How we learn
How we learn

Our learning approach

At Hilldale, students thrive with an approach that places them at the heart of their learning. 
Our advanced curriculum and standards-based methodology balances the accelerated learning and the personalized social-emotional support each child needs.  Our program is designed to meet the needs of bright, gifted, and twice-exceptional children.

Through differentiated instruction and flexible grouping, every student is able to thrive. Teaching children about growth mindset and neurodiversity allows them to embrace challenges and celebrate successes. By practicing the Hilldale Habits, our private school in Daly City fosters respect, encourages leadership, and promotes independent lifelong learning every day.

Hilldale is fully accredited by the National Independent Private School Association (NIPSA). With the support and oversight of this accrediting body, stakeholders can be confident in the quality education provided.

Skills for life

Life competencies are essential skills that enable students to excel in learning, build meaningful relationships, and succeed beyond the classroom, fostering growth and resilience, and learning how to make a positive impact in their communities.

Confidence

Through self-reflection, goal setting, and varied opportunities for public speaking, children graduate Hilldale with a strong sense of who they are and all that they can do.

Self-efficacy

Belief in your ability to succeed, overcome challenges, and persist through effort.

Positive self-image

Feeling proud, positive, and confident about who you are and what you can contribute.

Regulation

Beginning in Kindergarten, children learn to identify when the size of their reactions do not parallel the size of their problems. Using explicit curricula, children are taught how to identify, respond to, and even prevent overwhelm.

Emotional regulation

Keeping calm, balanced, and focused by understanding and managing your feelings in different situations.

Stress management

Using strategies to reduce pressure, manage stress, and stay focused when facing challenges or demands.

Social Responsibility

Understanding their place as global citizens, students learn that small acts can have major impact. Individual action is essential for substantial change.

Global citizenship

Recognizing your role in the world, and taking responsible actions to support positive change.

Ethical decision-making

Making fair, respectful, and thoughtful choices that consider the impact on others and the environment.

Advocacy

Because one size does not fit all, students here fully understand how they learn and what they need to be successful. Asking for help with specificity, is a challenging but highly rewarding endeavor.

Self-awareness

Knowing your strengths, preferences, and needs to make informed choices about your learning.

Communication skills

Expressing your needs clearly, confidently, and respectfully to get the support and resources you require.

Service to Others

From individual class service projects to the Eighth Grade Service Learning class, students are prepared to take action through required community service hours and their Legacy Project.

Empathy

Understanding and sharing the feelings of others to build caring, trusting, and supportive relationships.

Altruism and collaboration

Working with others through kindness, teamwork, and a shared commitment to help the community.

Confidence Regulation Social Responsibility Advocacy Service to Others

Where learning comes first 

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Curiosity fuels our learning Confidence drives lifelong learning The power of 'Good Struggles' Teachers as co-pilots 

Curiosity fuels our learning

The best learning happens when students are actively engaged. We ignite curiosity through hands-on projects and inquiry-based learning, making learning exciting, memorable and full of exploration.

Confidence drives lifelong learning

Our students trust in their abilities, build confidence and lead their way forward. This mindset helps them believe they can learn and achieve anything, fostering a love for lifelong learning.

The power of 'Good Struggles'

We believe great learning happens just beyond the comfort zone. That’s why we create purposeful challenges, or 'good struggles', that help students stay motivated while they grow. Through these experiences, students build resilience, solve problems, and learn to keep going – even when it’s hard.

Teachers as co-pilots 

Learning here is a partnership. Teachers work alongside students as guides, helping them navigate choices, embrace good struggles, inspire those 'aha' Amazing Learning moments of self-discovery and grow in confidence.

Where learning comes first 

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Growing curious, confident minds

Our learning pillars enhance every student's experience - providing structure, opportunity and the support they need to grow.  As part of International Schools Partnership, our students benefit from a global network committed to the highest standards of learning.

Academic achievement
Academic achievement

Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.

Life competencies
Life competencies

Gain life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.

Multilingualism
Multilingualism

Develop proficiency in multiple world languages, while being supported in home or first languages.

International opportunities
International opportunities

Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.

Life and career pathways
Life and career pathways

Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.  

Measuring the quality of learning

We measure the quality of learning through International Schools Partnership’s Learning Improvement Process - LIP. This framework helps teachers and leaders reflect on what works and adapt quickly to meet each learner’s needs, ensuring every student feels ready to embrace good struggles and succeed.

Informed by evidence gathered through this process, our learning spaces continually evolve to spark curiosity, foster resilience and prepare students with the skills they need to thrive - not just in school, but in life. Every improvement is guided by what drives real progress for learners.

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Discover Hilldale’s nurturing environment for bright and gifted learners. Enroll now for a bright future.

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Accreditation