WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
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INDEPENDENT
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Schools
Private School ProďŹ les Perspectives from students, parents and teachers
Private schools more than just the uniform
A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE
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Brentwood College School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending A: People may think that our oceanfront campus or
Julia S.
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child in attending his school?
First things first, when going the independent route, find out what sets the school apart from the rest of the private school pack. It’s more than just uniforms and smaller class sizes.
Also consider whether or not you want to keep your child closer to home or send them to boarding school on Vancouver Island, for example, where there’s a campus which blends together students from many cultures and countries as they earn a world-class education.
A: I sat listening to the teachers speak about my
Jennifer M.
Keep in mind, your child should have a say in his or her studies and what school they will attend to make the experience worthwhile for everyone. For instance, if learning in an outdoor setting sparks curiosity about nature and biology in your child, you might consider a school that regularly takes their students out of the classroom and into the forest or by the shoreline.
TEACHER
With digital technology being the wave of the future many private schools, starting with the early grades, incorporate coding and other computer science into their curriculum. Learn how up to date each school is with the latest technology.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?
A: The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the
students on Graduation Day. Seeing a student who struggled to find their feet initially graduate as a confident, young person equipped and excited for the next phase of their lives.
From preparing your child for an Ivy League education, to studying abroad, to community engagement, to equestrian classes and premier athletic programs, the private school option has many advantages.
Interview former students to learn the pros and cons of the schools on your short list and how those elements fit in with your child’s needs. Find out each school’s core values and curriculum, from academic offerings to extracurricular activities.
PARENT
son, with tears in my eyes. I am so proud of the man he is becoming and how much Brentwood has positively impacted him. I never feel like he is growing up without his family in a boarding school. I feel like his family has grown.
Private schools more than just the uniform Maria Spitale-Leisk mspitale-leisk@nsnews.com
your school?
unique tripartite program is what makes Brentwood special, but what stands out to me is the shared mentality of the students. Everyone is genuinely happy to be here, and I think that makes all the difference in the relationships you form at Brentwood.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
David M.
brentwood.bc.ca
Where Students Choose To Be
Because students truly choose to be here, and are surrounded by a family of like-minded students and supporters, they can choose to be... anything #choosetobe
www.brentwood.bc.ca Co-ed | Boarding | Grades 9 -12 | University Prep | Vancouver Island, BC
There are also on the North Shore a variety of non-secular private schools that offer a spiritual approach to education that is in keeping with the B.C. curriculum and satisfies graduation requirements. Some private or independent institutions may have a speciality program, such as being the only school in Canada with an integrated on-campus equestrian riding program or one that puts a priority on helping students with learning challenges succeed. Perhaps most importantly, make sure you have the means to pay for private school and that there will be a return on your investment. Many of these schools tend to tout the successes of their graduates on their respective websites.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
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Brockton School
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Q: What do you like best about attending your school? A: I have really enjoyed the community at Brockton School, which I
have attended for the past 13 years. From the parents to the teachers to the students, everyone is involved in contributing to making this school what it is today. The music program is one of my favourite aspects of the school. The program has taught me discipline as well as life skills. Through it, I have had the opportunity to perform in Aberdeen, Scotland,
New York City, and this summer in a major European music festival in Austria. Taking the International Baccalaureate program up until Grade 10 helped me to develop the skills needed for university and beyond: self-motivation, time-management, and work ethic. Graduating this year, I’m going to really miss the teachers and my peers. The people who create Brockton are loving and caring people who are really there for you, in or out of school.
Michael B.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children in attending their school? A: As a parent with two sons who have graduated from Brockton and a third completing his high school years, I believe that Brockton students benefit in numerous ways. Firstly, students in all grades are exposed to an academically rigorous curriculum. Secondly, the International Baccalaureate programme educates the whole child, broadening their perspective on learning and the world they will contribute to as citizens, and giving students the opportunity
to shape their future in that world. Most importantly, Brockton is unique in how its highly dedicated and talented faculty create a learning environment in which students are not only academically challenged, but are supported in discovering themselves. When witnessing such self-discovery, Brockton parents immediately notice the confidence and joy with which their child makes subsequent life choices.
John F.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace? A: Working at Brockton has been very rewarding. With over 25 years
of teaching experience in both the private and public schools, I have learned to value the relationships I have been able to develop, foster and celebrate. Relationships with students, families and staff continue to strengthen my ability to make a difference in the classroom and in the community. While we are a small school, we are a growing school, too. Working with this momentum, it is very exciting to be
given the opportunity to help reach our goal and vision for a future Brockton School. The opportunities are potentially endless as we forge our identity among other ISABC schools on the North Shore. We have successfully implemented the Junior Kindergarten, our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and our POD program. We are often asked to imagine a school where students enjoy going to class, I don’t imagine it, I live it everyday.
