The YMCA Academy is ideal for students with exceptionalities including learning disabilities, mild diagnoses on the autism spectrum, attention issues, and anxiety — as well as non-identified students seeking an innovative and supportive learning environment. Our school equips students with the skills and experiences to develop independence and resilience.
Support services include:
- Academic support
- On-site social/emotional support and counselling
- Special education support programs including resource and remediation
- Access to fitness and recreation facilities
- Cooperative education program opportunities
Where do our students come from?
Students enter our program with a wide variety of educational experience. Many enroll because they are seeking an alternative to the special education supports available at publicly funded schools. Some join us after completing Grade 8 at a specialized independent program. Others have been home schooled or away from school, and are seeking a more formal learning environment.
Where do students go after The Academy?
Our students’ academic goals are equally diverse. Most Academy students achieve their Ontario Secondary School diplomas, and go on to pursue postsecondary studies. Our hands-on, experiential approach also supports our students’ success in transitioning directly to the workplace after obtaining a diploma or certificate.
The Academy has a number of support services to assist students in determining their post-secondary path:
- Full-time guidance and career planning support
- Courses with a focus on life skills (including Learning Strategies, Careers, Workplace Math, Healthy Active Living, and Managing Personal and Family Resources)
- Hands-on employment experience through the Cooperative Education program
- Connections to volunteer opportunities and employment support services through the YMCA of Greater Toronto