SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS
S.T.E.A.M. (All Grades)
Trafalgar Castle School believes that the stronger the foundation in STEAM, the more future-ready our students will be. Trafalgar Castle School has scaffolded our science, technology, art, and math programs from grades 4 to 12 to ensure that there’s a progression of skills that allow our students to succeed in STEAM and the real world in general.
Robotics, computational thinking, systems thinking, design thinking and engineering design processes are integrated into our science and technology programs and provide our students with developmentally appropriate challenges and experiential, hands-on learning.
Starting as early as Grade 4 with our students exploring block code technology and engaging with Sphero BOLTS (an app-enabled robot), our STEAM programming continues through middle school and senior school with our students working with robots like LEGO Spike,and Vex VR5, microprocessors such as Arduinos, and Mircrobits and other technology like AI and 3D Printers, engineering design thinking systems and more.
Our integrated arts program provides students with opportunities to develop their confidence, reflect on their evolving identities and embrace the power of creation through instrumental and vocal music, drama and visual arts.
AI (All Grades)
Trafalgar Castle School incorporates generative AI into its curriculum to ensure students remain at the forefront of technological advancements. We teach our students how to use AI tools while also engaging in critical thinking about the role and limitations of this transformative technology.
We also explore AI hand-in-hand with our students, like in our visual arts classes, where our students experiment with AI tools to support the creative process with compositions, colour palettes and visual elements, storyboarding, narrative visualization, and more while exploring how to protect authentic thought. And in science, students are seen using AI to help scaffold their critical thinking and problem-solving across subject areas.
Traf Steps (Middle School)
At Trafalgar, we believe that emotional intelligence is just as important as academic excellence. Traf Steps, is designed for Grades 7-8 to develop readiness for Senior School and beyond. At the heart of Traf Steps is the emphasis on Social-Emotional Learning Skills (SEL).
Our program prioritizes key areas of conflict resolution, self-compassion, confidence and growth mindset to support students in navigating interpersonal relationships, managing their emotions, and facing challenges with resilience and adaptability.
Traf Steps also focuses on essential academic learning skills. We equip our students with effective time management strategies, digital literacy, robust study skills and much more.
Beyond the Castle (All Grades)
Beyond the Castle is a unique annual experiential learning program for Grades 4-12 students. For one week every year, our students venture across Ontario for various hands-on, real-world learning experiences carefully curated for each grade level.
AP Courses (Senior School)
Our Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer students in Grades 11 and 12 the opportunity to undertake university-level work, enabling them to explore subjects in greater depth and prepare them for post-secondary study.
AP courses are nationally and internationally recognized and accepted by the majority of universities as first-year university credits based on AP exam results.
Take Time (All Grades)
Every Thursday, we dedicate one “Take Time” hour for students to participate in a variety of activities and clubs with all grades.
From ASL Club and Vex Robotics to archery and more, each week, our students have the opportunity to experiment with different
activities.
Camp (All Grades)
Camp experiences at the beginning of the school year offer students a unique opportunity for growth, bonding, and exploration outside of the traditional classroom setting. Through engaging in team-building activities, outdoor adventures, and communal living, students develop valuable life skills such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience.
These experiences foster a sense of belonging, create lasting friendships, and ignite a passion for learning with hands-on experiences in nature. Camp sets a positive tone for the school year, promote personal development, and cultivate a supportive community within the student body.
