Via Vita Academy
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Parent Testimonials

The best thing I can say about Via Vita is that our kids genuinely love going to school.
Our younger children both started there in Primary, and it has given them a great beginning. They are surrounded by friends, and their teachers go above and beyond to create a learning environment that is challenging, creative, and fun. They are taught at their level, pushed to do their best, and encouraged by a healthy sense of competition.
We have watched them grow in confidence as readers, communicators, and learners. They are given regular opportunities to speak, perform, work with others, be active, and try new things.
That is one of the things that feels different from a traditional classroom. Learning is not limited to sitting at a desk. There are outdoor classes, physical activities, projects, reading, performances, and always a new adventure.
The end of term showcases are probably the best example. The kids help plan and produce the entire show, and the result is exceptional. It gives them a chance to be creative, take responsibility, work as a team, and build the confidence to perform in front of an audience.
For parents considering Via Vita in the early years, our experience has been that it gives children a strong start and makes school feel like a place they are excited to be.
Ian (parent of students in grade 1, 2 and 5)


Choosing VVA for our child’s early education was one of the best decisions we made. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed into a caring and supportive community where every child is truly known and valued.

The Kindergarten program helped Meera grow in so many ways—not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. The teachers created a nurturing environment that encouraged curiosity, independence, confidence, and a genuine love for learning. Every day was filled with meaningful experiences, and it was wonderful to see our child excited to go to school each morning.
What stands out most is the strong sense of community at VVA. The staff genuinely care about each family, communicate openly, and make parents feel like partners in their child’s learning journey. We are incredibly grateful for the foundation VVA has given our child and would wholeheartedly recommend the Kindergarten program to any family looking for a place where their child will thrive.
Shikha (parent of a student in kindergarten)


We chose VVA because it immediately felt different from the larger school options. I grew up in a small town, so the thought of Amelia starting school in a larger environment felt a little intimidating. VVA felt smaller, safer, and more like home.

At four years old, Amelia was ready for something more than daycare, but I also wasn’t comfortable with the idea of her travelling by bus for after-school care. VVA gave us everything in one place a strong early learning program, after-school care, and a school community that felt warm and safe.
One of the biggest things Amelia gained from her time in Pre-K and Kindergarten at VVA was a true sense of community. She learned what it means to be kind, patient, and understanding of others. I see it now in the way she treats younger children with so much care and compassion. I truly believe she learned that from being part of the VVA community. When she was in Pre-K, the older students were always so kind and helpful to her, and now she carries that same kindness forward with children younger than her. That is something really special about VVA  the children are not just learning academics, they are learning how to be thoughtful, caring people.
Jenna (Parent of a grade 2 student)



My son had such an amazing experience in VVA’s pre-k program. I was a little worried at first because he had only just turned four, but he received so much support and care. VVA fostered his love of learning, independence, and confidence. It was always exciting to hear the topics he would come home talking about, and the obvious level of depth to classroom conversations. He looked forward to each day, and had so many experiences that I couldn’t imagine him having anywhere else at his age. He got to participate in such a variety of classes and events, like cooking, yoga, outdoor education, chores, and performances. Through everything, he learned to really work through challenges, to help others, and to act with kindness. What was really special though, was seeing the benefits of the mentorship infused into daily activities at the school. Because it’s a Prek-9 school, he had the opportunity to form so many strong bonds with students his own age, all the way up to junior high. It really felt like he became a part of a family. 
Zoe (Parent of a PK student)



