Students follow Ontario curriculum courses with full in-class instruction and support on-site at Kells Academy. Students choose one of five program streams that best suits their interests: Science & Engineering, Health Science, Computer Science, Commerce, or Social Sciences. Guided by their Kells teachers, students develop independent study skills while navigating all course material online. Kells teachers and our Grade 12 program coordinator work closely with VHS online teachers to monitor and ensure student progress. Upon completion, students graduate with an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
At Kells, we understand that students learn and process at different paces, which is why we have made sure there is ample time both in class and after school for students to study, review, and ask for help. At any time, students in need of academic support may reach out to their online teachers, or in-school teachers, or access their own 24h/day online tutoring service account. With unparalleled guidance, our Grade 12 students get individualized attention whenever they need it.
Accommodations:
Students in need of accommodations are encouraged to apply. Based on a review of a student’s assessment, accommodations such as extra time on exams or a memory aid for class tests may be granted.
ESL Support:
Students must meet the minimum requirements for language proficiency to be admitted to Grade 12. Students who meet this requirement but wish to improve their English skills further may enroll in after-school ESL courses offered at Kells.
Bridge Program:
The Bridge Program is designed for applicants missing academic credentials to enter Grade 12. Qualifying students have the opportunity to register for Grade 12 and make up the necessary prerequisites either before the program starts or take them as extra courses while enrolled in the program.
Applicants are invited to review the specific entrance requirements for each program offering to determine eligibility. Our admissions team is available to help with course selections and consult with you if you have any questions.
Accelerated Pace:
Using an online platform affords students the opportunity to view future assignments and units. This allows highly self-motivated students to independently study future chapters and finish assignments at a faster pace than what is taught in class. Upon approval from the Grade 12 coordinator and Kells principal, students may be permitted to take final exams earlier than the scheduled date and finish the semester or school year in a shorter time!
30 credits (one credit per course):
After a review of students' prior academic transcripts, up to 23 equivalent credits may be granted for the courses a student has completed, from grades 9 through 11, before entering the program. The remaining 7 credits are earned through the Kells Grade 12 program.
Community Service:
Students must complete a minimum of 10 hours of community service. This is an important part of a student’s growth, helping them to develop outside of the classroom by gathering new skills, showing responsibility, building their resume, and learning how to become more engaged community members. Students will have guidance throughout the year to find community involvement opportunities that suit their interests.
The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course:
For students to receive their OSSD, they must successfully pass this course. This is a requirement for all students to follow an Ontario curriculum and is incorporated into their program in the 2nd semester.