Sacred Heart School of Halifax ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS

Summary

Curriculum
Traditional
Preschool/K Curriculum
Play-based
Language
trilingual
Curriculum Pace
Standard-enriched
Academic Culture
Rigorous
Developmental priorities
Balanced
Special needs support
No support
Gifted learner support
No Support

Page Contents

Insider community voices
Facts and analysis
Qualitative insights

Insider community voices

Hear directly from Sacred Heart School of Halifax community as they share insights into the Academics.

Leadership

Dennis Phillips

Describes the typical student journey at the school.

Curriculum Traditional

[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 Sacred Heart: Traditional

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

[Show: About Traditional?]

Our Kids definition: Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.

Compare Sacred Heart's Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:

Traditional - 38%
Liberal arts - 12%
Progressive - 35%
Montessori - 12%
Reggio Emilia - 1%
Waldorf - 2%

International curriculum & programs at Sacred Heart: Duke of Edinburgh's Award

What Sacred Heart says about their overall curriculum and approach:

Students develop a strong foundation of academic excellence, through good study habits, solid organizational skills, critical thinking, and self-confidence. We also use an Advanced Placement (AP) program in Senior School.

Approach

Focus	Religious-based
Academic	Christian (Roman Catholic)

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.
If you want to learn more about Catholic education, check out our comprehensive guide.

Pedagogies and subject courses:

Mathematics
Traditional Math

Mathematics approach at Sacred Heart: Traditional Math
Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Mathematics with other schools on OurKids.net:

Traditional math - 27%
Discovery math - 5%
Equal balance - 68%

What Sacred Heart 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.
Early Reading
Balanced Literacy

Early Reading approach at Sacred Heart: Balanced Literacy
Sacred Heart has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]
Our Kids definition: Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.

Compare Sacred Heart's Early Reading with other schools on OurKids.net:

Balanced literacy - 50%
Phonics-intensive - 48%
Whole language - 2%

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Writing
Equal balance

Writing approach at Sacred Heart: Equal balance
Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Writing with other schools on OurKids.net:

Equal balance - 78%
Systematic approach - 11%
Process approach - 11%

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Science
Equal Balance

Science approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance
Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Science with other schools on OurKids.net:

Equal balance - 68%
Expository - 6%
Inquiry - 26%

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
Equal Balance

Literature approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance
Sacred Heart has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]
Our Kids definition: These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

Compare Sacred Heart's Literature with other schools on OurKids.net:

Equal balance - 73%
Traditional - 25%
Social justice - 2%

What Sacred Heart 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
Expanding Communities

Social Studies approach at Sacred Heart: Expanding Communities
Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Social Studies with other schools on OurKids.net:

Expanding communities - 27%
Core knowledge - 40%
Thematic - 33%

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Equal Balance

Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance
Sacred Heart has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]
Our Kids definition: These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

Compare Sacred Heart's Humanities and Social Sciences with other schools on OurKids.net:

Equal balance - 79%
Perennialism - 8%
Pragmatism - 13%

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Equal Balance

Foreign Languages approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance
Sacred Heart has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]
Our Kids definition: These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

Compare Sacred Heart's Foreign Languages with other schools on OurKids.net:

Equal balance - 65%
Audio-lingual - 3%
Communicative - 32%

What Sacred Heart 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
Equal Balance

Fine Arts approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance
Sacred Heart has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]
Our Kids definition: These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

Compare Sacred Heart's Fine Arts with other schools on OurKids.net:

Equal balance - 64%
Receptive - 1%
Creative - 35%

Program offers:

Subject Offered
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts

Visual studio philosophy:

Expressive
Disciplined
What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Medium integration

Computers and Technology approach at Sacred Heart: Medium integration
Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Computers and Technology with other schools on OurKids.net:

Medium integration - 50%
Light integration - 23%
Heavy integration - 27%

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.

Program covers:

Subject Offered
Computer science
Robotics
Web design
Physical Education

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Religious Education
We have one or two required religion courses.

What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
6 courses
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Chemistry
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP European History
- AP French Language
Sex and health education
Not Nova Scotia curriculum

Sex and health education approach at Sacred Heart: Not Nova Scotia curriculum
Sacred Heart has a Not Nova Scotia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Nova Scotia curriculum?]
Our Kids definition: The sex education curriculum does NOT follow the provincial one taught in public schools - either in terms of structure, pacing, focus, and/or tone.

