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INDEPENDENT
Schools
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Independent school profi profiles les Perspectives from students, parents and teachers
A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE
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nsnews.com north shore news FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020
Brentwood College School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending your school? A: What sets Brentwood apart is the meaningful relationships that are
formed day in day out, bringing this vibrant campus to life. Whether it be friendships between students and staff, or peer to peer, these genuine bonds are what form the tight-knit community at Brentwood; that of which I am proud to call my home away from home. I am incredibly appreciative for all of the unforgettable experiences, unique opportunities and sense of growth that Brentwood has given
me over the past three years. My journey at Brentwood has really taught me to venture outside my comfort zone and embrace the challenges that come with being vulnerable and trying new things. Being a part of the Brentwood family has been a special and lifechanging experience for me, I am grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to see what new adventures and memories are to come as I ride out my third and final year at Brentwood.
Callum B.-C.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child in attending his school? A: The biggest benefit of my son attending Brentwood has been the
social element of being part of the boarding school. It has created a sense of belonging, and friendships that will last a lifetime. The structure of the school day having academics before lunch and arts and sports afterwards and then the prep time is excellent. The structure combined with newfound independence is something that my son thrives on. Brentwood has a way of being all-inclusive and
there is always something going on to keep the students interested and engaged. There are so many opportunities to try new things. The international diversity of the student body gives exposure to all different nationalities and their various cultures. All in all my son’s decision to attend Brentwood was the best thing he ever did!
Emma W.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace? A: I must say, I have the best job on Earth. Why? Because the people here at Brentwood treat each other like family. The students are vibrant and kind young people from all over the world who have chosen to come and live together for 10 months of the year on a beautiful oceanfront campus. They have chosen to challenge themselves in a busy and varied “tripartite” schedule not because they have to, but because they want to. I also get to work with
teachers who direct their boundless energy towards being the best mentors they can be while creating an exciting and fun as well as caring and collegial environment. So for me, the people who I live with every day are definitely the most rewarding part of my job here at Brentwood.
Mark W.
brentwood.ca
Where Students Choose To Be
Vancouver Info Meetings | March 5 & 6
Brentwood’s distinctive tripartite program and schedule is designed to provide students with a timetable that leads to unrivaled opportunities. The fact that students choose Brentwood is what makes this place so special. Because when a student truly wants to be here, and they’re surrounded by a family of like-minded friends and supporters, we believe they can choose to be . . . anything.
Book a one-one-meeting with Admissions at RVSP.Brentwood.ca Co-ed | Boarding | Day | Grades 8-12 | BC | Canada | www.brentwood.ca | admissions@brentwood.ca
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developing a strong relationship with their kids’ teachers can take several steps to make that happen. Meet your child’s teacher at the beginning of the year. Introduce yourself at the onset of the school year, and let the teacher know you’re available for discussion any time during the school year and that you look forward to the coming school year and working with the teacher as the year progresses.
Building a strong parent-teacher relationship Developing a strong relationship with a child’s teacher can help parents ensure their kids are doing their best in the classroom. Once a school year begins, many students spend more time in the classroom with their teachers than they do at home with their parents. Therefore, it’s important for parents to work toward building a strong parent-teacher relationship. Such a relationship fosters communication, which can help a young student do his or her best in and out of the classroom, something that’s a goal for parents and teachers alike. Parents interested in
Attend “Back to School Night” or other such events. School events like an open house or a “Back to School Night” are a great way to help kids grow acclimated to their school. But such events also make great opportunities for parents to learn more about their kids’ teachers than they might have learned during their introductory meeting.
We inspire our students to make
a better world
Prioritize parent-teacher conferences. Parent-teacher conferences are a great opportunity for parents to speak to their children’s teacher one-on-one. Teachers may provide insight into how a child is performing and behaving in the classroom, offering advice as to how to improve that performance or suggestions as to how to encourage kids to keep up the good work. Keep the channels of communication open. If it’s been awhile since you’ve spoken to your child’s teacher, don’t be afraid to e-mail the teacher to check in or see if you can lend a helping hand. In addition, if your child really enjoys a teacher’s class, don’t be hesitant to share that with the teacher. Teachers appreciate compliments just like other professionals, and parents should express their gratitude to those teachers who are working hard to make learning fun for their youngsters. METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION
cousteauschool.org 604-924-2457 3657 Fromme Rd., North Vancouver
Island Pacific School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending your school?