If I had to describe our relationship with VVA in one word, it would be destiny. My family is from China, and we moved to Nova Scotia at the end of 2022 to begin a brand-new chapter in our lives. We knew very little about the community and didn't know anyone here. We happened to choose Lower Sackville as our new home, and one day, while searching on Google Maps, we came across VVA. Looking back now, it truly feels like fate.
From the moment we visited the school, we knew there was something special about it. The small class sizes and multi-age learning environment immediately stood out to us. We loved the idea that Ziven could learn not only from her teachers but also from older students who could model kindness, independence, leadership, and confidence. We were incredibly grateful when we learned that VVA had an opening at the beginning of 2023. Even more meaningful was the school's willingness to help us with Ziven's student visa application during such an uncertain time for our family. That support meant more to us than words can express.
One of my most unforgettable memories is Ziven's very first day at VVA. She spoke very little English and couldn't understand most of what was happening around her. As parents, we were naturally worried about how she would fit in. But those worries quickly disappeared. Every teacher and every student welcomed her with such warmth, patience, and kindness. Although language was a barrier, friendship wasn't. They invited her to play, included her in activities, and made her feel like she belonged from the very beginning.
Over the following year, we watched an incredible transformation. The little girl who was once quiet and shy gradually became confident and expressive. She started speaking more, smiling more, and raising her voice with confidence. She formed meaningful friendships with children of different ages, learned to help others, became more independent, and discovered the joy of learning. VVA didn't just prepare her academically for elementary school—it helped her grow into a confident, caring, and resilient young person.
Ziven genuinely enjoys going to school every day, which, as a parent, is one of the greatest gifts we could ask for. While I haven't compared VVA's curriculum with public schools, I know that every day she comes home excited to tell us what she has learned. One of her favorite classes is the kitchen program. It has taught her practical life skills, increased her awareness of safety, and given her the confidence to prepare simple food and create things independently. It is wonderful to see learning connected to real life in such meaningful ways.
VVA has also become much more than a school for our daughter—it has become a second home for our entire family. As newcomers to Canada, we arrived without friends or family nearby. Through parent meetings, community gatherings, restaurant events, and even the conversations while waiting outside to pick up our children, we gradually built friendships and found a true sense of belonging. VVA welcomed not only our daughter but also our whole family into its community.
The teachers are one of VVA's greatest strengths. Their dedication, compassion, and genuine care for every child are evident every single day. I am especially grateful to Adele, whose experience, patience, and encouragement have helped students grow not only academically but also emotionally. The teachers communicate openly with parents, celebrate each child's progress, and work closely with families. That transparency and partnership gave us confidence that our daughter was always in caring and capable hands.
Looking back, choosing VVA was one of the best decisions our family has ever made. It is much more than a preschool—it is a nurturing community where children are respected for who they are, encouraged to express themselves, and inspired to become kind, confident, and independent individuals. The multi-age environment teaches children not only academic skills but also empathy, communication, leadership, and responsibility by learning from one another every day. For our family, VVA was the place where our daughter found her confidence, where we found our community, and where our new life in Canada truly began. We will always be grateful for the love, support, and opportunities that VVA has given us, and it will always hold a very special place in our hearts.
Cecelia (Parent of a Grade 2 student)



Our son Chase started at Via Vita in Primary. He will be going into grade 3 in September. Originally, we had planned to just send our older daughter due to various reasons. However after touring the school and meeting the staff, we knew we had found something special, and we certainly have. The small class sizes were definitely a selling feature however the school offers so much more than just that. The feeling of being part of a family, the leadership opportunities, and to know a group of people care so much about your child and their future is what really sets it apart. 
Chase has flourished in his 3 years at VVA. He is confident, empathetic, inclusive, and curious. We owe a lot of that to his wonderful teachers at VVA. While academics are an important part of the school, the special opportunities afforded to the students (cooking, baking, dance, yoga, outdoor classes, participating in a show each semester, chores, bus trips to the library, whole school walks, camping trips, etc, etc) due to the small school size is giving them invaluable life skills that are not possible at other schools.
VVA is truly a special, one of a kind place. Anyone that is lucky enough to be a part of it knows how amazing it is!
Chelsea (Parent of a grade 2 student)


Our daughter just started school this year (4 years old) and we were nervous about having her attend pre-k. We started asking around about schools and was surprised to find one so close to home, Via Vita Academy. We did some research and we had heard nothing but wonderful things about the school so we decided to enrol her after a school tour. We are so happy we did! The small class sizes have helped my little one really get that 1 on 1 attention to help her flourish and doing things I would have never expected a 4 year old to do! We love that school takes the kids outside to be in nature, the kids learn so much more then just the regular classroom academics. They really get to do and learn what they enjoy as kids; yoga, sports, cooking and so much more! All the teachers are so wonderful, easy to speak with, and everyone knows everyone so you really get the feel of community. Helping, growing and learning together. Meghan and Adele (Directors) are so very wonderful to speak with, they’re transparent with everything about the school, they really give you the confidence in how the school is operated. They are able to answer questions quickly and will tell you everything upfront. I couldn’t imagine my little one being in any other school!
Lindsey & Andrew (Parents of a PK student)