Compare Sacred Heart's Sex and health education with other schools on OurKids.net:

Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 42%
Follows provincial curriculum - 58%

Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral
Sacred Heart has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).
[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]
Our Kids definition: By and large, students are taught about sex free of any particular moral or ethical standpoint. The school doesn't impose any particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) on students when teaching sex and related issues.
What Sacred Heart says:
This information is not currently available.

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

Subject	Offered
Biology
Chemistry
Ecology
Geology
Meteorology
Physics
Physiology
Zoology

Subject	Offered
Canadian lit
American lit
European (continental) lit
World (non-Western) lit
English lit
Ancient lit

Subject	Offered
Chinese-Cantonese
Chinese-Mandarin
French
German
Greek
Italian
Japanese
Hebrew
Latin
Russian
Spanish
ESL

Subject	Offered
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts

Subject	Offered
Computer science
Robotics
Web design

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 Sacred Heart: Play-based

Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Preschool/K Curriculum with other schools on OurKids.net:

Play-based - 18%
Montessori - 30%
Waldorf - 2%
Reggio emilia - 7%
Academic - 43%

What Sacred Heart says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

In our JP program, play is encouraged, yet purposeful, and structured learning is enriching, exciting, and fun. We nurture the best in your child while laying the foundation for spiritual, emotional, and social growth.

Language trilingual

Learn about Sacred Heart School of Halifax's languages of instruction and enrolment.

Sacred Heart is a trilingual school with English, French, Spanish as the primary language of instruction


English - 70%							French - 20%		Spanish - 10%

Language of enrolment include: English

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 Sacred Heart: Standard-enriched

Sacred Heart 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 Sacred Heart's Curriculum Pace with other schools on OurKids.net:

Standard-enriched - 54%
Accelerated - 18%
Student-paced - 28%

What Sacred Heart says about their curriculum pace:

This information is not currently available.

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 Sacred Heart says about their flexible pacing:

This information is not currently available.

Academic Culture Rigorous

[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 Sacred Heart: Rigorous

Sacred Heart has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).

[Show: About Rigorous?]

Our Kids definition: A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

Compare Sacred Heart's Academic Culture with other schools on OurKids.net:

Rigorous - 52%
Supportive - 48%

What Sacred Heart says about their academic culture:

This information is not currently available.

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 Sacred Heart says about their developmental priorities:

We are renowned for academic excellence. It starts with small classes, a relational approach to teaching, and a tailored approach to students. We nurture a love of learning early in our Elementary School with a solid academic foundation that develops the whole child. We then build on that foundation in the Senior School with a rigorous curriculum, a focus on critical thinking, and encouragement of a growth mindset. We adhere to our Five Goals, which call on us to educate our students with faith, a deep respect for intellectual values, social awareness that impels to action, building of community, and personal growth. Our goal is for our students to be the best in the world and for the world.

Special needs support No support

[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.

Sacred Heart offers No support

Sacred Heart offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.

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

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

Additional support

Type	Offered
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy

Gifted learner support No Support

[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: Enrichment

The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.

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 Sacred Heart says about their gifted learner support:

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

Type	Grades
Lettered or numbered grades	JK to Gr. 12
Prose (narrative)-based feedback	JK to Gr. 12
Parent-teacher meetings	JK to Gr. 9

Qualitative insights

These insights are based on conversations with parents, alumni, and school leadership. Handpicked and curated by our editor, they offer a close look at how the school is experienced and perceived by those who know it best.

The school supports holistic and experiential development.

Comments from the school community underscore Sacred Heart’s dedication to nurturing well-rounded development through public speaking, sports, arts, life skills, and various experiential opportunities that connect classroom learning with real-world contexts.

The focus on the ‘whole child’ is not just a slogan. At Sacred Heart, they genuinely work to ensure each child develops fully. It became clear after my boys had been there a few months that the school really does focus on every aspect of the child, not just academics. They work on public speaking, sports, arts, and personal development. For example, my oldest son was able to speak French fluently during a trip to Cape Breton, and both boys have become comfortable giving speeches in public. They also play hockey both for the school and in local associations.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

The academics are very strong, but the school also focuses on the whole child. Not every student will have the top marks, and that’s okay—there’s so much more to education than grades. The school helps students develop a wide range of skills, including public speaking, which starts early. In elementary school, before any assembly, students practice speaking at the right pace and volume, and they adjust the microphone themselves. Watching young children confidently step up and speak is wonderful. These are lifelong skills that prepare them for the future.

