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Heritage Christian Online School ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at HCOS: Progressive
HCOS has a Progressive approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Progressive?]
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:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at HCOS: Equal Balance
HCOS has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at HCOS: Balanced Literacy
HCOS has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at HCOS: Equal balance
HCOS has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Science approach at HCOS: Equal Balance
HCOS has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
This information is not currently available.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at HCOS: Equal Balance
HCOS has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at HCOS: Core Knowledge
HCOS has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at HCOS: Equal Balance
HCOS has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at HCOS: Equal Balance
HCOS has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at HCOS: Equal Balance
HCOS has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at HCOS: Heavy integration
HCOS has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What HCOS says:
At HCOS, physical and health education (PHE) follows the BC curriculum and treats the body, mind, and relationships as one connected whole, rooted in caring for the bodies God has given us. Because students learn at home and in their communities, PHE is personalized. Under the guidance of their BC certified teacher, families build activity into each student’s learning plan through sports, dance, swimming, hiking, martial arts and other pursuits they already love. Many students also take PHE in a class setting at Community Connections, our weekly on-site programs across BC, where teachers lead games, team activities and fundamental movement skills. Specialized programs such as wilderness leadership take learning outdoors. Teachers assess growth in physical literacy alongside the health side of the curriculum: nutrition, safety, healthy relationships and mental well-being. The goal is for students to have the skills, confidence, and joy to stay active for life.
Religious Education
What HCOS says:
Christ is the foundation of how we teach, how we build relationships and how we partner with families. We walk alongside families as they disciple their children at home, and our teachers build authentic, Christ-centred relationships with every student. Christian Studies is part of each student’s learning plan, from Bible stories in the early years to deeper questions of worldview and faith in high school, and teachers integrate a biblical perspective across every subject. Faith is also lived out in community through worship and devotions in our in-person and online programs, as well as service opportunities, including international trips. Our hope is shaped by the HCOS Learner Profile: students who approach the world with curiosity, compassion and courage, who own their faith, and who use their gifts to serve God and others.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at HCOS: British Columbia curriculum
HCOS has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
HCOS has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).[Show: About Fairly value-based?]HCOS has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).[Show: About Traditional?]What HCOS says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at HCOS: Play-based
HCOS has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Play-based?]
What HCOS says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
This information is not currently available.
Language
Learn about Heritage Christian Online School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
HCOS offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Online Learning
Heritage Christian Online School'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.
Heritage Christian Online School offers online courses to students.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at HCOS: Student-paced
HCOS has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What HCOS says about their curriculum pace:
HCOS builds a personalized learning plan for every student with a BC certified teacher. Students can take individualized courses that follow their interests and the family’s schedule; synchronous or face-to-face courses that follow a set schedule with classmates; or asynchronous online courses completed at their own pace.
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 HCOS says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at HCOS: Supportive
HCOS has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What HCOS says about their academic culture:
At HCOS, students work toward the BC learning standards through a personalized learning plan, and growth is measured against their own goals and progress, not a class ranking. Students are expected to engage, complete meaningful work and show understanding, with regular feedback and assessment throughout the year. As students mature, they take on more ownership, setting goals with their teachers and advocating for what they need. Mistakes and honest struggle are treated as part of learning. We hold high expectations alongside high support.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
What HCOS says about their developmental priorities:
We want HCOS graduates to know who they are in Christ and how they learn, and to carry that into whatever God calls them to next. Our HCOS Learner Profile describes the people we hope to shape: students who approach the world with curiosity, compassion and courage, and a desire to serve. Academic growth matters as one part of forming the whole person alongside spiritual, emotional and social growth. Home education gives families room to nurture character and faith in everyday life, while teachers, advisors and community programs help students build independence, resilience and friendships. Our alumni show the result: graduates using their gifts in further education, the workforce and missions, locally and around the world.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
What HCOS says about their special need support:
HCOS’s Inclusive Education program supports learners with diverse abilities from kindergarten to graduation. Because students learn at home, online, and in community programs, accommodations apply in every setting: extended time, flexible pacing, alternative formats for demonstrating learning, reduced workloads, assistive technology, and learning environments adapted to how each child learns best. When a student needs modified learning outcomes, their Individual Education Plan sets goals that align with their abilities, and students can graduate with a BC Dogwood Diploma or a School Completion Certificate. Each designated student has an Inclusive Education case manager who coordinates the team around them: family, teachers, educational assistants who work directly with students, and specialized professionals such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists and psychologists. Learning Support coaches help families choose strategies and resources, and the Learning Commons provides materials suited to different learning needs. Plans are reviewed regularly so support changes as the student grows.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (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.DyscalculiaThis 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.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis 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 DeficitA 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.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers 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 SyndromeOn 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 syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis 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 syndromeThis 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.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled 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 DepressionThis 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 anxietyThis 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 thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis 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.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis 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 palsyhis 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 dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis 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.BlindnessVisual 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."DeafnessHearing 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 FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What HCOS says:
When a student begins to struggle, their teacher and family notice early and act together. Our educators help assess needs, adjust learning environments and strategies, and build an individualized plan. If a student is designated, an Inclusive Education case manager partners with the family to create an Individual Education Plan, with support from educational assistants and specialized professionals. Because every program is personalized, adjustments fit into the student’s plan. We would not advise against enrolment because of a diagnosis; many students with learning disabilities thrive here. What matters is fit: home education asks parents to be daily partners, so we talk honestly with each family about the support their child needs and how we provide it together.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
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 HCOS says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, HCOS students perform an average of >2 hours of homework per night.
| K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HCOS | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 120 mins | 120 mins | 160 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 57 mins | 61 mins | 78 mins | 87 mins | 104 mins | 111 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
What HCOS says about their flipped classroom policy:
HCOS doesn’t use a formal flipped classroom policy, but much of our model works that way: students explore content through online lessons and resources, then apply it with their teacher in live online sessions, Community Connections classes, or one-on-one check-ins.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 10 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | K to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | K to Gr. 9 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | K to Gr. 12 |
