Armbrae Academy vs Sacred Heart School of Halifax

	A Armbrae Academy Halifax, Canada	S Sacred Heart School of Halifax Halifax, Canada
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CA$17,342 - 34,650	Fees / year CA$16,650 - 23,290
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), Bespoke Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)
Pupils	Pupils 350	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 8
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1887	Opened 1849
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Armbrae Academy operates across three Halifax campuses: Oxford Street Campus at 1400 Oxford Street, Halifax, NS B3H 3Y8; Coburg Campus at 6430 Coburg Road, Halifax, NS B3H 2A6; and South Campus at 1300 Oxford Street, Halifax, NS B3H 3Y8. The campuses are in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The Oxford Campus hosts the main programs; Coburg and South Campuses provide additional facilities and enrollment pathways.	Location 5820 Spring Garden Road, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1X8, Canada. The campus is in the heart of Halifax. It is described as an iconic campus in the city.
Stages	Stages Preschool & PrePrimary; Lower School; Middle School; Upper School.	Stages Diamond model: Elementary School JP-Grade 6 is co-educational; Junior High for Grades 10-12 is co-educational; Senior School for Grades 7-9 is single-gender.
School type	School type Co-educational.	School type Independent private day school; Elementary and Junior High are co-educational; Senior School is single-gender.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Support.	Additional learning support Learning strategists provide support for students requiring resources or enrichment, delivered in one-on-one or small-group settings to help students be successful.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Canada
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation Catholic
School day structure	School day structure BeforeCare 7:30–8:00; arrival around 8:20–8:30. The day runs 8:30–3:15 with a mid-morning recess 9:50–10:05, lunch 11:25–12:20, and a mid-afternoon recess 1:40–1:55. Co-curricular activities run 3:30–4:30 and Aftercare is 4:30–5:45.	School day structure Doors open at 8:00am; the school day begins at 8:30am. Junior Primary is dismissed between 2:00pm and 3:15pm; Grades Primary, 1 and 2 dismiss at 3:15pm; Grades 3 to 6 dismiss at 3:30pm. After School Program runs daily until 5:30pm (JP–2 dismiss at 3:15pm; Grades 3–6 at 3:30pm).
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Enrollment Fees - Application fee: CAD 150 (non‑refundable). - Tuition deposit to secure a place: CAD 2,500 (paid with the signed enrolment contract; deducted from the first term's fees; the full deposit is non‑refundable if the applicant subsequently withdraws). - Entrance fee for new students: CAD 4,000 one‑time, non‑refundable (applies to each of the first two children in a family; separate from tuition). Installment options are available for students beginning in Preschool or PrePrimary as described below. Entrance‑fee installment examples - Preschool start (broken across three years): CAD 1,333 in Preschool, CAD 1,333 in PrePrimary, CAD 1,334 in Primary. The first installment is due with the enrolment contract and tuition deposit; the later installments are due with the next annual tuition payments on June 30. - PrePrimary start (broken across two years): CAD 2,000 in PrePrimary and CAD 2,000 in Primary, with the first payment due with the enrolment contract and the second due with the next annual tuition payment on June 30. Annual tuition (2026/27 academic year) - Preschool – PrePrimary: CAD 17,342 per year. - Lower School (Primary – Grade 5): CAD 23,090 per year. - Middle & Upper School (Grades 6 – 12): CAD 24,961 per year. - International day students (Grades PS – 12): CAD 34,650 per year (domestic day‑student tuition differs by division as shown above). - Before‑school care (4:30am–start): CAD 10 per day; After‑school care (4:30pm–5:45pm): CAD 15 per day. - Sibling discounts: CAD 1,000 off the second child's tuition and CAD 2,000 off the third and each additional child's tuition. Billing schedule and payment terms (payment‑plan structure and sample installments) The School publishes multiple payment plan options. The examples below reproduce the School's structured options used in recent published fee tables (dates shown are illustrative of the plan due‑date pattern used in the published fee table for the 2025/26 year). Families must select a payment plan when completing the enrolment contract. - Plan A — Lump Sum / Two Installments: - Deposit: CAD 2,500 due with enrolment. - Balance: one payment due June 30 (amount varies by division). - Example 2025/26 totals shown by division: Preschool total CAD 16,516; Lower School total CAD 21,990; Middle/Upper total CAD 23,772; International total CAD 33,000. - Plan B — Term / Four Installments: - Deposit: CAD 2,500 due with enrolment. - Subsequent instalments due on scheduled term dates (example 2025/26 pattern: June 30, September 30, January 31). - Example 2025/26 per‑installment amounts (after deposit) are published by division and produce the term totals shown in the School's fee table. Interest/fee details for this plan may be included in the fee table. - Plan C — Monthly / Multi‑installment: - Deposit: CAD 2,500 due with enrolment. - Monthly payments over a fixed set of months (example 2025/26: monthly payments from May 31 through January 31; the School has also published a 12‑payment option for later years with payments due February 28 through January 31). - Example 2025/26 monthly amounts by division are published in the School's fee