The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a significant milestone for students in Ontario, symbolizing their readiness for post-secondary education or the workforce. It is not just a certificate—it is a testament to the knowledge, skills, and competencies they’ve developed. With recent updates to the OSSD requirements, it is important for students and parents to understand how Aubrey Academy supports learners in meeting these standards through a flexible, online format aligned with the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum.
What Is the OSSD?
The OSSD is awarded to students who meet specific criteria set by the Ontario Ministry of Education. These criteria include earning a set number of compulsory and elective credits, completing community involvement activities, and demonstrating literacy competency.
How Aubrey Academy Supports Students in Earning Their OSSD Online
At Aubrey Academy, we are proud to offer a fully online pathway to earning the OSSD. Our approach combines flexibility with a commitment to academic excellence, ensuring that students meet all Ministry requirements while learning at their own pace.
1. Ministry-Approved Curriculum
Our courses are designed to meet the learning expectations outlined by the Ontario Ministry of Education. Some examples include:
• English (ENG1D): Develop literacy, critical thinking, and communication skills through diverse and engaging content.
• Mathematics (MTH1W): Build problem-solving and analytical skills, with a focus on real-world applications.
• Business Studies – Building the Entrepreneurial Mindset (BEM1O): Foster entrepreneurial skills, innovative thinking, and financial literacy, aligning with the new STEM-related course group requirement.
2. Flexible Scheduling and Accessibility
Aubrey Academy’s online platform allows students to study anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re balancing extracurricular activities, part-time work, or personal commitments, our flexible learning environment ensures you stay on track to earn your OSSD.
3. Small Class Sizes and Personalized Support
With small class sizes, students receive individualized attention from our certified teachers. Through one-on-one virtual meetings, emails, and interactive discussions, our educators are always available to help students succeed.
4. Support for the OSSLT and Community Involvement
We provide resources and practice exams to help students excel on the OSSLT. For those who need an alternative, we also offer the OSSLC. Additionally, our guidance counselors assist students in finding meaningful volunteer opportunities to fulfill their 40-hour community involvement requirement.
5. Continuous Assessment and Skill Development
Our assessments are designed to reflect Ministry standards, using a combination of assignments, quizzes, projects, and exams to ensure students master the material.
Why Choose Aubrey Academy?
1. Accredited and Inspected: Aubrey Academy operates as an inspected private school, ensuring all courses meet Ministry standards.
2. Customizable Learning Paths: Whether you want to accelerate your learning, retake courses, or balance studies with other commitments, we can tailor a plan to suit your needs.
3. Future-Ready Education: Our courses prepare students for post-secondary education or careers by emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative learning approaches.
Updated Requirements for Students Entering Grade 9 in 2024–2025
Starting with the 2024–2025 academic year, new requirements apply to Grade 9 students entering high school. These include:
• 17 Compulsory Credits:
• 4 Credits in English
• 3 Credits in Mathematics (1 each in Grade 9, Grade 10, and Grade 11/12)
• 2 Credits in Science
• 1 Credit in Technological Education (to be completed in Grade 9 or 10)
• 1 Credit in Canadian History
• 1 Credit in Canadian Geography
• 1 Credit in the Arts
• 1 Credit in Health and Physical Education
• 1 Credit in French as a Second Language
• 0.5 Credit in Career Studies
• 0.5 Credit in Civics and Citizenship
• 1 Additional Credit from a STEM-related course group (e.g., Business Studies, Science, Math, or Technology).
• 13 Optional Credits: Students can choose from a wide range of courses to explore personal interests or career aspirations.
• 40 Hours of Community Involvement Activities: Encourages civic engagement and giving back to the community.
• Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT): Students must pass this provincial assessment, or they can fulfill the requirement by completing the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC).
Requirements for Students Who Entered Grade 9 Prior to 2024–2025
For students who began high school before 2024–2025, the requirements include 18 compulsory credits and 12 optional credits, with additional requirements for completing one credit each from three specified groups in the arts, physical education, business, and technology.
These updates reflect the Ontario Ministry of Education’s commitment to modernizing the curriculum, emphasizing technological education, and providing students with skills for a rapidly evolving world.
Start Your Journey Today
At Aubrey Academy, we are committed to empowering students to achieve their academic and personal goals. Our online learning environment is designed to provide the flexibility, support, and quality education students need to succeed.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you earn your OSSD online!
• Email: info@aubreyacademy.ca
• Phone: (647) 963-6030
• Website: www.aubreyacademy.ca
Let Aubrey Academy guide you on your journey to earning your OSSD and preparing for a bright future!