Have you ever wondered if your child might thrive in an environment that embraces their unique learning style? Consider this scenario:
As the new school year begins, your child continues to face difficulties with focus, literacy and/or numeracy and other subjects. They may be resistant to even going to school. Despite their efforts, traditional educational settings may not fully support the way your child learns, which can lead to frustration, social-emotional challenges and a loss of confidence.
If this sounds familiar, your child might benefit from a school specifically designed to meet their educational needs.
At North Vancouver's Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School (KGMS), a K-12 independent school, they deliver an educational experience built around your child, with a mission to empower diverse thinkers, build confidence and capability, and help their students realize their dreams.
Multi-sensory learning is a cornerstone of KGMS's approach, which provides a universal method to engage all students, particularly effective in supporting those with learning differences.
"This type of instruction allows students to access learning in a way that best suits their individual needs by incorporating a variety of modalities that actively engage both their body and mind," says Suzanne MacLeod, KGMS's head of school.
Sharing an example, Lisa Upton, principal, junior and middle school, explains: "When teaching vocabulary, we may show words in advance and have students physically interact with printed versions, reinforcing the connection between touch, sight, and understanding. This active engagement supports human development, encourages creative and critical thinking, and strengthens the cause-and-effect relationship that is essential to learning."
"Multi-sensory learning is not only a natural part of our classrooms but also a vital tool for fostering growth in our students," she adds.
Student supports, co-teaching and small class sizes
KGMS believes in creating an environment where all students feel safe and free to learn.
Behaviours can often be a symptom of underlying learning or social challenges, not necessarily opposition to engaging in their education.
"The goal at KGMS is to understand the gifts and behavioural complexities of each child’s learning profile. Our team of highly-skilled educators collaborate to identify lagging skill sets and brights sparks, then engage youth in learning practices that challenge creative and critical thinking," says Upton.
"A high-energy student might benefit from a sensory circuit that engages their body while others are meditating, helping them channel their energy productively and become more successful learners. By maintaining small class sizes and having two teachers plus additional support staff in each classroom, we can work closely with each student, structuring their day to meet their unique needs."
Class sizes are intentionally kept small, with 18 or fewer students per class, supported by two teachers and additional literacy and numeracy specialists. In junior and middle school, they maintain an approximate average of 1:3 staff-to-student ratio, and in high school, core academic classes are kept to groups of nine or fewer.
"These small groups foster deeper connections and more personalized learning, enhancing both academic and social growth," MacLeod says.
1:1 tutoring, dedicated teachers
KGMS students are supported with one of the lowest student-to-teacher ratios in B.C., and are offered daily 1:1 tutoring.
Their approach, particularly with daily 1:1 tutoring, a dedicated social-emotional curriculum and a commitment to positive digital literacy, helps build strong relationships, especially with new and younger students.
"During tutoring, the entire class goes as a group, ensuring no one misses out on whole class instruction," notes Upton. "Each student works with their individual tutor during this time, so their specific needs are met without feeling singled out."
Upton praises the calibre of their teachers and tutors, saying they're defined by their deep commitment to KGMS's mission. "While our staff brings varied experience, the common thread is their willingness to learn, grow, and contribute to the success of each student."
"For a student who may have experienced school refusal elsewhere, but is now excited to attend, that’s one of the most rewarding outcomes," reveals MacLeod. "With a leadership team that brings both depth and breadth of experience, our teachers design instruction that not only advances the academic program, engages with an outdoor education curriculum and makes learning relevant for each student."
"KGMS offers not just education, but a community that truly understands and champions every child’s potential. We encourage all who are interested to explore our website or join us for an open house."
For more information or to fill out an admissions application, visit kgms.ca.
