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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School

Grades K TO Gr. 12 — Foothills, AB (MAP)

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT
REPORT CONTENTS:

Pages in this report:

School address

  • 20, 298136 – 24 St W, Foothills, Alberta, T1S 7A4 (MAP)
  • Busing available (View details)

School Busing:

STS offers bus transferring. Service options offered are regular rider, regular rider AM only, regular rider PM only, occasional rider.

The regions STS offers busing from are:

  • Calgary
  • Okotoks
  • Chestermere
  • Priddis
  • De Winton
  • High River

Additional notes: Daily bus services are available, and routes are customized each year based on whole school enrollment. Kindergarten-Grade 6 students are supported with a stop location within 500m safe walking distance of their home address. Grade 7 -12 students are supported with a stop location within 1000m safe walking distance of their home address. The average ride time on the bus, one way is ~40 minutes.

Our Perspective

How we see Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School


Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School became a school, by that name, in 1971, though its history stretches back more than a century. It is essentially an amalgamation of three schools that excelled in different ways: St. Hilda’s School for Girls, Strathcona School for Boys, and Tweedsmuir: An Academic School for Girls. The current school motto, Nil Nisi Optimum, “nothing but the best,” was originally used by Tweedsmuir: An Academic School for Girls, as was the black watch tartan uniform—in that and other traditions that remain in place reflect the founding schools long, shared histories.

The amalgamation came at a time of economic growth due to a boom in oil and gas exploration in the region. Each school was outgrowing its footprint, and so looked to combining forces. The world, too, was changing, and the move to a co-ed academic atmosphere was equally emblematic of the time. The newly minted Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School also moved to a sizable parcel of land, where the school remains today.

In time, the school would continue to grow its curricular offerings, including Advanced Placement courses, the adoption of Round Square, and the growth of the International Baccalaureate program. STS was also an early adopter of digital technologies in the classroom. Those things are an expression of perhaps the most important tradition that STS expresses, namely that of looking ahead, being flexible, and working to adapt the program to student needs. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a large, vibrant, and challenging academic environment.

School's Perspective

Compare with:  

How Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School sees itself


The school administration answered our questions

Who are you, as a school?

"STS is a Kindergarten to Grade 12, World IB School. Students flourish through well-balanced programming and enriched learning on our 220-acre campus minutes from Calgary, guided by talented and caring teachers. STS students become global citizens, embracing social responsibility while striving for success in all that they do. In addition to a rigorous academic curriculum, students experience a wide variety of co-curricular activities and benefit from a supportive community, rooted in our school's 118-year history."

  • Founded in 1905
  • Spectacular country setting
  • Alberta Education Curriculum (Kindergarten-12)
  • Superior outdoor education program
  • Excellent university placement
  • Professional, caring staff
  • International Baccalaureate School
  • Round Square School
  • Member of CAIS and NAIS

What do you do differently and uniquely well?

"1. Teachers are genuinely interested in their students at STS. Our school is a community and each individual student matters, is known, and is supported to flourish during their time at STS.
2. Our campus is a global hub in a natural setting; outdoor education and experiential learning is infused into every grade level throughout the year.
3. Student are guided to realize their purpose and calling in life; we do more than just prepare for post-secondary education. We flourish"

To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

"1. STS provides every student with committed and talented teachers who intentionally nurture lasting one-on-one relationships.
2. Personalized learning and support services help foster academic excellence and also promote a sense of balanced well-being for every student.
3. State of the art facility and outdoor learning in an expansive natural setting means that students have the best possible opportunities to be outdoors daily for field research, sports, arts, play and reflection."

What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

"Parents and students often miss how much support is provided, both academically and emotionally, to ensure that students flourish and reach their full potential while here. Dedicated teachers, counselors, learning strategists, and school leaders are in our hallways, classrooms, acting as coaches, mentors, and leading our outdoor education experiential learning trips. This means your children are truly known, and get to see themselves as appreciated individuals in our community who belong at STS."

What might families find surprising about your school?

"Our school builds connections beyond the classroom and actively promotes a positive community for students, parents, alumni, and staff. Most people understand that there is an inherent benefit to being a member of a school community. STS has a long, proud history resulting in an alumni network willing to help the families find belonging and success in their lives. The size of this community combined with many notable individual accomplishments sets STS apart from any other school in our area."


School Facilities

Photo-tour of facilities


Athletics facilities


Arts facilities


Campus


Classrooms


Science facilities


Shared spaces


School Videos

Insider Perspectives

How people from the school’s community see Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School


Video reviews of Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School

Alum, Jason Fong (2021)

Watch our alum interview with Jason Fong to learn about the unique experience of attending Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School.

School leadership

Top-down influence on the school’s direction and tone


Message from school leadership

Mrs. Carol Grant-Watt, Head of School
M.A., B.Ed.

As Head of School, I am enthusiastic about creating meaningful opportunities and dwelling in possibility. Saying Yes to Your Best is a commitment that STS students, teachers, parents, alumni and staff illustrate each and every day. Rooted in our School's motto, Nil Nisi Optimum, or nothing but our best, this commitment to becoming your best self develops a genuine empathy and care for others, combined with an insatiable curiosity, and the courage to say yes to new adventures, discovery, possibility, belonging and future-preparedness. This is what sets STS apart. 

Great schools exist with a strong, vibrant community, and a shared priority for the well-being and educational success of our students and alumni. We are proud to welcome exceptional students from across the globe, with a wide array of backgrounds, interests, and talents. I fervently believe in the importance of creating impactful and personalized learning opportunities, both in the classroom and through a diverse co-curricular program, and I can assure you that our dedicated teachers and staff are focused on ensuring your children have access to all they need to succeed and flourish. 

I can think of no higher priority than the future of our children, and my vision is that as a team at STS, we contribute to moving them forward in their journey towards their hopes, dreams, and goals. We will do so in a respectful manner, honouring the individuality and diversity of our community. As we prepare to deliver on a new strategic plan and inspire commitment, trust, and belief in our collective abilities to change the world for the better, I say to you, the future is bright. 

The STS spirit and ethos are infectious and inspiring. We have a history of innovation, tradition and extensive collaboration with the community, and we will continue to build on our humble roots, be unapologetic in our pursuit of academic excellence, and continue to offer a myriad of experiences to nurture the spirit and passion of our students. As the educational landscape is rapidly changing, it is imperative that we stay current, protect our core and ensure our young charges are cared for, ready for the challenges and opportunities that today presents as well as an exciting future. 

I have never been more optimistic about our ability to deliver a rigorous and relevant educational experience for current and prospective students, and I give you my word that I will continue to work tirelessly to provide the best environment for your children. 


THE OUR KIDS REPORT: Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School

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