FAQ

Here you'll find answers to common questions about our school's programs, admissions, and community. We are committed to providing an enriching educational experience that nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth.

At Balsam we put a significant emphasis on student self-regulation skills and the ability to learn in various locations, deal with multiple transitions, and do so all without expressing behaviour that is disruptive to the learning of their classmates. The Balsam School is a unique school, we are not just a kinder, gentler, smaller more outdoorsy version of a traditional school. Our purpose is to continue to expand the depth of student learning at all grade levels through the purposeful and pedagogically sound incorporation of our community and nature as vital, comprehensive, and integrated learning spaces.

Learning at Balsam is a ‘big ask’ of both students and staff. Students beginning in kindergarten need to be able to attend to meaningful learning experiences both in class, in our community and in nature. This means being able to manage and self-regulate personal behaviour, listen, and follow instructions of his or her teacher and support the learning of his or her fellow students. Student behaviour that distracts other students from their learning, or causes safety concerns while outside of the school, is not acceptable at Balsam.

At Balsam, routines and expectations are set early with the students to ensure safety, and to maximize the learning opportunities and enjoyment of our community and the outdoors. Our Emergency Preparedness Plan includes appropriate training requirements for staff, protocols for both expected and unexpected situations, drills, student education and community and environmental awareness. Our students learn how to react safely to various situations from finding a disposed needle while on a walk to the Art Gallery, to identifying potentially toxic plants while on a walk in the woods.

The Balsam School has very limited supports for students with inclusive education needs. Students with diverse abilities may be well suited to join the Balsam School if they are able to meaningfully and safely participate in all aspects of the program without additional resources or supports.

On average, our classes range between 12 and 15 students. Small class sizes are fundamental to our rigorous academic instruction and effective exploration of nature and our city.