Calgary is home to some of the best secondary schools in Alberta, offering students diverse academic programs, extracurricular activities, and opportunities for personal growth. This article explores ten of the top secondary schools in the city.
Table of Contents:
- Webber Academy
- Calgary French & International School
- Rundle College
- Alberta Ballet School
- Renert School
- Westmount Charter School
- Master’s Academy & College
- Foundations for the Future Charter Academy
- Dr. E. P. Scarlett High School
- FFCA South High School
Webber Academy
Webber Academy is a non-denominational, co-educational, university preparatory private school in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 1997 by Dr. Neil Webber, a former teacher and Alberta Cabinet Minister, the school serves students from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12. The 47-acre campus includes modern facilities such as a science center, two full-size gymnasiums, and a 500-seat performing arts theater.
The academy emphasizes a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for university and beyond. Core subjects include Mathematics, English, Science, and History, complemented by instruction in French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available for high-achieving students, with offerings in subjects like Calculus, Biology, and Physics. The school also integrates technology into its programs, offering courses in computer coding and robotics.
The admissions process at Webber Academy involves several steps: an online application, an admissions assessment, classroom visits, and a final review by the admissions team. The school seeks students who demonstrate strong academic potential and a positive attitude. International applicants are welcome but must demonstrate proficiency in English, as the school does not offer ESL support.
In terms of university preparation, Webber Academy boasts a 100% graduation rate, with 99.8% of graduates accepted into universities. The school offers 16 AP courses, providing students with opportunities to earn university credits while still in high school. Additionally, Webber Academy provides career counseling starting in Grade 10 to help students make informed decisions about their post-secondary education.
While Webber Academy maintains a non-denominational stance, it has faced criticism regarding its policies on religious practices. In 2012, the school denied two Muslim students the right to pray on campus, leading to a human rights complaint and subsequent legal proceedings. The Alberta Human Rights Commission ruled that the school’s actions were discriminatory, resulting in fines and ongoing discussions about accommodating religious practices in non-denominational settings.
2. Calgary French & International School
Calgary French & International School (CFIS) is a private French immersion and International Baccalaureate institution located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Established in 1969 as Calgary’s first French immersion school, CFIS was founded by a group of parents aiming to provide an all-French educational environment for young Anglophone children. The school has since expanded to educate over 780 students from junior preschool through Grade 12.
CFIS offers an immersive French language curriculum, with all subjects taught in French except for English Language Arts and Spanish. Students graduate fluent in both French and English, and possess functional proficiency in Spanish. The school emphasizes strong academics, robust language programs, and a dynamic learning environment tailored to individual student needs.
Admission to CFIS is open to students from preschool to Grade 12. The school fosters a warm, welcoming community that nurtures each student’s unique potential. CFIS is recognized as Alberta’s top French immersion school and is one of 59 Canadian UNESCO-associated schools. The diverse community includes students from 32 nationalities, reflecting the school’s international mindset.
In preparation for university, CFIS provides enriched academic courses and a wide range of co-curricular programs. The school is accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organization, offering IB programs at the senior high level. Graduates are well-equipped for higher education, with alumni attending over 30 international universities.
The CFIS campus features modern facilities, including 45 classrooms, science labs, art studios, music rooms, and athletic amenities such as gymnasiums, a soccer pitch, and a running track. These resources support a comprehensive educational experience, promoting both academic and personal growth.
3. Rundle College
Rundle College, established in 1985 in Calgary, Alberta, is an independent, co-educational day school offering a post-secondary preparatory education for students from kindergarten through Grade 12. Founded by Dr. Rodney Conklin and Dr. W.J. Collett, the school emphasizes small class sizes, with groups ranging from 6 to 16 students, fostering personalized learning and strong student-teacher relationships.
The curriculum at Rundle College is designed to prepare students for admission to post-secondary institutions of their choice. The school offers a balanced approach to mathematics and a demanding academic program that encourages intellectual, social, and personal growth. This is complemented by experiences in the arts, languages, technology, and physical education.
The admissions process at Rundle College involves several steps. Prospective families are encouraged to attend virtual information sessions to learn about the school’s philosophy, programs, and admission procedures. Following this, an online application must be submitted, including necessary documentation such as recent report cards and a birth certificate. For students applying to Grades 7 through 12, the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) is required. Selected candidates are then invited for a family interview and student tour.
