Private Schools in North York: Finding a Place to Belong
If you didn't attend
private school, you may not know much about this type of education. A
generation of us have grown up with our idea of private schools being modeled after
that found in J.K. Rowling’s famous Harry Potter Novels – Hogwarts School of
Witchcraft and Wizardry. Are private schools really like Hogwarts? Surprisingly, some Toronto
private schools do have some of the best characteristics of Hogwarts!
A Sense of Belonging
The best private schools
engender a great sense of loyalty and affection. Like Hogwarts, many of them
have a system whereby new students are sorted into "houses.” Older
students in each house mentor younger house members. Achievements of each
member earn points for his or her house, making each house member a part of a
group effort.
Another way that private
schools make students feel a part of things is with the establishment of
extracurricular clubs. These give students a chance to socialize and work on projects
with other students who have similar interests. These can include debate
societies, gaming clubs, drama clubs, photography clubs, math clubs, and
organizations that involve various types of art, music, robotics, and even
investing, for the junior entrepreneur! Some schools put out regular
newspapers, or an annual yearbook. Students can work together on these projects
as well. Some schools also participate in outside activities such as
"Reach For The Top,” the television program that showcases the knowledge
of teams from various schools, or SOMUNA, a model United Nations project
perfectly suited to those students interested in politics and global issues.
Values and Sportsmanship
Hogwarts instills Harry and
its other students with many values to help them become strong human beings,
and to help them in the fight against evil. These timeless values, such as
integrity, responsibility, taking constructive risks, service to the community,
respect, self-discipline, and championing what is right are the kinds of values
that stand people in good stead in school. This will reflect in their careers, and in life. Better Toronto private
schools encourage these same values in their students, along with others such
as the love for learning.
Harry's Quidditch
experiences help him to discover reserves of strength and courage, to push
himself to the limit, and more. Many of the GTA's
best schools put emphasis on sports, and offer tremendous athletic programs. Although
no flying brooms are involved, the athletic programs at finer private schools
provide challenges at various levels and encourage participation by all
students. The best programs offer traditional team sports such as; soccer, softball, volleyball, football, and
hockey. They also may provide individual
sports like track, swimming, and tennis. Fun activities like Frisbee and table
tennis allow less athletic children to excel, and sports like snowboarding
provide natural athletes with challenges.
Although your child won't be able to attend Hogwarts, he or she may well
be able to experience the magic of a GTA private school! During these years
when students are vulnerable to strong emotion, and susceptible to influences
that may not be healthy, finding a place to belong can ground and anchor them.
Explore websites, attend "Open House” events, and speak to school
administrators. Give your child the gift of belonging.