“Our motto, Imagine Explore Achieve, speaks to the potential that we seek in our students.” – Daphne Perugini, Head of School
Q | Describe your students.
Our student demographic is quite diverse, composed of students local to Oakville. Approximately 25% of our students are from abroad. Countries include but are not limited to Australia, the Balkans, China, Columbia, Dubai, Korea, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and the United States.
Q | What do you look for in a teacher?
We value faculty and staff who are caring, compassionate, and curious; and, especially those who are willing to embrace the unknown and take informed risks as we work collectively towards transforming education.
Q | In an increasingly competitive landscape for entry to postsecondary education and real-world preparedness, how does a private institution set itself apart from other options available to parents?
Smaller class sizes enable students and teachers the opportunity to collaborate and learn from each other. There is often greater autonomy with respect to governance, programme objectives and delivery, and hiring practices.
Q | What does technology—both in resources and STEM courses—offer the contemporary student in a private school?
Technology is often used as a fundamental tool for the contemporary student. It can provide the necessary assistance for students that require additional learning support, and be the gateway to information for students.
Q | What do graduates tend to remember most from their time at your school?
Graduates often tell us that they miss the smaller classes and overall family feel of the school. They also mentioned specific events that defined their graduating year; most notably, our Senior Kindergarten Graduation Tie Ceremony. Grade 8 students mentor and help younger students with literacy, numeracy, and social skills during the school year which culminates with the symbolic passing of their school tie to graduating kindergarten students.
Q | What kind of relationship do alumni have with current students?
Through formal and informal “Grad Panels”, alumni have returned to give current students support with the transition to high school. Many have also volunteered their time with helping out with our intramural program, varsity sports teams, and school musical, as well as assisting in classrooms.
Q | What role does being an International Baccalaureate World School play in the school’s pedagogical approach?
The framework of the IB Programmes aligns nicely with our constructivist, inquiry-based and collaborative approach to learning. The IB Learner Profile attributes and PYP Attitudes directly support our school’s values and intention of Making Good People and the development of positivity towards others, learning, and the environment.
Q | How does volunteerism engage with your school’s philosophy?
Service-learning is an integral aspect of our programme. Through our House System, our students research, identify, commit to, and raise awareness and money for causes that are community-based and meaningful to their respective houses. Our promotion of student agency, action, and reflection throughout our programme authentically supports the purpose of service and, in turn, fosters meaningful volunteerism that will hopefully resonate well beyond our students’ years at Walden.
2035 Upper Middle Rd E, Oakville, ON L6H 7G6
905.338.6236 | oakvilleinfo@waldenschools.com
