Queens Alternate and Adult High School offers both alternate and adult education programs in a supportive and flexible learning environment. The school serves high school students who have not experienced success in traditional schools, as well as adult learners seeking to complete or upgrade high school credits. 

High School Program (Grades 10–12):
The alternate high school program provides high school students with the opportunity to complete courses that count toward a Nova Scotia high school diploma. The program emphasizes firm goals with flexible means, giving students the support they need to meet clear academic expectations. Students can either graduate directly from Queens Alternate High School or transition back to their home school to access additional courses and opportunities.

Adult High School Program (Grades 11–12):
The adult program serves students aged 18 and older who are not currently enrolled in a school and want to earn a Nova Scotia High School Graduation Diploma for Adults or upgrade credits to meet post-secondary or employment requirements—at no cost to students. The school offers Grade 11 and 12 courses from the Nova Scotia Public School Curriculum.

Courses are taught by licensed teachers in smaller classes, with flexible scheduling to accommodate work, family, and other commitments. Adult learners and high school students often take the same courses, creating a collaborative and diverse learning environment.

For more information about the Adult High School Diploma program and upgrading credits, please check out our Adult High School Programs page. 

Enrolling in Queens Alternate High School Program

Students enter Queens Alternate High School through the Program Planning Process, which is initiated by their home school. 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.

When a student would benefit from a different learning environment to meet their unique needs, Queens Alternate High School may be considered as an option. 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 attend Queens Alternate High School, please contact your student’s current principal.

Enrolling in Queens Alternate High School Program

Simply complete the application form and email to aaep@ssrce.ca. After submission, applicants will be contacted for an intake interview to discuss learning needs and career goals. Students may enroll full-time or part-time.

Courses begin at the start of the first semester (September) and the second semester (February). Students registered at one of our adult high schools may also enroll in Nova Scotia Virtual School (NSVS) courses. For more information, please contact us at 902-354-7630 or aaep@ssrce.ca.