—Heidi Sapp, parent (see full discussion)

The boys are proud of their achievements in academics, band, and extracurricular activities. Sometimes they were initially hesitant about trying something new, but with encouragement from parents and teachers, they gave it a shot and succeeded. They have both joined the curling club, enjoy the band program, and are proud of their academic results.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

The first thing I would say to parents searching for a school is to think carefully as a family about what you value. Private school requires a significant commitment, so it is important to be clear about what you want for your child. If you value strong academics, developing the whole child, and raising children who care about making a difference in the world, I would strongly recommend Sacred Heart School of Halifax. It is an incredible school, and we are grateful our boys are part of it.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

My children are happy to be at Sacred Heart, and I am pleased that they get to be in an environment that both nurtures and challenges them. This past month, I was invited to be an audience member as my daughter did her first bit of public speaking for a Christmas Advent ceremony. I was incredibly proud of her and delighted that Sacred Heart encourages opportunities such as these to practice valuable skills and develop confidence in the process. Sacred Heart is full of learning and growth for my children, and it’s easy to see this by simply walking through the school. When I first toured the school, I was immediately struck by the pride the children take in their work and how that work is showcased for all to see. Elementary school artwork covers the hallway corridors, middle school book reviews are posted outside classroom doorways, and science projects are exhibited in the school library. It is truly lovely to see a snapshot of school work (and school life!) so proudly displayed at Sacred Heart.

—Leona Milne, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

Sacred School of Halifax is located very close to the historic downtown of the City of Halifax, widely considered one of the best cities to live in Canada. The school is across the street from the historic Halifax Spring Garden, a Victorian-era public garden that is one of the city's most popular draws. The school's location means students are within walking distance to numerous museums, theatres, the city and provincial legislature, universities, centres of excellence, and various resources. The school takes full advantage of this throughout the year, using its location to provide world-class experiential learning to its students.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning 2017) (see full review)

Small class sizes enhance academic rigor and personal connections.

Testimonials from families reveal that Sacred Heart's smaller class sizes are instrumental in providing a strong academic foundation, fostering close teacher-student relationships, and ensuring personalized attention.

The small class sizes at Sacred Heart were very beneficial, and I’m still friends with every single person in my graduating class. A few of them are at Dal with me now, and when everyone comes back during the summer, it’s amazing to see everybody again. That shows the impact Sacred Heart has had in maintaining such a tight-knit community. My friends and I still visit Sacred Heart from time to time to say hi to our old teachers and even to younger students or siblings. Sacred Heart really does a great job at making everyone feel welcome and part of a community.

—Ishan Mukhida, alum (see full discussion)

Academics have been another strong point. My older son appreciates the small class sizes, which allow for close relationships with teachers. If he struggles with a concept, he can easily get extra help. He is in an advanced math class, and the smaller classes make it straightforward to get clarification. My younger son’s favourite tradition is “Congé,” a Sacred Heart tradition where, on a random day, students arrive expecting a normal day but instead get a full day of fun activities: movie outings, bouncy castles, food trucks, and ice cream. He loves Congé, which shows the school balances rigorous academics with joy.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

Academically, the school prepared me well for the transition to university. The Advanced Placement (AP) program gave me a strong foundation, especially in math and science. I remember referring to my high school notes during my first-year university courses, which shows how well the material was taught. Small class sizes meant you couldn’t hide, but they also ensured personalized feedback and regular check-ins. Although the course offerings were more limited than larger schools, the quality of instruction more than made up for it. The structured, focused approach helped me build study habits that I still rely on in graduate school.

—Kogie Esteban, alum, MSc Chemistry Candidate (see full interview)

I first heard about Sacred Heart School of Halifax through a colleague, who strongly recommended it to me. I met with the head of admissions, and took a tour. The tour is what really made the difference. Once I saw the incredible facilities, the smaller class sizes, the well-behaved students, and the exceptional quality of their work, I was sold.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

At Sacred Heart, the classroom sizes are just right. In the co-ed elementary school, class sizes for our children have hovered around 12 children per class. This allows the kids to make close friends and take full advantage of learning but it also means that they can change their seating around and get to know other classmates and groups. I've seen real growth in my children's social skills since we arrived at the school. In the Junior High, the class sizes are similar, but our girls are in a classroom of their peers and the boys are in a separate school. The dynamic in our first two years was positive, older kids were often partnered with younger kids for reading "buddies" and mentorship. This year, we don't have the same level of options, but I'm confident that they'll return.

