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.
A Ministry of Education–inspected alternative school in downtown Toronto offering personalized,
differentiated learning for students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences — where
every student is visible, heard, and valued.
What Makes YMCA Academy Unique?
• Ministry of Education–inspected alternative school in downtown Toronto
• Under 100 students — staff know every student by name
• Small class sizes: Middle School 1:6, High School 1:10
• Individualized, differentiated learning tailored to each student’s strengths and needs
• Inspired and supported by the YMCA of Greater Toronto
• Both OSSD Diploma and OSSC Certificate high school pathways
• Free YMCA membership and access to health and fitness facilities for all students
Supporting Neurodiverse Learners
• Supports students with: 2E, ASD Level 1, ADHD, learning disabilities, dyslexia, dysgraphia, PDA, and physical disabilities
• Assistive technology — every student has a laptop in a wireless environment
• Designated quiet spaces for work and breaks
• Sensory calming workspace with low lighting and manipulatives
• Socio–emotional support and self–advocacy skills embedded throughout
• Mindfulness daily — TUZA breathing exercises; annual Mindfulness Without Borders series
• Executive Functioning Skills delivered every Friday in Middle School
• Sensory, calming workspace with low lighting and manipulative workspaces.
In-House & External Support
- Special Education Resource and Remediation courses with IEP implementation
- Two Educational Assistants — in-class and withdrawal support
- Learning Support Specialist works with students and supports teachers
- Two full-time Student Life Counsellors — drop-in or scheduled appointments
- Workshops on social-emotional and school-based issues
- Open to outside Speech & Language and Behavioural support agencies
- Guidance Counsellor assists with course selection and post-secondary pathways
- Surrey Place partnership — co-op placements and service access
Specialized Programs & Courses
- Academic, Applied, College, Mixed and University level courses offered.
- Destreamed Grade 9 courses with literacy & numeracy diagnostics
- Resource and Remediation courses integrated into the timetable
- Co-op program and workplace internships for experiential learning
- Study Hall offered for additional academic support
- Flexible and accommodating with course levels and pathways
- Career Fair for high school students to explore future paths
Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
- Students and parents complete a Student Learning Profile collaboratively
- IEPs created in partnership with families and updated as students grow
- Student Success Team reviews teacher referrals weekly
- Frequent, regular communication between team and parents
- High School 101 sessions for incoming Grade 9 families
Beyond Academics
- Outdoor Education: Two camping experiences per year at Cedar Glen (Bolton) and Pinecrest (Muskoka).
- YMCA Membership: Free year-round membership to YMCA health and fitness centres across the city
- Cross-Canada Exchange: Senior students travel to other parts of Canada
- Clubs & Activities: Student-driven: Girls Club, Boys Club, D&D Club, Comic Book Club, Music Club, Drama Club; spirit days twice per year
- Whole-School Field Trips: Regular community outings for all students
- Mental Health & Wellness: Jack.org Club — high school students lead peer workshops on healthy boundaries, friendships, and social media
Building Community
- Very active Parent Council supporting school-wide initiatives
- Parent social events twice per year — networking for families
- Parents invited to school-wide events and field trips
- Entire staff meets weekly to coordinate around student needs
- Connected to a GTA-wide network of mental health professionals, OTs, educational psychologists, and advocacy organizations
“We have a community where every student feels visible, heard and valued. Most of the staff would be able to name every single student.”
— Tim Seabrook, Head of School
“The YMCA Academy recognizes that each student has their own set of ways in which they are engaged. The small number of students means the staff knows everybody and their particular way of learning.”
— Jane, parent to a YMCA Academy student
“The experiential learning environment and small class sizes allow the teachers to focus on the individual needs of the kids. Even though they have diverse needs, they are able to shift and understand what each individual kid needs.”
— Jon, parent to a YMCA Academy student
Get in Touch
15 Breadalbane St., 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON M4Y 1C2
ymcaacademy.org
Middle School & High School • Co-ed Day School • Under 100 Students
