St. Edmund Campion, often referred to as a "small school with a big heart" and "a hidden gem" in Scarborough, exemplifies excellence in education. With a dedicated team of educators, the school is renowned for its exemplary practices in various areas, particularly through its innovative Language and Media Literacy Program.
The program integrates multiple strategies to enhance student agency, learning outcomes, and critical thinking. Key elements include active engagement, authentic assessments, mastery learning, and relevant, meaningful experiences. It also seamlessly incorporates English Language Learners (ELL) and Special Education students, ensuring inclusivity.
Campion Media Program Overview
The Campion Media Program comprises three main components:
Campion News (YouTube broadcast)
Campion Cast (podcast)
Campion Archives (printed school magazine)
Campion News
Initiated during the pandemic in early 2022, Campion News aimed to maintain a sense of community despite physical distancing. Armed with a phone and a $10 microphone, students began producing weekly broadcasts featuring birthdays, class art activities, and project highlights. This initiative allowed students to feel connected and part of the school community. Over the past two years, Campion News has grown, utilizing new technologies and editing skills. Episodes are now available on YouTube, allowing parents and caregivers to engage with the school's activities.
In June 2023, the school received the Best Buy Grant for Education, recognized by Brendan Rowe of City News.
Campion Cast
Launched at the start of the 2022-2023 school year, Campion Cast offers students another medium for self-expression. Podcasts have been a popular format for Grade 8 projects and activities in the Resource Room. This format provides a comfortable platform for shy or nervous students. Currently, students fully manage the podcast, from topic selection to conducting interviews. Notable episodes include interviews with the TCDSB Director of Education, Dr. Brendan Browne, Superintendent of Education, Indigenous Education, Equity, and Community Relations, Mr. Roy Fernandes, and His Excellency Bishop Nguyen.
Campion Archives
The latest addition, Campion Archives, started in September 2023. This monthly magazine, available in both print and online, features student voices and cultural highlights. Sections like Culture Corner allow students to celebrate and share significant cultural events.
Developing Essential Skills
Through these media initiatives, students develop effective communication, active listening, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They learn to collaborate, respect different perspectives, and utilize digital and media tools to address real-world problems. Students plan, research, and execute tasks such as monthly themes, sports events, and cultural celebrations, enhancing their interpersonal and technical skills.
Expanding the Program
Looking ahead, St. Edmund Campion aims to expand the media program to include broader community involvement. This includes making school events accessible to more community members and connecting with relatives abroad, particularly for families new to Canada. The school is also seeking additional equipment to improve broadcast quality and provide students with valuable technological experiences.
Recognition and Future Goals
Receiving the Exemplary Practices Award this year acknowledges the hard work of both staff and students at St. Edmund Campion. The school remains committed to fostering confidence, leadership, and maturity in its students, preparing them for future success. By continuously seeking new opportunities for community engagement and skill development, St. Edmund Campion exemplifies educational excellence and innovation.
For more information, visit the school's news segment at City News and listen to Campion Cast on Spotify.