—Jennifer Derwey Deane, parent (beginning 2018) (see full review)

Our child loves going to school now. She loves being truly engaged in the classroom, which is always interactive and creative. A small class means more opportunities to participate and have her voice heard. She feels welcomed into the classroom, and the emphasis on being kind, caring, and respectful means that learning how to get along in a group is done collaboratively and with great care and attention from the teachers. She loves all the additional aspects of being at Sacred Heart and is getting to participate in things that she might not have had the confidence to do otherwise, such as intramural sports, musical theatre, and science clubs. Getting outside three times a day and having access to nearby green spaces are also favorite things for her. We love that too!

—Catherine Phinney, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

My son’s experience at Sacred Heart was very positive, and I think the biggest influencing factor was the size of the school. Joining the school in grade 9 could have been quite a difficult transition for him, but this tight-knit community embraced him immediately. The friendships he gained during his time there would probably be considered the most positive part of his overall experience. However, I also believe that the size of the school was a great benefit to him, from an academic point of view as well. Because the teachers are focused on a limited number of students, each of those students gets an enormous amount of attention. This attention really helped my son to work to his full potential and achieve results far beyond those he was getting when he first arrived.

—Mary Shakespeare, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

The curriculum is flexible and tailored to individual needs.

Feedback from parents and students highlights Sacred Heart's commitment to offering a flexible curriculum that caters to diverse student interests and learning paths, allowing for a personalized educational experience.

Sacred Heart stood out because of its flexibility within the curriculum and willingness to tailor programs to meet our kids’ needs. Sacred Heart stood out because of its flexibility within the curriculum and willingness to tailor programs to meet our kids’ needs.

—Mary Shakespeare, parent (beginning in Gr. 9) (see full interview)

For our family, the academic program at Sacred Heart was sufficiently broad to address the learning needs and interests of a range of students. While academic excellence was clearly a priority, the programming allowed for students who were not naturally inclined or interested in top academic performance to be challenged to reach higher and positioned to be successful at the top of their potential. Our eldest daughter attended Sacred Heart for Grades 11 and 12. Academically inclined and capable, she found that she was challenged by the academic programming and learned in an environment that made it 'safe' to pursue academic excellence, to challenge ideas and thinking and to excel. Our younger daughter is less academically inclined and we appreciated the range of teaching approaches that teachers at all grade levels were able to bring to engage her and to encourage her to achieve.

—Anna Stuart, parent (beginning 2008) (see full review)

The school academic program in lower elementary involves a concurrent stream of both English and French learning. They spend a half-day in both languages and have two primary teachers, switching classrooms after lunch. This has been the perfect balance for our family, as it avoided the frustrations of French Immersion we had experienced in the past with our older kids. I also think the switch of classrooms helps younger kids stay engaged. For our daughters in Junior High, they have the opportunity to test themselves in the advanced stream, but more importantly, they're given exams beginning in Grade 7. Taking exams is a skill in and of itself, and the school recognizes that and seeks to teach children the art of exam-taking in a low-risk environment. The children are encouraged to challenge themselves, but they're also met where they are at when they're struggling.

—Jennifer Derwey Deane, parent (beginning 2018) (see full review)

Faith and service are central to personal and academic growth.

Insights from community members reveal that Sacred Heart School of Halifax’s inclusive Catholic foundation encourages students to embark on a dual journey of spiritual and academic discovery, emphasizing service to others and making a difference in the world.

One of the best parts of my experience has been how well Sacred Heart has prepared me, not just academically but personally. The combination of academics and meaningful opportunities has helped me feel ready for university and beyond. I’ve been at Sacred Heart my whole life, and I truly believe the school’s core values and faith-based foundation have shaped who I am today. They’ve instilled in me integrity and confidence. One experience that really stood out to me was the required university prep class we took in Grade 10. It opened my eyes to everything I needed to do to build a strong college application and made the future feel less overwhelming. Another example is how I took a pre-college course through Cornell this summer and did really well, which I think reflects how the rigour at Sacred Heart prepared me for a fast-paced environment.

—Myla Murphy, student (see full discussion)

Sacred Heart Halifax is a Catholic school for students of all faiths. That inclusivity is central to who we are. Spirituality here is approached as a process of discovery rather than simply teaching rules of faith. Students and families partner with the school, and the journey involves both spiritual and academic growth. The goal is for students to discover who they are and how they can make a difference in the world. Service to others is integral to this mission, helping students think beyond themselves and fostering an outward-looking perspective.

