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Trusted by families since 1998.
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OUR KIDS Report:
Report on Flex Academy
Grades JK — 12 — Kelowna, BC (Map)
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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Flex Academy
REPORT CONTENTS
Reviews
Analysis

Flex Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum


Page Contents

Curriculum Progressive

[Show definition of Curriculum]

Central to your child's school experience is the underlying curriculum taught in the classroom. "Curriculum" refers to both what is taught and how it's taught. When considering the different curricula outlined in the next few pages, keep in mind that few schools fall neatly into one category or another. Most schools' curricula comprise a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. Having said that, most schools do have a general overall curriculum type. These are identified for each school on OurKids.net.

Curriculum approach at Flex Academy: Progressive

Flex Academy has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

[Show: About Progressive?]

Our Kids definition: Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.

Compare Flex Academy's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Progressive - 34%
  Traditional - 39%
  Liberal arts - 12%
  Montessori - 12%
  Reggio Emilia - 1%
  Waldorf - 2%

What Flex Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:

Flex Academy delivers the full British Columbia curriculum, Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12, with students graduating on the BC Dogwood Diploma. What makes it unique is how we teach it. For Jr. K-Grade 5 students have a fairly traditional school experience with unique outdoor and exploratory learning opportunities. In grades 6-12 our hybrid model pairs a digital curriculum that handles content delivery with relationship-focused teachers who design meaningful in-person learning applications. Every student has a personalized plan built around their gifts, goals, and pace, with flexible scheduling that makes room for sport, arts, service, and real-world experience. Robust inclusive-education support meets the full range of learners, from gifted students to those needing accommodations. And it's all Christ-centered: faith isn't a subject in the course schedule, but the foundation woven through how we teach and how we treat others.


Approach

Focus Religious-based
Academic Christian (Non-denominational)

If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Read our detailed guide to learn all about Christian education.

Pedagogies and subject courses:

  • Mathematics

    Traditional Math

    Mathematics approach at Flex Academy: Traditional Math

    Flex Academy has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Traditional Math?]

    Our Kids definition: Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

    Compare Flex Academy's Mathematics with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Traditional math - 27%
      Discovery math - 6%
      Equal balance - 67%

    What Flex Academy says:

    Our math approach builds from deep understanding toward confident independence. In the elementary years (K–8), we primarily use My Math Path, a BC-aligned program grounded in the Singapore Math framework. Its concrete-pictorial-abstract model means students first handle real manipulatives, then work with pictures, then move to numbers — so they learn the why behind the how, not just memorized steps. Problem-solving, hands-on activities, and real-world modelling build skill and perseverance from the start. As students move into high school (Grade 9 and up), we transition to StudyForge Math — interactive, BC-aligned digital courses spanning Foundations, Pre-Calculus and Calculus. Video lessons, digital manipulatives, and expert-designed problems let students work at a pace that develops mastery.

    Textbooks and supplementary materials:

    Kindergarten - Marshall Cavendish Mathematics Grade 1-7 - My Math Path Grade 8 - MathLinks: Pathway to Success Grade 9-12: StudyForge Math

    Calculator policy:

    Students supply their own calculator as they enter the grades where math requires one. A basic calculator is needed for Grade 6, and a scientific calculator for Grades 7 through 12. The same scientific calculator will serve students through the rest of their high school math courses.

  • Early Reading

    Phonics-intensive

    Early Reading approach at Flex Academy: Phonics-intensive

    Flex Academy has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).

    [Show: About Phonics-intensive?]

    Our Kids definition: Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

    Compare Flex Academy's Early Reading with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Phonics-intensive - 48%
      Whole language - 2%
      Balanced literacy - 50%

    What Flex Academy says:

    Our phonics-intensive foundation in Grades 1–5 is built on Logic of English, a structured, explicit program that teaches children how words work. Every student from Kindergarten through Grade 8 is also assessed with DIBELS two to three times a year. This research-backed screening shows us exactly where each child is at and catches a struggling reader early, before a small gap becomes a lasting one. When the data flags a student reading below grade level, we pull in supports. Our targeted reading support spans the full K–8 range and includes pull-out instruction, one-on-one time with reading specialists, and structured reading-recovery programs designed to close the gap. No child is quietly passed along, hoping reading will click later. We know that learning to read well is the foundation everything else is built on.

    DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

    What Flex Academy says:

    DIBELS assessments are completed 2-3 times/year to track student progress and ensure timely support and intervention when necessary.

  • Writing

    Equal balance

    Writing approach at Flex Academy: Equal balance

    Flex Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).

