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Middle School
Grades 6-8
Caring for the Whole Person.
PCA Middle School is a positive and dynamic place for students in Grades 6-8. We recognize the importance of these transition years that move our children from elementary school to high school. Therefore, our focus is to develop them holistically in areas of academics, spiritual life and leadership development.
The faculty in the PCA Middle School care deeply about every student and forge a partnership with parents through effective communication. Teachers reinforce the importance of education and coach the students along their journey, while encouraging them to take ownership of their own academic success. Through this supportive process, Middle School students are well prepared to meet the demands of high school.
Middle School offers leadership opportunities through student council, intramurals, chapel participation and sports teams. Many students, under the guidance of teacher mentors, develop event planning skills, public speaking and many other essential life skills throughout their time in the Middle School. The Outdoor Education retreat, held early each year, helps cement relationships and creates an open and accepting environment where each student is valued.
As a Christian School, the heart of our mandate is the development of each student’s spiritual life. Through chapel, students and teachers worship together and receive Bible exposition with meaningful life applications. A strong Bible program, which is an essential part of the curriculum, further develops biblical knowledge and daily living. Mission initiatives such as sandwich runs, Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes and other fund raising efforts provide additional opportunities for the students to have a broader view of the needs in our world. Daily encounters with “teachable moments” spark many personal conversations about life and faith. Teachers and students foster life-long relationships that continue to allow for on-going spiritual encouragement.
Experience
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Together, the Middle School students and teachers form a vibrant Christian community within the larger PCA community. The teachers form close relationships with the students and become spiritual counsellors and coaches. Such a relational environment fosters respect and accountability, and serves to promote the growth of well-rounded Christian character on the part of the students. Living, working and praying together, they have countless opportunities to grow in Christ-likeness.
It is our desire at PCA that our students develop a heart for missions. This has been a priority since its origin under the leadership of Dr. Oswald J. Smith. This year, Middle School students followed the footsteps of their seniors to start a sandwich run. They have been to downtown once to deliver some home-made sandwiches to people who are experiencing homelessness. In the coming months, they have planned to go again to visit the needy and deliver sandwiches and warm winter accessories. The winter accessories were generously contributed by the Junior School families.
During Bible classes, students study the Bible in detail. From Genesis to Revelation, our goal is to help young minds to understand God’s words and let His words speak to each one of them.
At chapel, students praise the Lord together with the teachers. They share testimonies and have Bible exposition and reflect on how to apply biblical principles in life. PCA is privileged to have faculty, who have been long time youth workers and pastors, to instruct and inspire. Many of the students participate in leading worship. We are pleased to see many of our alumni involved actively at their churches as worship leaders.
“So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22 (ESV)
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At Peoples Christian Academy Middle school, students are inspired to learn through innovative instruction. From hands on science experiments to book reports, students think deep and wide every moment.
All courses in the PCA Middle School are taught from a Christian perspective and follow the Ontario Ministry of Education Elementary Curriculum guidelines as outline here.
Teachers will often teach beyond the guidelines where applicable and appropriate to provide enriched learning experiences for the students. All textbooks are taken from the Ontario Ministry of Education Trillium List which contains the books approved for use in Ontario schools. Teachers also supplement the textbooks with specifically designed material to strengthen the overall learning expectations. We believe it is important to follow Ontario Ministries guidelines as closely as possible during Grades 6-8 so students are prepared for the rigors of their future high school education.
In addition to the core subjects (Language, Mathematics, Bible, Social Studies, Science), we provide programs in French, Music (instrumental and vocal), Arts and Physical Education.
Co-curricular activities include:
Two concerts a year
Outdoor Education
Spelling Bee competition
Speech Meet competition
Ski Day
ACSI Track and Field
ACSI Cross Country
ACSI Sports tournament (Basketball, Volleyball)
ACSI Science Fair
Grade 8 Graduation trip
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The total learning/growing experience in the Middle School incorporates both structured curricular programs and extra-curricular opportunities. Students enjoy a wide variety of such options through which they develop their skills, knowledge and talents as they grow in character. Under the leadership of coaches, students plan and organize events and assume leadership positions such as team captains, student council members and house captains. The following list indicates the quality and diversity of Middle School extra-curriculars:
ACSI Cross Country
ACSI Sports Tournament (Soccer, Volleyball and Basketball)
ACSI Science Fair
ACSI Speech Meet Competition
ACSI Spelling Bee Competition
ACSI Track and Field
Art Club
Animation and Comic Books
Chess Club
Christmas and Spring Concerts
Grade 8 Graduation Trip
Intramural between Four Houses
Mandarin
Math Skills
Orchestra
Outdoor education
Piano
Programming
Ski Day
Student Council led activities
Workshop – Robotics & Aerospace
Worship TeamsVisit our Extra-Curricular Programs page for more information
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PCA follow the Ontario Curriculum?