Rundle College boasts a 100% post-secondary acceptance rate, with graduates attending universities worldwide. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, providing students with opportunities to earn university credits while still in high school. Comprehensive career counseling begins in Grade 10, assisting students in making informed decisions about their post-secondary education and future careers.
Beyond academics, Rundle College emphasizes character development, leadership, and citizenship. Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of co-curricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service, fostering well-rounded personal growth.
4. Alberta Ballet School
Alberta Ballet School, established in 1991, serves as the official training institution for the Alberta Ballet Company. Founded by Ruth Carse, a prominent figure in Canadian dance, the school has become a comprehensive training center for aspiring professional dancers.
The school offers a range of programs designed to develop both the artistic and academic potential of its students. The Professional Division caters to students from grades 7 through 12, providing a curriculum that balances rigorous dance training with accredited academic education. For those who have completed high school, the Post-Graduate Program offers two additional years of intensive dance instruction, while the Alberta Ballet Trainee Program provides a one-year bridge between training and a professional dance career.
Admission to Alberta Ballet School’s Professional Division begins with an audition process. Prospective students can audition in person during scheduled national and international tours, participate in virtual auditions, or submit video recordings. Successful candidates are invited to join the Summer Intensive program, a three-week course that serves as both advanced training and a secondary evaluation for full-year placement.
The academic component of the Professional Division is noteworthy, with small class sizes averaging 15 students and a Fraser Institute rating of 9.1 out of 10. Graduates receive an internationally recognized high school diploma, fully preparing them to meet or exceed university entrance requirements.
Alberta Ballet School emphasizes holistic development, offering on-site wellness services that include physiotherapy, massage therapy, and sports psychology. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are supported both physically and mentally throughout their training.
Performance opportunities are integral to the student experience. Professional Division students participate in at least five performances annually, including Alberta Ballet Company productions such as “The Nutcracker.” These experiences provide invaluable stage exposure, enhancing their readiness for professional careers.
5. Renert School
Renert School, founded in 2013 by Aaron and Dr. Moshe Renert, is an accredited private K-12 institution located in northwest Calgary, Alberta. Building upon over 25 years of experience in academic support and test preparation, the school emphasizes personalized learning and holistic education.
The school’s curriculum is designed to nurture students’ passions and interests. Students progress at their own pace, grouped by skill level rather than age, particularly in subjects like mathematics. Beyond core academics, Renert School offers diverse programs in arts, languages, technology, and physical education, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.
Admissions involve attending an information session to understand the school’s philosophy and programs. Prospective students are evaluated based on their academic skills and ability to manage grade-level expectations. The school seeks curious and intellectually engaged children who can benefit from its wide range of learning opportunities.
Renert School is recognized for its strong mathematics program and commitment to academic excellence. The institution provides a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests deeply, preparing them effectively for post-secondary education and future careers.
The campus features modern facilities designed to enhance the learning experience. The building includes collaborative classroom spaces and specialized studios for art, dance, martial arts, music, and yoga, reflecting the school’s progressive educational vision.
6. Westmount Charter School
Westmount Charter School, established in 1996, is a publicly funded K-12 institution in Calgary, Alberta, dedicated to educating gifted learners. Founded by the Action for Bright Children Society, it began as ABC Charter Public School with 116 students in grades 1 through 3. In 2002, it was renamed Westmount Charter School and has since expanded to serve approximately 1,300 students across two campuses.
The school’s curriculum is tailored to meet the unique needs of gifted students, offering accelerated and enriched learning opportunities. Students are encouraged to delve deeply into subjects of interest, fostering both academic and personal growth. The educational approach emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, preparing students for future academic endeavors and societal contributions.
Admission to Westmount Charter School requires a comprehensive evaluation process. Prospective students must undergo a third-party psychological assessment, including intelligence testing such as the WISC or Stanford-Binet, to determine giftedness. This ensures that the school’s resources and programs are well-suited to the student’s educational needs.
The school operates two campuses: the Elementary Campus (grades K-4) located at 728 – 32 Street NW, and the Mid-High Campus (grades 5-12) at 2215 Uxbridge Drive NW. Both campuses are equipped with facilities designed to support a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, providing a nurturing environment for gifted learners.
Westmount Charter School offers various extracurricular programs, including athletics and arts, to promote holistic development. Sports teams, known as the Westmount Wild, participate in activities such as badminton, basketball, cross-country running, and more, fostering teamwork and physical fitness among students.
