FROM CANADA TO THE WORLD P. 10
A CANADIAN INSPIRATION THAT TRANSFORMS THE LIVES OF MANY
WHAT IS MAPLE BEAR QUALITY ASSURANCE? P. 20 THE PROCESS THAT DRIVES IMPROVEMENT AT OUR SCHOOLS
THE VALUE OF GIVING BACK P. 22
TERRY FOX 2022A GLOBAL FUNDRAISING INITIATIVE
MAPLE BEAR GLOBAL SCHOOLS MAGAZINE #3 CEE EDITION
Maple Bear Katowice, Poland
Kindergarten and SchoolClassrooms at Maple Bear are learning environments fully equipped to support our students’ development through all stages of their school life.
Classrooms at Maple Bear are the perfect environment for learning and bilingual language acquisition. Their structure favours collaboration, investigation and enjoyment which are key elements of Canadian teaching methods.
In addition to being welcoming, safe and attractive, the classroom environment at Maple Bear Schools has resources to help teachers and students of all ages to establish bonds, improve interpersonal interaction, and promote choice-making opportunitiesall with the goal of assisting the students in their life journey.
The rooms are large, stimulating and intended to capture attention and promote language acquisition. The components of our classrooms have been designed to reinforce the pursuit of knowledge, taking into consideration the student's interests and providing opportunities for experimentation and exploration. Equipment, games, books and furniture are strategically arranged so that the students have the best learning tools at their fingertips.
Our schools are also equipped with Learning Centres, spaces designed for experiential activities where students consolidate what they have learned and where they can make new discoveries. The teacher plays the role of collaborator, observer and guide, while the student is at the heart of the learning process. Everything is “hands-on” because learning
by doing is how information is absorbed through the senses. There are themed areas for science, math, role-play and games activities. Students can work in groups or individually. By encouraging experimentation, our school promotes the emotional, physical, intellectual, cognitive and social development of our students.
Maple Bear classrooms also have unique support items. For example, a Word Wall is a mural that includes the most recent and frequently used words in the daily routine of each grade. The mural, assembled together by the teacher and students, is a strategic and fun way for the kids to spell-check their words. This tool is used from Early Childhood to Middle Years and is a wonderful resource to help students to expand their vocabulary while helping them to become autonomous writers.
Our classrooms are places of exploration, investigation, inspiration and discovery for our students while also providing a safe space where learning can happen. Every step of the way, we support our students to fully grow and evolve so they become young responsible citizens and successful adults.
WWW.MAPLEBEAR.CA
WWW.OWNAMAPLEBEARSCHOOL.COM
A PUBLICATION OF MAPLE BEAR
GLOBAL SCHOOLS LTD.
EDITOR
PIA KAR
ASSISTANT EDITOR
ROMINA MENDEZ
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
BRUNA EMANUELA
MICHELLE TICE
PRODUCTION STAFF
JULIANA VIEIRA
RODRIGO BARBELLI
ART EDITOR ANDERSON SUNAKOZAWA
CONTRIBUTORS
VIRGINIA MOMTCHILOVA
HARRY BELL
RODNEY BRIGGS
JUDY HIEBERT
PHYLLIS HILDEBRANDT
ARNO KRUG
PATTI RODGER
THAMILA ZAHER
CUSTOM EDITORA
PUBLISHER ANDRÉ CHERON
EDITOR
MARIO CICCONE
ART DIRECTOR AND GRAPHIC DESIGN
DANIEL DAS NEVES
FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATION
FINANCIAL ANALYST
ALESSANDRO CERON
CONTACT / INQUIRIES
CORPORATE HEAD OFFICE
1003 - 40 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
TORONTO, ONTARIO
CANADA
M5J 1T1 On the cover: Maple Bear Poland
Yann Bidan, General Manager of Maple Bear Central & Eastern Europe
The Maple Bear family is set to grow even further, and in the upcoming year as we eagerly anticipate the addition of new schools and students in Poland, Bulgaria, Czechia, and Romania. By 2024, our student community will reach an impressive milestone of 1000. This expansion marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing quality bilingual education to the children in Central and Eastern Europe.
We are thrilled to be a part of the incredible journey of Maple Bear in Central and Eastern Europe. Over the past two decades, Maple Bear has become synonymous with excellence in bilingual education, setting a standard that has positively impacted the lives of the children in the region. Recently, in 2023, the Maple Bear brand achieved a significant anniversary milestone by attaining global recognition as the largest and fastest-growing network of schools (ISC International research). Furthermore, the latest PISA results emphasize
Canada's consistent position among the topperforming educational systems, underscoring the continued excellence of our Maple Bear educational approach.
We remain committed to upholding the legacy established by the founders of Maple Bear. Our dedication to providing world-class bilingual education aligns seamlessly with Maple Bear's vision. To us, Maple Bear means excellence, innovation, and a commitment to nurturing young minds in an environment that fosters curiosity and academic achievement.
The impact of Maple Bear extends beyond the classroom, influencing the educational landscape in Central and Eastern Europe, preparing children to adapt and succeed in the future, giving them the skills to become proud local citizens with a global mindset. We are proud to have the opportunity to play a role in shaping the future of the region through quality education.
Yann Bidan39+ COUNTRIES
400+ SCHOOLS IN OPERATIONS
180+ SCHOOLS COMING SOON
58K+ STUDENTS
It takes a unique combination of coincidences, experiences, and passionate individuals to bring ideas to life. This is the story of how Maple Bear came to be.
In 1981, Rodney Briggs, a young man from Winnipeg, Manitoba with a passion for international relations, entered the diplomacy field that took him and his family around the world.
After living and working overseas with the Canadian Diplomatic Service in countries such as Thailand, Taiwan, China and Korea, the Briggs family moved back to Canada in 1996.
He wasn’t aware at the time, but the knowledge he acquired and the relationships he built would help bring Canadian education to thousands of students around the world.
In 1997, Rodney worked at the Canadian Education Centre Network (CECN), a not-forprofit organization that was partially funded by the Canadian government. It had offices worldwide because its main purpose was to promote and market Canada as a destination for international students to pursue their academic dreams.
Gerald Macleod and Rodney Briggs
In 2004 I signed up with Maple Bear as a preschool franchisee. We opened the doors of our school in 2005 which became the very first Maple Bear school worldwide.
Shalini Jaiswal - Director and COO, Maple Bear South Asia
While President of CECN, Rodney focussed on building relationships with international and Canadian education leaders. He connected with Gerald Macleod (1943 - 2021), who was the Director of International Education in the Department of Advanced Education for the Province of Manitoba, and who had extensive experience and credentials in immersion education.
Rodney, Gerald, and other CECN managers in India, Korea and Brazil recognized that there was a huge demand for high-quality, bilingual Canadian education from emerging middle-class parents. And when the government funding for CECN ceased, it became clear that there was an exceptional opportunity to take Canadian bilingual education to the world.
This was the beginning of Maple Bear. Gerald Macleod played an instrumental role in developing the Maple Bear academic curriculum and methodology. He also spearheaded the teacher training and quality assurance programs which proved to be a unique differentiator.
Rodney created the business franchise framework and worked on the global expansion strategy, starting with the first original Maple Bear schools in India (Indirapuram 2005), Korea (Songpa 2006), and Brazil (Jundiai 2006).
Together, in 2007, Rodney and Gerald became the Co-Founders of Maple Bear and remained partners for 15 years.
