TEACHING BOYS – the Way Boys Learn
The time has come to revolutionize the way we teach. The world has changed dramatically, and it is time for schools to adapt. We believe that a large number of boys are not being effectively educated and we plan to make a difference in the following ways:
Personalized Learning
Adaptive Technology and Direct Instruction
A combination of direct instruction and adaptive technology allows flexibility in the learning process with the understanding that a “one size fits all” approach does not work for everyone. Technology allows students to go at their own natural pace and master each lesson, while direct teaching ensures that students are in an active environment, learning specific concepts.
Hands-on Learning
Real World Application
Boys are more engaged with real world experiences. Hands-on activities give lessons context and meaning, resulting in deeper understanding, which increases the likelihood of concepts moving into long-term memory.
Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.
– Chinese proverb
Socratic Teaching
Learning to Question
Fosters critical thinking, self-confidence, language development and allows students to look for solutions through healthy, constructive debate. It is about giving students questions, not answers.
Character
We are part of a bigger world
Our 5R Character philosophy focuses on developing boys who are Resilient, Respectful, Responsible, Relentless and Resourceful. Our emphasis on Community Service cultivates compassion, understanding, tolerance and leadership.
Mentorship
Positive and Energetic Role Models
Strong role models are key to the mental, social, physical and emotional development of young boys. Personal connections between students and teachers can transform a boy’s approach to learning as they feel heard and understood. Through being mentored themselves, our older boys act as role models and mentors for our younger students.
Physical Activity
Enhancing learning and a healthy lifestyle
Our expanded physical-education program recognizes the importance of physical fitness and a multi-sport mindset. Increased physical activity enhances classroom learning and a healthy lifestyle.
Outdoor Education
Strengthening Character
Experience in the outdoors fosters courage, self reliance, cooperation and resilience. As students’ mature, risk and achievement are necessities in forming their identity and confidence. Taking on challenges and overcoming adversity strengthens character.
Financial Education
Financial Education at North Point provides students with economic and personal financial literacy and entrepreneurship lessons. This state-of-the-art program is designed to engage a student’s understanding of financial literacy as a critical life-skill. Our Financial Education program culminates with a student run Business Fair.
STEM Education
North Point partners with Roots 2 STEM to deliver valuable hands-on experience both at the school and the Roots 2 STEM facility, exploring many aspects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Areas of interest include 3D Design, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems, Programming, Aerospace, Control Systems and Robotics.
Academies
Passion-based learning
Our Academies are designed to focus on students’ passions to enhance areas of learning and development. With a focus on overall mental, physical and social development our academy programs provide exciting opportunities for student to dive more deeply into an area that they truly enjoy. The academy programs are in addition to our regular school program and are incorporated as extra PE or CTS/CTF options. Academies can take place before, during or after school hours.
Academies are explored and created based on student interest and access to high quality teachers and coaches. North Point currently offers or is planning to offer the following Academy programs:
Power Edge Pro (PEP) Hockey
Soccer
Basketball
Volleyball
Dance
Engineering
Financial
Visual Arts
We Know Boys
- Boys tend to be Visual and Kinesthetic learners.
- Boys process and express emotions differently than girls.
- Boys need male role models.
- Boys and girls develop different skills at different stages.
- Boys mature later than girls – physically and socially.
- Boys are curious and creative.
- Boys have boundless physical energy.
- Boys can be impulsive.
- Boys tend to be disorganized.
- Boys are competitive and are risk takers.
It is with this understanding that we have created an environment that celebrates boys’ strengths and interests, understands areas of growth, and is realistic about behaviour expectations.