table and produce the annual totals for each division. - Policy notes on payment timing and changes: - To change a payment schedule, families must contact the Finance Office and complete the official change form by the published deadline (the School gives specific cut‑off dates for requests). An administrative fee may apply for changes. Late or past‑due accounts are subject to interest charges. Payment methods, penalties and administrative fees - Accepted payment methods: online payment via the School's secure payment gateway (Veracross) using direct debit or credit card, cheque, and wire transfer. A surcharge applies to credit‑card and wire payments. - Overdue accounts: interest charges are applied to outstanding accounts; the School's published policy notes an interest rate of 12% applied to overdue amounts and the School reserves the right to impose sanctions (including suspension) for collection. - Non‑sufficient funds (NSF): CAD 50 per incident. Boarding and family‑boarding (where applicable) - Family boarding (host‑family / ISGC program) is available for international students in Grades 8–12. Two packaged options are published: - All‑inclusive 6‑month program (September–February or January–June): total CAD 39,900 (this total combines Armbrae program fees plus ISGC family‑boarding fees). The Armbrae program component example for a 6‑month stay: tuition with EAL CAD 21,000; entrance fee CAD 2,350; uniforms & spirit wear approx. CAD 850; co‑curricular CAD 1,000; field trips CAD 1,000; Armbrae total CAD 26,200. ISGC (family boarding) component examples for six months: homestay accommodation CAD 10,800 plus other ISGC fees (placement, coordination, insurance) producing an ISGC subtotal of CAD 13,700; combined total CAD 39,900. - All‑inclusive full‑year program (10 months, September–June): the published Armbrae program component example: tuition with EAL CAD 35,000; entrance fee CAD 4,000; uniforms & spirit wear approx. CAD 850; co‑curricular CAD 1,500; field trips CAD 1,500; Armbrae total CAD 43,850. ISGC annual family‑boarding component examples include homestay accommodation CAD 18,000 plus custodianship, placement and coordination fees (ISGC subtotal CAD 22,600), producing a combined full‑year total of approximately CAD 66,450–66,500 as published in the program summary. Other compulsory or typical additional costs - Uniforms: initial outfitting for a new student typically runs CAD 450–600; uniforms must be purchased from the School's approved provider. - Common incidental charges (examples): approved travel and field trips, private music lessons, tutoring, house funds, Advanced Placement (AP) exam fees, software and specific course materials or supplies; amounts vary by activity or program. For international programs, the School publishes estimated co‑curricular and field‑trip allowances (examples given above). Refund and withdrawal rules - Tuition and admission fees (including the Entrance Fee) are non‑refundable. Once a student is accepted, parents are liable for the full annual fee regardless of when a student leaves or the reason for leaving. The tuition deposit (CAD 2,500) is non‑refundable if the applicant withdraws after paying it. Summary of how fees can be paid - Online: secure Veracross payment gateway (direct debit or credit card). - Paper/wire: cheque or wire transfer (credit card and wire payments incur a surcharge). - Administrative/penalty items: NSF fee CAD 50; interest on overdue accounts (12% as published); administrative fees may apply for payment‑plan changes. (End of fee overview.)	Fee details Overview (2026–27) All fees below are stated in Canadian dollars (CAD). The school offers three main tuition levels: Junior Primary, Elementary (Primary–Grade 6), and Senior School (Grades 7–12). Application and Admission fees - Application Fee: CAD 0 (no application fee). - One-time Admission Fee (new students, Primary–Grade 12): CAD 3,000 due August 1 or prior to attending in the case of late enrollment. This one-time admission fee is applied to each child for the first two children enrolled per family and is waived for Junior Primary and for third and subsequent children under the school's family policy. Enrollment deposit (new students) - Enrollment deposit: CAD 1,000 payable when the enrollment contract is completed. This deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Of the CAD 1,000 deposit, CAD 900 is applied against tuition and CAD 100 is an administration fee. 2026–27 Tuition fees (Domestic students) — by school level - Junior Primary: CAD 16,650 (total under the published 2026–27 Financial Guide payment schedule). - Elementary School (Primary–Grade 6): CAD 21,135 (total under the published 2026–27 Financial Guide payment schedule). - Senior School (Grades 7–12): CAD 23,290 (total under the published 2026–27 Financial Guide payment schedule). Payment plans, per-term and installment details - Single payment plan (no administration fee): - Enrollment deposit CAD 1,000 upon contract signing; balance due July 1. Example balances for July 1, 2026: Junior Primary CAD 15,650; Elementary CAD 20,135; Senior CAD 22,290 (total equals the amounts listed above). - Two-payment plan (CAD 300 administration fee): - Enrollment deposit CAD 1,000 on contract signing; first payment due July 1 and second payment due November 30. Example first/second payment amounts (July 1 / Nov 30, 2026): Junior Primary CAD 7,975 / CAD 7,975; Elementary CAD 10,218 / CAD 10,218; Senior CAD 11,295 / CAD 11,295. Total for each level includes the CAD 300 administration fee. - Ten-payment plan (CAD 600 administration fee): - Enrollment deposit CAD 1,000 on contract signing; monthly payments from July 1, 2026 through April 1, 2027. Example monthly