At Possibilities, we believe that supporting neurodiverse learners takes collaboration between families, schools, and community professionals. Our School Spotlight series highlights private schools that offer inclusive learning environments, specialized programs, and individualized supports designed to meet a range of developmental and learning needs. These features help parents explore private school education options and connect with schools that align with their child’s strengths and support needs.
What Makes AVRO Academy Unique?
“We work very hard to make AVRO a place that students like to be in. It’s like a second home for both students and teachers.” (Efrat Shapir – Principal of AVRO Academy)
“The guidance team is unique and based on the special relationship that we foster with our students. Starting at grade 11, teachers, students, and parents are involved in course selection, college and university exploration, and workplace preparation.” (Efrat Shapir – Principal of AVRO Academy)
- A guiding philosophy centered on creating an environment that students genuinely want to be in, where they feel seen, supported, and accepted.
- A relationship-based model, where teachers work with students rather than against them.
- Flexible, non-traditional structures that reduce overwhelm and allow students to learn at a pace that aligns with their needs.
- A strong emphasis on mental health, well-being, and work–life balance, alongside academic success.
How Does WillowWood School Support Neurodiverse Students?
- WillowWood explicitly recognizes that students learn differently and adapts instructions accordingly, embracing diverse learning styles and profiles.
- Individualized teaching and personalized education help students set goals and develop self-advocacy and communication skills.
- A holistic approach that combines academic growth with social and emotional support.
- Small class sizes and supportive teacher interactions reduce stress and help students feel seen, understood, and engaged.
How Does AVRO Academy Support Neurodiverse Students?
- A loving, caring school culture where students feel comfortable, accepted, and understood.
- Teachers intentionally identify students’ interests and weave them into the curriculum, increasing engagement and motivation.
- Small class sizes that allow for individualized attention and meaningful teacher–student relationships.
- Dynamic Individual Education Plans (IEPs) created collaboratively as a team and reviewed regularly throughout the year to reflect students’ evolving academic and personal goals.
- A homework policy designed to minimize work at home, encouraging completion during school hours to reduce stress and family conflict.
- Assistive technology is welcomed, including the use of laptops in class.
- Ongoing professional development for teachers, with regular training and workshops focused on supporting neurodivergent learners.
Specialized Academic Structure
- Grade 9 students typically work with only one to two teachers across subjects, rather than rotating through multiple teachers, supporting consistency and relationship-building.
- Students take two courses per term instead of four, reducing cognitive load and allowing for deeper focus.
- Flexible scheduling options, including full-time, part-time, summer school, repeat courses, tutoring, and travel-for-credit programs, as well as a hybrid model for students who need it.
- 1:1 Private Study courses offering:
- Individualized instruction
- Flexible scheduling
- Personalized curriculum and assignments
- Opportunities to extend the course timeline if needed
- Options for friend groups of two or three students to enroll together for a small class ratio
- Delivery of high school credit leadership courses in partnership with camps (e.g., Camp Manitou, Camp Robin Hood, Camp Kodiak) to support leadership development during summer CIT programs.
In-House Therapeutic and Learning Supports
- In-school social worker providing behavioural and mental health support.
- A therapeutic program that includes regular meetings (twice weekly) with the Clinical Director, who is a social worker.
- Ongoing collaboration among teachers and support staff to ensure consistency and continuity of care.
- IEPs are developed and maintained in collaboration with all educators supporting the students.
Beyond Academics: Extracurricular Opportunities
- Student council, providing leadership and voice within the school community.
- Game clubs and game nights, including chess, backgammon, and Dungeons & Dragons, supporting social connection, strategic thinking, and peer relationships.
Building School Community
- Field trips that promote connection, experiential learning, and shared experiences.
- A strong sense of belonging fostered through small classes, consistent staffing, and student-centered programming.
- Intentional community-building practices that prioritize relationships, safety, and inclusion.