Nothing says Canada like ‘MAPLE’. The maple leaf is on the Canadian national flag and it is an internationally recognizable symbol. Bears are another symbol of Canada and they have a strong relatable association with young children. The name Maple Bear was selected as a genuine expression of Canadian heritage and a natural fit with parent audiences.
With more than 550 schools in over 35 countries around the world, the Maple Bear global family continues to grow.
The expansion of the Maple Bear program has just amazed me. The education is so good; not just the program but the people who write the program, those who train on the program, our teachers and the people that work at Maple Bear.
Crystal Han - Managing Director, Maple Bear South Korea
The success of Maple Bear could not have happened without the passion, dedication and ongoing commitment of so many individuals. From our regional partners and school owners to our teachers and trainers, their tireless work and unwavering belief in the mission to deliver the best of Canadian education for a global future is truly what makes Maple Bear one of the top international education brands in the world.
Maple Bear is the only player in the education sphere that connects to the heart of our students. We really want them to experience joy when they learn. This is the Maple Bear secret sauce.
Canadian Education Centre Net work is founded in Canada
1 st Annual Facult y Symposium held in Winnipeg
Rodney Brig gs joins CECN
Maple Bear Global Schools was founded under the umbrella of CECN
1 st school in the world opens in Indirapuram, Delhi
1 st Terr y Fox global fundraiser launched L aunch of Bear Care Program
1 st high school student s graduate in Brazil
From a Canadian inspiration to a global realization, Maple Bear Global Schools has grown to become well-known in the international education space for sharing the best of what Canadian education
of passionate educators, school owners, and par tners, Maple Bear now has over 550 schools with 50,000+ students in 40 countries.
Rodney Brig gs and Gerald Macleod become co-founders
1 st global edition of The Bear Magazine is published
1 st Global Symposium held in Winnipeg
Global Connections for Sustainabilit y program is launched
COMING SOON
PHILIPPINES SINGAPORE
UAE USA
At Maple Bear, we treat language as a resource. Why? Because it enhances communication with others and helps form social identity. This is especially important in our current globalized and connected world.
A bilingual education places language as a top essential skill that can leverage opportunities throughout life.
Maple Bear Schools provide environments where students continue to develop language knowledge to achieve personal, social, and academic goals. As a tool for communication and expression, language enables empathy and supports expanding worldviews. At Maple Bear, we value additional languages, as we believe it raises cultural sensitivity, which is imperative in our interconnected world. In this way, bilingualism is a resource to truly communicate and understand other people who come from different backgrounds.
A bilingual education places language as a top essential skill that can leverage opportunities throughout life.Phyllis Hildebrandt, Academic Director
- Maple Bear LATAM
Knowing just one language is no longer an advantage for job employment or career advancement. Being bilingual gives our students an edge in the job market. It also helps them to stand out when competing for placement at universities or colleges. Whatever area of profession or study, the ability to speak another language is a strategic advantage.
Technology lessens the boundaries between teams and enhances mobility. Language can serve as a translator of worlds, offering the opportunity to connect on a level unheard of in the past. Students can play an active role in various communities of learners inside and beyond the classroom. As students speak, write, and represent, they also listen to, read, and view the ideas and experiences of others. Language as a resource expands horizons.
Being bilingual gives a sense of being a citizen of the world. When an individual speaks in a different language, the external perception of that person changes positively. One of the most rewarding aspects of the human experience is our ability to connect with others. And language as a resource helps us to make these connections.
Studying a second language at Maple Bear provides students with a unique social identity and is an everlasting resource. Being a bilingual Maple Bear student is an advantage!
The Maple Bear preschool program is designed to educate the whole child - physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. There are eight developmental areas that are fundamental to our early childhood curriculum and are addressed every day through careful planning by our teachers and delivered through well-designed Canadian education methodology.
Children benefit from loving relationships and interactions with the adults around them through which they learn that they are valued. In this safe and secure environment, they will thrive and develop cognitively, physically and socially. As they relate to other children, they will develop positive behaviour traits such as sharing, caring, turn-taking, and respecting their peers.
Within Early Years, all activities are languagebased as children are given opportunities to learn about their world and talk about it. They will learn language naturally when they hear it used in context. They will also develop pre-reading skills when teachers read to them from books and when the children explore books on their own.
Children are given opportunities to develop the small muscles of the hands in a coordinated way. Maple Bear teachers create many fun activities for the children to do such as picking up various sizes of pom poms with a tweezer, placing toothpicks or straws into a jar, making shapes with play dough, and cutting on a curvy or straight line.
Children are encouraged to crawl, push, pull, climb, jump, run, throw, ride, dance, walk up, and walk down in a safe and supervised environment. These activities provide opportunities to develop the large muscles of the body.
Early Years learners in our schools are given many meaningful experiences that provide the right foundation for good progress through school and life.
The following examples of the Maple Bear 8 are part of every child’s day at Maple Bear schools and are designed to educate the whole child.
7
How does the world work? How are things organized? Maple Bear teachers nurture thinking skills in a variety of ways. Sensory exploration, cause and effect, and using tools like toy hammers are some of the areas of focus in the classroom that support a growing, learning brain. Playing with puzzles and games as well as making math concepts interactive and fun are also ways to help young learners to think.
6
Children are given developmentally appropriate opportunities to explore their creativity and feel valued for their creations. They may paint, draw, paste, create designs and patterns with sponges dipped into paint, and experiment with finger paint.
Early Years learners love to pretend or make-believe. Dramatic play is very important in child development because it fosters emotional development, social interaction, and language development. Classrooms are equipped with various items with which to pretend, such as costumes, hats, kitchen items, and toy food.
8
Children love music and singing. They also learn the sounds, vocabulary, and rhythm of a language through music. In Maple Bear schools, children sing songs that are fun, engaging and active.
It is always an interesting question to ask children and young people (and in reality, adults) how their brains work. Inevitably, they can describe that their brains are in their heads and that the brain is where we “think”. But apart from that, their brains often remain a mystery to them, because after all, they will never be able to see them. They just know they’re there.
Understanding how the brain works is its own branch of science. It is called neuroscience, named after the cells in our brains called neurons, originally from the Greek meaning “sinew” or “nerve”. Over the past few decades, neuroscience research has exploded with new information. We know more now about how the brain functions than at any other time in history. This is important because if we view neuroscience through the lens of education, the information provided by cutting-edge research has profound implications for school systems worldwide.
Whether we’re talking about Maple Bear schools or any other system whose goal is to educate, neuroscience is sparking a renewed discussion about what is taught – the curriculum –and how it is taught – the methodology.
Current brain research also tells us a lot about the developmental stages of physical and cognitive growth as we age. For example, we can reliably articulate the skills and behaviours which are expected for a 6-month-old, in comparison with the expected skills and behaviours, in reading for example, of a child who moves from the Early Years into Elementary levels. These norms are called milestones, and they help immensely in understanding how to support students in their learning as they progress through school.
Whether we’re talking about Maple Bear schools or any other system whose goal is to educate, neuroscience is sparking a renewed discussion about what is taught – the curriculum – and how it is taught – the methodology.
Harry Bell, Maple Bear TrainerMaple Bear’s mission statement highlights a key finding in neuroscience. When it talks about a “student-focused, hands-on” pedagogy that “instills a passion for lifelong learning”, it is directly connected to what we know about the brain. Research has proven again and again that when students are given the opportunity to actively discover, create, construct, invent, inquire, and design their own educational experiences, the brain pays attention. For example, using all the senses in Maple Bear classrooms to experience the world– sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste
– right from Bear Care through the Elementary levels, primes our brains for the tasks that will help them to develop the more complex skills required to be productive and contributing members of society.
