We certainly draw a bit from the Classical model of education although you’d be hard-pressed to find Classical curricula or information that is secular. There are other places that we will deviate: rigor of learning is accomplished in more untraditional methods. The memorization at the Grammar stage is thrown out the window.
The things we borrow from the Classical model are their stages of child development (Grammar, Logic/Dialectic and Rhetoric). While we offer a generalization of ages/grades that fall in each level–it’s more critical that the child is functioning aligned with that stage of development than it is that their age align to it. Keeping in mind that the one place we will be rather rigorous is in challenging thoughts and communications–it is best that you decide where your child lands in the developmental levels. If they seem to be significantly higher or lower than the stated ranges (more than one year in either direction) it would be wise to speak with us before enrolling.
There is also somewhat of a “culture” around Classical learning that seems to give off the impression that there are standards to uphold. We would not disagree–but our standards have to do with work ethic, integrity, compassion and respect for the earth and fellow man than it would about achievement.
Our Courses
Students in the Logic/Dialectic level are given a lot of flexibility to account for the asynchronous nature of their stage. They are welcome to take courses on Monday with younger students or on Thursday with older students as their development in one area or another allows. They should embrace being in class with younger students as an opportunity to be a role model. Likewise, research shows that mixed-age classrooms provide the richest learning experiences. We hope they will be supported by parents that can acknowledge their possible concerns about being in with “little kids” and help them focus on the benefits and outcomes of the course itself until they are able to experience the benefits of participating with younger people.