ACADEMY
Academic Program
Our academic program focuses on deep comprehension, real-world relevance, and intellectual independence. Our two-year curriculum is centred around seven core subjects, each taught with an emphasis on deep understanding, interconnection to other subjects, and real-world application.
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Learning isn’t just about covering topics—it’s about uncovering hidden patterns. Few experiences rival the thrill of realizing that the shadow cast by a clock’s arm encodes the very trigonometric principles most students only memorize by rote.
Mathematics
We move beyond procedures and into the structures that underlie them. Our Mathematics course spans arithmetic, elementary algebra, geometry, data interpretation, functions, and even vector spaces.
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Students engage with mathematics both as a language for abstract reasoning and as a tool for understanding the real world. They learn to formulate and solve multi-step problems, identify patterns and relationships, and apply logical structures to both theoretical and practical scenarios—building genuine mathematical fluency.
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The course is closely integrated with our science curriculum, giving students the opportunity to apply mathematical thinking in experiments, models, and investigations across physics, computer science, and life systems. Mental math and estimation are emphasized throughout.
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At its core, this course nurtures a confident mathematical mindset, encouraging patience, persistence, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of structured thinking. Our aim is not just for students to do mathematics, but to think mathematically.
Physics
From classical mechanics to relativity and quantum mechanics, we introduce students to the evolution of physics. Students investigate the rules governing motion, forces, electricity, and energy through inquiry, both hands-on and thought experiments, and theoretical exploration. Along the way, they build a foundational understanding of how physical laws shape the world around us.
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A key component of the course is learning how to use mathematics to model physical systems. Students develop and solve equations that describe motion, forces, and energy—gaining fluency in classical mechanics through the lens of algebra, calculus, and geometry. This mathematical modelling helps students not only predict how objects behave in everyday situations, but also understand the deeper principles that govern those behaviours. By connecting theory with calculation, they build a solid foundation for more advanced scientific thinking.
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In addition to building a strong foundation in classical mechanics and fundamental physics concepts, we aim to spark curiosity about more advanced areas of the subject—from electromagnetism and relativity to quantum theory and cosmology. While we may not cover all these topics in depth during the two-year program, we intentionally introduce students to the core ideas, language, and tools they'll need to continue exploring independently. By the end of their time at ÜNI Academy, students will not only understand the physics we’ve studied together—they’ll also have the confidence and skill to pursue more advanced topics on their own, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning in science.
Matter, Life & Systems
This interdisciplinary course combines biology and chemistry to provide students with a cohesive understanding of the physical and living world. Topics include cellular biology, molecular structure, chemical reactions, biochemistry, genetics, and the role of chemistry in sustaining life and ecosystems. The course emphasizes systems thinking, helping students connect processes across scales and disciplines. By relating the topics in this course to physics, we emphasize the interconnection between sciences.
Computer Science
Students are introduced to the fundamental ideas of computing, including computer architecture, algorithms, and data structures. Through hands-on programming and conceptual exploration, they gain early exposure to the logic and structure behind modern technology.
World Studies: History, Geography, Arts & Music
This interdisciplinary course explores the evolution of our planet, human civilization, and cultural expression. Students investigate major historical eras, migrations, and technological revolutions in the context of geography and the environment.
Field visits to museums, galleries, historical landmarks, and music conservatories provide students with direct encounters with the artifacts and ideas that have shaped the world.
English & Research
Students improve their reading, writing, and analytical skills through exploration of complex texts, argumentative writing, and creative expression, building fluency in both language and thought. They will learn about the importance of accurate and clear communication through research and debating topics in other courses with their classmates. The collection of texts read and analyzed in this course includes peer-reviewed journal and conference papers as well as contracts and legal documents.
French
Our French program is focused on communication and practical fluency. Our goal is for students to confidently hold conversations with French speakers—not just memorize vocabulary or analyze literary texts. We emphasize listening, speaking, and everyday language use to ensure students develop real-world confidence in French.
See our course outlines for Grades 7 and 8 using the link below.
The ÜNIAcademy
Difference
Research in education and adolescent development is clear: middle school is a critical stage of education and development. Grades 7 and 8 are not just a transition—they’re a critical developmental window when students form the habits of mind, confidence, and cognitive structures that shape future success.​
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We treat Grades 7 and 8 as a launchpad—a time to develop academic maturity, independent thinking, and intellectual curiosity. We introduce higher-level thinking usually reserved for university. We do so in a way that is age-appropriate and deeply intuitive.
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Our students aren’t trained to memorize—they’re trained to understand, question, and apply. We meet students at this pivotal stage with a program that respects their potential, challenges their intellect, and supports their growth—both in the classroom and beyond.
We believe that meaningful education comes from the integration of both abstraction and application. Deep understanding doesn’t arise from isolated facts or surface-level tasks—it emerges when students learn to think clearly, make connections, and apply their knowledge in thoughtful ways. Abstract thinking is absolutely critical and allows students to recognize patterns, reason logically, and understand the deeper structures that underlie the world around them. Application, in turn, brings those ideas to life through hands-on experience, real-world problems, and creative expression.
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Rather than seeing these two modes of learning as opposing, we see them as complementary and essential. Whether it’s using mathematics to solve a physics problem, applying logical reasoning to understand a historical event, or exploring the science behind a biological system, our students learn to move confidently between the abstract and the concrete. This ability—to think deeply and act effectively—is at the heart of genuine education, and it’s what prepares our students not just for exams, but for life.
Abstraction
+ Application
True Mentorship
For us, mentorship is more than a buzzword—it is a deeply held commitment and an integral part of our educational philosophy. To mentor a student is to take responsibility for guiding their intellectual, emotional, and personal development with care, attention, and intention. With a total school capacity of just 10 students, we are able to ensure that each learner receives this kind of individualized guidance every single day.
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We work closely with students not only during instruction, but also through one-on-one conversations, thoughtful observation, and a shared exploration of each student’s interests, challenges, and goals. This relationship is built on mutual respect and trust. We encourage students to ask deep questions, take intellectual risks, and reflect honestly on their growth—academically and personally.
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Mentorship at ÜNI is about helping students recognize their own potential, and then guiding them to realize it fully. It’s a partnership that grows over time, and it’s at the heart of what makes ÜNI Academy unlike any other school.
Letting Ideas Settle
At ÜNI Academy, we understand that true insight rarely comes on command. Deep learning takes time, and some of the most meaningful connections form when the mind is at rest—reflecting, wondering, and letting ideas quietly take hold. That’s why we intentionally build space into our program for thought to breathe.
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We step away from our desks each day for nature walks where conversation flows naturally. We visit universities, attend lectures, and hear from guest speakers who bring big ideas to life. We also make time for unstructured outdoor discussions—casual, curious conversations that often lead to the most surprising insights. These are not breaks from learning—they are learning. They are how ideas settle, take root, and eventually blossom into lasting understanding.