Because of the many specialty programs available for training and instruction on Hilton Head, many young students who show a proclivity towards sports, research, or visual and performing arts, choose Hilton Head to pursue their passion. The community is very fortunate to have the Hilton Head Heritage Academy – the academic partner to numerous training programs in the area. The academy provides an ideal educational compliment to athletic and artistic intensive training.
The population of the Heritage Academy is as diverse as the pursuits of the individuals. The flex programming in student schedules allows for training or practice time to ensure the students can reach their potential. Small class sizes of 8 to 15 students are available for grades 5-12 offering close relationships between students and teachers.
Here are some programs with which the Heritage Academy is affiliated:
Smith Stearns Tennis Academy is located in Harbour Town providing high level tennis instruction. It is operated under the direction of Stan Smith and Billy Stearns, true legends of the tennis world.
Van Der Meer Tennis Academy has a commitment to academics as well as on-court training, physical and mental toughness, and nutrition. Coaches assist the players in every facet of their development. The Tennis Center is located in Shipyard Plantation.
Hilton Head residents are delighted to have the new Ivan Lendl International Junior Tennis Academy opening this fall. This will be full time tennis training and academics for promising players hoping to reach their ultimate potential or join the professional ranks. With Ivan’s guidance and experience, young students will have tremendous opportunity to grow on and off the court.
Hank Haney International Junior Golf Academy offers a full time program with a focus on mental and fitness training while emphasizing tournament toughness. In addition to learning master skills in golf, students can fully prepare for college. This academy has been producing champions since 1995. The IJGA offers students the opportunity to compete at many of America’s most prestigious golf courses with very challenging competition. They also offer 3 international events per year and all events are ranked by Golfweek and Junior Golf Scoreboard. Coastal Discovery Museum offers the Barrier Island Discoveries Program where students can gain knowledge about the culture, heritage, and ecology of the Lowcountry.
The Hilton Head Dance School offers ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop instruction by a professional team of dancers. Students have the opportunity to perform at local events and productions at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.
The Main Street Youth Theatre provides theatrical experience to amateur young talent with high quality instruction and productions. The theater is supported by local residents as a non-profit with contributions and attendance.
Hilton Head Island offers young people the chance to follow their dreams, get a quality education, and enjoy the benefit of a mild climate for year round training. Students have many options of study including honors and Fast Track programs to help them get into the school of their choice. Scholar athletes and performing artists increase their potential to earn a spot on NCAA sports teams or in quality art programs. Residents are able to follow some of these aspiring artists and outstanding athletes during their time in the area and throughout their college life into their professional careers.
