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Hydrostone Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
Summary
Page Contents
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Hydrostone Academy: Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
Hydrostone Academy has a Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate?]
Hydrostone Academy has a International Baccalaureate approach to supplementary curriculum.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
What Hydrostone Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Using a liberal arts approach, the curriculum integrates the five pillars of mindfulness, outdoor education, the arts, community and culturally sustaining academics. Many of the school projects for students tie together aspects from the different subjects. There is a lot of creativity and exploring in the sciences, and the development of experimentation and technique in the arts.
International Baccalaureate program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Primary Years | |
| Middle Years | |
| Diploma program | |
| Career-related program |
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Arts: Music • Performing arts • Visual arts |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Hydrostone Academy: Equal Balance
Hydrostone Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
The approach to mathematics is to guide students learning by offering engaging and thoughtful opportunities to learn new concepts, apply skills that are being strengthened in class, and deepen their critical and logical thinking skills when approaching math problems and real world scenarios. Most often, a concept is taught semi-briefly to introduce students to it, then we move onto more discovery style learning where students engage with the concept in various ways such as a game, an interactive task that requires their application of the concept, or practice problems and puzzles. The goal is to lay a foundation of understanding, then let the student build upon it to the best of their ability, while also meeting students where they are at using leveled assessment options, multiple approaches to a task, and supporting students one-on-one when needed. We also regularly factor in opportunities to work on mental math skills.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
While textbooks aren’t a major component of courses, they are used as references/guides: Grades 6-9 (Math Makes Sense 6-9) Grade 10 (Foundations and Pre-calculus Mathematics 10) Grade 11/12 - No proper textbook
Calculator policy:
In middle school, when focusing on building conceptual understanding, calculators are often used to keep the focus on building understanding. In high school, calculators are often used as a tool for students to perform more complex calculations, while evaluation is on the communication and demonstration of understanding the topic.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Hydrostone Academy: Balanced Literacy
Hydrostone Academy has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
Our early literacy program is grounded in a balanced literacy approach, but the first year of formal academics places a stronger focus on phonics-intensive instruction. In grade one, students learn individual letter sounds and spend significant time reviewing and blending them together. Letters are often introduced in creative, engaging ways (for example, through stories, related drawings, games or dramatic play). Alongside this phonics work, students are immersed daily in whole-language experiences such as morning messages, shared poems, guided-reading groups, and read-aloud novels. During reading instruction, students are encouraged to sound out words while also considering what makes sense within the context of the text.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Hydrostone Academy says:
Occasionally we assess letter-sound knowledge; otherwise we observe strengths and errors in students’ abilities and base lessons off that.
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Writing
Writing approach at Hydrostone Academy: Equal balance
Hydrostone Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
Invented spelling is encouraged in the early years. Grammar and spelling is also taught but this is done separately from independent writing, as we do have the goal to have children see themselves as capable writers and do not want them to feel the need to stop and ask for help each time they are unsure about the spelling of a word.
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Science
Science approach at Hydrostone Academy: Inquiry
Hydrostone Academy has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]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 Hydrostone Academy: Equal Balance
Hydrostone Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
The curriculum continues to expand into social justice, while keeping some of the traditional approaches like familiarizing students with challenging, classical texts. For example, we still read some of the Epic of Gilgamesh, some Shakespeare, etc. but we also have some contemporary works and graphic novels.
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 Hydrostone Academy: Core Knowledge
Hydrostone Academy has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Hydrostone Academy: Equal Balance
Hydrostone Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Hydrostone Academy: Communicative
Hydrostone Academy has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Communicative?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
The French program is primarily based on a communicative approach, with a strong emphasis on interaction and authentic language use. However, it also remains very well balanced, incorporating a wide range of activities designed to develop all aspects of language learning: listening and reading comprehension, spoken and written expression, as well as cultural understanding.
