private

The Lighthouse Learning and Development

Aurora, Ontario

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At a glance

Grades: Preschool – 12
Founded: 2009
Board: Independent

Tuition & admissions

Admissions process

Book a tour of the facilities. · Meet with the Director of Education or Director of Clinical Services to discuss programming and family goals. · Complete a comprehensive academic, behavioural and developmental assessment lasting several hours; school applicants may also participate in a class trial. Families receive an assessment summary. · Submit registration forms and relevant documentation, such as psychoeducational, ABA, SLP or OT assessments, past report cards or IEPs.

Academics & learning

Curriculum: Ontario Curriculum integrated with Applied Behaviour Analysis principles for Kindergarten–Grade 8; personalized Grade 9–12 pathways toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Social-emotional learning and life skills are integrated into daily programming.
Accreditation: Ministry-inspected educational space. · Approved Ontario Autism Program Direct Funding Option provider.

Tuition & financial aid details

Bursaries & scholarships

Eligible Lighthouse services: Core Clinical funding can support ABA therapy; several school programs are recognized as eligible educational services.
OAP eligibility and registration: Requires an autism diagnosis from a qualified professional and Ontario residency; supports children and youth up to age 18. Families register through AccessOAP.
Core Clinical funding: The source states annual funding ranges from $6,600 to $65,000 depending on age and assessed need. Amounts can change, and Core Clinical funding has a waitlist.
Funding guidance: The Lighthouse helps families understand how OAP funding can apply to its programs.

Course descriptions

Small-Group Learning Preparation

Develops core academic skills, classroom readiness and group instruction skills.

Elementary School Program

For Kindergarten–Grade 8 students; combines ABA principles with the Ontario Curriculum in personalized, inclusive learning environments.

Secondary School Program

For Grade 9–12 students working toward their OSSD; builds academic and executive functioning skills for success after high school.

ABA Therapy

Evidence-based 1:1 and small-group intervention incorporating assessments, individualized learning plans, natural environment teaching and family/caregiver training.

Adult Transition Programming

Helps neurodivergent adults develop workplace readiness, life skills, confidence and independence.

Summer Programming

Combines learning, social development, routine and recreation in a safe, supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals.

View course information on the school website

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Learning programs

Specializations

Autism and neurodiverse learning needs · Applied Behaviour Analysis · Individualized academic pathways · Executive functioning, social-emotional learning and life skills · Adult transition and workplace readiness

Learning support

Specialized programming for children with autism and neurodiverse needs · including ABA-based elementary education · OSSD pathways · 1:1 intervention and small-group programming. A Registered Behaviour Analyst oversees ABA programming. · Comprehensive assessments using tools such as ABLLS and AFLS. · Individualized learning plans informed by assessments, parent input and supporting documentation. · Speech-language pathology and occupational therapy services; OT supports participation in the school environment. · Family/caregiver training, consultation and collaboration with other professionals. · Small-class environments supporting individualized attention and learning at each student’s pace.

About the school

The Lighthouse Learning and Development Centre is a private school and support centre founded by Serena Thompson for children with autism and neurodiverse needs, offering personalized education, ABA support, life skills and Ontario Secondary School Diploma pathways.

Location & school highlights

Location

Located in Thornhill
York Region
Ontario.

What makes the school distinct

Described as York Region’s first and only private school dedicated exclusively to children with autism and neurodiverse needs.
Small-group learning with individualized plans, continuous assessment and close parent collaboration.
Approved Ontario Autism Program Direct Funding Option provider.
Registered Behaviour Analyst oversight of ABA programming.