new model for modern learners
Learning design for the world our children are growing up in.
Our learning design blends self-paced core skills, Socratic discussions, and real-world projects so learners build the mindset and abilities to thrive far beyond school.
Four pillars of learning at Alpha Acton Academy.
Inspired by the global Acton network, our studios combine adaptive tools, deep conversations, and ambitious projects into a unified learning journey.
Heroes use adaptive programs, rich books, and writing workshops to build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy. Progress is personalized and visible, so every learner knows exactly where they’re headed next.
- Game-based and adaptive tools for core skills
- Daily goal-setting and reflection
- Mastery checkpoints instead of rushing ahead
Guides don’t lecture or give the “right answers.” Instead, they ask meaningful questions that challenge heroes to think clearly, listen deeply, and communicate with courage and respect.
- Daily Socratic launches to frame the day
- Discussions about history, science, ethics, and current issues
- Practice disagreeing respectfully and defending ideas with evidence
Quests are themed projects — like running a business, exploring physics, or designing a city — that integrate writing, math, science, and art into one meaningful challenge with a public exhibition at the end.
- Clear, real-world deliverables (not just worksheets)
- Teams with defined roles and responsibilities
- Public exhibitions where heroes share their work
We care as much about who your child is becoming as what they know. Studio systems are built to grow responsibility, integrity, kindness, and the courage to tackle hard things.
- Studio contracts and shared norms
- Peer accountability and feedback
- Regular reflection on goals, choices, and growth
Learning in multi-age studios.
Instead of grade-segregated classrooms, we group learners in multi-age studios. Young heroes look up to older role models; older heroes practice leadership and mentorship every day.
Ages 5–7 · Foundations in independence & wonder
In Spark, days are filled with movement, hands-on materials, stories, and play-based challenges that build the habits of focus, responsibility, and kindness.
- Short, focused work blocks with lots of movement
- Early reading, writing, and numeracy foundations
- Nature time and imaginative play woven into each day
Ages 8–13 · Deeper work, real responsibility
As heroes grow, they take on more ownership over their learning — setting goals, running meetings, and tackling more complex quests with their peers.
- Longer core skill blocks and personal goal-tracking
- Challenging Quests in science, civics, arts, and entrepreneurship
- Leadership roles that rotate among learners
PERSONALIZED TOOLS
At Alpha Acton Academy, we believe that every child is unique, which is why we use personalized learning tools to help each student thrive. Our learner-driven approach empowers students to set their own goals, progress at their own pace, and master core skills using adaptive technology, hands-on projects, and Socratic discussions. By combining cutting-edge educational platforms with real-world challenges, we create a customized learning experience that fosters independence, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning. At Alpha Acton, your child isn’t just another student—they’re the hero of their own learning journey. 🚀 Discover the future of education today!
MEASURING MASTERY
Young heroes celebrate the mastery of tools, skills and character by earning badges, assembling portfolios and taking part in public exhibitions.
Parents use badges to track academic progress in Core Skills like reading, writing, math and spelling and character development in “Learn to Be” Badges.
Portfolios and the Journey Tracker (our internal goal-setting and tracking software) captures rough drafts, photos, and other creative work.
Public exhibitions at the end of most Quests allow young heroes to present work to experts, customers or the public for a real-world test.
21ST CENTURY LEARNING
We offer a truly different approach to school. Supported by the latest in technology and cognitive science, we move beyond the traditional tools of lectures, homework, high-stakes tests, and grades. At Alpha Acton Academy, students K-6 learn in collaborative classrooms of multi-age learners. Our flexible approach challenges each student with their differentiated learning plan and inspires them through real-world projects.
After-all, childhood should be about the discovery of self. We are a place where kids are free to be kids while learning how to be kind, passionate, and powerful individuals capable of changing the world. By utilizing the latest technology and educational methods, we help empower Lions to be their greatest selves every day.
A day — and year — in the life of an Acton learner.
Our days follow a predictable rhythm that supports focus and freedom. Our year is divided into sessions, each with its own theme, goals, and exhibition.
A typical day
- Morning launch: Socratic question or studio challenge sets the tone.
- Core Skills: Focused work on reading, writing, math, and spelling.
- Outdoor time: Movement, play, and nature whenever possible.
- Quest time: Project work, experiments, or creative challenges.
- Closing circle: Reflection, gratitude, and next-day planning.
The yearly arc
- Sessions: The year is divided into several 4–7 week sessions.
- Quests: Each session centers on a new Quest theme.
- Exhibitions: Families are invited to see what heroes have built and learned.
- Breaks: Intentional rest so learners can renew energy and perspective.
This rhythm mirrors real life: cycles of deep work, rest, celebration, and new challenges.
Want to know more about the Acton learning model?
No traditional grades. Real evidence of learning.
We don’t rely on report cards, homework packets, or high-stakes tests to tell us whether learning is happening. Instead, we look at the work itself — and at who your child is becoming.
Heroes earn badges when they demonstrate mastery of a skill or goal. Clear rubrics and checklists replace vague grades.
Each learner builds a portfolio of writing, projects, reflections, and Quest deliverables that shows growth over time.
At the end of each session, heroes share their work with parents and the community — practicing communication, courage, and ownership.
Want to see this learning design in action?
The best way to understand Acton’s learning design is to step into the studio. Join us for a tour or info session and see how our heroes learn.