Explore. Experience. Thrive.
High school students (grades 10-12) are at a critical stage of growth academically, socially, and emotionally. They are earning credits toward graduation, exploring career pathways, and planning for life after high school.
Students are developing independence and managing increasing responsibilities. Some students benefit from smaller, supportive, flexible learning environments to help build confidence, develop skills, and prepare for success in school, post-secondary education, and future careers.
SSSRCE has two alternate high school programs: Mahone Bay Alternate School and Queens Alternate and Adult High School.
Students who transfer from their home school are fully enrolled at Mahone Bay Alternate School (MBAS) or Queens Alternate High School (QAHS). The program focuses on helping students earn high school credits while developing academic, social-emotional, and self-regulation skills in a supportive environment. Students can graduate directly from MBAS or QAHS with their high school diploma or transfer back to their home school to earn credits and graduate from there.
Note: Mahone Bay Alternate School serves students in Grades 7–12. This includes both middle level (Grades 7–9) and high school students (Grades 10-12).
Note: Queens Alternate and Adult High School serves high school students in Grades 10–12 and Adult High School students who are working toward their Adult High School Diploma or upgrading.
When a student would benefit from a different learning environment to meet their unique needs, enrolling in an alternate program may be considered as an option.
Students may enter one of SSRCE's Alternate High School Programs through the Program Planning Process, which starts at the student's home school with a team meeting. This process is a collaborative, team-based approach, used in Nova Scotia, to support a student’s learning and well-being. It reflects the province’s commitment to inclusive education, ensuring all students have the opportunity to learn and participate fully in school. Parents and guardians work together with the home school to explore programming choices and determine the best path to support the student’s success.
For more information about how your student may enroll in an alternate high school program, please contact your student’s current principal.