PCA follows the Ontario Curriculum and often teachers will strive to go beyond the grade level expectations. All Grade 3 and Grade 7 students participate in CAT4 testing annually. Year-over-year, results have shown the students score a grade or two higher in the areas of mathematics and language. Furthermore, PCA's mean national percentile rankings for mathematics consistently sit above 90% across all testing areas, and language consistently above 85% in all testing areas, respectively placing PCA in the top 10%-15% nationally.
How long are the waiting lists?
Waiting lists will depend on the grade and even the year. Unfortunately some families have had to wait up to 3 years, however having at least one child within the school could put other siblings at the top of the wait list.
Does PCA accept families with no faith background?
While PCA primarily exists and prioritizes serving, supporting, and strengthening the faith and lifestyle of Christian families, we welcome all families who share, respect, and adhere to our values, philosophy, and policies. You’re invited to read our Faith Statement and Core Family Values here.
Does your school provide support for ESL students?
While PCA does not offer ESL programs, our lead/resource teachers will be able to help individual students who need help with language (or other subjects) on a one-on-one basis as necessary.
Does your school offer special education programs and/or services for students with special education needs?
PCA does not offer a formal special education program as one of its main programs. However, if an official psychoeducational assessment from a licensed psychologist is provided, PCA will determine whether or not it will be able to properly service that student's needs. If so, our Vice Principal will work closely with the student and his/her family to develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to provide appropriate support.
What is the length of the school day?
School hours are from 8:20am (Gr. 6 to Gr. 12) or 8:30am (JK to Gr. 5) to 3:20 pm. Commencing at 8:00 am, staff are on duty at entrances to receive students.
Why are the class sizes larger than some other private schools?
Our 5 kindergarten classes are set at 20 students with the support of an Educational Assistant. Grade 1 class size is set at 25 students with a shared Educational Assistant. Grade 2-5 classes are set at 26 students. The class sizes are set in order to better manage the waiting lists within the Junior School.
Does your school provide before- or after-school care?
Yes. Please see the various options and opportunities below:
Free Before-School Care (7:00am - 8:00am): Parents can drop off their child(ren) as early as 7:00am (free of charge) as long as they are registered for the Before-School Club.
Free but Limited After-School Care (3:20pm - 3:59pm): There is also a generous dismissal 49-minute grace period of free after-school care.
Fee-Based Homework Club(4:00pm-6:00pm): After the dismissal grace period, students who have not been picked up are automatically enrolled in Homework Club (flat-fee service) unless they are registered in an extra-curricular program (fee-based) between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm. Students may also be registered for an economical monthly fee as opposed to the flat-fee service if after-school care is required on a regular basis.
Fee-Based Extra-curricular Activities(4:00pm - 6:00pm - times vary based on provider): Wonderful and engaging extra-curricular activities are conveniently provided and include, but are not limited to: piano lessons, chess club, math, language classes, dance, sports teams, and so on. Please consult the term schedule provided.
Does your school provide bussing?
No. PCA does not provide transportation for students. Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging their child(ren)’s drop-off and pick-up.
What is the Middle School student course load?
All Middle School students take the following 9 courses: Math, Science and Technology, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education, French, Music, Art and Bible
How does the Middle School program prepare my child for Secondary School?
MS Students follow a rotary schedule. Teachers are subject specialists and students often have a different teacher for each course. Students have one recess at lunch time and in Grade 7 and 8, students write final exams in certain subjects.
Do Middle School students write exams?
Yes. In Grade 7, students write the Social Studies and Science Exam. In Grade 8, students write the English and Math exam.
Do students go on any overnight trips?
Grade 6 and 7 students have an annual Outdoor Education Trip for 3 days and 2 nights. Grade 8 students have a 3 day, 2 night graduation trip to Ottawa.
What extra-curricular clubs and activities can my child participate in?
Battle of the Books, Drama Club, Intramurals & House Captains, Mens Club and God’s Girls, Running Club, Student Council and Worship & A/V Team.
What sports teams can my child join and who do they compete with?
Students can try out for sports teams such as: cross country, soccer, track & field, basketball, volleyball and badminton. PCA competes in tournaments and events organized by ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International).