    [Show: About Equal balance?]

    Our Kids definition: Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

    Compare Flex Academy's Writing with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 78%
      Systematic approach - 11%
      Process approach - 11%

    What Flex Academy says:

    As writing fluency develops in the early years, we use the 6+1 Traits of Writing to give students and teachers a shared language for what strong writing looks like — ideas, organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, conventions, and presentation. The result is a balance we hold on purpose: plenty of real writing and creative freedom, supported by explicit instruction in grammar, sentence structure, and strategy. Children write often, get specific coaching, and steadily build both the skills and the confidence to say what they intend.

  • Science

    Equal Balance

    Science approach at Flex Academy: Equal Balance

    Flex Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).

    [Show: About Equal Balance?]

    Our Kids definition: Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.

    Compare Flex Academy's Science with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Equal balance - 68%
      Expository - 7%
      Inquiry - 25%

    Teaching approach:

    In Grades 1–5, our Explorations Program takes students to a farm every Friday for hands-on, farm-focused learning — where life cycles, seasons, weather, plants, and animals aren't diagrams in a book but things children touch, tend, and watch change week to week. That real-world foundation is paired with Nelson's BC Science resources, keeping instruction fully aligned to the provincial curriculum and its big ideas. Beginning in Grade 6, students move into StudyForge Science — interactive, BC-aligned digital courses that use video, simulations, and inquiry-based questions to build deeper conceptual understanding as the content grows more complex. Our online content learning through Grades 6-12 is paired with weekly lab blocks where students explore the scientific principles they are learning about.


    Treatment of evolution:

    SubjectOffered
    Evolution as consensus theory
    Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
    Evolution is not taught

    Topics covered in curriculum:

    SubjectOffered
    Biology
    Chemistry
    Ecology
    Geology
    Meteorology
    Physics
    Physiology
    Zoology
  • Literature

    Traditional

    Literature approach at Flex Academy: Traditional

    Flex Academy has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Traditional?]

    Our Kids definition: In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.

    Compare Flex Academy's Literature with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Traditional - 25%
      Social justice - 2%
      Equal balance - 73%

    What Flex Academy says:

    In our Foundations years, literature comes alive through rich novel studies — a deliberate mix of timeless classics and resonant contemporary titles — alongside independent reading through school-wide initiatives and each student's own pursuits. We select literature intentionally — guided by our Christ-centered values and a commitment to age-appropriate content.. In high school, that foundation deepens into serious literary study: English 10, grounded in Composition and Literary Studies, followed by Literary Studies 11 and English First Peoples 12, developing close reading, strong writing, and critical thinking.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Canadian lit
    American lit
    European (continental) lit
    World (non-Western) lit
    English lit
    Ancient lit
  • Social Studies

    Expanding Communities

    Social Studies approach at Flex Academy: Expanding Communities

    Flex Academy has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).

    [Show: About Expanding Communities?]

    Our Kids definition: The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

    Compare Flex Academy's Social Studies with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Expanding communities - 28%
      Core knowledge - 39%
      Thematic - 33%

    What Flex Academy says:

    Our K–6 Social Studies program aligns with the BC Curricular Standards. It starts with a child's own world and widens outward year by year. Students begin with themselves, their families, and identity, then move to their local community, then to Canada's regions and the wider world, and on to Indigenous peoples, Canadian history, and global systems.

  • Humanities and Social Sciences

    Pragmatism

    Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Flex Academy: Pragmatism

    Flex Academy has a Pragmatism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Pragmatism?]

    Our Kids definition: Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.

    Compare Flex Academy's Humanities and Social Sciences with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Pragmatism - 13%
      Perennialism - 8%
      Equal balance - 79%

    What Flex Academy says:

    In Grades 7–12, Social Studies focuses on learning that connects to students' real world and builds thinking skills they'll use. Rather than treating history and the social sciences as a fixed body of facts to memorize, we teach them as living disciplines: students investigate real questions, weigh evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and grapple with issues that matter now. The backbone is StudyForge's BC-aligned Social Studies courses — interactive, inquiry-driven digital coursework that lets students work at a mastery pace with video, primary sources, and questions designed to make them think, not just recall. We pair that with weekly in-person labs, where students discuss, debate, collaborate, and apply what they're learning face-to-face.

  • Foreign Languages

    Audio-Lingual

    Foreign Languages approach at Flex Academy: Audio-Lingual

    Flex Academy has an Audio-Lingual approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Communicative, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Audio-Lingual?]