—Dennis Phillips, Head of School (see full interview)

I am not exaggerating when I say that Sacred Heart is the reason my daughter was successful at school and able to enrol in and now perform very well in university. We transferred her to Sacred Heart because it was clear that she had fallen into the cracks in public school and no one intended to pull her out. From the time she joined the school, she didn't look back! She enjoyed the balance of academic programming and extracurricular activity, the relational approach that teachers have with students, she felt cared for and seen, and was able to blossom as a leader. My daughter is active in her Catholic faith and she found the school to be a welcoming place to express and practice her faith in a lived rather than in a rules-based way.

—Anna Stuart, parent (beginning 2008) (see full review)

First and foremost, Sacred Heart School of Halifax has five goals, like other Sacred Schools around the world. These are to have a personal and active faith in God, to have a deep respect for intellectual values, to have social awareness that impels to action, the building of community as a Christian value, and to have personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom. These goals and this focus underpin Sacred Heart School of Halifax's approach to school life. This has resulted in the school having a rich and thoughtful school environment in which students feel welcome and are eager to participate. Our children love going to school at Sacred Heart School of Halifax. Their school life is one that is academically challenging but one where they are encouraged to try new things, have support in learning, and feel that they are becoming better people every day at school.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning 2017) (see full review)

Experienced faculty and a personalized teaching approach enhance learning.

Testimonials from parents and alumni emphasize the dedication of Sacred Heart's teachers, who cater to diverse learning styles, challenge students academically, and foster individual student-teacher connections.

Sacred Heart's teaching is set apart! My daughter's teachers demonstrated an understanding of my daughter's unique learning style, her interests and her potential. They definitely held her to a higher standard of performance than she would have set for herself and were challenging and supportive in the right measure. When my daughter was falling behind (often in March when she became exhausted by the routine of winter), the teachers were quick to flag this for us, to develop strategies to help us support our daughter and to ensure appropriate pathways for recovery. We received insightful and honest feedback on our daughter's academic performance at each grade level. We always had the sense that our daughter's teachers had a sincere interest in her learning and were never just going through the motions. The teachers demonstrated a clear grasp of their respective subject matter and a strong grounding in personal development. We found that the amount and nature of homework were appropriate to prepare our daughter for higher education but not so burdensome that it interfered with an active extracurricular life.

—Anna Stuart, parent (beginning 2008) (see full review)

Our kids entered the school and different ages of elementary, but we've seen each one of them develop and gain strengths over the past 3 years at the school. I admit that our youngest wasn't an eager learner at home, she resisted reading and writing, but just this week she wrote a poem all about her love of books. She's also been developing a love and mastery of French, which I envy! Our older children have started to fine-tune their interests, notably in robotics, science and sports, and they have instructors who have brought those fields to life at Sacred Heart. The school is hands-down 100% responsible for the love of robotics and science, as my husband and I are both in the humanities. During the pandemic, the teachers have managed to make even the remote learning (when we've had to use this option) accessible and engaging.

—Jennifer Derwey Deane, parent (beginning 2018) (see full review)

The teachers at Sacred Heart School of Halifax are excellent; this is one of the main reasons we chose the school -- because parents of other kids who know the school vouched for the high standards of the teaching faculty. This cuts across the various dimensions of teaching. First, it is on rare occasions that our children have had a teacher that isn't demonstrably capable, or highly capable in a particular subject. On rare occasion, depending on juggling of staff transitions or other transient factors, there are inevitably gaps, where the overall caliber of one particular teacher in a given class doesn't quite measure up to a counterpart from a previous year. But by and large, the teachers' capabilities are not just good; they are great. This goes beyond their own pedagogical expertise. They are 'good' in the sense that, through regular parent-teacher meetings and other communications channels, it is clear how individualized the instruction is. There is never a moment of, "Oh...let me remind myself who your son/daughter is." Most important, what is apparent amongst the faculty is that they see the kids' education as much more than academics. The teaching staff at Sacred Heart cares deeply about nurturing the 'whole child'. This is invaluable because, for us at least, the big picture of getting a kid from primary through to graduation after Grade 12 always has to do with much more than how they did on their math exam; it's about building well-adjusted young adults, ready for a meaningful life where they can be valuable contributors to greater society.

—Gord Cooper, parent (beginning 2015) (see full review)

The teaching at Sacred Heart is what made all the difference for me. The quality of instruction and personal connections teachers make with students really pushes students to be successful. The dynamic between teacher and student I would say is informal with a level of respect. The teachers were who made us passionate about our classes through their passion. They were creative, unique and always adaptable to what was best for the students in the class. For instance, when studying Shakespeare our English teacher Ms. McGuire didn’t just have us read it, she had us understand, watch it and act it out in class to truly grasp an understanding of what we were learning. Ms. Blaine went to extra lengths to use our class to not only teach us dynamic history but also prepare us for university by using different lecture styles and teaching us different note-taking types to help us as students find what style suited us best so that we were prepared when heading off to university. The supportive environment for presentations and original work really gave us confidence and had a positive impact on both our academic and personal development. The teachers at SHSH go the extra mile and that is what really prepared me for university.