7. Master’s Academy & College
Master’s Academy & College, founded in 1997 by Tom Rudmik, is a K-12 Christian school located at 4414 Crowchild Trail SW in Calgary, Alberta. The school is part of the Palliser Regional Schools’ Alternative Program and is recognized for its innovative educational approach.
The institution emphasizes “Profound Learning,” a model developed through its research arm, Imaginal Education. This approach aims to prepare students to be “Future Ready” by fostering innovation, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Master’s Academy & College is committed to transforming education both locally and globally through this model.
The school comprises two divisions: the Academy (grades K–6) and the College (grades 7–12). As of 2019, Master’s Academy was ranked as the top elementary school in Alberta by the Fraser Institute. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview with a focus on academic excellence, aiming to develop students into “Master Learners” and “Imaginal Leaders.”
In addition to academics, Master’s Academy & College offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics and arts programs, to promote holistic development. The school’s mission is to equip students to be designers and creators of the future, aligning with its vision of preparing them to be “Future Ready.”
8. Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA)
Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA) is a public charter school in Calgary, Alberta, serving over 3,800 students across eight campuses from kindergarten through Grade 12. Established in 1997, FFCA emphasizes academic excellence, character development, parental involvement, and staff leadership.
The school’s curriculum focuses on a traditional approach to education, incorporating direct instruction and character education to foster leadership qualities in students. FFCA offers specialized programs, including Advanced Placement courses, to challenge students and prepare them for post-secondary education.
Admission to FFCA operates on a lottery-based system due to high demand. Prospective students can apply to be placed on a waitlist, with selection occurring through a randomized process. The school values parental involvement and encourages active participation in the educational experience.
In addition to academics, FFCA offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and fine arts, to promote a well-rounded education. The school has recently expanded, with the official opening of the North High School building in September 2024, enhancing its capacity to serve the community.
9. Dr. E. P. Scarlett High School
Dr. E.P. Scarlett High School, established in 1970, is a public senior high school located at 220 Canterbury Drive SW in Calgary, Alberta. Named after Dr. Earle Parkhill Scarlett, a distinguished Calgary physician, educator, scholar, and writer, the school operates under the Calgary Board of Education. As of the 2023-2024 academic year, the school serves approximately 1,663 students across grades 10 to 12.
The school is renowned for its comprehensive Advanced Placement (AP) program, one of the largest and most established in the city, with 413 students enrolled in at least one AP course during the 2022-2023 school year. Additionally, Dr. E.P. Scarlett offers a robust French Immersion program, accommodating 298 students, and is the only high school in Calgary to provide a Spanish Bilingual program.
Beyond academics, Dr. E.P. Scarlett High School boasts a vibrant music department, featuring concert and jazz bands that have received accolades at various festivals. The school’s athletic teams, known as the Lancers, participate in sports such as badminton, basketball, cross country, field hockey, football, rugby, soccer, swim and dive, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling.
The institution also offers diverse programs, including dance, film studies, sports performance, journalism, sports medicine, environmental science, learning strategies, and theatre production, catering to a wide range of student interests and fostering a holistic educational experience.
10. FFCA South High School Campus
Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA) South High School Campus, located at 315 – 86 Avenue SE in Calgary, Alberta, serves students in grades 9 through 12. As part of the FFCA network, the South High School emphasizes academic excellence, character development, parental involvement, and staff leadership.
The curriculum offers a range of programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, to prepare students for post-secondary education. Elective options encompass Career and Technology Studies (CTS), arts, outdoor education, and social sciences, allowing students to explore diverse interests.
Athletics play a significant role in student life, with various sports teams and activities promoting physical fitness and teamwork. The school also provides numerous extracurricular opportunities to foster personal growth and community engagement.
Parental involvement is a cornerstone of the FFCA philosophy, encouraging active participation in school councils and volunteer initiatives. This collaboration between parents, staff, and students contributes to a supportive educational environment.
Conclusion
Calgary’s top secondary schools offer a variety of educational approaches, from rigorous academics and specialized arts programs to faith-based and charter school environments. Whether students seek an intensive STEM curriculum, bilingual education, or elite-level athletic and artistic training, these schools provide pathways to success. Choosing the right school depends on individual learning styles, goals, and interests, but each of these institutions offers outstanding opportunities for academic and personal growth.