payments: Junior Primary CAD 1,625; Elementary CAD 2,074; Senior CAD 2,298. Total for each level includes the CAD 600 administration fee. Mid-year enrollment and prorating - Tuition for students who enroll after the school year begins is prorated: a full month is charged for start dates on or before the 15th of the month; a half-month is charged for start dates after the 15th. The one-time admission fee applies for students in Grades Primary–12 when applicable. Family discounts and scholarships - Family discount: CAD 750 credit against the second child's tuition; CAD 1,000 discount for the third and any subsequent child's tuition. - Scholarships and bursary support are available (merit scholarships for Grades 7–12 and need-based bursaries for Primary–12) and will be reflected on invoices when awarded. Payment-plan totals and invoices reflect any applied scholarships or tuition assistance. Additional mandatory and optional fees - English as an Additional Language (EAL) fees (when EAL support is required): Grades Primary–6: CAD 2,000; Grades 7–12: CAD 9,000 (added to the student's account when EAL support is required). - School uniform (approximate cost): Junior Primary–Grade 6: CAD 400–600; Grades 7–12: CAD 500–700. A second-hand uniform sale is run by the Parents' Guild annually. - After-School Program (JP–6): CAD 5.50 per half hour or part thereof (billed monthly). Complimentary care windows are noted for specific early years; after-school program fees apply beyond complimentary periods. After-school day camp rate: CAD 80 per day. A CAD 75 school supplies fee is added for Grades Primary–6. - Field trips and activities: compulsory local travel and activities are included in tuition; activities outside Nova Scotia incur additional fees based on travel and activity. Boarding and homestay - The school does not offer a boarding program. International students are placed with Canadian host families through a managed Homestay program; homestay is arranged and overseen by a professional partner (host family accommodation is provided for a stipend paid to host families). There are no boarding fees; homestay arrangements and any related fees or stipends are managed through the homestay program partner. Refund and cancellation specifics - The enrollment deposit (CAD 1,000) is non-refundable and non-transferable. Tuition for students who join mid-year is prorated as described above. Other refund and cancellation details are handled according to the enrollment contract and Business Office terms. Billing schedule, payment terms, penalties, and receipts - Billing schedule: families select a payment plan when completing the enrollment contract and must notify the Business Office by July 1 to change plans prior to the school year. Due dates under each plan are specified (see Single, Two-, and Ten-payment plans above). - Accepted payment methods: online bill payment from a Canadian bank account (recurring payments can be set up), cheque or bank draft made payable to SACRED HEART SCHOOL OF HALIFAX, and credit card via the school billing portal (a 2.6% credit-card processing fee applies to credit-card payments). A CAD 45 fee applies to returned payments (NSF). - Late payments: accounts 30 days or more in arrears are charged interest at 1% per month (12% annually). Overdue accounts may result in withholding of report cards and transcripts, suspension, or declined future enrollment until the account is settled. Families with accounts in arrears as of April 30 will not receive report cards or transcripts until the account is paid in full. - Tax receipts: receipts for eligible child-care and other items are issued by the Business Office in February; Junior Primary tuition and After-School Program fees have specified tax receipt treatments. Summary of key amounts (CAD) - Application Fee: CAD 0. - Admission Fee (one-time, new students P–12): CAD 3,000. - Enrollment deposit (new students): CAD 1,000 (non-refundable; CAD 900 toward tuition + CAD 100 admin). - Tuition (total, 2026–27): Junior Primary CAD 16,650; Elementary CAD 21,135; Senior CAD 23,290. - EAL fees (if required): Grades P–6 CAD 2,000; Grades 7–12 CAD 9,000. Uniforms approx. CAD 400–700 depending on level. After-School Program CAD 5.50 per half hour; camps CAD 80/day. Field trips outside Nova Scotia may incur additional charges.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Family Boarding at Armbrae is available for international students in Grades 8–12. Host families are carefully vetted by ISGC, with over 15 years of family boarding experience. Armbrae's international team works closely with these hosts to ensure life outside the classroom is rich, engaging, and supportive. Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Armbrae offers international students a true Canadian experience within a close-knit school community.	Boarding arrangements The school does not offer a boarding program; international students live with Canadian host families in Halifax. The Homestay Program is managed by International Student Guardianship Canada (ISGC), with 24-hour emergency support and guardianship services.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are compulsory for Armbrae students. The uniform is described in the Preschool & Preprimary Uniform Requirements and spans from P to 12. The cost of outfitting a new student in the compulsory school uniform will run from $450–$600 initially, and the uniform must be purchased from TOPMARKS, the school uniform provider.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required. A 2026-27 Uniform Guide and an Ordering Guide govern purchases; Lands' End is the uniform partner. International students should contact Sigrid Davis for assistance.
