, and self-discipline are promoted within a healthy Catholic environment. Dedicated professionals employ proven methods and a challenging curriculum to promote a Da Vincian approach to learning. Low student-teacher ratios insure a high level of personal attention to meet individual needs. Current Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines are adopted in Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, French and other subjects from grades 1 to 8. The curriculum is enriched with classes in Italian, Art, Music, Computer Literacy, Religious Studies, Guidance, Physical & Health Education, and a variety of sports and other extra-curricular activities. In keeping with the Da Vincian Principles, the overall programme at LDVA includes a well-balanced curriculum of studies in Sciences, Arts, and Humanities. A rich after-school programme of diverse clubs and sports serves to further enhance leaning, promote school spirit and develop social skills and responsibility.

Recognizing the importance of Early Childhood Education the Academy offers two distinct programmes for children aged 3 to 6. Casa Montessori is a Montessori pre-school that nurtures curiosity and independence. The Casa classroom is designed to stimulate the child's cognitive, creative and social development. Children advance through Montessori materials by building upon previous learning experiences. The Casa's formal curriculum includes Language, Mathematics, Culture, Sensorial Experiences, Practical Life Skills and Physical Development. The directress provides the dynamic link between the children, the Montessori environment, and the parents.

Scuola Materna is the Academy's Italian immersion Montessori Early Childhood Education programme. It is the only such programme in Canada with international recognition. In Scuola Materna each child is encouraged to develop a healthy attitude toward living and learning. This is accomplished through creative activities and self-directed exploration of materials within a caring environment. Full and half day programmes include nutritious snacks and plenty of opportunities for creative expression in language and the arts. The children not only learn social and life skills but become fluent in Italian. Not only are graduates well prepared for Grade 1 but they also acquire a greater capacity for language in general.

From pre-school to Grade 8, students at LDVA know that they are a part of a special family - a unique and nurturing environment inspired by one of the greatest minds in history. The school's motto "Virtutem Forma Decorat"(Beauty Adorns Virtue), inscribed on Leonardo's own work, was the inspiration for the Academy's mission statement below:

The Leonardo Da Vinci Academy aims to instill a love of learning and to challenge students to develop their whole potential in the manner inspired by Leonardo. The goal is to nurture the growth of responsible individuals who are rooted in their heritage, in balance with their world, and secure on the path to self-knowledge within a Catholic setting.