Halifax Grammar School
Secular, Founded 1958
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
IB DiplomaAccreditations
Languages
EnglishEstablished in 1958, the Halifax Grammar School is a leading independent, co-educational day school in Atlantic Canada serving students from Junior Primary to Grade 12. It prepares students for university and life through a balanced program that integrates academics, athletics, altruism, and the arts.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school aims to empower students with the capacity, character, and confidence to pursue their ideals and thrive in a diverse world. Its educational approach is built on four pillars: academics, athletics, altruism, and the arts, guided by the motto "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve." The school emphasizes small class sizes and a balanced curriculum designed to foster independence and a sense of purpose.
Programmes
The school offers a comprehensive academic curriculum organized into three divisions: Prep School, Middle School, and Senior School. The program culminates in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in Grades 11 and 12, which serves as the school's standard of excellence. The curriculum focuses on fundamental literacy and numeracy, independent thinking, and creative development, with additional specialized programming in French and English as an Additional Language (EAL).
Student support
Learning support
The Student Success Team (SST) is a multidisciplinary group that provides coordinated support for social, emotional, and academic integration. The team includes a Learning Strategist who develops individual learning plans, a Health & Wellness Coordinator, and an EAL Coordinator who provides English language training and academic content support. The school also offers personalized course selection and university counselling for students in the Senior School.
Frequently asked questions(7)
- What curriculum does Halifax Grammar School offer?
- Halifax Grammar School offers IB Diploma.
- How much is tuition at Halifax Grammar School?
- Annual tuition at Halifax Grammar School is CA$18.5K–CA$25K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Halifax Grammar School teach?
- Halifax Grammar School enrolls students aged 4 to 18.
- Is Halifax Grammar School a day or boarding school?
- Halifax Grammar School is a day school.
- What accreditations does Halifax Grammar School hold?
- Halifax Grammar School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Halifax Grammar School co-educational?
- Halifax Grammar School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Halifax Grammar School located?
- Halifax Grammar School is an international school in Halifax, Canada.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Primary | 4–4 | CA$18.5K |
| Senior Primary – Grade 6 | — | CA$22.1K |
| Grade 7 – Grade 12 | — | CA$25K |
Other fees(5)
| Registration fee· Admission Fee: This is a non-refundable, one-time fee and a condition of attendance at the school for each of the first two children in a family. | CA$4K |
|---|---|
| Deposit· Enrolment deposit payable upon acceptance of the offer of admission. Non-refundable deposit on first-term fees, applies to new and returning families. | CA$2K |
| Uniform· Estimated annual uniform cost ($440 or less). | CA$440 |
| EAL· EAL fees per year if English support is required. | CA$7K |
| Materials· IB Diploma Fee: approximately $1,000 over two years (Grade 11 and Grade 12). | CA$1K |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 5% - 10%
Admissions
The school welcomes inquiries and applications through its online portal, offering in-person and virtual tours by appointment. It provides a robust tuition assistance program and merit-based entrance scholarships for students entering in Grade 9 and above. Admissions staff are available to assist families in English, Chinese, and Spanish.
Calendar
The school operates on a standard academic calendar with key dates managed through an online portal. The calendar includes specific categories for admissions events, athletics, and activities for the Prep, Middle, and Senior school divisions.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in the South End of Halifax, the school operates a single campus at 945 Tower Road that houses all students from Junior Primary to Grade 12. The campus is situated within walking distance of Dalhousie University and across from Saint Mary’s University. Facilities include dedicated spaces for the arts, athletics, and a library, with ongoing master planning to support future teaching and learning needs.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a wide range of co-curricular activities, including various clubs across the Prep and Middle school divisions. The school also features the Grammar Basketball Academy and emphasizes altruism through community service initiatives, such as the Gordon Stirrett Community Service Grant. Additionally, an after-school program is available for students from Junior Primary to Grade 7.
Steven LaffoleyHead of SchoolSteven Laffoley serves as the Head of School and is also a Grade 5 English teacher.
- Laura BrockDirector of Academics and University Counselling
Laura Brock is the Director of Academics and University Counselling. She supports students in Grades 11 and 12 with course selection, university applications, and scholarship opportunities, while also organizing workshops to develop essential skills.
- Matthew MoffattHead of Senior School
Matthew Moffatt serves as the Head of Senior School.
- Teresa WoodfordHead of Middle School
Teresa Woodford serves as the Head of Middle School.
- Stefanie CoxHead of Prep School
Stefanie Cox serves as the Head of Prep School.
- Erin NesbittDirector of Business Operations
Erin Nesbitt serves as the Director of Business Operations.
Ann Marie KentDirector of AdmissionsAnn Marie Kent serves as the Director of Admissions.
- Jacqueline StevensDirector of Advancement
Jacqueline Stevens serves as the Director of Advancement.
- Justine Colley-LegerDirector of Athletics
Justine Colley-Leger serves as the Director of Athletics.
- Marlee NaipaulDirector of Human Resources
Marlee Naipaul serves as the Director of Human Resources.
- Asia HollowayHealth & Wellness Coordinator
Asia Holloway is the Health & Wellness Coordinator and chairs the Student Success Team, which supports the academic, social, and emotional wellbeing of all students. She also supports teachers in their roles as student advisors and ensures student wellbeing is considered in all aspects of school life.
- Carrie GrossiLearning Strategist
Carrie Grossi is the Learning Strategist who supports Middle and Senior school students and teachers with evidence-based strategies to develop confidence and independence. She also works with students, parents, and outside service providers to develop individual learning plans and appropriate accommodations.