The Island Public/Natural Science School dates back to 1888. It is located a short ferry ride from the city on the Toronto Islands at 30 Centre Island Park. Three programs are run from the school: a Kindergarten to Grade 6 Day School that services the Island & Harbourfront community, a residential Outdoor Ed. program for up to 60 students in Grades 5 and 6, and a non-profit daycare: Gibraltar Day Nursery. Day school students are transported to the school by ferry and school bus. We have 11 classes which includes the Full-day Kindergarten program which are supported by Music, Core French, Physical And Health Education, Media Literacy, Dance & Drama and Special Education. The outdoor ed. program offers a three day two over-night excursion.
Building a Respectful School Climate
At the Island Public/Natural Science School we strive to meet the individual needs of students by creating a learning environment that fosters a feeling of self-worth and security, a love of learning, and a format for conflict resolution. This is achieved by continuously striving to strengthen our partnership between parents and the community. We also develop respect and responsibility through student leadership and team building, student interest clubs and character trait assemblies.
Interesting Feature
A Unique Outdoor Education Environment
Island Public/Natural Science School is situated on Centre Island which is part of the Toronto Islands Park system. The school is surrounded by natural grasses, trees, Lake Ontario and ponds. This unique outdoor setting lends itself to students being closely in touch with the nature. It is very common for students to view deer, eagles, ducks, swans and raccoons, to name a few.
More Information about Island Public/Natural Science School
EcoSchools
As socially responsible citizens it is our task to find solutions to today's environmental concerns. We are committed to continuing our EcoSchools program where students demonstrate leadership through student-led assemblies, visiting classrooms and making announcements. We are currently a Platinum ECO School.
Student Leadership
Student leadership is a significant proponent at the Island Public/Natural Science School. Under the direction of staff, Grade 4, 5 and 6 students are encouraged to work in conjunction with 'Free the Children' and undertake a yearly project that will benefit children locally and globally in developing countries.
Student Interest
Extra Curricular Activities At the Island Public/Natural Science School we take pride on the great number of extra curricular activities and events that we offer our students. As a teaching and support staff of 16, a number of options are offered to students: choirs, athletics, intramurals, coding, lego, arts, reading, math clubs to name a few.
Putting Technology into the Hands of Students
The use of technology is prevalent within and outside of our school lives. The Island Public/Natural Science School school-wide WiFi access allows students to access technology throughout the day when necessary. Our Primary classrooms and Library/Resource Centre have SMART-Board Technology to assist with student learning.
Additional Features
- Warm and Engaging Classrooms
- Integrated Technology
- Active School Council
- Walk to School Days
- Dedicated Staff
- Mid-Morning Meal &Hot Lunch Program
- Proud to be a Platinum Eco School
- Ongoing Staff Development
Student Life - Where You Belong
Island Public/Natural Science School is an exciting and engaging place to be. The geographic location, setting and its size provide a unique opportunity to foster environmental ethics and global awareness using the curriculum and the natural resources at hand. These three factors are also what creates a genuine and inclusive school community. A typical day in the life of a student at the Island Public/Natural Science School begins one of two ways. Students living on the Island take the Ward's Island school bus to the school. Students living on the city side begin their day by taking the ferry across to catch the school buses that take them to school. Students return the same way. When at school students are engaged in active hands-on learning, student-led inquiry and participate in a myriad of extra-curricular activities. Students are sure to find a place where they can learn a new skill or share their passion with other students. Staff and students have a shared sense of responsibility for the welfare and well-being of all of our students and this is fostered through cross-grade learning buddies.
What Sets Us Apart
Our unique location and small community allows us to pride ourselves on creating an inclusive, positive and caring place for students. Our amazing School Council is dedicated to supporting the many school happenings. Our School Community thinks you should know that these things are what sets us apart:
- We take a ferry and a bus to school;
- We aren't surrounded by buildings; we are surrounded by nature;
- We have no fences and a HUGE playground;
- We support 'Free the Children';
- We have animals visit us and sometimes take our lunch bags;
- We have a very peaceful environment and take nature walks in the woods;
- We are very safe and have a great community;
- We have a spectacular view of the beach and the lake;
- The Island Public/Natural Science School is a very inclusive community.
Parent and Community Engagement
We have an engaged parent community who are encouraged to be actively involved in the school. Our School Council provides a vehicle for parents to provide input into the school. They also play an active role in fundraising for the school that supports the implementation of the school improvement plan. Parent Volunteers support both classroom and school-wide programs and events. We collaborate with: Community and social agencies, including Police, Public Health, and Ferry Service. Parks and Recreation are a key partner in supporting our school by providing leadership and guidance in the ongoing naturalization of the school area. Also, we work in partnership with Parks and Public Health with regards to the One-on-One Mentoring program that supports students.