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 Hydrostone Academy: Creative
Hydrostone Academy has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Hydrostone Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Hydrostone Academy: Light integration
Hydrostone Academy has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
Technology is integrated across all subjects in meaningful, curriculum-aligned ways for research, writing, presentations, coding, web design, robotics, video creation, podcasting, stop-motion animation, and game development. Technology can be a helpful tool; however, creativity without technology is essential because it strengthens the foundational skills that digital work relies on. When students think, design, build, imagine, and problem-solve using only their minds and physical materials, they develop cognitive flexibility, perseverance, and the ability to generate original ideas without relying on templates or automation. These “analogue” creative experiences help students slow down, reflect, and take ownership of their thinking in ways that screens shortcut. They deepen sensory, spatial, and interpersonal skills that are critical for drama, writing, and artistic expression. Once students have built internal creative capacity, technology becomes a powerful extension of their imagination rather than a substitute for it. Non-digital creativity ensures that students remain thinkers first and tool-users second.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Hydrostone Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Hydrostone Academy: Nova Scotia curriculum
Hydrostone Academy has a Nova Scotia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Nova Scotia curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Hydrostone Academy has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Hydrostone Academy says:
At the beginning of the school year, classroom expectations are established that foster a positive and respectful learning environment. It is essential that students feel safe to ask questions, and that all questions are addressed in an age and developmentally appropriate manner. The program is committed to staying current with evolving terminology and inclusive language, even when these updates are not yet reflected in official curriculum documents. Classes are designed to inform and enrich students’ understanding of health topics through an approach that integrates mind, body, and heart. This framework supports students in developing knowledge and empathy as they explore various aspects of personal health.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Hydrostone Academy: Play-based
Hydrostone Academy has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Play-based?]
What Hydrostone Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Pre-Primary is a warm and nurturing environment that serves the developmental needs of three to five-year-old children. The curriculum is delivered through the classroom environment, materials and daily activities. All areas of child development are considered important. Our goal is to create a classroom culture where children are able to experience their wisdom and vitality. Rhythms and cycles are a constant part of nature and human life. The classroom routine works in harmony with daily, weekly and seasonal rhythms. Stories, songs, verses and other classroom activities enrich the experience of the seasons as well. Seasonal festivals and events provide an opportunity for parents, friends and the larger community to join in celebrating with students.
Language
Learn about Hydrostone Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Hydrostone Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Hydrostone Academy: Standard-enriched
Hydrostone Academy has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Hydrostone Academy says about their curriculum pace:
With approximately 150 students, we are committed to small, intimate classes that allow for significant one-on-one interaction between students and teachers. We prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional safety of the students, and recognize that supportive learning environments foster the development of compassionate and self-aware community members.
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 Hydrostone Academy says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Hydrostone Academy: Supportive
Hydrostone Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Hydrostone Academy says about their academic culture:
One of our Five-Pillars is Culturally Sustaining Academics, which is acknowledging and honouring diverse cultural backgrounds, histories, and perspectives, culturally sustaining academics foster an inclusive and equitable educational experience for all students. We recognize the unique strengths and needs of each student. While we have limited resource support, we prioritize student well-being by maintaining smaller class sizes and creating calmer, lower-sensory learning environments. Our school community is dedicated to empowering students and celebrating their individual talents.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
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 Hydrostone Academy says about their developmental priorities:
Our Five-Pillars (Mindfulness, Outdoor Education, Community, Arts Education, and Culturally Sustaining Academics) provide a solid foundation for holistic development, interconnectedness, and a sense of purpose, preparing students to navigate an ever-changing world with resilience, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Hydrostone Academy offers Withdrawal Assistance
Students remain in a regular classroom for most of the day, but are pulled out for extra support from a qualified special education teacher.
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 Hydrostone Academy says:
In addition to small class sizes, we offer support services to students with their academic and personal development: Counselling Services: We have an in-house Counsellor at our school who support students’ mental health needs throughout the year. While also providing group opportunities for student engagement, enhancing their emotional and social well-being. Resource Support: In our upper school, teachers are equipped to offer one-on-one support to students through resource programs. This individualized attention helps address specific learning needs and supports students in achieving their academic goals. These services are designed to ensure that every student has the support they need to thrive in a nurturing and effective learning environment.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
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 Hydrostone Academy 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, Hydrostone Academy students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrostone Academy | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
What Hydrostone Academy says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | SK to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
