The Senior School provides Grade 10 to 12 students with a challenging, comprehensive and balanced curriculum, meeting an internationally recognized standard of academic excellence. We believe a challenging liberal arts curriculum exposes our students to the world of ideas, broader perspectives, essential core knowledge, and a sense of accomplishment necessary for happiness and ultimate success in life.
The Grammar School of today is recognized as the leading IB World School in Atlantic Canada, offering the full IB Diploma Program to all students in Grades 11 and 12. The IB Diploma Program at HGS is a continuation of the enriched curriculum offered in our Middle School. Our curriculum also meets and exceeds the requirements of the Nova Scotia Department of Education. While other Nova Scotia schools are now beginning to offer the Diploma Program, HGS continues to lead in preparing the most full IB Diploma students, securing the largest number of IB diplomas, and registering the best reported university academic results.
The Senior School offers far more than the IB Diploma Program. Entering Grade 10 at the Senior School, students are exposed to the remarkable energy, activity, and creativity that exemplifies the Grammar Experience. Every Senior School student belongs to one of the four Student Houses and opportunities abound to hold meaningful student leadership positions. Beginning in Grade 10, all students find themselves in small House Advisory Groups, guided by encouraging and supportive faculty members. All students in Grade 10 are also expected to take two broadening life skills-oriented courses, Physical and Health Education and Research and Writing.
The Senior School is now well known for the richness of its co-curricular programs. We offer an outstanding Varsity Athletics program, focusing on our identified core sports: soccer, basketball, and track & field. Among the wide array of Clubs and Cultural Activities offered each year are the Math League competition, national and provincial debating, drama, visual art, improv, environmental action, and Global Affairs. All Senior School students are expected to participate in Community Service, consistent with IB Diploma requirements. For students, HGS School Dances and Coffee Houses, House Rallies and Field Days, and the annual Musical are the true highlights of any term.
“I consider myself lucky to go to school every morning to a diverse, talented environment. I tell jokes with talented debaters, walk to class with committed basketball players, sing in musicals with aspiring actors, and study with teachers who are experts in their fields. Every day, I become more confident the school is providing me with the best possible preparation for my future, whatever that may be.”
~ Ben Jain, Head Boy 2008-2009