Dana M.
brocktonschool.com
Be The Future - Be Brockton Where every student matters. Where every family matters. Where learning for life matters. ■
IB world continuum programme and enriched curriculum
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Outstanding IB and BC certified faculty
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Specialist teachers (from JK - Gr. 12)
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Small class sizes with personalized attention
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Before and after school care & activities on-site
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Junior Kindergarten (4 years old by Dec. 31) Graduating students accepted to impressive post-secondary placements & opportunities An authentic & diverse community of inspired teachers & students Extensive financial aid available: bursaries and entrance scholarships
Brockton School is a non-denominational, co-educational, International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum School supporting grades from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. Accepting applications for 2018/2019 school year. 604-929-9201 | brocktonschool.com
3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver
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nsnews.com north shore news
Cousteau –
The French International School of Vancouver
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
Fraser Academy
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Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: It is a very diverse school: the students come from
A: My favourite thing about Fraser Academy is the
your school?
many countries; most of the teachers come from France. We can learn about different cultures, in French and in English. The teachers are very into it, they want you to learn and make progress. I think it’s a really good school!
your school?
Julian M.
PARENT
support offered in the areas where I struggle. The faculty wants all students to succeed and teaches us tools to be successful. Fraser Academy has been a key part of my academic success and a stepping stone for getting into university.
Sarah B.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
A: Our daughter loves Cousteau! We enjoy the small
A: My son is now devoted to his studies and has had life
in attending her school?
class sizes, amazing teachers and academic excellence. The school has a clear understanding of the values and skills our kids will require to succeed in the future, we couldn’t be happier to be a part of this ever growing community!
in attending his school?
Stéphanie C.
TEACHER
changing success in his education at Fraser Academy. The entire staff are dedicated to meeting each student’s needs and seeking success—learning, emotionally, and physically. He went from dreading school to loving it, from academically faltering to thriving.
Michele D.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: Working with bilingual students (at least!) is an
A: The most rewarding part of working at Fraser Academy
of your job/workplace?
amazing part of my job here at Cousteau: we are using our skills in both languages to be better in each of them but also in maths, sciences and social studies! Through it we are also travelling all around the world every day!
of your job/workplace?
Sébastien H.
cousteauschool.org
is seeing students expand their understanding of their unique learning profiles. This growth and expansion happens in an environment of professionals who care deeply, collaborate, and continually develop instructional skills to help students flourish.
Ellen O.
fraseracademy.ca
ETABLISSEMEN T PARTENAIRE
1997 2017 : 20 years of discoveries 1997-2017
Bilingual Education French & BC Curriculum
We are leaders in education.
We prepare students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, for college, university, and success beyond graduation.
CALL US FOR A SCHOOL TOUR: 604 736 5575 2294 West 10th Ave, Vancouver | fraseracademy.ca
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
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Island Pacific School
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Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School
STUDENT
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Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: What I like best is Ultimate because it’s a fun sport
A: KGMS provides me with a personalized learning
your school?
you don’t often get to play it at other schools. I also like the unique courses like Junior Seminar and Design.
your school?
environment to support my learning needs and preferences. The teachers have gotten to know me as an individual, and I have grown in so many ways since being here. I’m ready to take on anything that comes my way!
Trevor H.
PARENT
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
A: We chose IPS because our children were coasting in
A: The biggest benefit to my child is that his stress
in attending their school?
the public system. IPS challenges them academically and they are held to a higher standard with opportunities to be heard in smaller classes. IPS’ curriculum is fresh, relevant and engaging. Teachers are innovative in their approach and the culture encourages critical thinking and accountability.
in attending his school?
and anxiety related to his learning challenges were gone within his first two months at KGMS (that was 6 years ago!) As his confidence increased, so did his academic abilities. He believes there are no limits to his success now.
Georgina F.
TEACHER
Jodi
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: The most rewarding part of my job is working in a
A: Watching students gain confidence. As part of our
of your job/workplace?
close-knit community. The small school and class sizes allow me to get to know each of the students on a personal basis. Students call teachers by our first names, which also contributes to the family atmosphere!
Luka
of your job/workplace?
music program, students have an opportunity to showcase their talents in front of hundreds, some performing for the first time. (Not bad for a first gig!) Afterwards you see them sharing their experience with others, ready to take on the world next!
Laura M.
islandpacific.org
Rafe
kgms.ca
MAPLEWOOD ALTERNATIVE HIGH SCHOOL
KENNETH GORDON MAPLEWOOD SCHOOL
Is your daughter or son struggling to achieve their potential? We believe every young person can succeed if given the right tools and learning environment. For over 40 years, we have been offering an intimate, supportive private school for students with needs not typically addressed by a traditional school setting. Visit us and discover how we can help overcome obstacles and create a path to success.
.. .. For Regular Acceptance: By Mar 9, 2018
Outcome-oriented Tailored programs Friendly, informal atmosphere Highly educated & experienced staff
.. ..
Fully accredited Financing available School bus service available Accepting applications, spaces limited
GET TO KNOW US
ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL We are a small by design, middle school community providing engineered experiences that equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity.