At this complicated time in history, knowing how to broker what we know about the brain while capitalizing on the strategies which promote the best learning experiences, creates no less than a golden ticket to success. The more we know about neuroscience in education, the brighter the gold becomes, and the greater the result will be for the children who will be our future leaders.
Patti helps us to get clear on the reasons for the Quality Assurance Process and why it is so important to our school leadership teams and ultimately, our students.
Can you explain what quality assurance is all about at Maple Bear?
In our rapidly changing global economy, Maple Bear Schools are required to keep up with increasingly high standards to prepare students for further education and work in the 21st century. Some of these standards include:
Excellent operation of schools;
The best curriculum and materials for implementation; Support and management of staff; Safety plans;
Communication with parents and the community; and Development of school-wide goals for vision and direction.
The Quality Assurance program is designed to determine whether a school’s practices comply with Maple Bear’s expectations in four key domains:
1. Integrity of Maple Bear Global and Local Programming
2. Quality of Management and Leadership
3. Quality of Instruction and Learning
4. Assessment and Reporting Practices
In total, there are 26 characteristics that are examined and assessed on a four-point rubric (essentially a learning acquisition scale). Once the Quality Assurance Process is complete, school owners and academic leaders will build a School Improvement Plan to improve areas that are not in compliance with our programs and methodology.
First, school owners and academic leaders selfassess and identify their strengths and needs. This helps drive our planning and identify gaps. Second, our Quality Assurance team reviews the schools’ self-assessment report and then visits the school to observe their practice first-hand so we can understand the full picture. Third, we work together with the school to create what we call a School Improvement Plan. It identifies areas which need improvement to comply with Maple Bear's expectations. It specifies what future training and professional development we should focus on with the school. And it includes SMART goals and Action Plans to ensure that the leadership team stays on track to reach their goals.
As a franchise model, MBGS has a mission and vision that we guarantee to our stakeholders. So, it is imperative that we can ascertain the level of practice of any school, identify areas of need and build a plan of improvement. The QA process helps us do this.
Our one-of-a-kind Quality Assurance program is designed to determine whether a school’s practices comply with Maple Bear’s expectations. We want to ensure the integrity of our programs and standards of leadership, instruction and assessment are upheld.
Patti Rodger, Director of Training and Quality Assurance
Globally, our school leaders and teachers function at varied levels of education and experience, so the QA program automatically drives the necessary next steps for growth and improvement.
At Maple Bear Global Schools, our mission is to provide the best of Canadian education for a global future. Our Quality Assurance program guarantees that we meet this goal.
At Maple Bear, we impart the importance of social impact by launching a fundraising campaign that all our countries can participate in if they choose to. We truly believe in the value of Giving Back and what it means to be a Global Citizen. For these reasons, it’s our obligation as educators that we pass on these values to motivate and inspire our schools and students around the world.
In 2022, Maple Bear ran a global fundraiser alongside the Terry Fox Foundation’s #IAmNotAQuitter campaign.
For Maple Bear, Terry Fox is a symbol of our Canadian roots. Terry is a hero who demonstrates to our students around the world that one person really can make a difference. He acted with youthful strength, determination and vision in the face of incredible personal adversity.
Maple Bear students, fundraising on behalf of the Terry Fox Foundation, have raised more than $500,000 in Canadian Dollars since 2017. In 2022 alone, over $250,000 was raised to support cancer research in Singapore, Brazil, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Bulgaria.
In addition to this grassroots fundraising, Maple Bear Global Schools made a gift of $25,000 to the Foundation. This gift was announced by Maple Bear Founder Rodney Briggs at an annual Canadian trainer event in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 2022 where over 150+ Maple Bear trainers and partners were present.
Each country executed a fundraising campaign in their own unique way.
In Singapore, 15 Maple Bear schools held a 2-day event called The Amazing Race as well as a Little Fox Run event. Students, staff and parents participated in the event, and they surpassed their fundraising expectations with over $150k CAD raised in the name of the Singapore Children's Cancer Foundation.
Maple Bear schools across Brazil supported the Terry Fox fundraiser. Two Terry Fox runs were hosted in São Paulo and in Rio De Janeiro which drew huge numbers - over 4000 participants - and raised over $50k CAD for the Hospital de Amor, a cancer treatment hospital.
Almost 2000 members of the Maple Bear community in Vietnam, including students, parents and teachers, participated in a Terry Fox Run in October 2022. The event was held during a beautiful autumn day and was a tremendous success, with over $18k CAD raised for cancer research.
Bear Vietnam
Maple Bear Hong Kong organized a day of fun activities and a Terry Fox Walk-a-Thon.
Lively and entertaining races were held, like egg and spoon and piggyback races, as well as a gentle yoga challenge. The enthusiasm was high and everyone was committed to gathering donations for a good cause.
By giving back to cancer research in their local communities, Maple Bear students have a handson ability to see the result of their actions. This kind of tangible learning is an integral part of the Maple Bear philosophy.
Michelle Tice -VP of Marketing and Communications, Maple Bear Global Schools.
In Bulgaria, the Grade 4 students demonstrated great leadership by organizing the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope for the school. It allowed the students to learn about Terry and how he created a legacy of determination and hope.
Bear Bulgaria
We are so proud of all the participating schools and their tremendous effort. These are incredible examples of how Maple Bear instills the values of empathy, generosity, and collaboration in our students through our Giving Back initiatives.
The Global Connections for Sustainability Program (GCP) is exclusive to Maple Bear and is tied to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were developed to serve as a blueprint for a future of peace and prosperity for people and the planet.
While collaborating with other Maple Bear students their age around the world, schools are able to teach the importance of nature, integrate cultural diversity education and get the students fully engaged in worthy actions today that will lead to a better tomorrow.
Inspired by the GCP program, Ms. Rosie and her Grade 1 students learned all about garbage and the recycling life cycle. They invited a guest speaker from a Bulgarian recycling company who explained what kinds of materials can be recycled and how packaged waste material gets sorted.
In true Maple Bear form, the Grade 1’s took the lead in planning and delivering a new school initiative: start a recycling program. These young students planned presentations for the school community that explained why a recycling program is important and how packaged waste, if not recycled, harms our environment by adding more carbon to the atmosphere and causes
our climate to change. The kids set up the recycling containers and enthusiastically started sorting their garbage into the appropriate bins!
As part of a unit about deforestation inside the GCP platform, the Year 2 class in Maple Bear Arequipa, Peru connected with our school in Alto de Pinheiros in Brazil to show their appreciation for nature. To kick off the project, each student created a "talking stick" using natural materials found in their neighbourhood. They then researched and wrote about a natural wonder from their assigned country, and brought in personal pictures to share with their peers. The entire process was a lot of fun and provided ample opportunities to practice reading, writing, research, crafts, and presentation skills.
During the final presentation, students had the chance to ask questions and meet their peers from their partner country.
More than learning a language, students are exposed to a multicultural environment with significant cognitive development gains
For Canadian educators, the term bilingualism means more than just learning a second language. Bilingualism is an approach, not an end in itself. It is about an opportunity for students to learn while being completely immersed in a second language. This gives them exposure to a multicultural environment, naturally developing the ability to think in another language and enhancing the capacity to adapt quickly and comfortably to different contexts. This is why the nature of Canadian education is built upon a multicultural approach. Since its foundation in 1867, Canada has had two primary languages, English and French. The country has also welcomed immigration and diversity. During different migratory movements, the government took measures to receive and integrate these new Canadian families. Education is this process's primary tool, always seeking to understand the families and students'
needs and by adopting strategies focused on practical learning using perception, experimentation, and sharing. This is the fundamental difference from "learning English" to "learn in English."
