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At HWDSB, we know that each student is unique in his or her learning, and we work to ensure our programs help our students reach their full potential. In addition to the programming offered at neighbourhood schools, a number of alternative programs focusing on sports, academics, science, arts and languages have been developed.
Specialized and Personalized Learning programs are available in many schools across the district and are open to all students in Hamilton. Join us to learn more about these exciting programs.
Elementary Specialized and Personalized Learning Programs
Fitness and Wellness - Top
Elementary: Offered at Ancaster Senior, Cathy Wever, Gatestone, Prince of Wales, R.A. Riddell
The Fitness and Wellness Program is an innovative way of program delivery that differentiates fitness instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners. The program uses advanced tracking equipment to monitor and report on a variety of fitness measures (e.g., heart rate, body mass index). Through the frequent monitoring of these measures, students are encouraged to consistently train in their "optimal zone" in all of their endeavours ranging from traditional physical education programs to sport-specific training.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice may lead into a similar Program of Choice at the secondary level.
Mandarin Transition Language - Top
Offered at Prince Phillip
The Mandarin Transition Language Program offers students in junior kindergarten to grade 2 programming using their first language. Students access curriculum content effectively by using Mandarin to clarify concepts and develop increased proficiency in English.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice may lead into a similar Program of Choice at the secondary level.
SAGE (Scholastics, Arts and Global Education) - Top
Offered at Strathcona
SAGE is built around family participation and community building (12-15 hours a month). Teachers and families work in cooperation, using innovative teaching methods to deliver the Ontario curriculum in an interactive, child-centred manner that emphasizes global education, arts and recreation. Students can continue this Program of Choice at SAGE Quest at the middle-school level.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice may lead into a similar Program of Choice at the secondary level.
Key dates
SAGE Parent Information Session - TBA
Click here to download the SAGE application and information package.
Click here to download the SAGE application form.
SAGE QUEST - Top
Offered at Ryerson and George L. Armstrong
Designed for the middle school years, SAGE Quest recognizes the academic, emotional and social needs of this age group. The program goal is to develop independent learners and critical thinkers through a strong arts and science base. Students are encouraged to continue this Program of Choice at Parkside Secondary School.
Click here to download the application package.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice may lead into a similar Program of Choice at the secondary level.
Key Dates
Information - Wednesday March 9th, 2011 at 6:30 pm
Single Gender Learning - Top
Offered at C.B. Stirling and Flamborough Centre
"Recent research indicates that girls and boys see and hear the world differently – not only figuratively but literally," states Dr. Leonard Sax, M.D., Ph.D. The Single-Gender Program recognizes and understands these differences and provides students with a single-gender environment in which to learn. This program has been extensively reviewed by Brock University and Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at University of Toronto to explore how effective single gender learning can be.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice may lead into a similar Program of Choice at the secondary level.
Sports Academy - Top
Offered at R.A. Riddell, Hillcrest
The Sport Academy at the middle-school level provides a supportive learning environment and flexible timetabling to allow students enrolled in the program the opportunity to significantly advance their athletic skills while achieving a high level of academic success. Students in both Sport Academies benefit from a strong partnership with McMaster University.
At Hillcrest, The Sport Academy is focused on Health and Wellness programming and soccer specific training. Hillcrest students access the new training facility where National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) certified staff will implement a cardio-vascular and strength conditioning program for student athletes. Students also benefit from a connection with SoccerWorld Hamilton.
How to Apply:
- Please submit all completed forms, a copy of your child’s birth certificate, along with your child’s most current report card, and previous June report card. There is a fee of $200 that must accompany the package.
- Applications can also be picked up at the Hillcrest Elementary school office
- Send the application form to Hillcrest Elementary.
