Our Approach to Education
Curious Minds. Capable Learners. Confident Futures.
At Newstead Academy, children learn through inquiry, purposeful play, meaningful academic experiences, and real-world exploration. Our approach nurtures the whole child: building knowledge, confidence, creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Every Child is Capable, Curious, and Full of Potential
We believe children are active participants in their own learning. Our educators observe their interests, ask thoughtful questions, and create meaningful experiences that encourage children to investigate, collaborate, express ideas, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Newstead 4 Pillars
IB-Inspired Inquiry
We encourage and enable our students to ask questions, think critically, investigate meaningful ideas, and become active participants in their own learning.
Reggio Emilia Child-Led Learning
We see every child as capable, competent, and full of potential. We follow their interests, ideas, and voices to shape meaningful learning experiences, while our thoughtfully designed environments inspire exploration, creativity, and collaboration.
Leadership Development
We believe every student has the capacity to lead and develop their sense of strength, determination, and maturity. Through leadership-centric opportunities, our students develop confidence, resilience, and independence as they build their own path toward a future of excellence.
Academic Readiness
We build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, communication, and critical thinking while nurturing the social, emotional, physical, and creative growth of every child.
The Environment as the Third Teacher
Purposefully Designed Learning Environments
At Newstead, the environment is an essential part of the learning experience. Each space is thoughtfully designed to invite curiosity, encourage independence, and provide children with opportunities to learn in different ways.
Empowering Relationships:
Nurturing Children's Growth and Confidence
Boosting Connection
Building children’s relationships with teachers and friends
Practicing daily routines and socialization skills
Creating a sense of security and belonging
Supporting problem solving, self-regulation, and conflict-resolution skills
Practicing Communication
Finding opportunities to process experiences and share feelings together
Encouraging the expression of emotions and asking for help to get needs met
Building Confidence
Learning academic and social independence
Practicing skills that build flexibility and resilience
Gradual Transition
Helping Your Child Ease into Their New Environment
Gradual Transition Schedule:
A gradual start for your child. Your child will have the opportunity to explore their new environment, meet the children in their class and observe transitions of the day.
Each day your child will gradually spend more and more time in their new classroom until they have worked up to a full scheduled day. Our goal is to not stress your child out but rather ease them into their new environment.
Ease Into the New Environment:
Embarking on a new journey can be overwhelming, especially for our little ones and we understand the importance of a smooth transition for your child.
That's why we offer a gradual transition schedule designed to ease them into their new environment with care and patience.
What To Expect:
The First Week At Newstead Academy
Day 1
3 hours
Please arrive at the centre anytime after 9am and one of our office staff will be happy to assist you and your family to your child's new classroom where you will drop off your child. We don't recommend that your child stays here longer than 3 hours on their first day. Your child needs to become familiar with their new routine and know that mommy and daddy come back.
Progress: Step 1 of 5 complete
Day 2
4 hours
Please come into the centre at 8am and drop off your child to their classroom where they will have breakfast with their teachers and friends. For the second day your child will be at the centre for no longer than 4 hours.
Progress: Step 2 of 5 complete
Day 3
7 hours
On day three, again your child will arrive at the centre by 8am where they can have breakfast with their teachers and friends. Today will be their first day napping at the centre. Nap time is 12pm-2pm. After nap the children will have a chance to get changed and have a snack.
Progress: Step 3 of 5 complete
Day 4
8 hours
On day 4 & 5 our goal would be for your child to be here for a full typical day. Depending on how their transition period is, they can stay later than 5pm on these days in order to have dinner with their friends and teachers. We recognize that not all children will be here later than 5pm on a typical day.
Progress: Step 4 of 5 complete
Day 5
Full day
On day 5 our goal would be for your child to be here for a full typical day. This marks the completion of their transition period and the beginning of their regular schedule.
Progress: Step 5 of 5 complete
Supporting Your Transition
We understand that leaving your child for the first time can be difficult for both the parents and the child. We suggest openly talking with your child at home about their upcoming transition and that they will be starting daycare where they will meet new friends, play and grow. Your child may be young, but they understand much more than they can communicate.
Key Signs We Monitor
These are all ways that your child will communicate if they feel safe in their new environment. If we notice any of the three not happening, we will discuss with you on how to proceed; a pick up might be necessary in order to avoid further distress.
Land Acknowledgement
Newstead Academy is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work, and live in the community with each other.
Equity Statement
Newstead Academy is committed to creating and sustaining an equitable and inclusive learning and working environment. We encourage and actively seek applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized people, visible minorities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, all genders, and persons with disabilities.