At the end of the 1960s, while establishing the obligation for all Canadian Federal Organizations to offer support to its citizens in both French and English, The Official Languages Act helped spread the concept that bilingualism means not just developing fluency in a second language, but having two officially recognized native languages.
Maple Bear's methodology aims to create connections and a favourable environment for the student's development. "When being immersed in an environment where a new language is used, children gradually adopt the language. They do this not only by memorizing vocabulary and grammar structures but by truly assimilating the nuances and subtle meanings of the language in an effective and definitive form", explains Cintia Sant'Anna, Maple Bear Academic Director. One of the experts of this method is the Canadian lecturer, writer, and educator Michael Fullan. He highlights the importance of the 6C`s: Character Education, Citizenship, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking. Fullan, the author of Deep Learning, states that the anticipated result from this model is that students care more for school and for life. They also learn to think about how to make a difference and how to help humanity.
Maple Bear takes bilingualism to another level, going beyond linguistic teaching. Maple Bear provides an education focused on research, citizenship, and entrepreneurship. These skills can make all the difference in a child's life
We live in a borderless world.
People from many different backgrounds and cultures interact, build relationships and work in a collaborative way. They make use of this richness and variety to innovate and to create outstanding solutions. In this way, knowledge from different cultures is used to benefit other societies. Since the country’s birth, multiculturalism is one of Canada’s foundations. Among several other aspects, Canada has one of the world’s most inclusive educational models in the world, according to PISA – Programme for International Student Assessment. This approach is influential in preparing children for the challenges and opportunities they will meet during their lives. Students in Canada learn from an early age to practice empathy and to value the differences in others - two fundamental socio-emotional abilities that enable them to become successful students and promising professionals. Along with learning traditional subjects, children get the world view that every person has different abilities, knowledge and perspectives. Most importantly, they understand that everyone can make a positive contribution to society.
Maple Bear schools teach these concepts in different ways. Starting with appropriate questions for each age range, the students research cultural expressions in both national and international communities. At the same time, they develop
curricular strategies and competencies.
Maple Bear complies with the national curriculum requirements of the countries where it operates; however, it doesn’t limit itself to these requirements. The schools are connected to a more global vision and present-day values. Canada’s effort in research and in methodology development is an opportunity for students around the world. The school integrates and widens the curricula of each country. Maple Bear prepares immersion programs for every regional reality, implementing a customized version in every situation. More than a successful classroom model, the school prepares its students for the world, personally, professionally and emotionally
Safety” and “Security”.
In English, the word “secure” is related to an almost intangible, conceptual perception of security, whereas “safe” has a more concrete connotation. The word safe is used to describe an environment that follows safety standards, without putting the people within the environment at risk.
At the Maple Bear schools, “safety” and “security” hold the same importance and are complementary.
The goal of the schools is to create an environment free from danger or threat to the physical health of the children, while also creating a sense of comfort so that, inside the school, the children are protected and are free to experiment, learn and develop. We do this by constantly planning, supervising and organizing all the spaces in the school to ensure ideal conditions are set for learning activities and games to happen.
At Maple Bear, physical safety and emotional and intellectual security are various aspects with the same focus: help students develop their highest potential with autonomy. This is possible because every student is
unique, and the school understands their individual needs. Our students do not only need to be in a physically secure environment that provides them with the supportive conditions to study and play safely, free from accidents, but above all, our students need to feel emotionally comfortable, safe, happy and welcome within our school.
To make safety a priority, everyone actively participates in ensuring standards are maintained.
Non-verbal language”, for example, is a commonly used term to describe the way our body moves and sends a particular message, where words are not necessarily expressed.
The acquisition of language by children is influenced by multiple factors, ranging from genetic to interactional and environmental aspects. There is also a consensus that children go through the same stages of acquisition at approximately the same periods in their lives. We, as human beings, are social beings. We thrive while living in community. Children who are placed in a community that uses a specific language for communicating will naturally be exposed to learning and will consequently develop their skills in this language. The immersive environment provides the platform from which language becomes an important tool for participation. Creating an environment conducive to bilingual learning is essential since this will encourage children to use all the competencies they have already acquired. The role of teachers is crucial in this regard. They are the ones who build a safe and stimulating environment that positively influences the degree of involvement and motivation of the students, in
addition to regulating their levels of anxiety and self-confidence. The foundation, especially for young children, is establishing a context of immersion, so that English is learned in a way that is similar to the native language – the students’ mother tongue. Experiencing real learning situations, consequently life situations, in two different languages, is the major strong point of a program that is consistent and aligned with Canadian educational principles, a bilingual nation in its makeup.
At Maple Bear, reading is nurtured starting at a young age - 6 months of age in a fun and pleasant way. The content presented to the children is thematic and combines knowledge and skills related to language, mathematics, science, technology, social studies, music, and the arts. Through specific techniques, and seeking to work on specific skills, it is possible to develop critical thinking in children from a very early age. This is because, even with the few abstraction skills that young children have, they can already make connections between stories told by teachers and their own lives, for example. Over time, as they mature, the ability for abstraction increases and the connections become more complex.
The development of critical
thinking stems from the possibility of participating, interacting and contributing to problem solving. These challenging situations are considered ideal for learning the necessary skills and competencies to work in collaboration with others. Analytical capacity and the ability to actively participating in solving problems, by identifying them and coming up with hypotheses, is not limited to learning languages, but also relates to other subjects, such as mathematics and science. So, students develop the ability to communicate adequately, under various circumstances, adapting to be understood
Reading is taken seriously at Maple Bear from an early age. The introduction to reading occurs gradually, with a priority placed on language. Children learn to read and develop a passion for reading, which is the gateway to learning throughout life. The Maple Bear program is child-centered, and language is a priority, with reading and writing at the core of the curriculum.
It is no coincidence that, during their early school years, the children read a book a day in the classroom. Teachers guide small children into the magical world of books and, little by little, introduce topics such as the names of authors, illustrators, publishing houses, literary genres, and others. The main strategies adopted by Maple Bear to nurture young readers are interactive, shared, guided and independent forms of reading. They provide support for students to achieve comprehension, accuracy, fluency, and vocabulary.
These strategies are used periodically, combined with themes and projects from the Canadian teaching methodology. This variety enables students to participate in oral reading sessions with proficient readers, shared reading with classmates and individual reading, according to each one’s ability.
As they become more mature readers, the teacher’s approach changes, but the main goal is to continue to encourage reading. The more children acquire complex thinking skills, the easier it is for them to consolidate what they have learned and to apply this knowledge in a more sophisticated
way. Although thinking skills on their own are not enough to make a child an effective reader, they are essential for the reading process. Complex thinking is what enables children to reach the necessary cognitive level for reading.
Even though it is the responsibility of teachers to promote reading in the classroom, in every age group, the roles of parents at home is crucial. The family is an extremely important partner in this reading journey. Children, first of all, learn through example, so parents and guardians should read to children, read with children and be seen reading at home.
Since parents are not always at home, it is essential that their guardians (uncles/aunts, nannies or grandparents) take on the role of readers to instill a joy for reading. A story can turn into a play, in which each person becomes a character; you can change the beginning or end of the story, change the names of the characters, or make up your own book. The possibilities for strengthening the habit of reading are countless.