Can Middle School students participate in Waterloo's Math and Computing contests/challenges?
Students have the opportunity to participate in the following contests: Beaver Computing Challenge and Gauss Math Contest.
What kind of Guidance support is provided for the students?
Guidance support includes PCA Guidance Website, Student Success, Resource Teacher, Mental Wellness, Peer Tutoring, Wellness & Socioemotional Support, Mental Health Awareness & Strategies, AP Support and more.
Is Bible/Religion courses compulsory for Senior School students?
Yes, Bible courses are compulsory at PCA. In Grades 9 and 11, they are credit courses. In Grades 10 and 12, they are non-credit courses.
What kinds of extra-curricular activities/clubs does the Senior School offer?
Students are encouraged to start clubs at PCA based on their interests. Some clubs/extracurricular activities we offer and have offered include: Art & Design, CASPIRE, Climbing Club, Debate Club, DECA, Engineering Club, Food Club, Mahjong, Missions Sending Team and HOSA. Students are also invited to apply for and be selected for the Missions team and Student Council.
What sports teams can my child join and who do they compete with?
Students are invited to try out for the sports teams such as: badminton, basketball, cross country, volleyball, soccer, softball, and ultimate frisbee. Senior School students compete in the SSAF (Small School Athletic Federation)
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our school, please contact marketing@pca.ca
Middle School Faculty
Peoples Christian Academy (PCA) administration, faculty and staff are chosen for their ability to reflect the principles and values as outlined in our Philosophy of Education. These Christian faculty members are highly qualified and dedicated teachers who see their career choice as a ministry to impart Christian values to the next generation of leaders. Faculty and administrative staff participate in devotions and seek to be examples and mentors for the students. A code of conduct for staff is outlined in the appropriate manuals and handbooks. There is a strong partnership with parents to reinforce Christian and family values in the students’ lives. Some of our faculty members are even PCA alumni.
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Vice Principal, Middle & Senior School
B.A. (Honours), B.Ed. , York University
M.Ed., University of Toronto
Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT)
Ontario Principals Qualification Program (PQP) - Part 1
Guidance and Career Education Specialist
I love that PCA exists to educate the whole person—body, mind and spirit with equal emphasis and excellence. There is a wonderful rapport of genuine respect and care shared between teachers and students. We are a tight-knit community with an environment where students can and want to learn. PCA students and alumni are living proof that it is possible to receive a premium, high quality academic education while growing in character and in faith.
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Lead Teacher, Middle School
B.Sc. - University of Toronto
B. of Ch. Ed. - Redeemer University
M.Sc. - Canisus CollegeTeaching at PCA gives me opportunities to encourage students to see the Lord as master of all areas of their lives, present and future. They need to be diligent in all they do, in all areas of their lives, not for pleasing parents or teachers (who are people), nor for preparing to live more comfortable lives (for self), but for honouring the Lord now, and for preparing to honour Him better in the future.
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Physical Education
B.Sc., B.Ed. – University of Toronto
M. Arts – Providence University
(PCA Alumna)Teaching at PCA is important to me because it's my home. I graduated from PCA and returned as a teacher to continue to be a part of the PCA family. The students are eager to learn which makes my job very enjoyable! Because both teachers and students have the same faith, we share each other’s goals and challenges. I am grateful for the privilege of sharing life with the PCA family!
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Guidance / English / Social Studies / MS/SS Resource Teacher
B.A. (Honours) – University of Waterloo
B.P.S. in Education – University of NiagaraBeing back at PCA is a testament to God’s perfect timing. Through the learning experiences, conversations, and moments of joy that happen each day with my students and colleagues, I am reminded of just how good our God is. It is a privilege to be part of a community that feels like family and to teach such wonderful young minds.
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Grade 7 & 8 Visual Arts
B. Design - OCAD University
Geologist, Gemology Institute of America
B.Ed - Western UniversityI love our faith in Jesus Christ and God is the heart of everything we do at PCA. It truly motivates and inspires me every day to work with so many incredible teachers and students. As an art teacher, I have the privilege and joy of helping students express their individuality and uncover the beauty of God through art.
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Science and Technology, Math, Health and Physical Education
B.A - University of Iowa
B.Ed - Tyndale UniversityWhat a blessing it is to work at PCA, a place where students are built up in the Lord and prepared spiritually and academically for the world. It is an honour to be part of a community that is rooted in spiritual truth, upholds high academic standards and spurs students on toward love and good deeds. I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside the wonderful students at PCA as they grow and discover God's gifts and plans for them.
