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Alberta special needs schools

Find special needs schools in Alberta listed below.

Welcome to the OUR KIDS guide to special needs schools in Alberta—your trusted starting point for finding the right fit for your child’s education.

Alberta private schools include a range of specialized programs designed to support students with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, and other developmental challenges. These schools provide tailored educational programs that address individual learning needs, fostering academic achievement, social development, and personal growth.

Tuition fees for special education Alberta schools vary, typically ranging from approximately CAD 15,000 to CAD 40,000 per year, depending on the institution and level of support required. This guide offers insights into the options available, helping you navigate choices and find the best school for children with special needs in Alberta. Read more


List of dedicated Alberta special needs schools

These are dedicated special needs schools in Alberta, where 100% of the students have special needs. They provide full-time special needs support for all students in the school, through accommodations, modifications, and remediations.


Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate, Calgary, Alberta
Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate, Calgary, Alberta

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"Academy is strengths-based for neurodiverse learners. Collegiate is for those learning at or above grade-level. Blended+ is personalized for Grades 9-12 that empowers them to learn in-person, hybrid, and off-campus." —From the school

  • Gr. K to 12 (Coed)
  • Traditional curriculum
  • $18,400 to $22,990
  • Learning disabilities
  • Behavioral and Emotional
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Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate 18400 Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Clinical anxiety Clinical Depression
Renfrew Educational Services, Calgary, Alberta
Renfrew Educational Services, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta
 
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"Renfrew is a specialized school for children with disabilities, where education and therapy are integrated to create personalized, inclusive programs that support each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth." —From the school

  • Gr. PS to 6 (Coed)
  • Traditional curriculum
  • $1,000 to $4,500
  • Day school
  • 550 students
  • Developmental
  • Behavioral and Emotional
  • Physical
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Renfrew Educational Services 1000 Preschool Kindergarten Elementary Day Coed Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Williams syndrome Williams syndrome Williams syndrome Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Multiple sclerosis Multiple sclerosis Cerebral palsy Cerebral palsy Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Blindness Blindness Deafness Deafness Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Multiple physical Multiple physical

List of Alberta schools with special needs support

These Alberta schools offer special needs support to a segment of students through a wide range of placements. Environments offered may include dedicated, integrated, and withdrawal special needs classes, as well as regular classes with resource support and in-class adaptations.


Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School, Foothills, Alberta
Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School, Foothills, Alberta

Foothills, Alberta
Range Road 12/306 Ave W
 
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"Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School is an independent, private coeducational, continuum IB (primary, middle, and diploma programme) day school for Kindergarten - Grade 12, located just outside of Calgary, AB." —From the school

  • Gr. K to 12 (Coed)
  • Progressive curriculum; International Baccalaureate
  • $23,000 to $29,500
  • Learning disabilities
  • Developmental
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Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School 23000 Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed Dysgraphia ADHD (moderate to severe) Autism Asperger's Syndrome
ursa, Calgary, Alberta
ursa, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta
 
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"A member of the Third Schools system, ursa extends our principles of independent, inspiriting, and inclusive beyond the traditional classroom to learners wherever they may be." —From the school

  • Gr. K to 12 (Coed)
  • Liberal Arts curriculum
  • $1 to $4,410
  • Homestay, eSchool
  • 1020 students
 
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ursa 1 Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Homestay eSchool Coed
North Point School, Calgary, Alberta
North Point School, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta
17th Ave SW/Richmond Road SW
 
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"In addition to academics, our focus on mentorship, hands-on learning in and outside the classroom, and character development, will allow our students to thrive academically and personally as they discover who they are." —From the school

  • Gr. K to 12 (Boys/Coed/Girls)
  • Progressive curriculum
  • $15,000 to $17,000
  • Learning disabilities
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North Point School 15000 Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Day Boys Coed Girls ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder
The Calgary Jewish Academy, Calgary, Alberta
The Calgary Jewish Academy, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta
 
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"CJA is a modern Jewish day school offering a dual curriculum combining the Alberta curriculum with Jewish learning. Small classes and strong relationships support confident learners prepared for a complex world." —From the school