Food options	Food options —	Food options The school runs a hot lunch program focusing on quality, variety, nutrition, and food sensitivities, with local restaurant partners.
House system	House system —	House system The School has a House System. Students compete for the annual House Cup.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Armbrae Academy is an independent school governed by an independent board of governors and funded through tuition payments, auxiliary income, and charitable contributions; it does not receive government funding. Armbrae is CAIS accredited.	Governance and ownership The School is governed by a Board of Governors made up of present and past parents, alumni, Religious of the Sacred Heart, a faculty appointee, and members of the wider community. The Board is accountable to the Provincial of the US-Canada Province of the Society of the Sacred Heart.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Armbrae Academy is an independent, university-preparatory, co-educational Pre-K to Grade 12 day school in Halifax, Nova Scotia, CAIS accredited. Preschool & PrePrimary (ages 3-5) uses a play-based, integrated curriculum with Jolly Phonics; includes daily French class, outdoor play and a mix of teacher- and student-led activities. Lower School follows the Nova Scotia curriculum with enrichment, small class sizes and a focus on literacy, numeracy, science and French, along with drama, music, art, physical and health education, library and field trips. Middle School (Grades 6-8) aligns with the Nova Scotia curriculum for Grades 6-9, includes an advisory program, health and wellness focus, and co-curricular options such as art, music, speaking arts and service learning. Upper School (Grades 9-12) meets graduation requirements with Foundation Years and Specialization Years; it offers an Advanced Placement program with courses such as Psychology, World History, Environmental Science and more, plus the Duke of Edinburgh Award program. Career & University Guidance provides post-secondary planning from Grade 9 onward, including university visits and admissions support, and lists UCAS code 45203 and CEEB code 825385.	Curriculum details Diamond Model of Education with a co-ed Elementary School (JP–Grade 6) and Junior High, and a single-gender Senior School (Grades 7–9) with a co-ed Senior High (Grades 10–12). The Elementary School provides age-appropriate French instruction, including an Enhanced French Program in Grades 1–2 with daily instruction in both English and French and a daily core French class in Grades 3–6. The Senior School offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses for first-year university credit and a University Preparation program, with English as an Additional Language support. The program emphasizes leadership, social justice, and a broad co-curricular program, including exchange programs and online courses, with small classes and experienced faculty.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Career Education starts in Grade 9 and continues through Grades 10-12, with post-secondary guidance embedded in the academic program. University representatives visit annually to discuss options, and students receive individualized admissions support to prepare applications. The guidance team assists with course selections aligned to post-secondary goals and admissions requirements, and UCAS code 45203 and CEEB code 825385 support applications.	Higher education progression Advanced Placement (AP) courses provide first-year university credit, and a University Preparation program guides post-secondary planning.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Advanced Placement Program offers university-level courses and exams. AP offerings include Psychology, World History, Environmental Science, Calculus AB/BC, Biology, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition, and Computer Science Principles.	Gifted and talented Enrichment Program with Differentiated Teaching and Learning and Enrichment Clusters; Advanced Placement courses offer higher-level study.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Advisors are assigned to every student and meet regularly to discuss academics, organization, and personal well-being, building a safe, nurturing space. The Advisory Programme emphasizes relationship-building and restorative practices, with weekly advisory lessons and an emphasis on self-advocacy, goal setting, and active participation in the school community. Caring Schools (Grades 7–8) directly teach social skills and foster a calm, orderly learning environment, supporting students' social and emotional development. The Rugged & Resourced (R2) framework supports resilience and connected learning through school programs and activities. The Be Kind \| Work Hard philosophy underpins the community, reinforcing belonging and positive relationships.	Social & emotional learning Sacred Heart School of Halifax provides intentional support for students' academic, physical, social-emotional and spiritual health and growth. Social-emotional learning is prioritized in both Elementary and Senior School, with School Counsellors dedicated to student well-being. The curriculum includes health in Elementary School and Core in Senior School, and assemblies, advisories, and guest speakers address meaningful issues to develop character and core values.