An Integrated Approach
An integrated approach to learning implies hands-on involvement that brings understanding to life. Being involved in the lessons allows students to develop their skills while absorbing new knowledge. Urban Academy prepares students for real life, and with that comes preparation for the evolved and dynamic careers of the future.
an environment of
questioning
Rather than teachers imparting knowledge, students ask questions, determine interests, and guide their own learning.
engaging with their learning
Students share their expertise with peers, teaching what they have learned about their individual interests. From anime to the history of music, their quest for knowledge is constant and limitless. This approach strengthens students' ability to learn, have empathy, manage emotions, and solve problems.
This approach allows students to become experts in the subject matter of the curriculum. Urban Academy students are constantly encouraged and supported to learn more about their passions, and are more motivated to achieve academic excellence when they are personally invested in their studies. With small class sizes, all students and expected to participate in classroom discussions, share their questions and work together to discover new information.
Pre-Primary |
JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN
Students have the opportunity to use puppets and reenact scenarios to work through social challenges and any peer conflict. They study living creatures by having a bunny, a terrarium and watching duck eggs hatch in the classroom as well as a garden they tend to on one of their play decks. They also spend a day per month cooking with JK parents and grandparents to learn about different cultures through food.
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Junior School |
K - Grade 3
What better way to connect students to the real world than to actually bring local community figures into the classroom. Urban Academy brings in police officers, doctors, postal workers, mechanics and other professionals into class to present how individuals make up a community and the vital roles that they each play. The Kindergarten inquiry unit on community culminates in the creation of their very own community - possibly one the would create on a brand new planet, or even at the bottom of the ocean! The Grade 2 Dragon's Den project integrates real world creative problem solving and presentation skills with the development of a marketing plan and budget. Making cards for patients and singing at Senior's Homes during the holidays also help students gain a better understanding of the world around them and their place in it.
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Lower Middle School |
Grades 4 - 5
Urban Academy connects students with thought leaders and experts in their field of interest who can offer information and insights on projects and areas of study. Through regular focus on developing a growth mindset and practicing that mindset throughout the school day, month and year, students are challenged to be thoughtful and teachers integrate shared language throughout the curriculum. There are routines in place that build independence, balanced with 'buddy time' with younger mentees to work through through projects, reading and math games and ultimately build leadership and mentorship skills.
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Upper Middle School |
grades 6 - 8
Urban Academy brings students closer to their careers by accessing experts in various fields to learn about real life opportunities. Students engage in projects such as creating a superhero around an element on the periodic table to teach them element properties in an engaging way. They also explore traditional First Nations art techniques, exploring legends and learning from a First Nations artist in residence. Integrated assignments culminate in a wide range of integrated projects. For example, students may create a symbolic character box in grade 7 English, to demonstrate their understanding of characterization in a novel of their choice. And Grade 8 students may complete a hands on project where they have to calculate the area of a created robot, and cover in in tin foil using their calculations applying their academic skills to real world activities.
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Senior School |
grades 9 - 12
For students in Grades 9-12, connecting education to careers is immediately relevant. Students meet regularly with their academic counselor to plan post secondary opportunities and learn about the programs available to them. This program also includes discovery trips to post secondary institutions in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. There are significant leadership development opportunities including Leadership Day at the beginning of the year, House Leader roles to help their houses develop house cheers/a house story and opportunities to run intramural games. Finally, students can also connect with other youth at province-wide leadership conferences. They also learn about post secondary careers through guest speakers, Field study, and research on pressing current events such as building a renewable energy source.
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Latest News
see all newsHead of School’s Weekly Message
Hello UA families, If we’re lucky, on occasion, we get to experience an event or significant moment that you know will stay with you for some time. I have been fortunate enough to experience two this past week! The first was the UA Gala held on Saturday evening. Thank you to everyone who participated and […]
Head of School’s Weekly Message
Hello UA families, Last week staff and students at Urban Academy engaged in a number of activities in recognition of Canadian Mental Health Week. These included various mindfulness activities, daily body breaks, buddy walks where students from different levels of the school went together to the park, and a wonderful talent show on Friday. The biggest hit was […]
Head of School’s Weekly Message
Next week is Mental Health Week! A cross-Canada initiative, Canadian Mental Health Week encourages Canadians to explore mental health literacy and build their personal toolbox of strategies and systems for staying healthy and well. We are excited to launch our inaugural Mental Health Week at UA and are thankful to the teachers and students who have put together a variety of activities to […]
inqure todayThe right education takes your child from remembering and reciting to knowing and understanding.
Stop imagining. Start achieving.
creativity
Urban Academy focuses on creative perspectives in learning, enabling students to develop their own processes.
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We believe that by encouraging children to lead, they will change the world.
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We believe that by allowing children to demonstrate their knowledge, they will build confidence.
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We believe that by empowering children, they will create their own pathways to success.
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We believe that by inspiring children, they will accomplish great things.
learn more +Junior Kindergarten
We believe that by following the enthusiasm of young minds, they will open big doors.
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