Senior School (7-12)

Here, Sacred Heart students are not just exceptional scholars, athletes, artists, and leaders, but are also extraordinary human beings.

“The best of both worlds” - that’s how we like to describe our Senior School program. While we offer single-gender programs for both girls and boys, we do so on a co-ed campus. This gives our students all the social and real-world advantages of a co-ed environment while also enjoying the benefits that come from single-gender classes in an education specifically designed to teach boys and girls in the ways that they learn best. It also means we can offer unique programming like Core, where our girls and boys develop inner strength, healthy assertiveness, and a keen understanding of consent, respect, and responsibility.

SHSH has also forged a stellar reputation for the quality of our academic program and the high level of our university preparedness (hear more from our students and families in this article). In Junior High, students build a foundation for success by developing good study habits, solid organizational skills, and a genuine love of learning, all of which readily transfers over to Senior High, where they strengthen their critical thinking skills, build their self-confidence, and prepare themselves for university. 

For STEM-lovers: our Science Program is producing some of the province's top science students. In 2019, Sacred Heart took six of the top nine spots in the inaugural Atlantic Science Links Association (ASLA) Science Contest Exam for Grades 7-9. 

The Senior School also offers a robust social justice program, excellent leadership opportunities, advanced French and Spanish language courses, and all kinds of social activities for students.

The Senior School maintains a 7:1 student teacher ratio, where we rely heavily on our experienced and dedicated faculty to guide our students. Our tailored programs allow students to define their path based on their aptitude and interest. As part of our advanced stream, we offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses where students can challenge themselves to earn first-year university credit to kick-start their post-secondary career. They can also choose educational travel, unique online courses, and experiential learning with local specialists to augment their learning experience. Students also receive guidance and one-on-one counselling in career planning, the university application process, scholarship applications, and resumé writing, giving them all the tools they need to have a successful post-secondary academic experience. 

Senior School is not, however, just about academics. As part of our whole-child philosophy guided by our Five Goals, we ensure our students are engaged in social justice and charitable activities that make our community and our world better. We also provide and encourage extensive student leadership opportunities through Student Council, Associations and Clubs, and our unique House System where students compete for the annual House Cup. Exchange programs around the globe, class travel, an extensive club and extra-curricular program, robust fine and performing arts programs, a stellar Debate Program, and both recreational and competitive athletics round out Senior School life, although this year some of these activities may be postponed, presented virtually, or adapted due to COVID-19.. 

See the Senior School in action — book a tour, or let one of our students guide your child through an entire day. Come see what makes us so special.

“Access to a Sacred Heart education means having countless opportunities to learn inside and outside the classroom. Being a student at this school has taught me the value of a community which supports academic advancement, and has fostered much personal growth.”
- Manal Quraishi ‘18