To provide an opportunity for Hilltop students to develop a sense of community and shared endeavour; to share knowledge and experiences in the context of fostering leadership, social skill development, personal and community responsibility, and a greater sense of self.

Hilltop believes that part of a highly educational school experience is one that demonstrates commitment to the development of the social, emotional, creative and cognitive side of learning. A quality educational experience, we believe, is one that values developing each of these areas within the larger framework of developing of a strong sense of self.

 

By participating in the Peer Education and Knowledge Sharing Program (PEAKS), Hilltop believes children will have a unique opportunity to actively engage in structured learning experiences aimed at developing positive attitudes regarding working with peers of various ages, interests and abilities, while strengthening a sense of school, community and self. Hilltop believes that children participating in PEAKS will learn to value 1) respect for others, themselves and their school, 2) the dynamics of teamwork, and 3) the joy that can be attained by working cooperatively and collectively, in close partnerships, to achieve a common goal.

Lower School students are buddied with Upper School students at the beginning of their Kindergarten and 5th Grade year. These buddies remain in place for the duration of their experience in the program. The PEAKS partners, or buddies (Lower School children matched with Upper School children), meet together and participate in a broad range of activities and events throughout the school year. These activities typically include morning breakfasts, collaborative craft experiences, shared readings, joint social events and shared field trip experiences.