'Alis Suis Exsurgunt'-'They Rise By Their Own Wings'
Delphi Secondary provides an academically rigorous program for self-motivated, independent, and intellectually curious learners who enjoy a challenge, demonstrate a commitment to learning and are capable of handling decreased structure. Delphi offers academic courses in grades 9 & 10, and University, and Mixed courses in grades 11 and 12. Small classes, independent and group learning, extensive computer use, and an integrated approach are fundamental features to our program. Regularly scheduled classes combined with research periods allow students time to work independently and collaboratively, utilizing a variety of learning strategies.
Our History
Delphi has a rich history of providing an alternative to the traditional learning environment. Since 1981 the school has provided an active and challenging program in a more casual setting. Delphi graduates are accepted into many university programs internationally from the Fine Arts, Business, Law, Medicine, Aerospace & Software Engineering, and Ph.Ds in English Literature.
Student-Centered Focus
The small student population allows students to have access to increased tutorial and guidance opportunities with staff. This is an effective system as students are always able to speak to teachers and seek guidance whenever necessary. A small, safe environment helps ensure a comfortable and caring atmosphere. We have a free breakfast program, offering students nutritious morning meals to help prepare them for a day of study and success. The Delphi experience helps students foster a sense of maturity, inspiring an attitude of individual and social responsibility.
More Information about Delphi Secondary Alternative School
Independent Study
Starting in grade 9, students have several independent study periods each week as they start to develop the skill of time management. As students move through grade levels, their number of independent study periods increases. By Grade 12, their schedules may resemble those of university freshmen, with large blocks of independent time.
Visual Arts
The school offers an incredible visual arts program across all grades. The program encompasses history, theory, and production. From their first year at Delphi, students begin to produce a portfolio of work. These are required for entrance into all creative fields at both the college and university level, such as Fine Arts, Design, Advertising, or Architecture.
Athletics
A special aspect of our Alternative program is a full Physical Education program. Activities range from open gym, to classes in fitness awareness and Introduction to Kinesiology. We explore alternative approaches to fitness, including meditation and yoga. It is also possible to arrange to have students participate in other athletic activities in nearby schools.
Social Justice - Gender Sexuality Alliance
Delphi supports social justice through the work of its active Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA). The GSA objectives: create a safe place for students to discuss important issues affecting the LGBTQTT2 community, provide clarification on relevant terms and diverse gender identities, to coordinate special school events that promote understanding, acceptance and engagement.
Additional Features
● Parent / School Council
● Breakfast Program
● Clubs and Activities
● University Preparation Focus
● Mindfulness
● International Student Trips
● Comfortable & Safe Environment
● High Scholarship & Graduation Rate
Student Life - Where You Belong
Our Charitable Causes Leadership Group organizes an annual drive to collect toys and other items for Christmas charities. Delphi also offers a multitude of field trips of varying lengths throughout its courses as enrichment. Students can travel internationally over spring break to experience different cultures, go to outdoor education centres to learn about the environment, as well as wilderness and survival skills, and historical sites to enrich their history courses. They are openly given opportunities to volunteer their time with elementary students in neighbouring schools, in order to further their initiative beyond the prescribed curriculum and continue to expand their learning.
What Sets Us Apart
The small student population offers consistent opportunities for one-on-one consultation with teaching staff. Our curriculum is intensive, student-centered, and focused on preparation for college/university success. A sense of responsibility is ingrained within each student as they direct their own learning and manage their individual study periods. Delphi has a selection of unique courses such as the Art of Math course. This course combines aspects of aesthetics with those of Mathematics, using topics such as the golden ratio, the work of Escher, and fractal geometry. Rather than studying disciplines in isolation, this course facilitates divergent thinking, allowing the students a greater opportunity for achievement in future studies. It is a perfect introduction to concepts central to Architecture and Engineering. Delphi is also a locus for development and character growth. A sense of social responsibility and ethics is instilled within the curriculum, and students are encouraged to take an active stance in the community, and question societal injustices.
Parent and Community Engagement
Parents/guardians are welcome to contact the Head of Program or other staff to discuss their child's progress and to make appointments with individual staff or staff team, to determine the best pedagogical approach to situations of a more significant concern. Interviews for admission are held throughout the school year, with a formal Information Night held in early December. Formal reports are mailed home 4 times per year - semester midterms in November and April, and finals in February and June. In addition, parents/guardians, staff and other adult members meet regularly to discuss ways of supporting the school.
