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Nelson High Performance

The Nelson High Performance Program is a support program designed to assist elite athletes and performance artists whose sport or performance commitments place extra demands on them throughout the academic year.

The NHP Program @ Nelson provides:

  • Specialist NHP Guidance Counsellor
  • Purposeful course selection
  • Dedicated staff contact to streamline communication to classroom teachers
  • Long range pathway planning
  • Post-secondary destination exploration

Questions? Please contact our Nelson High Performance Program Coordinator, Andrew Ball, at balla@hdsb.ca or 905-637-3825.

At Nelson High School, we believe that pursuing excellence outside the classroom should never come at the cost of academic success. Our Nelson High Performance (NHP) Program is specifically designed for elite athletes and performers who are dedicated to following their passions and achieving their dreams on the local, provincial, national, or international stage.

We recognize that the life of a high-performance student involves a demanding schedule—from weekly practices and auditions to extended absences for tournaments, competitions, and performances. Our commitment is to ensure these students can thrive both in their chosen field and in their studies.

How We Support Our NHP Students:

  • Customized Academic Planning: Our Guidance Department meets one-on-one with NHP students to build a strategic timetable that minimizes academic stress during peak competition or performance seasons.

  • Teacher Collaboration: Guidance acts as a bridge, communicating with teachers to foster an environment of flexibility and compassion regarding missed classes and homework.

  • Flexible Assessment: We work collaboratively with students and teachers to establish fair and appropriate timelines for making up tests and assignments, ensuring academic integrity is maintained without overwhelming the student.

  • Celebrating Success: We are incredibly proud of our NHP community. We encourage our students to share their stories and photos from the field or stage so we can celebrate their achievements on our Nelson social media platforms.

At Nelson, you don't have to choose between your education and your passion. We are here to support your journey every step of the way.

Questions? Please contact our Nelson High Performance Program Coordinator, Andrew Ball, at balla@hdsb.ca or 905-637-3825.

Nelson High Performance Attendance Policy

Nelson High Performance Extended Absence Form

Nelson High Performing Alumni 

Katie Douglas - Actor - Ginny & Georgia
Emma Maltais - PWHL Athlete - Gold Medal 2023 Beijing Hockey
Josh Ross - Musician - Current CCMA Entertainer of the Year
Kristen Siermachesky - Rower - Silver Medal 2024 Paris Rowing