Personalized Education
The central principle at Blyth Academy schools is to provide care and empathy to our students. Designed as boutique schools, Blyth Academy’s limited enrollment enables teachers and staff to provide individual care both in and out of class.
When we ask our students what they like most about Blyth, students consistently cite the fact that the staff care about them and provide significant support academically and personally. In addition, students say they receive tremendous support and guidance for their post secondary planning.
Academically, our average class size of less than eight allows the instructor to teach to each student’s learning style and strength. It also ensures that students really understand the material before moving on. Every seat is a front row seat and accountability is very high.
When asked why they do better at Blyth, students frequently respond by saying that they feel personally obligated to the teacher. “ They cared so much I felt I couldn’t let him down by not doing the work”- said one.
Block Teaching
In keeping with our pro-student focus, the academic year at Blyth Academy is divided into four Terms of ten and half weeks each. This leading edge approach has dramatic benefits for the student. With only two courses per Term as opposed to a more traditional course load of four courses in a semester setting or eight courses in a full year setting, students are able to manage their study workload much more effectively.
The two hour classes allow time for review and individual attention on an ongoing basis with immediate feedback to students and their parents. In a semester or full year environment the assessment and evaluation process takes much longer which poses problems for students who struggle with their courses.
Students often cite their preference for this model saying “I found it much easier organizationally with two courses than four or eight.” In particular, homework is much more evenly spread avoiding crisis points where students find work due in many courses all at once.
It also more closely models academic life at university where semesters are shorter and highly focused.
Experiential Education
A central aspect as to what makes Blyth Academy a special place for students revolves around our emphasis on experiential education which enriches the Ontario curriculum. Every campus utilizes the local community resources to enhance the understanding and enjoyment of the courses offered.
In particular, Blyth Academy is unique in Ontario as we have a special relationship with our “educational partners”: the ROM; the AGO; the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF); and, Outward Bound Canada at the Evergreen Brickworks.
Hands on learning and the astonishing combined resources of these institutions make education at Blyth Academy a relevant and engaging experience developing a more in depth understanding of course material.
Teachers
Blyth Academy is fortunate to have an outstanding and dedicated faculty. And each year we receive thousands of teacher applications.
Our teachers instruct on average 15-25 students each day in two or three classes. This compares to traditional schools where teachers may see upwards of 200 students in a year long school. Little wonder that our Blyth Academy staff have the time, energy and dedication to devote themselves to the individual student and provide extra help before and after class.
Blyth constantly evaluates the teachers from the student and parent perspective. This helps ensure our high standards are met.
Students, when canvassed, consistently comment that these are the best teachers they have had because they took the time to listen to them and respond positively to their academic needs in a timely fashion.