Looking to get a head start on high school? The Reach Ahead Program at Royal Ontario Academy is the perfect opportunity for ambitious Grade 8 students (or those entering the summer before Grade 9) to take up to three secondary school credits. With approval from both Royal Ontario Academy and the student’s primary school, this program is ideal for those who thrive in independent learning, need flexible schedules, and are eager to challenge themselves academically.

How Can the Reach Ahead Program Benefit Grade 8 Students?

• Reduce Academic Load in Grade 9
  Completing a mandatory course in advance allows students to ease their workload in their first year of high school, reducing stress and enabling better time management.
• Smooth Transition to High School
  The Reach Ahead Program bridges the gap between elementary and secondary school, helping students adapt to high school expectations, course structures, and academic routines.
• Prepare for Academic Rigor
  By tackling high school-level material early, students gain a better understanding of the challenges ahead and develop confidence in handling more demanding coursework.
• Enhanced Flexibility in Course Selection
  Completing a compulsory course before starting Grade 9 opens up more opportunities to select electives, allowing students to pursue subjects they’re passionate about and enriching their high school experience.
• Advanced Learning Opportunities
  For students who find their current classroom material too easy, Reach Ahead provides access to more advanced coursework, keeping them engaged and curious.
• Flexible Credit Distribution
  High-performance athletes, frequent travelers, or students with other time commitments can benefit from spreading out their Grade 9 credits, making it easier to balance academics with extracurricular activities.
• Familiarization for Out-of-Province Students
  Students transferring from other provinces or countries can use this program to get acquainted with Ontario’s curriculum and teaching style before attending high school in person.
• Flexible Exam Scheduling
  Royal Ontario Academy’s flexible approach lets students schedule exams at their convenience, offering a stress-free introduction to high school assessments.
• Fulfill OSSD Online Requirements
  The Ontario Ministry of Education mandates two online credits for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). All Royal Ontario Academy courses meet this requirement, providing students with greater flexibility in course timing and selection.

How to Apply

Students interested in the Reach Ahead Program must submit a request to Royal Ontario Academy’s Principal for review. Once approved, students can register and begin their journey toward high school success.

The Reach Ahead Program is not just a head start—it’s a leap forward. Prepare, excel, and embrace the future with Royal Ontario Academy.