What Is Acton Academy — And Why Does It Matter?

At X School, we believe learning should be driven by curiosity, purpose, and personal growth—not worksheets and test scores. One of the ways we bring that vision to life is through Acton Academy West, a learner-led program that operates within our broader learning community.

If you’ve heard the name “Acton Academy” and wondered what it’s all about, here’s what makes it so powerful—and why we’re proud to support this approach.

A New Vision for Learning

Acton Academy was founded on a radical idea: children are capable of far more than we’ve been led to believe. Instead of treating them like empty vessels waiting to be filled, Acton empowers young people to take charge of their learning through freedom, responsibility, and real-world challenges.

There are no traditional teachers at Acton. Instead, there are Guides—mentors who ask great questions, coach learners through challenges, and encourage self-reflection. Learners set goals, track their progress, and learn how to learn, think, and lead with purpose.

Mastery Over Grades

Acton learners don’t receive letter grades or compete for class rankings. Instead, they work toward mastery—moving forward when they’re ready, not when a schedule says so. This builds confidence, self-awareness, and a true love for learning.

Through Socratic discussions, passion projects, peer feedback, and hands-on challenges, children develop far more than academic skills—they grow as problem-solvers, leaders, and collaborators.

Real-World Readiness

Acton’s model mirrors the real world: learners build portfolios instead of report cards, launch businesses instead of memorizing facts, and complete quests that challenge them to think critically and take initiative.

It’s not just about preparing for high school or university—it’s about preparing for life.

Acton at X School

At X School, we facilitate Acton Academy Calgary West as part of our mission to reimagine learning in Calgary. This means families who choose our community gain access to a globally respected program that aligns beautifully with our values: learner-led growth, emotional intelligence, and meaningful connection.

By embedding Acton within a broader network of partners—including Telus Spark, Calgary Climbing Centre, and WinSport—we expand what's possible and support every learner’s journey toward purpose, capability, and confidence.

Want to see Acton in action? Join us for an upcoming information session or book a tour to explore how it fits within the X School experience.