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Grade 8 Social Studies, English
B.Ed - Thompson Rivers UniversityIt is such a blessing to work in a place that loves God and seeks to build up children to be strong and capable adults. PCA is a fun and engaging work environment, and the commitment to God in all aspects of life makes coming to work a joy.
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Grade 6/7/8 Music
Bio coming soon
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Music (Instrumental)/ English/ Social Studies
B. Music – University of Toronto
M. Music – University of Southern California
B. Ed. – York UniversityIn 1723, Johann Sebastian Bach reminded his students at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, that “the final aim of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.” As a music teacher at Peoples Christian Academy, I have the great pleasure to be able to pass on Mr. Bach’s inspired words to the young students who attend this school. In over two decades of teaching music, it is here at PCA where I find this truth is realized to its fullest. It is for this reason that I am blessed to be able to teach at PCA and share the joy of making music, giving glory and honor to our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
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MS Teacher
Bio coming soon
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Physical Education, Grade 7 Homeroom
B.A, B. Ed - Calvin College
OCT, Special Education Specialist
I believe teaching is not just an occupation, it is a calling. It is a privilege to interact with students each day and to be able to use my God-given skills and talents to engage them in learning about His world. I am blessed with the opportunity to be a positive role model and prepare my students for a life of faith as followers of Christ. As a devoted Christian teacher, I know that love is the most powerful force. It is love that changes students’ hearts. Demonstrating real, genuine love to every student is what I strive to do each day. This is my first year at PCA and it is such a warm community of parents, students, and fellow staff members. I am so blessed to be a teacher at this school.
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Grade 6/7 French
B.A. (Honours) & B.Ed - Queen's University
Becoming a part of the PCA family is an answered prayer and a testament to God's grace and faithfulness. It is such a blessing to work together with such a great team that loves and serves our youth in helping them to readily answer their own calling to live Christ-like lives.
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Grade 7/8 Science & Technology, Grade 8 Homeform
B.Sc. & B.Ed - York UniversityIt is such a blessing and honour to serve at PCA. Alongside our amazing PCA family, I get to do my part in being the salt and light of the world, loving one another and building each other up. It's especially exciting to be teaching Science & Technology because it's a subject that embraces our curiousity of life and the advancement of it, and the more you dig deeper, you realize God's love and fingerprints in everything! God is sovereign and He has good plans for us. Therefore, we can revel in the Good News!
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Science and Technology
B. Sci (Honours) & B. Ed - Queens UniversityTeaching at PCA has been a great joy! I consider being a teacher to be an honor as we partake in modeling what Christ modeled to us as our Rabbi and teacher. I take teaching Bible and Social Studies as being a great responsibility to disciple and walk alongside our young scholars in the faith. It is so critical that we encourage the next generation to think critically about the world and seek God to build His kingdom here. Every day I find myself thankful to be apart of a community built on Christ, knowing that He is our cornerstone and so we are not easily shaken.
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English, Social Studies
Grade 6 Homeroom
B.A. (Honours) - McMaster University
B.Ed. - Strathclyde University, ScotlandI have been teaching at PCA for 20 years. It has become a second home for me. My PCA family continues to be there for me through the joys and the sorrows of life. It is a place where you feel loved, encouraged, challenged and safe. There is nothing greater than teaching a concept in class, with passion, and seeing your students' eyes light up and the “light bulb” moments happen. It is truly a blessing to teach here and help our students academically, socially and most importantly spiritually. There have been many times when my students have taught me important lessons about life and our Lord, and for that I am truly grateful.
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Bible
B.A. (Honours), B.Ed. – Queens University
Master of Theology – Tyndale UniversityWorking at PCA is so important to me, because the lives of our young people are so precious and the task of raising Godly children in today's society is increasingly daunting. Most children will spend more waking hours a day at school than at home. It is so critical that we are entrusting our children during this time to people who love the Lord and who will faithfully impart to them Biblical truths and values. It is such a privilege to be part of a ministry that seeks to do just that.
I personally see the fruit of PCA's ministry as my own children come home from PCA with worship songs and Bible stories on their lips. I know that what they are learning at home is being daily reinforced in a loving, Christian environment that will provide a solid foundation for life.
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Grade 7 Homeroom
Honours B.A., University of Toronto; Master of Teaching (MT), University of TorontoHaving the opportunity to serve at a school like PCA has been a privilege for me. Being able to freely share my faith with our staff and students has truly been an amazing experience. I look forward to teaching our students about the history and geography of the world, while also sharing how our God is at the center of it all.