A: The best part about my school is that it is small.
Because of this, each individual’s needs are attended to by the teachers and they are always there for you no matter what challenges you may be facing. Also, you are always making friends with everyone, no matter their age.
Adam W., Gr 7
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children in attending their school?
A: IPS’s greatest benefit to our sons is defined by what
makes it different. Intentional small class sizes and firstclass teachers foster a purposeful and fulfilling IB middle years environment that has nurtured a deep rooted love of learning. IPS’s frequent and unique excursions, created friendship bonds and experiences they will never forget!
Karen W.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace?
A: The most rewarding part of my job as a Learning
MIDDLE SCHOOL
MATTERS
ISLAND PACIFIC SCHOOL
CELEBRATING YEARS
VISIT US
islandpacific.org
Support teacher is helping students identify and implement strategies to support their learning. To watch students develop self-management skills over their four years here is great - their growth is incredible!
islandpacific.org
Amanda S.
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nsnews.com north shore news FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020
Brockton School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending your school? A: What I like best about attending Brockton School is the teacher
support and engagement with students. I have been at my school for eleven years now, and every year I have enjoyed my teachers for the enthusiasm they bring to the classes they teach and clubs they run. Many of the teachers engage with students outside of class through extra-curricular activities, including sports teams, musical groups, and student leadership programs, many of which I have
been able to participate in. As a result of this engagement, I have been provided the opportunity to travel to Europe twice with the World Music Program and participate in many sporting competitions. Throughout my years at Brockton, I’ve found teachers are always more than willing to support students with their learning and finding ways to personalize student learning in a way that allows them to be the most successful and engaged they can be.
Matthew B.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child in attending her school? A: Every day at Brockton, my daughter is active and engaged in
personalized learning. She is encouraged to explore her strengths and her challenges, both as a life-long learner and a person. Brockton is such a special place - it embodies a strong and genuine sense of community and connection to people as well as the planet. There’s a saying, “small but mighty.” In Brockton’s case, I would change it to “small and meaningful.” Students in every grade interact
with each other. Teachers know the names of almost every child, kindergarteners to seniors. At Brockton, every learner matters; very family matters. I know that at Brockton my daughter is developing her character and her abilities in ways that will allow her to fully embrace all that the 21st century has to offer!
Marla G.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job/workplace? A: As a founding faculty member of Brockton School, I have had
approach to teaching and learning. As a person who comes from a creative arts background, I know what it takes to create a space where innovative thoughts and ideas can be fully expressed and developed. Brockton School is a place where great care is taken to provide teachers and students with the resources they need to be able to develop their interests. People here are driven by a sense of purpose, in the service of helping to create a better world.
the opportunity to develop as a professional educator within the context of an exciting and compassionate workplace. The most rewarding part of my job is coming to a workplace that values supporting teachers and students as they take risks, develop new projects and programs, develop new relationships within the community, and constantly refine and redefine a holistic
Paige F.
brocktonschool.com
Where every student matters. Where every family matters. Where learning for life matters. • Early Learning Years Program: Junior Kindergarten (4 years old by Dec. 31) Kindergarten: (5 years old by Dec. 31) • IB World Continuum Program and enriched curriculum • Small class sizes, personalized attention, focus on whole child development • Specialist teachers and extended learning opportunities • Before and after school care and activities on-site • Extensive financial assistance available: bursaries and entrance scholarships Accepting Applications for the 2020/2021 school year.
3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver • 604-929-9201 • Brocktonschool.com A non-denominational, co-ed, International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum School supporting JK to Grade 12.
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Fraser Academy
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Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School
STUDENT
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: At Fraser Academy, I no longer have to hide at the back
A: Teachers at KGMS use a hands-on teaching method
your school?
your school?
of a classroom because I have dyslexia. I am confident and have been able to get the support from my teachers to grow and expand my learning beyond what I thought would’ve been possible at my age if I didn’t change schools.
and have so much patience. They form a bond with students to understand the best way to teach. KGMS has strengthened my reading and writing capabilities. Hopefully more schools are built to help other children like me that have different learning styles.