- Applications may be faxed (905-549-4812) or emailed to hillcrest@hwdsb.on.ca
At R.A. Riddell, The Sport Academy includes basketball, club and high potential athletes. Students may also apply to focus on basketball. Students will experience a continuuum of training for students in elementary through to secondary level at Westmount Secondary Sport Academy Program of Choice working within the guidelines of the Long Term Athlete Development Model (LTAD), through Sport Canada.
- Please submit all completed forms, a copy of your child’s birth certificate, along with your child’s most current report card, and previous June report card. There is a fee of $125 that must accompany the package.
- Applications can also be picked up at the R.A. Riddell Elementary School office
- Send the application form to R.A. Riddell to Nancy Nicosia, nancy.nicosia@hwdsb.on.ca.
- Applications may be faxed (905-387-9188) or emailed to riddell@hwdsb.on.ca
Pathway Opportunity: These elementary Specialized and Personalized Learning programs lead to the Sport Academy at Westmount Secondary and to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
HWDSB Basketball Academies - Top
Elementary Schools: Offered at Bennetto, Cathy Wever and R.A. Riddell
The basketball academies emphasize basketball fundamentals, individual skills goal setting, rules, team concepts, fitness and healthy living and a mentoring/coaching component. This program is partnering with Basketball Canada to develop a Long Term Athletics Development based Grade 6 to Grade 12 curriculum. Students are encouraged to continue this Program of Choice at the secondary level.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice may lead into a similar Program of Choice at the secondary level.
Elementary Forms
- Click here to download Community Information.
- Click here to download the Sports Academy brochure.
- Click here to download the Out-of-Catchment application form.
- Click here to download Student Registration and Information.
- Click here to download Specialized and Personalized Learning Application Form.
Hockey Academy - Top
Elementary Schools: Offered at Billy Green
The Junior/Intermediate Elementary Hockey Canada Skills Academy, developed by Hockey Canada, values academic accomplishments in every participant while providing structured, organized, active learning environments for each student athlete. Boys and girls enrolled in this Program of Choice will be given specific training techniques both on and off the ice. The program is designed to focus on individual skill enhancement and personal academic achievement.
Pathway Opportunity: This elementary Program of Choice leads into The Hockey Canada Skills Academy Program of Choice at the secondary level and may lead into a Specialist High Skills Major.
Secondary Specialized and Personalized Learning Programs
BioTech - Top
Offered at Ancaster High
The Biotech Program provides a unique opportunity for students to explore the interconnectedness of biology and chemistry with an emphasis on the impact of these two disciplines on society. Through the use of technology, students explore innovative and differentiated ways to explain concepts to each other, their teachers and the public at large. In this program, students use technology as a tool to enhance their learning, facilitate their understanding and improve their overall achievement.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to the Aviation and Aerospace Specialist High Skills Major
Creative Communications - Top
Offered at Barton
The Visual Arts and Creative Communication program at Barton features experimentation and a hands-on approach to studio production using both traditional and new media. Students are provided with experiences needed to produce their own works and communicate their insights while further developing their technical and conceptual skills. Students also develop a sense of responsibility for their creations and their collaborative work.
Media Arts - Top
Offered at Westdale
Media Arts uses a variety of technologies to teach students to communicate with clarity and precision, both orally and in writing. This program uses the integration of technology to engage students in their learning and provide them with the skills needed to accomplish this now and in the future.
How to Apply
- Applications may be faxed (905) 521-0542, emailed to westdale@hwdsb.on.ca or mailed to: Westdale Secondary School, 700 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 1A5
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to an Arts and Culture Specialist High Skills Major.
Fitness and Wellness - Top
Offered at Macnab, Saltfleet and Sherwood
The Fitness and Wellness Program is an innovative way of program delivery that differentiates fitness instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners. The program uses advanced tracking equipment to monitor and report on a variety of fitness measures (e.g., heart rate, body mass index). Through the frequent monitoring of these measures, students are encouraged to consistently train in their “optimal zone” in all of their endeavours ranging from traditional physical education programs to sport-specific training.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
Global Citizenship - Top
Offered at Highland
Students are introduced to the concept of global awareness and education through this program. Starting in Grade 9, students become engaged in multiple school and community groups to expand leadership skills and become active citizens. Teachers in the program facilitate the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award program where students can work toward bronze, silver and gold medals by helping to become physically fit, develop various skills and go on expeditions in the community.