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Grade 6 Science
B.Sc SFU (British Columbia )
PGDE HKU
MA. School Guidance and Counseling (CUHK)I've always had a passion for languages, and even though I taught almost 3 decades of science and biology in high schools, I transitioned to teaching Grades 5-8 French for the past 6 years. This year, I'm excited to join PCA, teaching Grade 6 science, while also teaching French to the kindergarten class.
My diverse experience has equipped me with a unique perspective, and I'm committed to creating engaging learning environments that will foster academic success and personal growth in our students.
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English, Bible, Middle School & Senior School Resource Teacher
B.A. (Hons.), B.Ed. - York University
M.Div. (Clinical Counselling) - Tyndale University
Special Education SpecialistServing at PCA has been answered prayer. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to work with students in the classroom and on an individual basis. My journey to PCA has been guided by God and has led me down a unique path. I completed my B.Ed degree alongside my undergraduate degree and pursued my Master's to begin a career as a psychotherapist. However, God called me back to teaching and allowed me to apply my newfound skills to develop a unique teaching philosophy. As an educator, I believe that all students are uniquely created in God's image, and it is my duty to help them achieve their full, God-given potential. My greatest joy in teaching comes from being able to meet students where they are and walk alongside them in their journey toward greatness. There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing the moment when a concept "clicks" in a student's mind. PCA emphasizes not only academic excellence but also a genuine transformation of the heart, encouraging both students and faculty to keep their eyes on Jesus.
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Physical Education
B.A., B.Ed - York UniversityBeing on staff at PCA has been an incredible experience and gift from God. I have the blessing of not only educating and equipping students with academic skills and knowledge, but the opportunity to mentor and make disciples for His kingdom. God has continued to humble me through PCA as I am constantly reminded that my role as an Christian educator goes beyond classroom management, and curriculum. This is truly a gospel-centered community and while teaching the gospel is important, at PCA I am able to live it out and walk with my students on their spiritual journey. It is my prayer that as I continue my career that my love for the students would be rooted in my love for Christ, and that I would teach in a manner that exalts Christ.
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Math
B.Sc. (Honours) - York University B.Ed. - University of Toronto (PCA Alumna)
PCA allows me to build Christ-centered relationships. As a science teacher, I have the opportunity to point my students to the wonder of creation by demonstrating the care and design that God has invested into all life. As a journalism teacher, I recognize that both truth and beauty are rooted in God’s character. So, too, my students must pursue both truth and beauty in their reporting of school events and in the design of our publications. The process of producing the yearbook provides students with the opportunity to explore God’s faithfulness in our school.
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Music, French, Physical Education (JK-SK)
B.Comm, Agricultural Business - University of Guelph
ECE - St. Clair College
B. Ed. - University of Windsor
MA., Intercultural Studies and TESOL- Wheaton CollegeWorking at PCA brings me great joy because, first of all, as Psalm 8:2 says, "from the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise," and it brings a smile to my face to see this happening every day. Secondly, I am so blessed to work alongside so many other amazing people -- support staff, leadership team, teachers -- everyone is a huge blessing to me!
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Grade 7 Homeroom
B.A. Honours and B.Ed - Queens UniversityBeing a teacher at PCA means being caught by the eagle’s wings. It is an act of trusting in the Lord for
everything I will need as a teacher and entrusting God with students’ lives. It is witnessing God’s
promises in motions and taking steps to be apart of it.
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Mathematics, Social Science
B.Sc., B.Ed. – University of Toronto
M.Div. – Tyndale UniversityIt is true that I absolutely love Mathematics, but my life-long passion is sharing life together with teens! PCA is a wonderful place to encourage, equip and empower teens as they pursue their future and the call of God in their lives. There are countless opportunities to “tell the next generation the marvelous things God has done.” I am overwhelmed each day by God’s faithfulness in bringing me back to PCA after being away for 23 years.
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English, Media, Writers Craft, Literature, Social Studies,
Middle School Chapel
B.A. - University of Toronto
B.Ed. - York UniversityAs Christians, we need to go where God calls us; I feel truly blessed to have been called to teach at PCA. Teaching here allows me the opportunity to serve God by serving the next generation, to love the students as He first loved me. As a husband and a father of four, family means the world to me. That's really what the PCA community is: a family.
Thanks for all the advice and counselling... the teachers have been a very important part of my life. I can't thank them enough for all they taught me about various subjects, faith, life and everything else in between.
-Middle School Graduate