JU HIGH SCHOOL
JU High School offers a small-scale environment where teens choose to be at the center of their own education. Our approach combines self-directed learning (with the support of a mentor), daily classes offered by qualified teachers, and cultural outings or internships. Our learning center is a vibrant hub for homeschooled teens (12 to 17)... a place to connect, study, and find inspiration! By engaging in long-term projects, participants develop skills that are important to them, helping them grow as empowered citizens.
At JU, each teen charts their own path based on three complementary components: a self-directed project supported by mentorship, structured courses aligned with the Quebec Education Program (QEP), and stimulating enrichment experiences. Together, these provide a solid framework where teens can meet the academic demands of high school, pursue their passions, and develop the skills they need for the future.
Self-directed project & mentorship
Each participant chooses a project that resonates with them (creative, scientific, entrepreneurial, community-based, etc.) and carries it out over several weeks. The self-directed project develops under the mentor's guidance, who supports the defining of objectives, the planning of steps, and any adjustments to the approach along the way. The mentor-mentee relationship becomes deeper throughout the year and thus increasingly pertinent and beneficial to the teen's educational journey.
This component fosters autonomy, organisational skills, confidence, and the ability to collaborate when projects are undertaken as a team.
QEP courses
Structured courses, offered in small groups, ensure a solid academic foundation aligned with the Quebec Education Program (QEP). Teachers adapt the pace and teaching methods to the needs of the students while respecting secondary school requirements. For those who wish, we also offer support in preparing for official exams and creating a comprehensive portfolio showcasing their learning and achievements.
Enrichment activities
Thematic workshops, creative labs, cultural outings, and work placements allow participants to explore new fields, discover different professions, and dive deeper into their areas of interest. In addition, clubs—initiated by the teens, teachers, mentors, or parents—provide numerous opportunities for enrichment. These experiences strengthen their transferable skills: resourcefulness, communication, problem-solving, and civic engagement.
By combining these three components, each teen benefits from a coherent, rich, and vibrant journey that truly reflects their own image.
Who would be well suited for JU High School?
Any teen who is homeschooled and aspires to grow as a self-directed learner through project-based pedagogy.
We believe that young people are capable of making the decisions that will guide their educational path, and we offer them a space to meet up, work, and showcase their projects.
Homeschooled teens who wish to include high-quality resources in their learning plan can co-ordinate a schedule tailored to their needs directly with a mentor at Jardin Urbain. Their flexible schedule may include time at the JU learning center, virtual meetings, and outings related to their studies.
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What does a typical week look like at JU High School?
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday
12:00 - 4:00
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Participants are welcome at the learning center at any time during opening hours. There are spaces for independent work or work with a mentor, as well as a classroom for lessons. A private outdoor workspace is also available when the weather is nice.
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Courses are optional. However, if a teen chooses to participate, regular attendance is recommended in order to maximize the experience and learning.
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Teens who are allowed to come and go freely may also walk to nearby libraries, cafés, parks, and the Jean-Talon market.
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An adult is on-site at all times to ensure the safety of the participants.
Course Schedule: September - December 2025
Course Schedule: January - June 2026
This schedule represents the QEP courses and enrichment activities offered.
Other activities and cultural outings are added throughout the year!
Registration
JU High School operates on a monthly membership basis, adjusted according to the frequency of attendance:
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$70/day for 1 day per week
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$60/day for 2 days per week
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$50/day for 3 days per week
Our fees are eligible for the tax credit for childcare expenses (RL-24), allowing for a government reimbursement of up to 78%. To learn more and calculate the actual cost for your family, please click on this link.
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Membership gives homeschooling teens:
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unlimited access to the Jardin Urbain learning centre, its resources and materials;
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small group classes of mandatory QEP subjects;
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a JU staff mentor to oversee their projects;
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the possibility of participating in any or all enrichment activities offered;
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preparation for ministry exams.