In the heart of downtown Toronto, our small independent high school embraces a unique approach to education that harnesses the power of the local community and surroundings to enhance learning experiences, otherwise known as Place-Based Education.
Utilizing this pedagogical approach allows us to provide a tangible connection between classroom learning and the outside world. Our students engage with the community, historical sites, local businesses, and cultural institutions, which enhances their understanding of the interconnectedness between academic knowledge and real-world application.
By taking our students beyond the traditional classroom walls, we emphasize the power of hands-on, experiential learning. Whether it’s inspecting archaeological materials at the ROM, sketching works from the masters at the AGO, or exploring the abundant flora and fauna of High Park, students have meaningful opportunities to actively engage with their environment, making learning impactful.
In an urban setting like ours, incorporating place-based-education allows our students to deepen their understanding of environmental issues and sustainable practices. Whether it’s testing the water quality at Grenadier Pond or learning about the differing species of trees on the Toronto Islands, students explore and appreciate the natural world within an urban context, encouraging responsible citizenship and nurturing a sense of environmental stewardship. With school-wide initiatives like our current clothing drive for the Ontario Federation of Cerebral Palsy, students become aware of the positive impact that sustainability can have on the earth as well as the people within it.
CaST school aims to transcend traditional educational boundaries, empowering our students to become active, informed, and responsible citizens. By intertwining classroom learning with the community and environment, we provide our students with a profound educational experience that cultivates critical thinking, environmental consciousness, community engagement, and a lifelong love for learning.
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