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Inclusive Education Support (IES) provides targeted support to students from historically marginalized communities—Indigenous, African Nova Scotian, Newcomer, and LGBTQ+IA—promoting a safe, supportive climate and improved self-esteem. The O'Connor Student Success Centre offers individualized support for diverse learning styles, with learning strategists, self-advocacy development, time-management and study-skill coaching, and ongoing progress monitoring. A psychoeducational assessment may be recommended to deepen understanding of a student's learning profile, with accommodations and strategies reviewed with parents and teachers. English language learners receive integrated support through Learning Support, with EAL instruction in the Lower School and placement in EAL courses in the Middle and Upper Schools.	Special educational needs (SEN) A Learning Strategist supports academics in both Elementary and Senior Schools, and a School Counsellor focuses on student well-being. Small class sizes and a relational learning approach help ensure that each student is known, nurtured, and supported.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English language proficiency is supported through acceptance of Duolingo, IELTS, and TOEFL with no fixed minimum scores; applications are reviewed holistically and EAL support may be recommended as needed. If English is not your first language, proof of English proficiency is required as part of the application. An International team, including three Admissions Directors, a Registrar, a Business Development Director, and an EAL Director, is dedicated to supporting international students and families with care and clarity.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language is available for any student in Primary to Grade 12 who requires extra assistance. Before entry into the program, students receive an official language assessment to determine their level. In addition to regular courses, EAL classes are tailored and content-based, held one to four times a week to develop language skills and learning strategies toward fluency.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Advisors serve as the first point of contact for students' academic, organizational, and personal well-being, with regular check-ins and a focus on safe, supportive student development. Caring Schools (Grades 7–8) foster SEL by building caring relationships, teaching social skills, and promoting self-discipline in a supportive classroom climate. The O'Connor Student Success Centre provides individualized support for students, addressing diverse learning needs and helping them develop self-advocacy, resilience, and effective learning strategies. The school's advisory and inclusion initiatives aim to create a sense of belonging and emotional safety across the community.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is prioritized through dedicated School Counsellors and a focus on student well-being in both Elementary and Senior Schools. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, physical education, and personal wellness as part of a holistic education. Assemblies, advisories, and guest visits support well-being and the development of healthy habits.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding —	Safeguarding For safeguarding, the Homestay Program provides safeguarding measures for international students, including 24-hour emergency support, a dedicated ISGC guardian, and access to ISGC's guardianship resources. Host families offer a safe, caring, and supervised environment with 24-hour supervision and a student emergency number.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Three Halifax campuses serve preschool through Grade 12: Oxford Campus at 1400 Oxford St, Coburg Campus at 6430 Coburg Rd, and South Campus at 1300 Oxford St. The Oxford Campus includes on-site facilities such as a gym and a games room, with outdoor spaces that include an outdoor playground and a wooded area. These spaces support on-campus learning and a range of athletic and recreational activities. The campuses form a single Armbrae community that accommodates the full PreK–12 program.	Facilities overview Located in central Halifax at 5820 Spring Garden Rd, Sacred Heart School of Halifax sits on a campus with a theatre, a lunch room, two gyms, and a library. The state-of-the-art playground supports daily outdoor play, including up to 2 1/2 hours of outdoor activity for Junior Primary. The Campus Library serves the entire student body with print and digital resources, and offers English- and French-language databases and access to university resources through partnerships. The school operates a single-gender Senior School (Grades 7-9) and a co-educational Senior School (Grades 10-12) as part of its program structure. The Arts, Athletics, and Library spaces are integrated to support learning across Elementary and Senior levels.