    Our Kids definition: The audio-lingual method of teaching foreign languages emphasizes the use of repetition and a system of immediate reinforcement and feedback. The method makes particular use of oral drills where students are expected to correctly imitate (or intentionally alter) an utterance made by the teacher in the target language. Quizzes and worksheets are also used extensively.

    Compare Flex Academy's Foreign Languages with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Audio-lingual - 4%
      Communicative - 32%
      Equal balance - 64%

    What Flex Academy says:

    From Grades 5–9, every student explores Spanish as an elective built to be gentle, playful, and fun: real exposure to how a second language works, without the drills that make so many kids decide early they're "not language people." The goal at this stage is simple — spark interest and build confidence. Students who leave middle school eager for more can then pursue Spanish with greater depth and intention in high school. And because we're part of Heritage Christian Online School, students drawn to other languages aren't limited by our walls: through cross-enrollment with HCOS, they can take French, German, American Sign Language, and more alongside their Flex program.


    Language instruction offered in:

    SubjectOffered
    Chinese-Cantonese
    Chinese-Mandarin
    French
    German
    Greek
    Italian
    Japanese
    Hebrew
    Latin
    Russian
    Spanish
    ESL
  • Fine Arts

    Creative

    Fine Arts approach at Flex Academy: Creative

    Flex Academy has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).

    [Show: About Creative?]

    Our Kids definition: Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

    Compare Flex Academy's Fine Arts with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Creative - 36%
      Receptive - 1%
      Equal balance - 63%

    Program offers:

    SubjectOffered
    Acting
    Dance
    Drama/Theatre
    Graphic Design
    Music
    Visual Arts

    Visual studio philosophy:

    Expressive
    Disciplined

    What Flex Academy says:

    Visual art runs Jr. K–12, where students explore and are taught across a widening range of mediums and modalities — building technique and sophistication year over year, so creativity is matched by craft. Music is woven through our Foundations years, giving younger students an early, joyful grounding in rhythm, voice, and sound. And our theatre arts program is a genuine standout: a robust offering spanning dance, drama, and the backstage world of audio, visual, and production — so whether a student wants the spotlight or the soundboard, there's a real place for them. Beyond that – there is room for creativity at Flex everywhere you look! From leading worship at chapels, to doing set construction, to exploring photography through our yearbook courses, and more!

  • Computers and Technology

    Medium integration

    Computers and Technology approach at Flex Academy: Medium integration

    Flex Academy has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).

    [Show: About Medium integration?]

    Our Kids definition: Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

    Compare Flex Academy's Computers and Technology with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Medium integration - 52%
      Light integration - 22%
      Heavy integration - 26%

    What Flex Academy says:

    It surprises people, but for a hybrid school, we're deliberate about keeping digital technology in its place. Yes, digital curriculum is part of how we deliver content in Grades 6-12 — but when students are together on-site, in classes and lab blocks, the computer isn't the star. Hands-on learning, exploration, discussion, and real materials are. Screens are a tool we pick up when they're the right one, and set down when they're not. On digital literacy, we teach the skills students genuinely need for a connected world: touch typing, the intentional and wise use of AI, and the broader digital-citizenship topics woven throughout the BC curriculum — thinking critically about information, using tools responsibly, and staying safe online.


    Program covers:

    SubjectOffered
    Computer science
    Robotics
    Web design
  • Physical Education

    What Flex Academy says:

    Our Physical and Health Education program follows the BC curriculum, which treats physical and health education as one connected whole — because a healthy body, a healthy mind, and healthy relationships grow together. Because movement matters so much, we protect real time for it: students in Grades K–5 have 90 minutes of gym time each week, and students in Grades 6–12 have 150 if they are taking PHE. That time develops physical literacy through a wide range of movement — individual and team activities, games, and fundamental skills that build the competence and confidence to stay active for life. Alongside the physical, we teach the health side the curriculum calls for — informed choices about nutrition, safety, and substance use; healthy relationships; and mental well-being.

  • Religious Education

    We have one or two required religion courses.

    What Flex Academy says:

    Faith at Flex isn't a class students sit through — it's a way of forming whole people, and our Christian Studies program is built around three connected dimensions: Head, Heart, and Hands. Head is knowing: students engage directly with the Bible, moving across the grades from listening and retelling toward asking hard questions, thinking critically, and building a tested, confident biblical worldview of their own. Heart is becoming: we help students encounter God's love, reflect honestly on their relationship with him, and grow in character, so that what they believe and how they live line up. Hands is doing: faith put into action through service, caring for God's creation, and using their gifts to love their neighbours. Woven through it all are shared rhythms of spiritual growth and connection — daily devotions, weekly chapels, and retreats. Our goal isn't behaviour management or rote answers; it's students who own their faith, think deeply about it, and live it out.

