Welcome to
Sunchild School is a First Nations school in Alberta where education, culture and language come together to support every learner.
Rooted in Cree traditions and welcoming to everyone, the school provides a caring, identity affirming environment that helps students develop future-ready skills.
As one of Alberta’s most established Indigenous schools, Sunchild School’s story begins with a commitment to academic achievement and cultural pride. Rooted in Cree traditions and shaped by modern teaching methods, we work to empower youth who grow with confidence, identity, and capability.
From early years to graduation, our programs support a full learning journey. Our Headstart program supports young learners from three years old. Our Elementary school (K–6) builds strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and curiosity-driven exploration. Our Junior/Senior High School (7–12) expands those foundations with trades, technology skills, and pathways to post-secondary education. We also offer academic upgrading and adult education. At every stage, we walk alongside students, bridging culture, knowledge, and opportunity.
We provide a virtual school tour where students, parents, caregivers, and interested academics can explore our classrooms, playgrounds, and culture-rich spaces. Experience how our students learn, grow, and stay connected to the community each day.
ᐊᒐdᐁᒥᐨ ᑊrᐅgrᐊᒼᐢ
At Sunchild School, we combine academic, cultural, and personal development within the framework of Learn Alberta. Our programs follow Alberta education standards while honouring Cree identity, language, and community values.
ᐊᒐdᐁᒥᐨ ᑊrᐅgrᐊᒼᐢ
Our cultural strength shapes who we are. As one of the most respected First Nations schools in Alberta, Sunchild School weaves language, tradition, and learning together to celebrate community pride. Indigenous education is lived every day through storytelling, hands-on experiences, and a deep connection to the land.
Students learn Cree through speaking, writing, stories, and songs. Using language daily helps strengthen their sense of identity and intergenerational connection to community and culture.
Elders from the community share lived experience, ceremony, and oral history with students. Their guidance builds respect, belonging, and cultural continuity, helping students feel grounded in their identity and community.
Our outdoor learning initiatives introduce students to Cree ways of knowing through nature, seasonal cycles, and local ecosystems. Teachings on stewardship, sustainability, resilience and gratitude help students build a respectful relationship with the land.
Indigenous values are taught through lessons led by Elders and teachers. These teachings, rooted in respect, humility, kinship, and balance, ground academic learning in culture and support the development of mind, body, and spirit.
We gather for powwows, feasts, and community celebrations where families and students come together to honour language, songs, and heritage. These shared experiences build pride and create lasting cultural memories.
Students learn about Indigenous history, resilience, and the Truth and Reconciliation framework through guided discussions and reflection. This helps them understand the past with empathy, take responsibility for building a respectful future, and express their fortitude in the journey forward.
As one of the top First Nations school in Alberta, Sunchild School offers a student experience centred on support, community connection, and cultural learning. With consistent guidance and opportunities to explore their interests, students grow into capable young leaders.
Each day begins with Cree greetings and moments of community connection. Students move through academics, context, and healthy routines that build belonging, pride, and respect in a culturally rich environment.
Students balance academics with sports, clubs, and cultural groups. From basketball to woodworking, they explore interests that build teamwork, identity, and school spirit at one of the most active Indigenous schools in Alberta.
Leadership at Sunchild is rooted in respect and service. Students participate in youth councils, mentor younger peers, and volunteer in the community, preparing them to become responsible, culturally grounded leaders.
Our visual arts, crafts, music, and performance activities draw inspiration from Indigenous stories and traditions. Students express their creativity while honouring culture, finding both traditional and modern ways to share their stories.
Our support services include Counselling, Career Guidance, Speech and Language, Play Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, Nutritionist, Early Literacy Program, and Education Consultants. We also coordinate mentorship from Elders, creating a safe and steady foundation for students’ emotional well-being. Our goal is for every learner to feel valued, balanced, and confident in their ability to grow.
From Rocky Mountain House, drive approx. 45 minutes. Make sure you have gas!