—Ailin Chant, alum (2014-2017) (see full review)

The academics at Sacred Heart definitely challenged you however, with the options between academic and advanced classes and a supportive culture it was the right type of challenge. Students could often be competitive due to the academic focus of the school but not to a point where it would do anything but motivate others. In terms of academics, I think Sacred Heart’s strengths lie with its great teachers, small class sizes, individualized extra help, and adaptable teaching styles. Where there may be weakness is what every small school faces in terms of how many different diverse classes they can offer. However, Sacred Heart did a pretty good job with trying to make that happen. Overall, having classes all year round, writing exams in December and June, and being supportively challenged really prepared me for university. I found that it wasn’t too different from high school which made the transition a lot easier and allowed me to enjoy my university experience more. This was not something all my classmates at university experienced, so I knew it was my time at Sacred Heart that prepared me.

—Ailin Chant, alum (2014-2017) (see full review)

I am very pleased with the teaching at Sacred Heart, as the faculty are attentive and eager to cater their teaching to my child's abilities and interests. One example would be my Grade 1 daughter's homeroom teacher, who spends time each week reading with her to gauge her reading progress. This teacher then crafts an individualized reading program for my daughter, complete with a curated collection of bedtime books to keep her engaged and challenged. It is simply wonderful! This level of attention is very much the norm, as I have similarly witnessed other teachers sitting with students, one-on-one, reviewing essays, solving math problems, and discussing music sheets. It is truly refreshing to see this level of attention from faculty who have a genuine interest in my child's learning and development. I am confident that the attentive teaching at Sacred Heart will prepare my child for future studies and instill in them a true love of learning.

—Leona Milne, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

All of the teachers who have been part of our child’s learning have been wonderful, engaged, enthusiastic, and forthcoming. We have been extremely impressed with their communication and willingness to take the time to discuss our child’s needs. Any areas that might benefit from special attention have been communicated to us in a timely way, with suggestions made to support and enrich our child’s learning. Each child is recognized as an individual. Teachers meet their students where they are at, teaching to their particular strengths and aptitudes. The quality of instruction is exceptional, with teachers engaging students’ curiosity in relevant and creative ways. Our child comes home excited to share what she has learned, something that carries over into her curiosity about the world outside of school.

—Catherine Phinney, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

The teaching at Sacred Heart School of Halifax was truly exceptional. The teachers were not just educators — for me, especially as an international student far from home, they became like second parents. They provided constant support, encouragement, and guidance, and they played a huge role in helping me flourish both academically and personally during my freshman years and beyond. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) program was more than just a language support. It served as a bridge, connecting international students and fostering a sense of community. The international team participated in various outings, which helped us integrate into the broader school community and Canadian culture, something that simply can't be learned in a classroom. The dynamic between teachers and students was respectful but also warm and approachable. Teachers were extremely knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and that passion made learning exciting. They communicated clearly, provided thoughtful and constructive feedback, and always challenged us to do our very best, without ever making it feel intimidating. They helped spark a genuine love of learning in me, and several teachers, through their mentorship, directly inspired me to pursue chemistry in both my undergraduate and graduate studies. Looking back, it's clear that the teachers at Sacred Heart were not only highly competent and well-prepared, but they also deeply cared about shaping students into thoughtful, confident, and compassionate people. For prospective families, expect teachers who truly know, care for, and believe in their students far beyond graduation.

—Kogie Esteban, alum (2018-2020), MSc Chemistry Candidate (see full review)

The teaching at Sacred Heart School of Halifax is of the highest quality. The teaching faculty are all highly trained and have experience teaching at leading private schools from across the world. The teachers are incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about each of their subject areas. The standards and performance expectations they set for the students are very high. This would potentially cause some challenges for some students. However, the teachers are also deeply passionate about the students and are fully committed to providing each student with the personalized learning plan and support they need. The teachers are all trained and knowledgeable in how to teach students of varying ability. The teachers are in regular communication with parents on what they are teaching in the classroom and informing parents on how their children are performing.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning 2017) (see full review)

I cannot say enough about the positive experience my son had with the teachers at Sacred Heart School of Halifax. The passion and knowledge of their subjects were outstanding. Their involvement in my child’s learning was significant. My son was always a good student, but it wasn’t until he came to Sacred Heart that he excelled. He was so inspired by the people who were teaching him and by the encouragement they gave him to work to his full potential that he achieved things that we would have never imagined. They changed his whole way of thinking about his education and his future, and they set him on a path to success. We are forever grateful for the experience he had with his teachers, and I will never miss an opportunity to praise them for the incredible work they do.