  • Advanced Placement courses

    This information is not currently available.
  • Sex and health education

    British Columbia curriculum

    Sex and health education approach at Flex Academy: British Columbia curriculum

    Flex Academy has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

    [Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]

    Our Kids definition: The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

    Compare Flex Academy's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:
      Follows provincial curriculum - 57%
      Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 43%

    What Flex Academy says:

    This information is not currently available.

Preschool/K Curriculum Play-based

[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]

Preschools and kindergartens tend to have a particular curriculum or curricular approach. This refers to what is taught and how it's taught. Most preschools have a curriculum that comprises a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. A preschool's curriculum may or may not, though, reflect its higher-level curriculum (if it's part of a school with elementary or secondary programs)

Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Flex Academy: Play-based

Flex Academy has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).

[Show: About Play-based?]

Our Kids definition: Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

Compare Flex Academy's Preschool/K Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Play-based - 19%
  Montessori - 30%
  Waldorf - 2%
  Reggio emilia - 7%
  Academic - 42%

What Flex Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

We keep class sizes small and adult-to-student ratios high so every child gets the attention, warmth, and gentle guidance early learning depends on: more books read one-on-one, more hands held on the way to bravery, and staff who notice and care. We also build flexibility in from the very first years. Families who want a half-day Kindergarten option can choose it, easing little ones into school at a pace that fits them rather than forcing a full-day leap. Small, warm, and flexible — an early classroom experience where a child feels safe enough to fall in love with learning.

Language English

Learn about Flex Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.

Flex Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.

Language of enrolment include: English

Online Learning

Flex Academy's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.

Flex Academy offers online courses to students.

What Flex Academy says about their course flexibility:

In general, we expect online courses to be completed within the standard timeline of the school year. But— we can be flexible! Course enrolment is a decision that is made by families and the school working together to build an academic program that best supports the students goals and sometimes that involves unique start and end times.


Course schedule

PeriodGradesNumber of CoursesStart - End
Full year 10 to 12 20 Sep 08, 2026 — Jun 11, 2027

Course format

TypeOffered
Distance
Asynchronous
Synchronous

Academic support and services

TypeOffered
Dedicated teacher per course
Exam proctoring
Student progress tracker
Regular office hours
Additional support
Study groups
Special needs support

Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched

[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]

This refers to the rate at which students move through the curriculum (e.g., topics, textbook material, skills, etc.). Curriculum pace is often defined in comparison to provincial standards.

Curriculum Pace approach at Flex Academy: Standard-enriched

Flex Academy has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

[Show: About Standard-enriched?]

Our Kids definition: Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.

Compare Flex Academy's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Standard-enriched - 54%
  Accelerated - 18%
  Student-paced - 28%

What Flex Academy says about their curriculum pace:

Because our model is personalized and hybrid, enrichment is built in. Students ready for more can easily work ahead, take on additional courses, or stretch into deeper challenges without waiting for the class to catch up. We stay responsive — expanding opportunities to match each student's pace, passion, and potential.


Flexible pacing style

Type Offered
Subject-streaming (tracking)
Multi-age classrooms as standard
Ability-grouping (in-class) as common
Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace)
Regular guided independent study opportunities
Differentiated assessment

What Flex Academy says about their flexible pacing:

Learning isn't one-speed here. Our hybrid model lets students move at a pace that fits them — speeding through concepts they grasp quickly, taking the time they need on the ones they don't. No one is rushed past confusion or held back by the clock.

Academic Culture Supportive

[Show definition of Academic Culture]

Through the collective mindset of teachers, administrators, students, and parents, each school develops and maintains its own academic culture. This generally relates to the norms and expectations created around academic performance. Many parents look to private schools because they want a specific type of culture. Some want a rigorous environment that will elevate their child to new heights. Others want a nurturing environment that will help their child develop a passion for learning.

Academic Culture approach at Flex Academy: Supportive

Flex Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).

[Show: About Supportive?]

Our Kids definition: A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

Compare Flex Academy's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:
  Supportive - 49%
  Rigorous - 51%

What Flex Academy says about their academic culture:

Our academic culture holds two things together: high expectations and high support. We believe every student is capable of real growth, so we set a genuine bar — but we measure each child against their own progress and potential, not a class ranking. Mastery matters more than speed; students are pushed to truly understand, not just complete. Because learning is personalized, students help set goals, track their progress, and advocate for what they need. And because kids learn best when they feel safe, we've built a culture where effort and honest struggle are respected, mistakes are part of learning, and no one is left to sink. High standards, held with care.

