Reach Ahead: Start High School with Confidence
Help your child start high school with confidence. Learn how Ontario's Reach Ahead Program allows eligible Grade 8 students to earn up to three OSSD credits before Grade 9 while building confidence, flexibility, and valuable study skills.
Starting high school is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel like a big step for both students and parents. New teachers, different expectations, larger schools, and increased independence can make the transition to Grade 9 challenging.
Many Ontario families are discovering a way to make that transition smoother through a Reach Ahead Program.
A Reach Ahead Program allows eligible Grade 8 students to earn official Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) credits before they even begin Grade 9. Instead of waiting until high school starts, motivated students can experience high school learning early while building confidence and valuable study skills.
At Aubrey Academy, a Ministry-inspected online private high school in Ontario (BSID #665140), Grade 8 students can complete Reach Ahead courses online with certified Ontario teachers and flexible, self-paced learning designed to fit busy family schedules.
What Is a Reach Ahead Program?
A Reach Ahead Program gives eligible Grade 8 students the opportunity to complete selected Grade 9 courses before entering high school.
The credits earned are official Ontario high school credits that count toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
The goal isn’t to rush students through school it’s to help them begin high school with greater confidence, experience, and flexibility.
For example, a student who completes a Reach Ahead course during Grade 8 already understands what high school assignments, assessments, and expectations look like before the first day of Grade 9.
Learn more about Aubrey Academy’s Reach Ahead Program.
What Grade 9 Courses Are Available Through Reach Ahead?
At Aubrey Academy, eligible Grade 8 students can choose from a variety of Grade 9 OSSD credit courses based on their interests, readiness, and future goals. Our admissions team works with families to recommend courses that best match each student’s learning style and academic plan.
Current Reach Ahead course options include:
Grade 9 English (ENL1W)
Grade 9 Mathematics (MTH1W)
Grade 9 Science (SNC1W)
Issues in Canadian Geography (CGC1W)
Building the Entrepreneurial Mindset (BEM1O)
Healthy Living and Personal Development (HIF1O)
Healthy Active Living Education (PPL1O)
Core French (FSF1D)
Whether your child is interested in academics, business, health, or languages, there's a Reach Ahead course to match their interests. View our complete course catalogue to explore each course in detail.
Who Is Reach Ahead Best For?
Reach Ahead is an excellent option for students who are motivated and ready for an extra challenge.
It may be a great fit if your child:
· Enjoys learning independently
· Is organized and completes assignments on time
· Wants a smoother transition into Grade 9
· Participates in competitive sports, dance, or other extracurricular activities
· Travels frequently with family
· Wants more flexibility later in high school
For example, a competitive hockey player who spends weekends travelling to tournaments can complete coursework around practices and games instead of trying to keep up with a traditional classroom schedule.
Every student is different, which is why Aubrey Academy works with families to recommend courses that match a student’s readiness, interests, and goals.
Five Benefits of Starting High School Early
1. Build Confidence Before Grade 9
Many students feel nervous about starting high school.
Completing a Reach Ahead course helps students become familiar with high school expectations before September, making the transition much less intimidating.
2. Develop Strong Learning Skills
Students strengthen important lifelong skills, including:
· Time management
· Organization
· Responsibility
· Independent learning
· Goal setting
These habits often lead to greater confidence throughout high school and beyond.
3. Create More Flexibility Later
Completing credits early can create room in future timetables for opportunities such as:
· Arts programs
· Technology courses
· Co-op education
· Student leadership
· Volunteer opportunities
· Additional electives
Many families appreciate having greater flexibility as students move into Grades 11 and 12.
4. Learn Around Busy Schedules
Life doesn’t stop during the school year.
Whether your child is a dancer preparing for competitions, a swimmer training several days each week, or a family that enjoys travelling, online Reach Ahead courses provide the flexibility to learn when it works best.
Students can study from home, while travelling, or between extracurricular activities while receiving support from certified Ontario teachers.
Families with busy athletic schedules may also want to explore our Student Athlete Program.
5. Earn Official Ontario High School Credits
One of the biggest advantages of Reach Ahead is that students earn real OSSD credits before Grade 9 begins.
Those credits count toward Ontario graduation requirements and can help reduce future course pressure while giving students a valuable head start.
Why Families Choose Aubrey Academy
Parents want to know their child is learning in a supportive environment.
As a Ministry-inspected Ontario private high school (BSID #665140), Aubrey Academy provides:
· Certified Ontario teachers
· Flexible online learning
· Self-paced courses
· Personalized support
· Official OSSD credits
· Continuous teacher feedback
Students aren’t simply given online lessons—they receive guidance, encouragement, and individualized support throughout their learning journey.
Learn more about our Online High School Services to see how Aubrey Academy supports students every step of the way.
Is Your Child Ready for Reach Ahead?
Every student learns differently, and Reach Ahead isn’t about finishing school faster.
It’s about giving motivated Grade 8 students the opportunity to start high school with confidence, experience, and flexibility.
If your child enjoys learning, is ready for greater independence, and wants a smoother transition into Grade 9, Reach Ahead may be the perfect next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Grade 8 students really earn Ontario high school credits?
Yes. Eligible Grade 8 students can earn approved Grade 9 OSSD credits through a Reach Ahead Program before officially starting high school.
How many credits can students earn through Reach Ahead?
At Aubrey Academy, eligible students can earn up to three Ontario high school credits before Grade 9 begins, depending on their readiness and course plan.
Is Reach Ahead only for students with top grades?
No. Reach Ahead is best suited for students who are motivated, organized, and ready to take on the responsibility of independent learning. Academic readiness is considered alongside each student’s interests and goals.
Ready to Help Your Child Get a Head Start?
If you’re considering Reach Ahead for your child, we’d love to help.
Whether you have questions about course selection, eligibility, or how the program works, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our Reach Ahead Program, browse our Grade 9 courses, or contact Aubrey Academy today by calling or texting (416) 998-3354 to learn if Reach Ahead is the right fit for your family.