—Mary Shakespeare, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

The university counselling program provides tailored guidance for future success.

Insider accounts suggest that Sacred Heart School of Halifax's university counselling program is a standout offering, offering personalized support to aid students' transition to post-secondary education.

The university counselling program at Sacred Heart School of Halifax was a key strength during my senior year. The mandatory University Preparation class provided clear, step-by-step support throughout the application process. We learned how to research programs, write strong personal statements, explore scholarship options, and manage deadlines. Universities frequently visited the school, giving us direct access to admission officers and first-hand insight into various programs. As an international student planning to stay in Canada, I received valuable guidance on selecting the right schools and identifying scholarship opportunities. The uni prep team was approachable, responsive, and always willing to help with personalized advice. I felt well-prepared to apply confidently to Canadian universities. The program helped me understand the process, meet deadlines, and transition successfully into post-secondary life.

—Kogie Esteban, alum (2018-2020), MSc Chemistry Candidate (see full review)

I think the application process was well managed at the school however, I think the guidance counselling in the earlier part of high school should have been a little bit more robust. Improvements needed to be made to ensure that children had all the courses they were going to need for the programs they were interested in eventually applying for, and also that they were not taking courses that did not benefit them. It is a bit difficult to evaluate the university placement and counselling department, as I understand that since our children attended Sacred Heart a couple of years ago, there have been improvements made to that department, and additional staff have been added. I think is a very positive move by the administration.

—Mary Shakespeare, parent (beginning 2019) (see full review)

Sacred Heart offers a dynamic curriculum that balances rigour with personal development.

Community feedback suggests that Sacred Heart's academic framework is both challenging and supportive, promoting critical thinking, independent learning, and personal growth through diverse subjects and advanced placement options.

If I were to recommend Sacred Heart School of Halifax to other parents, I would highlight three things: academics, the whole-child approach, and community. The school offers a rigorous academic program, ensures children are developed in all areas of life, and fosters a strong sense of community among students and parents alike.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

For me, the school did a great job at balancing academics and fun events like Winter Carnival. From Grade 7, we did exams in the gym, and I got used to writing and having lots of work to do from a young age. That really prepared me and my peers for the workload of Grades 11 and 12 and for planning where we would go for university. There was a lot of support from teachers and principals and lots of extra help sessions. Many teachers were more than willing to stay after hours and make sure we were on the right track, even meeting on holidays. The school rewarded hard work with fun events.

—Ishan Mukhida, alum (see full discussion)

Sacred Heart has definitely prepared me for the future in so many ways. The advanced and AP classes, along with the overall academic rigour, have challenged me to manage my time and stay organized. I feel much more confident heading into university because I’ve already experienced a demanding workload and know how to handle it. One thing that made a big difference was how early we started building those skills. Exams, for example, begin in Grade 7, so by now I have strong study habits and test prep strategies that will carry into university. The school has given me both the academic foundation and personal discipline to step into the next chapter of my life.

—Myla Murphy, student (see full discussion)

The boys are doing well academically and socially. My younger son was on a robotics team that won a competition, while my older son won a leadership award from the mayor. Sacred Heart develops students to be intellectual and deeply caring about the world. As a parent, I greatly appreciate the rigorous academics, the thorough education, and the sense of community.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning in SK) (see full interview)

The academics at Sacred Heart are strong. Children are challenged at every grade the way through. There is a delicate balance for any school -- and, indeed, each school must find its own equilibrium. Some are (intentionally) programmed for a strong focus on academics above all else -- and carry intense workloads with high demands and high expectations. Others give a good education but avoid a 'drill & kill'. Sacred Heart lies somewhere in the middle. The academic programming is both broad and varied, and as a general statement, my perception is that kids are regularly pushed to stretch and grow beyond their comfort zone...without pushing it too far, such that they end up exhausted or frustrated. The option for Advanced Placement (AP) classes in upper years allows for kids to take more challenging courses where they wish, and also allows for a greater degree of academic customization based on kids' inner motivations and leanings than, say, heavily standardized curricula.