We had all the intention to homeschool our son for as long as we could. When he became curious about our kids' school experiences, we began our research and shared what we learned about our local public school and private schools with him. When we decided to visit VVA for a tour, he immediately asked, "can I come here? I love it here.". The academic growth (don't get me started on bragging about how far his writing has come!) and social development is a testament to the balance of hands-on encouragement and support he receives from his teachers and older peers. The comprehensive approach to supporting our little to grow into a caring, brilliant and compassionate full human is deeply appreciated and recognized as his learning shames who he is not just as a student but as a person. We are proud to be part of the VVA community.
Shakira (Parent of a K student)

We chose Via Vita for our daughter’s Pre-K year, as we wanted to give her the most positive introduction to the school environment we could find. Via Vita has been a wonderful place for her - she loves the staff, the teaching, and the sense of community. We love the exemplary communication, passionate teaching staff, and the emphasis on the “whole child” rather than just grades. As a former educator myself, this is what you wish every school was like!
​-Amy (Parent of a PK student)

I am so pleased with Via Vita's Pre-K and Primary program. My son can identify and assess his emotions, thanks to the tools provided by the staff. His self-confidence has soared and the hollistic approach that aligns with my morals and values makes it easy to reinforce great behaviours and outlooks. He has made friends, both young and old, and I am so excited for his next years at Via Vita Academy. Thank you to the teachers who do a wonderful job at fostering a positive learning environment. 

-Lara (Parent of a PK student)

Every time I read one of his report cards, I tear up! In a good way :) They are so well written and thoughtful. It really shows how much you all care for our little ones. My son has done so well since starting at VVA. He has grown so much! He's trying new things and starting to speak up for himself - this is huge for him! Deciding to put him into VVA has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. He loves all of his teachers. I love all the teachers! It's not just a school, it's an extended family!
-Debra (Parent of a grade 2 student)

Life as a kid should be FUN, carefree, filled with laughter, exploration and good friendships. It can become a little more complicated when you enter the school system and conformity to a way of being has you challenged to reign in your enthusiasm, passion and creativity. By the time our daughter hit Grade 6, we knew we had to make a change as she was not thriving in the current environment in a variety of ways.  We wanted to find a school that was different.  One where there was more flexibility for her to learn in her own way, be challenged and to feel safe being her own unique self.  Following her "trial day", she (and we) know it was the right place for her.  At Via Vita, they teach the whole child.  It's not just about academics.  It's also about social and emotional development in an amazing community filled with caring teachers and fellow students/friends.
-Kelly (Parent of a grade 8 student) 

My son struggled his whole academic career inside the public school system. He knew he was smart and could do the work, but wasn’t motivated or pushed to do any of it to his full potential. Via Vita Academy changed that inside of two months. I now have a kid that meets deadlines, writes raps and essays, LIKES algebra and truly enjoys going to school. It is a moving experience to see a 12 year old cry because his report card was so positive and reflective of how hard he was trying and the quality of work he can produce. I will never forget that moment and neither will he. I will also never forget what he said to me after reading it, “Mom, I’m going to go to high school and blow them away, aren’t I?” I see him learn something new every day, see him engaged and see him happy. This is a dream come true as a parent. Thank you Via Vita! 
-Lindsey (Parent of a grade 7 student)
Via Vita Academy offers caring teachers, small class sizes, multigrade teaching and an emphasis on open and frequent communication between the teachers and parents, and all that at a very affordable price. My older son currently attends Via Vita Academy, and once he’s old enough I’ll definitely sign up my younger son as well. I highly recommend Via Vita Academy.
-Markus (Parent of a grade K student)

By definition, a school is "an institution where instruction is given". Our teen son's experience with school (before Via Vita) was exactly that: school was simply a building he went to daily to receive instruction. Now, at Via Vita, school is redefined: it is a community he goes to daily to receive not just instruction, but life skills, acceptance, friendship, peace of mind, and so much more. After 2 1/2 years at Via Vita, his self-worth and confidence have increased exponentially, his academic grades have gone up, and he is on a whole other level socially. Although navigating Junior High can be daunting (for both teens and parents), the teachers at Via Vita are there for every step of the journey, taking the time to connect with each student and provide encouragement, support, and open communication along the way. Making the decision to join the school was absolutely life-changing for our family - from the bottom of our hearts, thank you Via Vita Academy!
-Christian (Parent of a grade 8 student)
What an amazing school filled with happy and engaged learners, excellent teachers and a philosophy of teaching the "whole child". Both my children have been enrolled at Via Vita for over a year - they are receiving an excellent education, are provided daily encouragement, have become confident and eager kids who love school! Just look at the weekly photo blogs and you can see the difference - outdoor activities are plentiful, cooking, learning, playing, engaging - it is all there. I am an eager "storyteller" of all the awesomeness of Via Vita and would happily recommend it to any parents looking for a wonderful, engaging and positively happy learning environment for their children.
-Patty (Parent of grade 2 & 4 students)

