Tupper Mini School
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Tupper Mini School, and if we are the right program for you. In this section, we have compiled some of the frequently asked questions that we have received about our program. If there is something that we have missed, please send a message through our Contacts page.
Do Mini students attend separate classes other than their own?
Tupper Mini is a program within the greater Tupper Community. There are English and Socials (Humanities), Science, and Mathematics classes that are exclusive to students in the Mini program. However, other classes like Physical Education, Electives, and Languages are not specific to the Mini School and aim to integrate Mini students into the greater school community.
Is there a cost to this program?
The program itself has no cost, but the Mini School events and field trips we partake in do. We combine these costs into a yearly fee for simplicity. For more details, please visit our Cost and Subsidies page.
How are class schedules organized?
Sir Charles Tupper Secondary follows a semester system where students take four classes per day for half the year, and another four per day for the second half. All Mini School courses run at the same cycle as the regular schedule. Visit the school website for more info on our school schedule.
What problems have Mini students encountered?
It has been our experience that students with an excellent work ethic and a strong motivation succeed in our program. For those who lack this, you may face many struggles as you continue within our program. This is not to say that you will not succeed, but instead that you will have to push yourself harder to become a better student. Another problem some students face is the commute to our school. We have had students leave because they could not handle the long commute, yet we have also seen people who live even further from the school manage. It's up to you to decide whether you are committed enough to make a long commute every day.
Do you accept students from other grades into your program?
Of course! We occasionally have openings when students move away or join other programs. All students are allowed to apply whenever a spot opens up, regardless of what Grade you are in. Come speak to the Mini Coordinator Ms. Patterson at Tupper if you wish to apply for Mini for Grades 9-12. However, we do encourage that you apply in Grade 8 so that you get the most out of our program.
How Do IÂ apply to Tupper Mini?
I have previous French experience from French Immersion. How will my language education be handled in this program?
If you have previous experience in French, you have the option of taking a Language Challenge Exam and challenging out of high-school French altogether. Or, you can be placed in an advanced French class (for example, grade 10 French in grade 8) and end up finishing your French courses early. Either option provides the opportunity to take higher levels of French that would best suit your needs. This also applies to other languages offered at Tupper, such as Spanish and Filipino Language and Culture.
I have taken an advance math course. How will my math education be handled in this program?
Due to our program's mathematic acceleration, students who have and haven't taken Grade 8 math will be on the same page by the end of their first year. In Mini students' Grade 8 year, they cover both Grade 8 and Grade 9 math concepts. If you have taken Grade 8 math prior to entering the Mini program, you will take math classes with the rest of your cohort and may encounter concepts you already have some understanding of, but the class will progress into new content quickly.
Does Tupper Mini provide any credits for post-secondary?
Tupper Mini itself does not show up on your transcript or give you a particular designation upon graduation. However, the Mini program opens many doors for courses and community opportunities around the school and beyond. The enrichment and acceleration offered can be powerful forces to propel students into positions of leadership and success. Additionally, graduates can explain their involvement in the program when applying for post-secondaries, scholarships, and jobs.
Does Tupper provide any AP courses or IB programs?
Tupper does not offer either AP course or an IB program. IB programs are distinctly separate from the concept of mini schools and come with their own structure and goals. AP courses are secondary school courses that count for post-secondary credits. This allows graduates to possibly skip their first post-secondary year or certain post-secondary courses. We don't recommend skipping first year, but if you are particularly passionate, it is possible to sign up for a AP exam on your own.
How does the workload compare? Are extracurriculars possible for Mini students?
The workload is generally a step up from previous education, but the challenge can easily be met by keen and motivated students with good work habits. Students will need to manage their own time and work in a way that is most beneficial and effective for themselves and their learning style. Additionally, teachers are available and understanding about academic or life conditions and will always be willing to help. As such, extracurriculars, such as sports, clubs, volunteering, employment, and more, can certainly be managed alongside the Tupper Mini workload. Many of our students are leaders of clubs, talented athletes, or holding other leadership positions during their schooling.
What does the interview process look like?
Every applicant to Tupper Mini will be interviewed. These are group interviews based on your elementary school. These interviews are the opportunity to school us who you are in life, not just on paper. You do not need to prepare beyond coming with your most authentic self. When interview dates have been scheduled, applicants will be contacted by email and dates will be posted on this website.