Academic Excellent in a Vibrant Community
Old Scona Academic School is located in Edmonton’s vibrant Old Strathcona neighborhood, offering a mix of historic charm and modern facilities. The school’s classic building gives it a traditional feel, while its updated spaces meet the needs of today’s students.
Old Scona’s central location places students just steps from Whyte Avenue, one of Edmonton’s most famous streets, known for its youthful energy, eclectic shops, restaurants and cultural venues. Surrounding the school are beautiful green spaces, including Hawrelak
Park, Kinsmen Park and the River Valley trails, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The school’s proximity to public transit makes it easy for students to explore Edmonton, including access to the University of Alberta. Many Old Scona students take their IB and diploma exams at the university, strengthening the school’s academic ties to the postsecondary community. Old Scona’s location offers students the perfect balance of academic rigor and cultural, recreational and social opportunities. The combination of a prestigious academic environment with access to vibrant, creative spaces makes it an ideal choice for students who want a well-rounded high school experience.
Our history
Old Scona Academic (OSA) School has a rich history that dates back to 1908, when it first opened as Strathcona Collegiate Institute in the City of Strathcona. Following the annexation of Strathcona by Edmonton in 1912, the city ensured the school remained operational.
Throughout its evolution, Old Scona has served various roles: a University of Alberta site, a high school, a junior high and an adult education center. In 1976, it transitioned to an alternative academic program and by 1980, Old Scona became one of the pioneering
schools to offer both the Alberta curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Programme. Consistently, OSA students shine in standardized tests, ranking among the best in Alberta and making their mark on the global academic stage. Year after year, Old Scona
has been recognized at the top of the Fraser Institute’s Report Card on high school quality, underscoring our commitment to academic excellence.
Our family
At Old Scona, our small size fosters unique, enriching opportunities for students to demonstrate their leadership abilities, engage in volunteerism and build character. We believe in the motto “We Belong Here,” and alongside our strong focus on academics, we
prioritize creating a sense of community and belonging in a safe, nurturing environment.
Every new student at OSA is welcomed and mentored during their first semester through a collaborative program where they are supported by a circle of students, including peers and student leaders. This ensures newcomers never feel lost in the crowd.
Students quickly discover that their teachers and classmates are passionate about learning, and we all share a collective responsibility to contribute to this vibrant educational atmosphere. Old Scona provides an environment of cooperation, acceptance and achievement,
encouraging students to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes essential for lifelong learning.
We celebrate the strength that comes from our school’s diversity and highlight the importance of volunteerism in our community. At Old Scona, the philosophy of “students helping students” is a way of life, helping our students stay connected during their post-secondary
journeys and beyond.
Academic Focus
At Old Scona Academic School, our goal is to provide academically motivated students who have demonstrated success and potential with the opportunity to pursue a program of studies that enriches their learning experiences. The educational community at OSA is dedicated to:
• Fostering academic excellence and scholarly discipline within both the Alberta Education curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Programme.
• Enhancing skills across various disciplines including the humanities, mathematics, sciences, performing arts and athletics.
• Encouraging high-level cognitive skills such as analysis, synthesis and evaluation, to promote deep understanding.
• Preparing students for success in post-secondary education and future career paths.
• Promoting active and responsible citizenship to empower students as engaged members of their communities.
Old Scona is committed to achieving these goals by nurturing a supportive and caring atmosphere. Students and staff uphold the values of cooperation, sharing, acceptance and achievement, creating an environment that inspires curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