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities An on-campus gym supports indoor sports such as basketball and volleyball. The campus also features a games room and outdoor spaces including an outdoor playground and a wooded area to support recreational and outdoor activities. Armbrae offers a broad athletics program with seasonal sports across Fall, Winter and Spring, including cross country, soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, rowing, field hockey, rugby and badminton.	Sports facilities In the Elementary School, the gym supports physical education for all grade levels, and the playground includes a state-of-the-art play area and a Gaga Pit, plus basketball courts and other designated sports spaces. Our Senior School teams compete in basketball, soccer, volleyball, table tennis, cross country, badminton, skiing, golf, track and field, and field hockey, with recreational offerings in tennis, hockey, swimming, and ultimate frisbee. The Athletics program emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and sportsmanship through both recreational and competitive opportunities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Lower School operates with four 80-minute periods and 40-minute specialist periods for French, Music, Physical and Health Education, Art, Drama and Library, reflecting dedicated spaces for these subjects. Hands-on laboratory work is integral to science education. The school emphasizes a curriculum enriched beyond the Nova Scotia framework, with specialist subjects supported by appropriate facilities and resources.	Academic facilities The Campus Library is a 21st-century resource with a large print and digital collection, hosting author visits, year-long reading programs, and personalized reading lists. It provides access to academic databases in English and French and offers online resources via its library website, including a catalog that lets students personalize reading lists. The Librarian provides classroom support and guidance on research and information literacy from early grades. The library supports partnerships that allow borrowing privileges at Dalhousie University, Saint Mary's University, and Mount Saint Vincent University. In the Senior School, Advanced Placement (AP) courses and University Preparation programs are offered to support university entry, with virtually all graduates going on to higher education and tailored university preparation for each student. English as an Additional Language support is also available in the Senior School, and a Diamond Model of Education guides the overall approach to learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Osprey Camps run on the Oxford Street campus with Signature, Discovery and Specialty camps; activities take place in the games room, gym, outdoor playground and wooded area. Armbrae maintains drama and public-speaking programs and is noted for leadership in debate and speaking arts. Co-curricular opportunities span athletics across Fall, Winter and Spring seasons, including cross country, soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, rowing, field hockey, rugby and badminton, alongside leadership, the arts and service activities.	Extra curricular facilities A wide range of clubs and activities is available, including Robotics, Karate, Chess Club, Battle of the Books, Choir, Creative Writing Club, Guitar, International Student Society, Performing Arts Club, Excelsior Club, Yearbook Club, Band, Girls at Bat, Pixel Pioneers, and Running Club. Arts programs include a strong Music program with choirs and bands, Performing Arts productions, and Visual Arts integrated across the curriculum.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Armbrae Academy was incorporated in association with the Presbyterian Church of Canada by an act of the Nova Scotia Legislature on May 3, 1887. It began as Halifax Ladies College and was affiliated with Dalhousie University and the Halifax Conservatory of Music immediately after establishment. Classes were divided into the Collegiate, the Preparatory, and the Primary Department, with Kindergarten introduced later. The school started as a finishing school for young ladies not pursuing a career and as a university preparatory school for those who were. In 1980, the school became known as Armbrae Academy and is now a coeducational day school with more than 350 students from diverse backgrounds, focusing on character education, community service, athletics, and other pursuits. Be Kind \| Work Hard is the updated motto that underpins the Armbrae experience.	History The school has roots in France, with St. Madeleine Sophie Barat founding the Society of the Sacred Heart (RSCJ) to educate the whole child. In 1849, Sisters of the RSCJ came to Halifax and opened a school; in 1851 the RSCJ moved into the present building and operated it as the Convent of the Sacred Heart until 1985 when it was reincorporated and named Sacred Heart School of Halifax. In the mid-1900s, the RSCJ also ran the College Street School on the same campus. In 2005, a boys' high school division was created and housed temporarily at the Canadian Martyrs Church on the SMU Campus; in 2010 the Fountain Academy of the Sacred Heart was built on the current campus. Today there are over 150 Sacred Heart schools in 33 countries, educating students to lead lives of meaning guided by shared values.