—Gord Cooper, parent (beginning 2015) (see full review)

There is a rigorous curriculum for the children at Sacred Heart, and it begins with a solid, well-rounded foundation in the primary years. Early math and reading literacy are essential, and children are encouraged to begin reading and doing arithmetic at the age of 5, with number and letter recognition starting at the age of 4. Part of the daily curriculum also includes exposure to specialty teachers (French, Music, Art, Physical Education, and Religion). These teachers are all experts in their respective fields and bring a special kind of passion to the classroom. My 4-year-old son gets to experience art class led by a local artist (who has her own art studio!) and music class with an accomplished vocalist. These specialty classes augment my child’s learning and make me confident that, when paired with the academic rigor of the school, my child will be prepared to embrace life’s challenges.

—Leona Milne, parent (beginning 2021) (see full review)

The academic program at Sacred Heart School of Halifax was rigorous, personal, and incredibly supportive. The Advanced Placement (AP) program gave me a strong advantage in transitioning into university. The workload and depth of study helped me adjust quickly, and I even found myself using notes from my high school classes during my first year. The academic culture was motivated yet collaborative: students aimed for excellence while maintaining a respectful, supportive environment. One limitation was the smaller range of elective options compared to larger schools. Additionally, while the AP program prepared me well for university in Canada, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program available at other institutions offers a broader, more globally integrated curriculum. Nevertheless, Sacred Heart's focus on academic excellence, critical thinking, and independent learning ensured thorough preparation for university-level expectations.

—Kogie Esteban, alum (2018-2020), MSc Chemistry Candidate (see full review)

The academic program at Sacred Heart School of Halifax is robust and rigorous. The academic program is on par with any leading private or independent school in the world. The academic program is taught and delivered by highly trained and accomplished teachers. The strengths of the academic program are the advanced Maths and Science offerings they offer. This is evidenced by Sacred Heart School of Halifax alumni who go on to be leaders and successful in a range of Medical, Science, Mathematics, and Engineering related professions. Their Humanities and Language Arts program produces students with a deep knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the arts. The academic program is conducted in world-class classrooms and laboratories. They are also exceptional in developing strong communication and presentation skills among the students.

—Vurain Tabvuma, parent (beginning 2017) (see full review)

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Sacred Heart School of Halifax ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS

Summary

Page Contents

Insider community voices

Dennis Phillips

Curriculum Traditional

Curriculum approach at Sacred Heart: Traditional

International curriculum & programs at Sacred Heart: Duke of Edinburgh's Award

What Sacred Heart says about their overall curriculum and approach:

Approach

Pedagogies and subject courses:

Mathematics

Mathematics approach at Sacred Heart: Traditional Math

What Sacred Heart says:

Textbooks and supplementary materials:

Calculator policy:

Early Reading

Early Reading approach at Sacred Heart: Balanced Literacy

What Sacred Heart says:

What Sacred Heart says:

Writing

Writing approach at Sacred Heart: Equal balance

What Sacred Heart says:

Science

Science approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance

Teaching approach:

Treatment of evolution:

Topics covered in curriculum:

Literature

Literature approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance

What Sacred Heart says:

Program covers:

Social Studies

Social Studies approach at Sacred Heart: Expanding Communities

What Sacred Heart says:

Humanities and Social Sciences

Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance

What Sacred Heart says:

Foreign Languages

Foreign Languages approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance

What Sacred Heart says:

Language instruction offered in:

Fine Arts

Fine Arts approach at Sacred Heart: Equal Balance

Program offers:

Visual studio philosophy:

What Sacred Heart says:

Computers and Technology

Computers and Technology approach at Sacred Heart: Medium integration

What Sacred Heart says:

Program covers:

Physical Education

What Sacred Heart says:

Religious Education

What Sacred Heart says:

Advanced Placement courses

Sex and health education

Sex and health education approach at Sacred Heart: Not Nova Scotia curriculum

Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

What Sacred Heart says:

Preschool/K Curriculum Play-based

Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Sacred Heart: Play-based

What Sacred Heart says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:

Language trilingual

Sacred Heart is a trilingual school with English, French, Spanish as the primary language of instruction

Language of enrolment include: English

Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched

Curriculum Pace approach at Sacred Heart: Standard-enriched

What Sacred Heart says about their curriculum pace:

Flexible pacing style

What Sacred Heart says about their flexible pacing:

Academic Culture Rigorous

Academic Culture approach at Sacred Heart: Rigorous

What Sacred Heart says about their academic culture:

Developmental priorities Balanced

Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced