Multi-age classrooms reflect the understanding that intellectual, social and emotional development happens in predictable patterns but on a timetable that is unique to each child.

In a multi-age setting, students have a chance to discover, practice and revisit concepts both as novices during their first year in a classroom and as mentors during their second. Younger students are inspired to take intellectual risks as they observe their older classmates and understand what comes next. Older students develop confidence as they are challenged to support their younger peers by sharing their knowledge in clear and concise ways. Academic skill building, as well as developing understanding of concepts in social studies and science, is adapted to the needs of the full range of learners in each class through small group or individual instruction.

Children ideally spend two years with the same teachers, providing a sense of continuity and predictability that support them in taking intellectual risks. Each year half the class moves to the next age level and half return the same classroom which allows the teachers to get to know the students and their families very well. The demanding work of planning and adapting curriculum to the needs and interests of students is greatly enhanced by this two year process.