Community	Community Armbrae maintains a tight-knit, nurturing community. School belongingness is a hallmark of the Armbrae experience. The Advisory Programme supports student development, while Diversity & Inclusion and Learning Support are part of the school's offerings. Camps & Summer Programmes and ongoing activities like the Osprey Basketball League and Summer Academy contribute to a vibrant community life, with Armbrae Today providing updates on events, academics, athletics, and co-curricular activities.	Community The school has a strong sense of community and emphasizes that the Sacred Heart experience is as much about community as education. Goal 4 calls on us to build community, with involvement from the Parents' Guild, past parents, the RSCJ, families, and faculty and staff, all playing a role in supporting and elevating each other. Students have a wealth of opportunities inside and outside the classroom that foster leadership, service, and global awareness, and connect them to communities of shared interests. There is something for every student and many ways to grow as a person, humanitarian, and community member.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Armbrae has a Parents' Association (APA). Every student's parent or caregiver is a member of the Armbrae Parents' Association. Volunteers are a huge part of life at Armbrae and the APA engages families and community members in volunteer activities. The association supports the school through fundraising and by contributing time and expertise, with multiple options for support including financial donations and in-kind gifts. Community volunteers, alumni, faculty and staff, former parents, grandparents, the Board, and friends of the school participate in APA-led initiatives and events to enhance the educational experience.	Parent teacher association The school has a Parents' Guild that is a dynamic and active group with two primary goals: enhancing the Sacred Heart school community and raising funds to support Sacred Heart programs. Every Sacred Heart parent is a member of the Guild, and involvement can include volunteering at events, attending events such as the Christmas Fair, Pancake Supper, Parent Socials, and Ice Cream Social, or serving on the Guild Executive. The Guild fosters connection and socialization among families, and funds raised support theatre productions, leadership conferences, clubs, art programs, and sports equipment.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Math Circle, Math Contests, and Senior Robotics are offered as co-curricular academic enrichment. These activities complement the academic program and provide hands-on experiences in mathematics and engineering.	Academic & intellectual Robotics, Battle of the Books, Pixel Pioneers, and Yearbook Club are among the clubs that support academic enrichment. These activities promote STEM skills, reading comprehension, digital literacy, and scholarly writing beyond the regular curriculum. They foster teamwork, communication, and critical thinking across grade levels. Participation in these clubs complements academic learning and supports academic growth.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Drama 11 is an arts course. A drama teacher supports the program for Grades P-10. Armbrae notes opportunities in the arts, athletics, and STEAM.	Arts & creative Music is a core part of school life, with senior choral presentations and a Senior Choir and Liturgy group performing at events. The Elementary Choir regularly performs at school events and in the wider community, and the Band program offers Beginner, Intermediate, and Senior levels. The Performing Arts program features the senior school musical production and the elementary school musical, with weeks of rehearsals and elaborate production elements. Visual Arts are integrated into school life, with student work showcased on campus and in public displays such as the Dresden Row mural.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language International Student Society is offered to support students from diverse backgrounds. The Exchange Program invites hosting a Sacred Heart student from abroad and traveling to other Sacred Heart schools to live with a local Sacred Heart family. The Sacred Heart Network includes over 150 schools worldwide. These programs provide opportunities to learn about other cultures and languages.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Fall sports include Cross Country (Junior and Senior), Junior Girls' and Boys' Soccer, Senior Boys' Soccer, Junior Girls' and Boys' Volleyball, Senior Boys' and Girls' Volleyball, Junior Tennis Club, and a Rowing Club (Grades 8–12). Winter sports include U13 and junior varsity and varsity basketball, and Senior Curling. Spring sports include Senior Girls' Field Hockey, Junior Rugby, Badminton (Junior and Senior), Junior Girls' and Boys' Flag Football, Junior Ultimate Frisbee, Junior and Senior Track and Field, Junior Futsal Soccer, and Pickleball.	Social & hobbies A wide range of clubs and activities includes Chess Club, Battle of the Books, Creative Writing Club, Guitar, Performing Arts Club, Yearbook Club, and Running Club. Other hobby groups such as Pixel Pioneers and Girls at Bat offer additional ways to socialize and develop skills outside class. Participating in these clubs helps students form friendships and explore personal interests. Club offerings vary by grade level.