Global Connect - Top
Offered at Highland
Students are introduced to the concept of global awareness and education through this program. Starting in Grade 9, students become engaged in multiple school and community groups to expand leadership skills and become active citizens. Teachers in the program facilitate the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award program where students can work toward bronze, silver and gold medals by helping to become physically fit, develop various skills and go on expeditions in the community.
- Global CONNECT Grade Outline
- Global CONNECT Senior Course Outlines
International Baccalaureate - Top
Offered at Glendale, Westdale and Ancaster
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program is a challenging two-year curriculum, primarily aimed at students aged 16 to 19. It leads to a qualification that is widely recognized by the world’s leading universities. Students graduate with both the Ontario Secondary School Diploma and the International Diploma. The IB program aims to do the following:
- Prepare students for a successful transition to post-secondary school
- Increase awareness of their role in becoming a global citizen
- Learn and grow as a student in their self awareness, their ability to ask challenging questions and to develop as a leader outside of the classroom.
Ancaster
Jason Smith
(905) 648-4468 ext. 518/voicemail ext. 518 |
Glendale
Kiki Miminas
(905) 560-7343 ext. 234 |
Westdale
Kevin Clark
(905) 522-1387 ext. 234 |
Manufacturing Plus - Top
Offered at Barton
The Manufacturing Plus Program is designed to engage interested students in grade 9 and 10 and create a direct pathway to the successful Manufacturing Specialist High Skills Major in Grade 11. Students will learn and gain practical skills as they move through an enhanced Grade 9 and Grade 10 technology curriculum. This program will give students the opportunity to experience all areas of manufacturing.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to the Manufacturing Specialist High Skills Major.
NYA:WEH - Top
Offered at Sir John A MacDonald
The Native Youth Advancement With Education Hamilton (NYA WEH) program began in 2003 as aboriginal leaders responded to the alarmingly high dropout rate of aboriginal youth in Hamilton’s schools.
Sir John A. Macdonald secondary has a dedicated resource room where aboriginal students can do homework and class assignments, seek tutoring, use computers, receive cultural support and guidance, resolve conflicts, get a healthy meal, and even do laundry. Peer leadership, teachings from elders, and culturally specific after-school activities are also part of the program. The program employs two youth advisors and a cultural outreach worker, all of whom are Aboriginal Peoples.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to an Arts and Culture Specialist High Skills Major.
Outbound - Top
Offered at Delta and Waterdown District
Outbound is a four credit, integrated program offered to all students in HWDSB. Outbound integrates Grade 12 courses in science, geography, English and physical and health education in a program which develops practical skills related to communication, leadership, outdoor education, and environmental awareness.
QUEST - Top
Offered at Parkside
Quest will operate in both grades 9 and 10 with an integrated delivery approach following the model established at SAGE Quest. Subject groupings include Geography/PE, Math/Tech, French/Science, English/Integrated Arts, etc. Students will have the opportunity to select two elective credits in Grade 10. The program is open to all students in HWDSB. The Parkside team will focus the program on social justice to foster an environment in which all students are engaged in learning.
Robotics - Top
Offered at Orchard Park
The Robotics program builds self-confidence, knowledge and practical skills for students interested in science and computer engineering technology. Students design and build competitive robots, compete in international robotic competitions and network with industry professionals.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to the Aviation and Aerospace Specialist High Skills Major.
Social Justice - Top
Offered at Westmount
To be effective citizens in a democracy each of us must have skills, understanding and connections to our community. There are many students who are deeply concerned about their society and their environment. This four-credit package gives students who are interested in current events and social issues a unique opportunity to acquire skills and experience that will make them more effective participants in the community.
