Small-Group Learning Preparation
Develops core academic skills, classroom readiness and group instruction skills.
private
The Lighthouse Learning and Development
Aurora, Ontario
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
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.
School images
School videos
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.
Nearby properties
Active residential listings within about 2 km of the school.