Community & service	Community & service Advisory Groups focus on team-building and self-advocacy, with active participation in community service. Advisors meet with students to discuss academics, co-curricular activities, and wellbeing, and provide opportunities for leadership.	Community & service The Parents' Guild is a dynamic and active group with the goals of enhancing the Sacred Heart community and raising funds to support Sacred Heart programs. Participation can include volunteering at events such as the Christmas Fair, Pancake Supper, and Ice Cream Social. The funds raised support theatre productions, leadership conferences, various school clubs, art programs, and sports equipment. Any Sacred Heart parent can get involved as a volunteer or as a member of the Guild Executive.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school has a Board of Governors for long-term strategic direction, an Executive Leadership Team to implement strategy, and a School Leadership Team to carry out the mission. The Head of School is Stephen Clarke, and the Senior Leadership Team includes roles such as Director of Student Life and other senior leaders.	Leadership & professional There are leadership opportunities in both the Elementary School and the Senior School, including Student Council, Student Prefects, Class Representatives, and Heads of Houses. Through these roles, students engage in volunteer opportunities, clubs, and community activities. The program encourages empathy, inclusivity, boldness, decisiveness, and innovation. These experiences prepare students for future professional and civic responsibilities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Belongingness and the Be Kind \| Work Hard philosophy underpin student life. The Head of School emphasizes that Armbrae focuses on character education, community service, athletics, and other pursuits to support wellbeing. Armbrae aims to support the long-term mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing of students.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Physical activity and sports are an integral part of Sacred Heart's mission. The Athletics program is robust and inclusive, offering both recreational and competitive options. Senior School teams compete in basketball, soccer, volleyball, table tennis, cross country, badminton, skiing, golf, track and field, and field hockey, with additional junior intramural offerings. The focus is on personal growth, teamwork, leadership, resilience, and well-being.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction. French is taught across the school, with a French class in Preschool/PrePrimary, 40-minute French specialist periods in Lower School, and French 9 in Upper School. EAL support is available for international students, and proof of English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers.	Language provision English and French are taught. The Elementary Program includes daily blocks of reading, writing, and French, with a goal of bilingual literacy by Grade 6. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is offered to Primary through Grade 12 for students needing extra English support. Students undergo an official language assessment before entry into EAL, and tailored EAL classes run one to four times per week to build language skills and strategies.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching English and French literacy are taught. The Elementary Program ensures both French and English literacy by the end of Grade 6. Junior Primary has French specialists to support language learning across the Elementary years.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations CAIS accreditation — Accredited member of Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS). Nova Scotia Department of Education accreditation — Meets provincial standards set by Nova Scotia's Department of Education.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1: Complete an online application through Armbrae's Admissions Portal at armbrae.ns.ca/apply and follow the instructions provided. Upload supporting documents such as recent report cards or transcripts, teacher references, and proof of citizenship. If English is not your first language, include proof of English proficiency; official scores from Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL are accepted. A non-refundable application fee is payable at the time you apply. Step 2: Interview and entrance assessment. Once the application has been reviewed, selected candidates are invited to participate in an interview and an entrance assessment. Families in Halifax may attend in person, while international families who cannot travel will have a virtual interview and an appropriate alternative for the entrance assessment. Step 3: Admissions decisions. Admissions decisions are communicated after review. If an offer of admission is made, you'll be asked to confirm your acceptance by the deadline provided by the Admissions Office. To secure a place, a non-refundable registration fee is required.	Admissions Four simple steps compose the admissions process: Get To Know Us; Apply; Upload Required Documents; Book Your Child's Assessment. Get To Know Us: Families begin by contacting the Admissions Office to learn about Sacred Heart School of Halifax. They may submit an inquiry, book a tour, attend an event, or call the Admissions Office. A visit can be arranged if a visit has not yet occurred. Apply: Submit an online application. There is no cost to apply. After the application is received, the Admissions Office will contact the family to arrange a tour if a visit has not occurred and to schedule an appointment for the child's assessment. Upload Required Documents: Upload the required documents through the application portal using the grade-specific checklist. Junior Primary and Primary require a copy of the child's birth certificate or passport. Grade 1-12 require a birth certificate or passport, final report cards from the past two academic years, the most recent report card if applicable, the teacher recommendation form, and the completed student profile. Book Your Child's Assessment: All prospective students must complete an assessment to determine academic eligibility and mission alignment. If English is not the student's first language, an English Proficiency Assessment may also be required. Grades 1-9 have a visiting day and/or on-campus assessment, with online assessment available for those outside Halifax; Grades 10-12 complete the ISEE on campus, with online assessment for those outside Halifax. A member of the Admissions Team will be in touch with the outcome of your application; if accepted, a formal letter of acceptance is issued and a deposit is required to hold the spot.
Scholarships	Scholarships Tuition Assistance is a need-based bursary for students in Grades 6-12. The Tuition Assistance Committee reviews applications based on financial need and the student's potential to contribute to the school. Families indicate interest in scholarship funding on the student's initial application for admission.	Scholarships The school uses a Bursary Fund to provide needs-based tuition assistance. Current Sacred Heart families and new families whose child is accepted and enrolled for the coming school year can apply for tuition assistance through the Bursary Fund. The amount per scholarship ranges from $500 to $3,000 and is applied as a reduction of tuition fees. A Financial Guide outlines payment plans, enrollment contracts, and potential additional costs of the program.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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