Developmental priorities Balanced

[Show definition of Developmental priorities]

Schools have specific goals regarding how they want their educate and develop their students. This is part of a school's overall philosophy or vision, which is contained in its mission statement. While they tend have several developmental aims, schools tend to priortize certain aims, such as intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, or physical development.

Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced

Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

What Flex Academy says about their developmental priorities:

We chose "balanced," but that deserves a word of clarification. We're a school, so intellectual growth is a high priority — we care deeply about academic strength, critical thinking, and a real love of learning. But we don't treat that as separate from emotional development. We've learned that a child who feels safe, known, and emotionally supported is a child who can learn deeply; nurturing the heart isn't a nice extra alongside the mind — the two are completely integrated. Woven through all of it is spiritual growth, a central part of who we are and how we form students. So "balanced," for us, doesn't mean equal-but-separate. It means integrated: all areas developing together, each strengthening the others.

Special needs support Full-time Dedicated Class

[Show definition of Special needs support]

Schools offer a wide range of approaches and services to support students with special needs. This may include individualized learning, one-on-one support, small classes, resource rooms, and learning aids. These supports may be provided in a number of different environments such as a dedicated special needs school or class, an integrated class, a withdrawal class, or a regular class with resource support or in-class adaptations.

Flex Academy offers Full-time Dedicated Class

Students are placed in a separate special education class.

What Flex Academy says about their special need support:

When a learning difficulty emerges — whether a child arrives with a diagnosis or it surfaces along the way — we lean in. Our inclusive education program is built for exactly this: we flag needs early, set clear targets, and put strong supports in place, coordinated through a tight team around each student — principal, teacher, educational assistant, Learning Coach, our Inclusive Education Case Manager, and the external professionals in a family's corner. No child is quietly left to struggle. While we have a very robust and effective department, we have caps on how many students we enrol and support at a time in each grade level and as it relates to support profiles.

A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Indirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:

Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
  • Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
  • Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
  • Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
  • Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

Read our guide to special needs schools and special education


Academic support

TypeOffered
Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities

TypeOffered
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support

Additional support

TypeOffered
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy

Gifted learner support In-class adaptations

[Show definition of Gifted learner support]

Schools support students with gifted or advanced learning abilities in a several ways. Whether they offer a full-time gifted program or part-time support, they normally provide some form of accelerated learning (delivering content at a faster pace) or enrichment (covering content more broadly or deeply). Many schools also offer a wide range of in-class adaptations to support advanced learners, such as guided independent studies, project-based learning, and career exploration.

Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment

There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.

Class structure

Program Offered
Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school)
Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class)

In-class adaptations

Program Offered
Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement)
Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement)
Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement)
Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement)
Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others)
Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement)
Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement)
Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement)
Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement)

What Flex Academy says about their gifted learner support:

This information is not currently available.

Homework Policy

[Show definition of Homework Policy]

Homework is work that's assigned to students for completion outside of regular class time. There's a long-standing debate over homework. Should homework be assigned to school-age children? If so, in what grades? And how much homework should be assigned? In selecting the right school for your child, it's important to look closely at a school's homework policy.

Nightly homework

In grade Gr. 12, Flex Academy students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.

JKSK123456789101112
Flex Academy0 mins15 mins15 mins15 mins15 mins30 mins30 mins30 mins30 mins45 mins45 mins60 mins90 mins90 mins
Site Average6 mins7 mins16 mins19 mins26 mins31 mins37 mins44 mins56 mins60 mins75 mins84 mins100 mins107 mins

What Flex Academy says about their flipped classroom policy:

This information is not currently available.

Report Card Policy

[Show definition of Report Card Policy]

While all schools measure individual progress and achievement in students, they have different ways of doing this. For instance, many traditional schools gauge progress through report cards, which give students lettered or numbered grades. Other schools, meanwhile, measure progress in other ways, either in addition to or instead of giving grades. For instance, they may offer prose-based feedback (i.e, comments), academic achievement reporting, habits and behaviour reporting, and parent-teacher meetings. In choosing the right school for your child, take a close look at its policy for measuring the individual progress of students.

How assessments are delivered across the grades

TypeGrades
Lettered or numbered gradesSK to Gr. 12
Prose (narrative)-based feedbackJK to Gr. 12
Academic achievement reportingJK to SK
Habits and behaviour reportingJK to SK
Parent-teacher meetingsJK to Gr. 12
 

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