Sports Academy - Top
Offered at Westmount
At Westmount Secondary School, we promote the pursuit of excellence within a culture of respect and personal responsibility. Students within the Sport Academy enjoy the flexibility of self-paced, self-directed learning, coupled with strong instructional leadership from within the Department of Health and Physical Education at Westmount and support from personal trainers at McMaster University.
How to Apply
- Students interested in the Sport Academy must submit an application form, attend an interview, and complete a fitness test. Students who are not successful in entering the Sport Academy will be considered for registration in the self-paced, self-directed program at Westmount. For more information, please contact the program coordinator, at 905-385-3671.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
The Performing Arts Academy - Top
Offered at Hill Park
Hill Park has a 40-year history of performing arts in HWDSB. After a comprehensive selection process, Hill Park became The Performing Arts Academy school for the entire Board and is open to all students across the district. The Program of Choice in the performing arts focuses on instrumental and vocal music, drama, and dance. It allows students, who wish to pursue a career in related fields, an opportunity to focus on the arts while getting a high school diploma.
Artsmart Application Package | Art Academy Application Package
How to Apply
- Applications can also be picked up at Hill Park Secondary School office
- Applications may be faxed (905-385-3581) or emailed to hillpark@hwdsb.on.ca
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to an Arts and Culture Specialist High Skills Major.
HWDSB Basketball Academy - Top
Offered at Barton, Sir Allan MacNab, Orchard Park, Park Side, Sherwood and Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary Schools
The basketball academies at the secondary level will emphasize basketball fundamentals, individual skills goal setting, rules, team concepts, fitness and healthy living and a mentoring/coaching component. This program is partnering with Basketball Canada to develop Long Term Athletic Development based grade 6 to grade 12 curriculum.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
The Hockey Canada Skills Academy - Top
Offered at Ancaster, Sir Winston Churchill, Sherwood and Waterdown
The emphasis in these Hockey Canada accredited programs is on skill development. Fundamental hockey skills such as passing, shooting, puck control, skating and checking comprise the main focus of the on-ice components of the course. Student involvement in this program may also enhance leadership, fitness, hockey strategy and healthy life skills for athletes. The off ice components include video analysis, fitness training and CPR training. Health units consist of, healthy sexuality, substance use and abuse, goal setting, communication, and social skills.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
HWDSB Football Academy - Top
Offered at Sir Allan MacNab
HWDSB Football Academy will emphasize football fundamentals, individual skill development, goal setting, rules, team concepts, fitness and healthy living and a mentoring/coaching component. This program has partnered with Football Canada and the Ontario Football Alliance to develop Long Term Athletic Development based grade 9 to grade 12 curriculum. Students will also receive coaching and referee certifications.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
HWDSB Tennis Academy - Top
Offered at Delta
HWDSB Tennis Academy gives students at all levels of play the opportunity to learn new skills, improve their overall fitness levels and develop a love for an affordable recreational sport. Delta has updated the facility to provide a tennis court in the boys’ gym and has recently entered into a partnership with Rosedale Tennis Club to provide students with an enhanced tennis experience.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to a Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major.
The Visual Arts Academy - Top
Offered at Sir John A MacDonald
The Sir John A. Macdonald (SJAM) Visual Arts Academy is the continuation of a tradition that has provided high-caliber art education to students for more than 100 years. Students come downtown to take a wide variety of studio courses and develop their art skills. Many of our graduates go on to college and university art programs.
How to Apply
- Contact a guidance counsellor at 905-528-8363 or email sjam@hwdsb.on.ca to arrange an interview and a tour of the art facility.
- Samples of artwork are required as part of the acceptance process. Examples include a sketchbook, drawings, paintings, or photos.
Click here to download the brochure.
Pathway Opportunity: This can lead to an Arts and Culture Specialist High Skills Major.