Teaching mathematics at Maple Bear occurs gradually starting with preschool. Students are encouraged to recognize elements from objects found in their daily lives and make connections with the content presented in the classroom. At first, they are introduced to math in a tangible and fun way, through objects they can handle. Little by little, as the students’ ability for abstraction increases, they
are introduced to mental and more complex math. This process of teaching math in the Maple Bear classrooms starts off by establishing connections between what students bring from their personal experiences and what is addressed in class. As children’s thought processes change, moving from the concrete to abstract realm, the subject of math is continuously redirected, moving from the handling of materials, whether structured or not, to graphic forms, until achieving the sophistication of mathematical language.
At the elementary education level, the children consolidate their knowledge of the decimal number
system and how it works and start using different strategies and expanding their repertoire to solve challenges that are presented.
A challenge that is skillfully handled by educators is making math something stimulating for children. First, it is important to make it relevant and relatable to their daily lives. For example, with small children, we can count parked cars on a street and discover whether the result is even or odd. Another way of doing this is to encourage learning math at home. Families can encourage mathematical learning by helping the children apply what they learn at school to day-to-day life at home. Counting toys before putting them away, adding or subtracting socks while folding laundry, or dividing fruits among family members, are some examples of making mathematics an active and fun element in children’s lives. Organizing toys in sequence or putting together the family’s event calendar are other activities that make learning math more meaningful.
A key ingredient in learning math is the challenge. The more students feel challenged to solve a problem, the stronger the desire to do it. For this reason, math classes are always based on challenging situations. And the activities are done in groups. Thus, the children can tap into their previous knowledge and, by discussing and sharing information with other students, they are able to arrive at conclusions. Math is not a question of ready-made rules, but is presented as a discovery, the building of knowledge that teachers help create and mediate.
As they learn math, students become more confident, since they achieve new levels of logical reasoning and learn to relate to situational problems in a more natural way, with the goal of solving them.
The study of sciences will always be important for children to help them observe the world in a totally new, more comprehensive and richer way, understanding every detail and being able to perceive concepts in practically everything. Taking advantage of the precise and attentive outlook of young children is a mission that Maple Bear educators love to embrace.
From the Early Toddler level, there are initiatives to spark the scientific curiosity of students. The units of the program encourage observation of facts and phenomena from nature. Children learn, from an early age, to use observation as a scientific exercise. They conduct experiments to identify physical and chemical changes, as well as learn about the
behavior of living creatures in various current and ancient environments.
Empirical knowledge, that which is experienced in practice through experiments that the children themselves carry out, evolves gradually and makes way for knowledge based more on scientific theories. Everything is done in a step-by-step process so that the children do not lose their genuine curiosity for science. The setting for the classes is always inspiring. From libraries to labs, and comfortable recreational areas to classrooms, every space is designed to facilitate collaborative projects and activities. In this setting, teachers play a very active role in that they must also have an inquisitive nature in order to engage the children’s attention, at every stage of development.
Irena Korbabicz-Putko is the Academic Director for Maple Bear Central and Eastern Europe. She has been a Canadian educator for over 30 years. She began her teaching career as an elementary school teacher in Toronto, Canada, advancing to the position of principal and curriculum leader with the Toronto Catholic District School Board.
Irena`s life and experience have equipped her with a deep expertise in education reform in Eastern Europe, especially Ukraine and Poland, and in Canadian curriculum integration. Beyond her time in the school setting, Irena has worked as a primary basic qualification course instructor at Queen’s University’s Faculty of Education, servicing teachers in the international market.
Irena holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education.
Academic Director for Maple Bear Central and Eastern Europe
How does Canadian Education foster lifelong student success?
On a consistent basis, the Canadian education system is proving to be amongst the most successful and resilient in the world. According to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), fifteen year old students consistently demonstrate outstanding results in reading comprehension, math and science. Thus Canada is ranking among the top five performing countries in the world and number one among the English speaking countries.
The Canadian curriculum is designed so that all students are able to achieve their greatest potential and become lifelong learners. The “Learn – to –learn” method is the most commonly used rather than simple transference of information, which can quickly become outdated or irrelevant.
Canada is a pioneer in implementing education strategies that focus on developing specific competencies which collectively fall under the 21st century skills. The objective is to build capacity in areas that promote a
The Canadian curriculum is designed so that all students are able to achieve their greatest potential and become lifelong learners.Irena KorbabiczPutko
resilient society capable of effectively adapting to rapid change. It represents a shift in emphasis from the instruction of facts to a model which focuses on competencies such as critical thinking, character building, creativity, innovation, as well as digital and computer literacy.
Acquiring these qualities starts at a very young age. They are essential to be successful in today’s competitive international job market and prepare the children for success in the future, which brings unprecedented pace of social, economic and technological changes.
How does the Canadian approach create world leading results, regardless of a students’ country of origin, socio-economic status, or cultural background?
According to British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), as well as other publications, Canadian students are among the best educated in the world, and far ahead of the US and European countries. The inclusive and equitable education model based on child centered approaches, that leaves no one behind, allows students to develop their skills and achieve high results on a consistent basis.
In Canada, newly arrived children from immigrant families, including those that do not speak or have limited English, integrate with no major adjustment issues and perform at the same level as their classmates within a threeyear period. This result is achieved by providing equal and fair opportunities to all children. Additional resources and well-trained staff are offered for students with learning exceptionalities and challenges. As a result, the system
supports all learners from a variety of cultural backgrounds and facilitates smooth transition into the job market and broader society.
How does Maple Bear differ from other schools and the education system at large, and what value can it bring to its students?
Maple Bear brings the best of the Canadian methodology and bilingual education. It is based on discovery, experimentation and solving problems. On the basis of these principles, traditional teaching methods, are replaced by thought-provoking education, which encourages students to explore the environment around them to find answers to questions that are truly relevant to their daily lives. Maple Bear offers the most modern approach in education available world-wide today. It is child-centered, supplemented with a project-based approach. It incorporates themes of social responsibility and community service so that students feel a sense of commitment to their local settings. By using hands-on experience, it better prepares them to be critical thinkers and future leaders.
Maple Bear schools around the world benefit from our large Canadian academic faculty, including trainers, curriculum writers and quality assurance personnel. The Maple Bear program is a living, breathing curriculum that is constantly being updated.
Joining the Maple Bear global network means receiving constant support, sharing best practices in eduction and creating great opportunities for local teachers
The Maple Bear methodology features the best of the Canadian curriculum. And the long-standing Canadian attitude toward multiculturalism is infused within our Maple Bear curriculum, providing our students with these Canadian cross-cultural skills.
This attitude, along with Canada's approach to world security, created the foundation of peacekeeping to emerge in 1956. This connection between the Canadian value of multiculturalism and Canada’s role in the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping efforts is a hallmark of the multicultural approach to teaching and learning.
WE AT MAPLE BEAR ARE BRINGING THAT CONNECTION BETWEEN MULTICULTURAL PEACE AND UNDERSTANDING AND THE WORK OF THE UNITED NATIONS TOGETHER IN OUR NEWEST CURRICULUM INNOVATION –THE MAPLE BEAR GLOBAL CONNECTIONS FOR SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM (GCP).
How can we nurture cross-cultural connection and enhance awareness while exploring the biggest issues that face the livelihood of our planet today?
