Editor's Note I could not let this article go to press without including my own experience at Somerset. During a tour of the academy, I had the pleasure to be guided by Darren, a Grade 7 Somerset Student. During a relatively short visit Darren made me confident that we have a bright future ahead of us. He is not only a top notch student, but a person who embodies all of the values that we, as a society, need to live happy, full lives. This is not a school, it is not an "alternative" way to educate, it is THE way we should be raising our children. I hope more people follow in the footsteps of
Leader in the making: Darren, Grade 7 Somerset Student providing Top Choice a tour of Somerset Academy with his teacher Mr. Berney tagging along.
augmenting the appreciation of Chinese culture and language helps nurture the young generation, making them more culturally sensitive and equipping them with the language and skills that will be of use in a future career. A Chinese Literacy Contest is held annually by the school to promote Chinese language appreciation among the young generation. The event has grown hugely in size and popularity; so much so that children of other ethnic origins participate or even win the contest. The administrators and staff at Yip’s Music and Montessori Schools maintain ongoing and close communication with parents and students to monitor individual progress and the quality of teaching. Each student at the school has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), which is an individualized, tailored program designed to assess the student’s capability and performance. The IEP also acts as a guideline for teachers to develop inclusive classroom environments. The school uses an online communication system called Moodle, used by many post-secondary institutions, which is designed to deliver accurate and detailed lessons and homework assignment information. Somerset Academy picks up academically where Yip’s leaves off, giving students an opportunity to participate in an accelerated academic setting that prepares them for success in high school and beyond. A focus on creativity coupled with academics proves as a recipe for success. In the 22 years Yip’s Schools have been operating in Canada, hundreds of children have been nurtured by the wonder of music. Performing arts help students learn self-discipline and team work, handle challenges, and enhance social skills and self-confidence. The school hosts an annual not-for-profit music festival in Markham to promote piano and violin music among young talent. Each year the school offers over $10, 000 in scholarship and trophies to winners. The inclusion of
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his parents and invest in their children's future now.
Chinese
French
Piano
Violin
Computer Lab
Gymnasium
FACILITATING SUCCESS: The academies feature a full set of ammenities to enrich the learning experience across the entire range of subjects.
music in the curriculum and community prove to be well received with the contest receiving 700 entries in 2012 alone. Again, Somerset retains the focus on these
creative arts as each spring, Somerset players take to the stage to present an annual school production. Ranging from Grade Two to Grade Eight, students have put
Spring 2013
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