  • Gr. PS to 9 (Coed)
  • Traditional curriculum
  • $8,550 to $13,925
 
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The Calgary Jewish Academy 8550 Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
LYNX, Calgary, Alberta
LYNX, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta
 
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"LYNX students are on an incredible journey in their environment. Rather than passively observing, they’re actively immersed, engaged, moving freely, and discovering the wonders of the natural world firsthand." —From the school

  • Gr. K to 9 (Coed)
  • Progressive curriculum
  • $2,205 to $7,350
  • Day school
  • 150 students
 
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LYNX 2205 Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
River Valley School, Calgary, Alberta
River Valley School, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta
Bowness Rd NW/Bow Crescent NW
 
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"Independent Pre-JK–Grade 6 school in Calgary where childhood is cherished, every child is known, and wonder inspires learning." —From the school

  • Gr. PS to 6 (Coed)
  • Progressive curriculum
  • $16,450 to $19,390
  • Learning disabilities
  • Developmental
  • Physical
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River Valley School 16450 Preschool Kindergarten Elementary Day Coed ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Blindness Blindness Deafness Deafness

 

 

What are the types of private schools in Alberta for special needs?

Parents exploring Alberta private schools for special needs will find several different types of programs. These include alternative schools that emphasize experiential and individualized learning, schools dedicated to autism support, Down syndrome school options, and broader special needs schools serving students with a range of challenges. Many of these institutions integrate therapy and specialized support alongside academics.

What are the benefits of private education in Alberta for special needs?

Because of small class sizes, teachers at private schools in Alberta can provide individualized attention, ensuring that students don’t fall behind. Staff are trained to work with a wide range of learning differences, such as ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome, and autism schools. While public schools may also employ trained staff, they often face larger class sizes and fewer resources, limiting the support available.

To learn more about how these schools make a difference, explore our guide to the benefits of special needs schools.

How do special needs programs nurture social skills?
Extracurricular activities

Extracurricular programs, such as soccer, drama, or chess clubs, allow students to build friendships, learn teamwork, and gain confidence in a supportive environment.

Supportive learning environment

At many Alberta special needs schools, small class sizes create a collaborative learning atmosphere. Students are encouraged to participate, support one another, and celebrate each other’s successes.

Community atmosphere

Many private schools Alberta with a focus on special education have small enrolments, fostering a close-knit community. These schools are safe, welcoming environments where students, parents, and staff know and support each other.

How do special needs programs encourage personal success?

The combination of academic and social development nurtures personal growth. Education at private schools in Alberta is not only about grades—it’s about preparing students for life beyond the classroom. Many schools focus on developing character, emotional intelligence, and life skills to help students succeed long term.

How much does private school cost in Alberta for special needs?

Costs at special needs schools in Alberta range widely depending on the level of support offered. Families can expect tuition between CAD 15,000 and CAD 40,000 per year. In addition, parents should ask about other potential costs such as therapy services, transportation, or specialized learning resources.

Tips and resources to pay for private school in Alberta

If affordability is a concern, explore our database of scholarships and bursaries and our guide to paying for private school. Some organizations also provide funding. For instance, the Prosser Charitable Foundation’s Parent’s Choice Bursary covers up to $3,500 of tuition annually per student for private schools not funded by any regional school board in the Calgary area.


Frequently Asked Questions

How many Alberta special needs schools are there?
There are 8 Alberta special needs schools that are Our Kids trusted members.

How much is tuition at Alberta special needs schools?
Tuition fees for Alberta special needs schools range from $1,000 to $26,170 per year with an average tuition of $15,035 per year.

What’s the largest school?
Of the Alberta special needs schools, the largest is ursa with 1020 students in Grades 12 to K.

Are Alberta special needs schools good?
We interviewed both parents and students. You can read reviews about Alberta special needs schools on this page.

Is there a private school expo where I can meet with Alberta special needs schools?
Yes. You can meet with private schools and education experts at the Our Kids Private School Expos held every year in September and October. These events are designed for both parents and students. Find event details and ticket info here.

In the spotlight

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List of Alberta special needs schools

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