Through the GCP, Maple Bear seeks to connect students virtually around the world and facilitate exploration, discussion and collaboration centred around the 17 United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
A DIGITAL PLATFORM INCORPORATING THE LATEST ONLINE LEARNING APPROACHES, THE GCP SEEKS TO HAVE MAPLE BEAR STUDENTS TRAVEL THE WORLD WITHOUT EVER LEAVING THE CLASSROOM.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) will be the basis of their exploration. These goals are aimed at achieving peace and prosperity worldwide by addressing key global issues like climate change, quality education and poverty.
The students with the guidance of our teachers will look at the SDG topics and unearth the critical issues around a specific goal as it relates to their country.
Action research will be an important step in this one-of-a-kind program, as students make decisions about actions they can take to improve the specific goal in their area.
THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR REALWORLD WORK AND CHANGE ARE NOT ONLY ENGAGING BUT ALSO TRANSFORMATIONAL.
Students will not only be cultivating their collaborative and inquiry skills, but also their social justice and advocacy skills. The excitement of improving one’s own home and having the power to do so is inspiring and builds a sense of eagerness to learn and to be empowered to make change.
Throughout this project, students will be connecting with similar-aged students in countries like Brazil, India and Vietnam. Paired with classes who are studying the same SDG from their own regional perspectives, students will present their findings to one another through video conferences. Ultimately Maple Bear students will be making the UN sustainability goals a reality in their communities and sharing their research and results with their partner school on the other side of the globe.
This one-of-a-kind program will develop lifelong inquiry skills about topics that matter in our modern world while at the same time instilling a multicultural approach to collaboration and problem-solving.
Maple Bear students worldwide will set a new standard for what it means to be a global citizen.
Did you know Maple Bear has a high school program?
Maple Bear Brazil was the first Maple Bear country to implement a high school program in 2017 at two schools located in Mogi das Cruzes and Tatuape (Santa Amalia).
Together with Maple Bear Global Schools, a high school program was created that is based on the Brazilian curriculum requirements and the Maple Bear curriculum and methodology.
The program focuses on in-depth practices which prepare the students for their journey into life beyond high school:
the challenges of university entrance exams the job market in the context of the 21stcentury global economy and global citizenship.
The Maple Bear High School Program is designed to provide students with a full high school curriculum that prepares them for admission to universities in their native
country as well as universities in Canada or around the world. Students will earn graduation in their home country.
The students focus on projects that are aligned with real-world challenges and they are encouraged to apply skills developed beyond the classroom. The high school programming provides them with the flexibility to pursue courses that pique their area of interest and permits deeper study through electives. Some examples of electives in Brazil include art history, programming and design.
Our existing teaching processes, such as the individualized student assessment, and development of autonomy, receive a more integrated and enhanced level of attention. The high school students in Brazil will have the opportunity to get individual guidance on their career options and on the higher education institutions available to them where they can continue their learning journey (in Brazil or abroad).
Our high school program will be extended to other Maple Bear countries as they grow to include students of high school age. In these countries, our goal is to ensure that our graduates have access to post-secondary programs both in their native country and in Canada.
Maple Bear is shaping the path for students of all age groups to benefit from sound, highquality education that prepares them to think critically and independently so they can thrive in an unpredictable yet exciting future.
Our students and parents about us:
Ihave always been a fan of sending children to kindergarten, and after giving birth, decided that at the age of 1 year, I would send mine. The first year passed by so fast and the time to send my son to kindergarten came.
Maple Bear was the only school I visited because I knew instinctively this would be the right place for him. Since then, I have been so happy with my decision. Teachers are as caring as they should be, and the energy my son had since day 1 is still the same - happy vibes only!
Also, he feels safe with all the teachers and in the environment. He eats everything, and every day he is so happy to go to school. We love Maple Bear Tirana!
Iam very happy with our choice to send our daughter to Maple Bear. Within 1 month, she changed her attitude, her communication skills greatly improved and she formed precious bonds with her classmates and her teachers. Above all, she is happy and always excited to show us all the things she learns daily.
After going through so many kindergartens in Tirana, I was finally able to find a good kindergarten for my daughter and she loves it so much. She always says great things about her Maple Bear teachers and her new friends.
MESSAGE FROM SUZANA STEPANOVA AND
MARIA VLADIMIROVA, DIRECTORSEvery child deserves the best start in life and the support that allows them to realize their potential. Children develop rapidly in the early years and a child's experience in the first 7 years has a huge impact on his future skills, choices, opportunities, attitudes, communication, and overall brain development. For us and our team, it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of your child's growth and education.
OUR STUDENTS AND PARENTS ABOUT US:
Maple Bear is a wonderful place where our children are happy, calm, confident, respected and loved! Thanks to the whole team for having us! You are great and exceptional!”
Iam a happy parent of a happy Maple Bear toddler student! I can not thank more the whole Maple Bear team for all the cares, all the hard work and dedication to the children. Thank you for being such a positive influence in the life of my kid. I am extremely happy that my child has the opportunity at that early age to be already speaking in two languages, to discover the world in a bilingual, stimulating and safe environment which challenges all senses. I am convinced that choosing the Canadian methodology was the best choice for my kid. I see her grow in her development with each day, i see her handling life situations with an ease and in a positive attitude. Keep the great job you are doing!
LEARN MORE
Ihave seen a great progress with my two daughters, in form of adapting to a new environment, language development and social skills.
The kindergarten is a peaceful and loving place. The whole team is hearty, professional and supports the students every step of the way. We also like the Maple Bear program as children seem to learn through experience and deeper understanding, rather than just memorizing. We love this place and everything about it and I would give the highest possible rate without questioning.
We are happy that our Maple Bear Elementary School has embarked on a new exciting chapter in its growth journey.
The year 2023 stands as a hallmark, marked by the achievement of two significant milestones: the inauguration of a new, second Maple Bear campus and the introduction of the Middle Years program.
As the new school year unfolded, we welcomed students to our second, brandnew location in the southern part of Sofia – Maple Bear Elementary, Kambanite. The campus is overlooking the mountain, has green outdoor spaces, modern facilities, well-appointed and spacious classrooms, a dedicated science classroom, an art
studio, a generous library, and a gym. The establishment of this second location not only addresses the surging demand from parents but provides spacious facility for our growing youngsters. Having this additional campus also presents a fantastic opportunity for our younger students to select from the two locations we now have in Sofia.
Concurrently, we celebrate the inclusion of our first Middle School students, signifying our next educational cycle. Our team of educators wholeheartedly embraced the Canadian teaching methodology, reinforcing our commitment to providing a world-class bilingual education.
We are looking forward to a new great school year!
Academic abilities would have no value if they did not develop in parallel and with equal weight with social skills and emotional resilience, as well as with the right, moral values. Thank you for doing just that!
Isincerely thank the team for the care, attention and warm attitude towards us and our children!
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in Czech parents' approach to education. The offerings of public schools alone no longer suffice, leading parents to explore various alternative options for their children's education. This trend is mirrored in the growing number of private schools emerging in the Czech Republic annually. While many schools are available, there remains a scarcity of truly bilingual institutions, a gap that Maple Bear aims to fill.
Excitingly, as part of our commitment to meeting the evolving educational needs, we are thrilled to announce the opening of a new kindergarten in Olomouc and a new elementary school in Brno during the upcoming school year 2024/2025. These expansions reflect our dedication to providing exceptional bilingual education and fostering a dynamic learning environment for children across the Czech Republic.
Beyond bilingual education, Maple Bear offers a cutting-edge educational methodology that combines local and Canadian curriculum, consistently ranking among the world's best. This approach ensures that children receive a global education while remaining firmly rooted in their local community and homeland. In the face of the complexities of the 21st century, this is seen as the ideal recipe for success.