Neil deGrasse Tyson said “When students cheat on exams it’s because our school system values grades more than students value learning.”  Working in the business world, it’s apparent that this philosophy extends beyond school and into the workplace and it shows up as a lack of ethics as people hyper-focus on goals.  
It’s a tough problem to solve.  How does one encourage excellence and reward accomplishment while holding the process as an essential component of the outcome?  How does one balance the reality that excellence in results are the pragmatic yard stick, but results without ethics and values are hollow (although often rewarded).  
I see Via Vita as a school that understands this quandary. Of all of the schools we visited before enrolling Victoria, we saw that Via Vita was the place that was addressing this.  What we want for Victoria is a place that values learning; a place that values the process of learning. We want her to strive for excellence and learn to self direct and self motivate.  We want her to understand the value of achievement and excellence but achievement and excellence that are inextricably coupled with compassion and ethics.
The single most important thing that keeps families coming back to Via Vita is a commitment to the vision.  This commitment comes in the form of clear articulation and “living the vision”. This feeling of what it’s I experience at Via Vita is what brought me to Via Vita and what will keep us there.
-Kirk (Parent of a grade 1 student)


Via Vita Academy has excellent academics, teaches social skills, life skills and so much more. The staff is by far the best! They love the children, all while encouraging them to take one more step forward, building their confidence and self assurance. A very special way of teaching that develops the students by strengthening their own unique skills and talents. Each student learns differently and brings something special to the school. Via Vita Academy has decreased my children’s anxiety by creating a school that thrives on encouragement and growth. 
​They guide, support and encourage the children to excel past the limitations that they set upon themselves. They strive for excellence, and achieve it. The school & staff are like a second family. Family, top rated education and personal growth. Warm, kind, and loving. We recommend this school 100%.
-Karyn (Parent of grade 7 & 9 students)
I asked my son to tell me what he thought of his school and this is what he said: "we get more freedom...and when it's recess, rather than dodging our teachers, we'll go over and talk to them... there's more freedom, and we feel more comfortable." He is taking on more responsibility willingly and showing leadership qualities we have never seen before. This was definitely the right move for him!
-Krista (Parent of a grade 6 student)

I never thought our son was capable of doing anywhere near grade level work. I used to find parent-teacher such a negative event. I was frustrated with the lack of resources that public school offered kids like him. He wasn't learning, sitting in a classroom all day was painful, and he was frustrated. His attitude took a turn as a result.
Sending him to Via Vita this year has been the best decision we've ever made. I'm truly sorry we didn't send him there sooner. It's remarkable the changes in him over this past year, academically and socially and overall as a contributing member of society. Via Vita teaches kids as a whole, integrating learning with real life skills. The educators there are truly special individuals. I could never thank them enough for all they have done for our family.
We are so pleased with the changes in our older son that we've decided to send our youngest there next year. The end of an amazing school year is approaching, and I can't wait to see what Via Vita has in store for next year!
-Carrie (Parents of a grade 8 student)
I can't say enough about this amazing school. Incredibly small class sizes help promote high academic achievement all the while incorporating student lead themed based learning. An incredibly organized daily schedule includes not just academic activities but also life skills, cooking, gardening, hands on science projects, sports, crafts, field trips and public speaking (and so much more). -Not to mention awesome teachers that are excited about teaching and reasonable tuition fees. Daily chores that incorporate peer mentoring helps develop responsibility and leadership skills. My daughter loves this school as much as I do!
-B. & W. Malley (Parent of a grade 7 student)

Curious about Via vita? Contact us today!


phone

902-865-1085

Email

[email protected]
  • Home
  • PK-9 School
    • Our Approach
    • PK-9 Curriculum >
      • Pre-Kindergarten
      • Inquiry-Based Learning
      • Multigrade Teaching
      • Language, Math & Theme
      • Outdoor & Physical Education
      • Arts Education
      • Life Skills Education
      • Family Involvement & Communication
    • International Students
    • Location
    • Calendar & Schedule
    • Enrolment & Fees
    • Staff
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Testimonials >
      • Parent Testimonials
      • Student Testimonials
    • Support Our School
    • Blog
  • Before/After School Care
  • Camps
  • Youth Leadership
  • Job Openings
  • About Us
    • Out Story
    • Contact Us