About Heritage Academy

Established in 1989, Heritage Academy is an Ontario-inspected private school located in Ottawa, Ontario, specializing in education for students with dyslexia, specific language disorders, and other language-based learning exceptionalities. Founded by Louise Brazeau, the school provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment designed to help students reach their full academic potential. With smaller class sizes, individualized instruction, and specialized educational approaches, Heritage Academy also supports students with ADHD, ASD Level 1, anxiety, and attention-based learning challenges.

Heritage Academy offers elementary and secondary education for students in Grades 1 through 12, following the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. The school's educational approach combines structured academic instruction with hands-on learning, multisensory teaching methods, and personalized support. Its secondary school program offers credits toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), helping prepare students for post-secondary education and future opportunities. Through small class sizes and differentiated instruction, students are encouraged to develop confidence, independence, critical thinking, and essential academic skills.

A distinguishing feature of Heritage Academy is its specialized approach to literacy development and language-based learning challenges. The school utilizes Simultaneous Multisensory Teaching (S.M.T.), a method developed by its founder, along with Enseignement multisensoriel simultané (E.M.S.) and the Heggerty program. These approaches support the development of reading, writing, spelling, and phonemic awareness skills. Heritage Academy also emphasizes creativity, physical well-being, and personal growth through educational enrichment and individualized learning opportunities.

Guided by the core values of honesty, perseverance, and respect, Heritage Academy fosters a welcoming, community-focused environment where students, parents, and educators work together to support academic and personal development. The school continues its longstanding commitment to helping students with diverse learning needs build confidence, develop their strengths, and prepare for future success. Through its specialized programs and dedication to individualized education, Heritage Academy remains committed to providing a supportive learning experience for students throughout Ottawa and the surrounding communities.