Enhanced Learning
The Peel District School Board offers a range of support and services for students who have enhanced learning needs. View the full list of Enhanced Learning FAQs to learn more, or click on the links below for a general synopsis of enhanced learning support and services.
The three-tiered system
Support and programs are provided based a three-tiered model of intervention. The intensity of the intervention increases based on the individual student's needs.
Tier 1: Regular School Program
Students receive curriculum extensions, differentiated instruction and additional assessment for learning.
Tier 2: In-School Enhanced Learning Program (ISELP)
Students have demonstrated strong abilities and/or are rated by their teachers as needing an increased level of differentiated instruction and enhancements beyond regular classroom programming. The In-School Enhanced Learning Program is provided at every Peel school.
The focus of the ISELP may include the further development of:
- critical and creative thinking skills
- problem solving skills
- planning, organizing, and evaluating skills
- independent learning
- self and group awareness
- concepts to extend knowledge and deepen understanding of the regular grade level curriculum
Tier 3: Enhanced Learning Class (ELC)
Before the IPRC considers placement of the student in a special education class, the committee, as required by the Regulation 181/98 must consider placement in a regular class with appropriate special education services.
When a student is identified as Exceptional Intellectual – Gifted, they will be offered placement, this placement may be
- In-School Enhanced Learning Program (ISELP) or
- Enhanced Learning Class (ELC)
ELCs are a Special Education placement option for students whose needs require extensive programming support and differentiated instruction beyond mainstream class programming or the In School Enhanced Learning Program (ISELP).
Identifying enhanced learning needs
Decisions on placement into the enhanced learning program are made based on demonstrated need for extensive programming and support. In order to identify a student's enhanced learning needs, a series of assessments and tests must be completed by the student, as well as the In-School Review Committee (ISRC) and Identification Placement Review Committee (IPRC).
To be identified as an enhanced learner under Tier 1 or 2, the student must undergo a Canadian Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) as an initial screener. Following a review of the CCAT results, the In School Review Committee (ISRC) may recommend completion of the Gifted Rating Scale (GRS).
The ISRC and school psycho-educational consultant will analyze the ability test scores and teacher ratings to determine whether a student will be best supported by differentiated instruction within the regular classroom programming (Tier 1) or through the In School Enhanced Learning Program (Tier 2). The degree of differentiation of the content, process, product and/or evaluation will be determined by the learner’s needs and interests.
If the ISRC believes the student may qualify as Exceptional Intellectual - Gifted, the students will be asked to complete an individual psycho-educational assessment.
Locations and boundaries
Enhanced Learning Classes are located in various Peel schools, and may not be in your child’s home school. These are regional programs and locations may change over time. Transportation is available for students who meet the distance requirements.
Effective September 2020, the school boundaries for Enhanced Learning Classes have changed. To find out where your child's Enhanced Learning Classes will take place, click on the enhanced learning school boundaries below or view the
Enhanced learning boundaries map.
Contact information
For more information, talk to your child’s teacher, principal, special education teacher, or the board’s Special Education Coordinator at 905-890-1010 (or 1-800-668-1146) ext. 2357.