At the heart of Maple Bear's philosophy is the student and the development of their abilities and talents. The educational process is meticulously designed, continually improved, and reviewed by hundreds of Canadian experts. Central to each school are qualified and skilled educators. Unlike the historical underestimation and underfunding of teacher training, support, and development in the Czech Republic, Maple Bear stands apart. Every teacher undergoes regular training by Canadian experts and has access to extensive methodological support. Lastly, no one can predict what the world will look like when today's first graders leave school. We are uncertain about the future job landscape, which roles will be in demand, and which will become obsolete. What we do know is that the world will change even faster than it does today. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare children to adapt to these changes. This means instilling in them the understanding that they will be learning throughout their lives. Fostering enthusiasm for learning is one of Maple Bear's most important missions, as it is deemed key to ensuring their success in life.
As education luminary Dylan William asserts, "We need to produce people who know how to act when they're faced with situations for which they were not specifically prepared."
Jiří Zelenda CEO
Jiří Zelenda has dedicated his career to education. He has been fostering innovation in Czech education for over 11 years at Scio and has led several innovative projects such as ScioSchools.
Jiří Zelenda is the founder and CEO of Maple Bear Czechia. He has worked at Scio for over 11 years, the last three years as CEO.
Petr Hopfinger Education Advisor
At Maple Bear, we strive to make education fair, high-quality, and relevant. Teaching should be stimulating and challenging, but it should also consider differences among students and prioritize their wellbeing. For inspiration on achieving these goals, we turn to Canada, whose educational system is widely regarded as one of the best, consistently producing topperforming students in PISA tests.
Education in our schools is bilingual, drawing from the best of both the Czech and Canadian educational systems, making students bilingual in both Czech and English. Another critical aspect is the efficiency and meaningfulness of education. Children understand what they are learning and why, naturally taking responsibility for their own learning. We consider this fundamental, as our schools do not prepare students for predefined professions but instead cultivate a positive attitude towards lifelong learning.
Petr has more than ten years of experience in school management and was responsible for developing a bilingual curriculum in the private schools’ network in the Czech Republic as well as being tasked with the daily running of a school. For the last seven years, he worked as a director of a bilingual high school in Prague. He is now involved in a programme for future school principals with the Czech Ministry of Education. Petr's educational foundation lies in Geography and History which he studied in university. He’s also a dedicated father of three children. This combination of intellectual achievement and family commitment defines his holistic approach to life, reflecting a well-rounded and accomplished individual.
Katowice, Krakow & Wroclaw, Poland
TThe school transportation service is a significant benefit for us. Our children also love riding the bus every morning. They eagerly await its arrival!
he bilingual Maple Bear primary school and preschool in Katowice, the first Polish Maple Bear institution, opened in September 2023. It is in one of Katowice's most beautiful historic buildings, right in the city center. Katowice, an industrial city in southern Poland, known for its coal mining heritage and steel industry, has undergone a recent transformation, focusing on modernization and cultural development. The Maple Bear bilingual school has been welcomed as a valuable contribution to the education of future generations of creative specialists needed in the market.
Aleksandra C. –parent
The renovation of the school and the process of ensuring full compliance with Maple Bear's global standards took eight months and cost over 1.4 million euros. The Katowice Maple Bear campus includes a restored building from 1871, a modern playground, and two gymnasiums in a separate building.
The opening event was attended by children, their parents, guardians, city officials, and guests from around the world. Honorary guest Rodney Briggs, co-founder of Maple Bear, presented a certificate confirming the Katowice institution's compliance with Maple Bear's global standards. In his words, "The Maple Bear teaching program has been carefully designed to nurture the well-rounded development of each child, encompassing their physical, intellectual, emotional, and social aspects. Our goal is to equip children with the competencies necessary to face the challenges of the 21st century."
I have no idea how you did it! But last Sunday my kids refused to watch a movie in the evening because they said they needed to go to sleep earlier, so they could get up for school!
Paweł C. –parent
In Poland, the development of the network is overseen by Maple Bear Holdings Polska. The company plans to open 35 institutions across the country. Additional schools are already under construction in major Polish cities. The next schools will open in Wroclaw (scheduled to open in September 2024), as well as in Warsaw and Krakow, where completely new school buildings are planned.
Grzegorz Esz, President of Maple Bear Holdings Polska, stated, "PolishCanadian Maple Bear schools bring a new quality of education to the Polish educational market, based on Canadian methodology, where children are at the center of attention, and the curriculum prepares them thoroughly from
Our five-year-old daughter embarked on her educational journey at Maple Bear, and we couldn't be happier. From the very first day, we noticed a tremendous commitment from both teachers and administrative staff. Currently, we can see how the education system proposed by Maple Bear influences the development of skills, fosters independence, and opens a world of global perspectives. This is a decision that will undoubtedly contribute to our daughter's growth, and we wholeheartedly recommend Maple Bear to every parent. Thank you!
Konrad D. –parent
a young age to become responsible citizens of the world." He adds, "Canadian teaching methodology promotes collaboration and dialogue among students and between students and teachers. Students learn to work in groups, discuss, exchange views, and jointly solve problems. In this way, communication, cooperation, argumentation, and listening skills are developed, all essential for creative thinking and critical analysis."
The first months of the school's operation in Katowice confirm that the Maple Bear concept has been wellreceived in the educational market and appreciated by parents.
The next two Maple Bear schools on the Polish market are currently being established in Kraków and Wrocław. Both cities are renowned for their great architecture, exciting cultural life and cosmopolitan character, which attracted numerous industries and investors.
Wrocław, the vibrant city in western Poland, known for its picturesque Old Town and rich history, will soon welcome its first Polish-Canadian school in the city. The 19th-century school building located on Kosciuszki Street has a long and fascinating history. For many Wrocław residents, until now this address is more notably associated with the Wrocław School of Jazz and Entertainment Music, which opened its doors in 1998. After the school's closure, the building became part of the Maple Bear network.
Grzegorz Esz, president of Maple Bear Poland, said: "Over the past months, we've been renovating the building and the grounds to ensure it meets Maple Bear's global standards, creating an environment where children can learn and play safely and comfortably. In early spring, we will host open days to introduce our staff, our educational programs, and our unique teaching methodology that combines the Polish and Canadian curriculums."
Kraków, the former capital of Poland until 1596, is a treasure of history and cultural heritage, featuring wellpreserved medieval architecture and an impressive Old Town. The city stands as a symbol of Poland's royal past. Renowned for its lively atmosphere and cosmopolitan environment, Kraków attracts a diverse range of industries and investors from all over the world.
Maple Bear Kindergarten and Grade 0 are set to open at Saska 25, right in the heart of the modern and green The Park Kraków office campus in the Podgórze district. This offers a unique opportunity for children from Kraków to grow and learn according to the highest standards of the Canadian education system.
Grzegorz Esz from Maple Bear Poland said: “Children who begin their education at Maple Bear Kraków in 2024 will have the opportunity to continue their studies at one of Poland's most modern campuses. Construction is just getting started
in Kraków in Zakrzówek, on Zielna. The school's opening is scheduled for the 2025/2026 school year.”
Today, the school was great! In my old school, I only liked math, but in this school, I enjoy all the classes.