Grades 6-9, one class for each grade, and 16-18 students in each class. Spaces fill quickly; families are encouraged to apply in advance.
edited Independent Schools
BOOK A TOUR 604.947.9311
islandpacific.org/
admissions-process
Elementary Education for grades 1-7
Alternative High School for grades 8-12
www.kgms.ca
www.maplewoodhigh.ca
For more information, contact Dr. Jim Christopher, Head of School at jchristopher@kgms.ca or 604.985.5224
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nsnews.com north shore news WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
Lions Gate Christian Academy
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North Star Montessori
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STUDENT
STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: I love LGCA for the sense of community. Not only are
A: I like that we can choose our own work and get to
your school?
your school?
we familiar with each other, we’re willing to reach out and help one another. I don’t feel like just another student or classmate here. I feel genuinely cared for which makes my experience at LGCA so special.
Gilda H.
use different materials to learn it. We don’t have to sit at assigned desks and I have time to do research on countries, planets, and animals. I also love doing the sport activities and track and field.
Justin
PARENT
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
A: LGCA isn’t just a school; it’s a community where
A: North Star engages our children making learning
in attending their school?
in attending their school?
children are loved for who they are. Their personalities are embraced; children are guided and challenged to discover their gifts and talents; children are equipped (on academic, social-emotional and spiritual levels) to live out their God created purpose with serving hearts.
Annet S.
challenging and fun. When we leave them at North Star we know they are in a place that supports their individual growth and nurtures respectful engagements between friends and teachers. They learn to be responsible for their work and themselves in a supportive environment.
David
TEACHER
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: For the past 18 years, I have had the privilege of
A: I love being able to work with each student for three
of your job/workplace?
teaching kindergarden. There is a tremendous amount of job satisfaction from seeing a sparkle in their eyes as they begin to understand new concepts and to be able to teach from a Christian perspective. LGCA is my second family.
lgca.ca
Mary M.
years (gr 1-3) thanks to the multi-age environment of a Montessori classroom. This extended period gives me a deeper understanding of how to best instruct each child. Watching them grow and mature each year is very rewarding.
Brooke
northstarmontessori.ca
Providing an education as unique as your child. Now accepting applications for our Infant & Toddler, Preschool and Elementary Programs. Infancy toto Grade today: Preschool Grade6 7| Call | Call today:604 604980 9801205 1205 1325 East East Keith Keith Road, Road, North North Vancouver Vancouver BC BC (Southern 1325 (Southern annex annex of the North Shore Winter Club)
northstarmontessori.ca
of your job/workplace?
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018
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Alcuin College
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Vancouver Waldorf School
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Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: I like going to Alcuin College because every day, you
A: I love drawing colourful pictures to learn about the
your school?
your school?
are learning new things. The teachers are kind and helpful, and always there for you. If you are ahead in a subject, you can learn with older groups. The kids are nice and friendly and there are many fun field trips.
Simon D.
letters of the alphabet. My favourite lessons are story time, eurhythmy, and French. I like sitting beside my friends in the classroom, playing outside and listening to my teachers singing.
Sydney G.
PARENT
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
A: The work world my kids will enter looks nothing like
A: When our daughter started kindergarten, we were moved
in attending their school?
the work world of today. To succeed, they will need to be insatiably curious, ask big questions, and work collaboratively to solve complex problems. I am confi confident dent Alcuin’s teaching philosophy and personalized approach is equipping them for whatever the future holds.
in attending her school?
Tara C.
TEACHER
by how deeply she was respected by her teachers. We were welcomed to discuss any concern or question and encouraged to participate in our daughter’s learning journey. Both our children now attend VWS and we feel fortunate to have joined such a robust community that celebrates the wonder of childhood.
Mary H.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: Building meaningful relationships with students is
A: The most rewarding part of teaching is when I see a
of your job/workplace?
of your job/workplace?
the most rewarding part of my job. It is integral in my approach to teaching. I need to care about my students in order for them to care about their learning. Small class sizes and a strong focus on building community have made this possible.
Chantelle M.
alcuin.ca
student’s eyes light up because they grasp a concept or their understanding reaches a deeper level. It is gratifying when sparks of enthusiasm are flflying ying off the ends of fingertips of wildly waving hands hoping to share an answer to a question. I love it.
Andrea M.
vws.ca
KINDERGARTEN TO GRADE 12
What did your child do in school today?
Accepting applications for 2018-19 Info sessions: Feb 27 & Apr 17 8:45-10:15 am
Open House THURSDAY, MARCH 1ST 7–8 pm
Contact the school for a tour.
200-1046 St Georges Avenue, North Vancouver (604) 360-8656 • www.alcuin.ca
We teach students to be creative, critical thinkers who have a strong moral compass, are open and resilient, and can turn challenges into possibilities... Vancouver Waldorf School
Early Childhood | Grade School | High School vws.ca | 604-985-7435 | info@vws.ca