Our Personal Story

Starting an Acton Academy has been a deeply personal journey for our family, inspired by our lived experiences and a shared vision for our daughter, Alba, and what young learners need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

We believe education holds the unparalleled power to shape the future, and through research and conversations with families, educators, and employers, we have identified clear opportunities to better prepare students for the challenges and possibilities ahead.

Two key insights emerged as we explored how to make a meaningful impact. First, the ability to collaborate, think critically, and communicate effectively has become indispensable in today's world. Second, with nearly half of today's core skills expected to change within five years, according to the 2023 World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report, adaptability and lifelong learning are vital. Employers consistently stress that success requires not only technical expertise but also soft skills like teamwork, resilience, and effective communication.

Conversations with families and educators reinforced this. Parents shared a strong desire for more personalized education and opportunities for their children to build life skills that prepare them for real-world challenges. Many voiced concerns that their children graduate uncertain about their interests or potential, while educators described the increasing complexity of meeting diverse student needs in crowded classrooms. These honest and heartfelt insights strengthened our resolve to create a alternative school where curiosity is celebrated, learning is personalized, and every child feels empowered to take ownership of their education and future.

Acton Academy's learner-driven model, successfully implemented in over 300 schools worldwide, nurtures children's innate curiosity while empowering them through hands-on experiences and mentorship. We are honored to bring this proven and innovative approach to Calgary, building an inclusive community where students can discover their strengths, embrace lifelong curiosity, and develop the character and skills to make a meaningful impact on the world.

Our vision extends far beyond academic achievement – it is about cultivating compassionate leaders and visionary changemakers who will help shape the future of Calgary and beyond. We believe in the limitless potential of every child and are dedicated to fostering an environment of trust, inspiration, and growth. Our mission is to guide learners as they uncover their unique strengths and passions, building the courage, creativity, and resilience needed to tackle tomorrow's challenges with confidence.

Together, we can reimagine education in Calgary and create a future where learners are inspired to lead lives of purpose, contribution, and significance.

Casey Kennedy
Co-Founder