Igor W. - 2nd grade studentEnrollment for both cities is already open. For more details, parents can visit the website www.maplebear.pl or directly contact the enrollment team to arrange a meeting +48 32 506 5949
Enrollment is open in the Maple Bear Polska schools as follows:
Maple bear Katowice – Kindergarten, Grade 0, Elementary and Middle school (Grades 1- 4)
Maple Bear Kraków - Kindergarten and Grade 0
Maple Bear Wroclaw - Kindergarten, Preschool, and Elementary school grades 1-3
Kindergarten marks the first step on a child's educational journey. In Romania, this crucial phase has recently been infused with international flavours through the Maple Bear. The Canadian curriculum has created a dynamic and enriching experience for young learners. In this article, we explore how Maple Bear has taken root in Romania, highlighting the curriculum's strengths and the Romanian adaptations that make it stand out.
During these two years of implementing the Maple Bear curriculum in Romania, we discovered lots of key features:
Bilingual Education - A key feature of Maple Bear is bilingual education. Children are exposed to both English and their native language from an early age. This dual-language immersion is designed to enhance language skills and promote cultural diversity.
Play-Based Learning - Maple Bear places a strong emphasis on play-based learning. This means that children learn through hands-on activities, games, and exploration. Play is seen as the primary means through which children develop essential skills and understanding.
Holistic Development - The curriculum is designed to promote holistic development. It goes beyond academics to foster emotional, social, physical, and creative growth. This approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals.
Parental Involvement - Many Maple Bear programs emphasize active parental involvement. Parents are seen as partners in their child's education, and their input is valued. They may be invited to participate in various aspects of the curriculum and school activities.
Academic Foundation – While play-based learning is a core element, Maple Bear ensures that children receive a strong academic foundation. This balance helps children develop essential skills and knowledge for future stages of their education.
Qualified Educators - Maple Bear centers typically employ trained and qualified educators who understand the principles of the curriculum and can effectively implement them.
After two years of teaching through the Maple Bear curriculum, we experienced the most important aspect of the Canadian education
system fostering a lifelong love for learning. The Maple Bear curriculum ensures that learning is a continuous journey. Delivering rich, diverse content that taps into multiple areas of development, keeps students engaged, excited, and motivated. This approach not only ensures that students gain the knowledge and skills they need but also instills a love for learning that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
Maple Bear curriculum provides Romanian students with a passport to a bright and internationally connected future while nurturing a deep appreciation for their own culture. This educational journey is a reflection of Romania's commitment to preparing the next generation to excel on a global stage, and it stands as a testament to the power of international collaboration in the realm of education.
In a time where the importance of global education is more evident than ever, Romania is about to witness a transformative moment in its educational landscape. The Canadianinspired Maple Bear curriculum, celebrated for its dynamic and holistic approach to learning, is poised to take center stage with the upcoming opening of a Maple Bear School in Romania. This endeavour is a testament to the nation's commitment to providing its young learners with a world-class education that blends the best of Canadian methodology with Romanian culture and values.
The decision to open a Maple Bear School in Romania signifies a giant leap forward in the country's educational journey.
One of the school's primary goals is to equip students with bilingual proficiency from an early age. This opens doors to numerous opportunities in an increasingly globalized world. The mastery of both Romanian and English will not only enhance language skills but also provide students with a competitive edge in the job market.
As the Maple Bear School prepares to open its doors in Romania, a bright future filled with possibilities awaits the young learners of the country.
Our daughter has absolutely loved her year at Maple Bear! She always returns home from school happy and is excited to go off to school each morning. We are thrilled with the level of education offered at Maple Bear, as well as the array of enriching activities included in their program, which is not offered anywhere else. We will miss the school and all of the wonderful staff!!
Mikell & DanWe are very happy about our children's first year at Maple Bear. Although they are twins, my children have different profiles and abilities. From the start, the teachers were able to identify their individual needs and we have seen very significant progress over the last few months. The teachers are patient and attentive to the specific learning requirements of the children, so each child progresses at their own pace.
The children spend a busy and quality day thanks to the various activities offered. We particularly appreciate it because in addition to theoretical learning, there is a great space used for physical development with a wide variety of sports activities available.
We are also very satisfied with the canteen and the dishes offered. Our children enjoy it very much and eat very well, which is essential for good learning.
A big thank you to the entire Maple Bear team for this rewarding year.
Yacine & Sekou
Amid the challenges brought by the global pandemic and Russia‘s invasion of Ukraine on February 24 th, 2022, Maple Bear Kyiv has demonstrated remarkable growth and adaptability, reflecting its commitment to providing high-quality education.
Maple Bear Kyiv's journey to success has not been without obstacles. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic posed an array of challenges at the very beginning of 2021. Then the challenges caused by the war started in February 2022 – many families with small children left the country for an uncertain period and the financial situation of Ukrainians became mostly unstable. However, Maple Bear Kyiv’s unwavering dedication to its students and their education allowed it to flourish even in such adverse circumstances.
The most striking testament to Maple Bear Kyiv's growth is the doubling of its student enrollment. Despite the turmoil caused by the war, the school managed to attract 50 new students, making the total enrollment reach a remarkable
figure – 105. This growth speaks volumes about the trust that parents and the community have in the school's ability to provide a safe and enriching environment for their children.
Maple Bear Kyiv hasn't just expanded in numbers; it has also enriched its curriculum to offer a well-rounded education. If in the previous year, we focused more on physical safety and emotional stability, this year we are paying more attention to the development of emotional intelligence and soft skills. The school introduced two new courses under the Maple Bear program – Computational Thinking and Character Education. These courses are designed to equip students with essential soft skills and values necessary for their personal and academic growth. We also added a course aimed at the emotional development of our students – Unleashing Our Potential with the Psychologist.
In addition to these new courses, Maple Bear Kyiv has embraced more of the Canadian teaching approaches. Learning Centers in Kindergarten and Literacy Centers in school have been introduced to enhance the learning
experience. These centers promote hands-on, experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to explore and apply their knowledge in a practical context. We also practice presentation skills with our Grade 4 and Grade 3 through Showtime, when students have to prepare a speech and present it in front of their classmates.
To keep up with the ever-evolving world of education, Maple Bear Kyiv continues to embrace technology. The use of multimedia during lessons has become integral to the teaching process. Interactive panels for classwork and tablets for individual work have been incorporated to make learning more engaging and interactive. These tools help students develop crucial digital literacy skills, preparing them for the demands of the modern world.
Maple Bear Kyiv's growth and resilience are a testament to its commitment to providing a world-class education in challenging times. The school's dedication to innovation, curriculum enhancement, and investment in staff and technology ensures that its students are well-prepared for the future.
As Maple Bear Kyiv looks ahead, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment, even as it overcomes the hurdles that come its way. This remarkable journey from 34 students to 105, amidst global adversity, illustrates that Maple Bear Kyiv is not just a school but a symbol of hope and progress in the field of education.
Our Academic Symposium is the Maple Bear Global Schools annual conference dedicated to our Canadian Faculty members for their professional development.
They have been held since 2015 and last year, we opened the invite list to all of our partners around the world to participate in “Connect - LearnLead”. Chinook was on hand to greet everyone as they arrived in Winnipeg!
LEARN MORE
We are proud to call Toronto home to our new head office!
The Toronto Collision Conference was well-attended and we were happy to be present for the Hong Kong school Inauguration!
With the pandemic behind us, 2022 provided many opportunities for Maple Bear Global Schools staff to reconnect with our valued partners from around the world and join them at their conventions and events to show our support.
@maplebearcee
maple-bear-central-eastern-europe @maplebearcee