Grandview School update
In this section:
Transitions are at the heart of our program at Grandview School. As an early intervention program, our team works collaboratively with Grandview Kids therapists to support the unique needs of our students. Goals are supported, strategies are implemented, and information is shared to help ensure a successful transition to each student’s neighbourhood school.
While our students are typically the ones experiencing these transitions, this year our school itself underwent a significant transition!
In the fall, our staff and families were welcomed to our brand-new school at Grandview Kids’ new Ajax-based headquarters, The Jerry Coughlan Building. As our students often feel a mix of emotions when transitioning from our school, our school community also experienced a blend of nervousness and excitement leading into this big transition.
Now, as we wrap up our first year in our new location, it already feels like home. For the 2024-25 Grandview Kids Year in Review, we would like to share some moments and pictures that capture the learning and growth that have taken place in our new home.
In the classroom
Our new classrooms are bright and welcoming. Large windows overlook the forest, allowing students to catch a glimpse of nature while they learn. Finishing touches, such as cloud designs on the ceilings and colourful accent walls, help inspire curiosity and creativity. In the photos below, you will see one student exploring what plants need to grow and another engaged in a number sense and counting activity.
In the hallways
Learning extends beyond the classroom and into our spacious hallways. Students were excited to discover that, in our new school, each of them has their own cubby space! The wide hallways provide ample room for students to work on physiotherapy goals such as walking and bike riding. Our school lobby is also a hub of activity. In the photos below, you’ll see a student checking to see if our eggs have hatched and a familiar face handing out treats during our annual trick-or-treating event.
In the schoolyard
The new schoolyard offers a variety of environments to explore, including an accessible playground and swing, a sandbox with diggers, a large grassy area and even an outdoor classroom. In the photos below, you will see a group of students gathered to listen to a story in the outdoor classroom area.
On the Sensory Trail
The Sensory Trail and adjoining forest offer exciting new possibilities for learning and exploration. Students have been busy with scavenger hunts, while educators continue to find creative ways to incorporate learning, such as counting items found in the forest. The forest engages all the senses, as students smell the plants, hear the birds and feel the breeze.
At the Library and Grandview Kids Café
The library has given students the opportunity to develop a love for books and reading. It also provides educators with access to materials that support classroom teaching. Students have been enjoying the cozy nooks and quiet spaces as they escape into a book.
Even Grandview Kids’ volunteer-led café has promoted learning for our students! During a unit on Canadian currency, students brought money to the café to explore how much they would need to purchase a treat.
At the Gymnasium
This spot is a favourite for both staff and students at our school! This large, sensory-friendly space provides an ideal environment for students to develop teamwork, leadership, and gross motor skills. It has also given us a space to welcome community partners for learning and collaboration.
As we reflect on an eventful first school year in our new home in Ajax, we look ahead to the 2025–2026 school year with excitement and anticipation. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our partner, Grandview Kids, for their ongoing support as we continue to collaborate in serving the Durham community. In addition, we want to thank all Grandview School staff, educators, students, and their families for their incredible support in making our school’s transition to The Jerry Coughlan Building a success.