Ava M.
PARENT
Leon K.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child
Q: What is the biggest benefit for your child
A: The biggest benefits for my daughter who is in Grade
A: The small class sizes, student to teacher ratio, and one-
in attending her school?
7 at Fraser Academy are small class sizes, expertise of the teachers, one-to-one Orton Gillingham tutoring as part of her regular school day, and the boost to her confidence that those have provided. She now loves going to school.
attending his school?
on-one tutoring. My son has found his self-confidence and self-acceptance in having another learning style since starting at KGMS. The team of teachers, counselors, and all the supporters at KGMS make this school so different and a great place to be!
Brandy H.
TEACHER
Iris K.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your
A: I love seeing how much our students progress and
A: Seeing students express themselves through images,
of your job/workplace?
accomplish throughout the years, after starting at our school, for many, unable to read and write. Then, on Graduation Day, seeing them walk across the stage, knowing they have succeeded and have big plans for the future. For me, that is the reward.
job/workplace?
colour and symbols. Our art program has opened many ways for students to communicate. Students work through a series of projects, allowing them an outlet through art. Students walk the road of emotional expression, communication and productivity.
Cindy D.
fraseracademy.ca
Marta C.
kgms.ca
KENNETH GORDON MAPLEWOOD SCHOOL
MAPLEWOOD ALTERNATIVE HIGH 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.
We are leaders in education.
.. ..
Outcome-oriented Tailored programs Friendly, informal atmosphere Highly educated & experienced staff
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Fully accredited Financing available School bus service available Accepting applications, spaces limited
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
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 2294 West 10th Ave, Vancouver | fraseracademy.ca
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nsnews.com north shore news FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020
North Star Montessori
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STUDENT
Pattison High School
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: I love the hands-on experience I get from my school.
A: Pattison High School was a great start for my journey.
your school?
I enjoy using the materials to help me understand the work. I also like that I can choose what work I am doing. When I am interested in a topic, I am able to learn a lot about it.
your school?
Thanks to the trimester system, my study was finished quickly. Teachers and staff were always dedicated in their assistance to and support of students.Pattison is culturally diverse; I was able to make new friends and learn about new cultures.
Lukas
PARENT
Rosy T.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your child in
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
A: Through an engaging and positive environment at North
A: The greatest benefits to my children have been three
attending his school?
Star, I have watched my son grow into a strong, confident and independent boy. He is very curious about so many subjects and is motivated to learn about everything. The teachers encourage creativity, allow the children to work at their own pace and promote divergent thinking.
in attending their school?
features of Pattison High School. First is the great support from the teachers, counsellor and principal. Second is small classes where my children received timely attention. The third is the structure of the trimester system, where students finish high school earlier.
D’arcey
TEACHER
Ma N.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: What I love most about working at North Star is being
A: As most teachers know, it is challenging to allocate time
of your job/workplace?
part of a small, close-knit community of students, parents and teachers. Having students in my class for three continuous years allows me the time to build strong relationships with them and to develop deeper understandings about each child’s individual learning needs.
of your job/workplace?
to help students in their academic pursuits. However, I find it extremely rewarding assisting students in preparing for their next steps. Discovering that I helped a student to earn university acceptance ultimately motivates my teaching practice at Pattison High School.
Brooke
Do you want a solid and proven foundation for your child’s physical, intellectual and emotional development? Register today for North Star Montessori’s infant & toddler and preschool programs. Infancy to Grade 7 | Call today:
604 980 1205
1325 East Keith Road, North Vancouver BC (Southern annex of the North Shore Winter Club)
pattisonhighschool.ca
northstarmontessori.ca N O R T H S TA R M O N T E S S O R I . C A
northstarmontessori.ca
Shayne A.
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Vancouver Waldorf School
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STUDENT
Alcuin College
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STUDENT
Q: What do you like best about attending
Q: What do you like best about attending
A: There is a really nice atmosphere in the school.
A: I love so many things about Alcuin! The teachers are
your school?
your school?
Having less students in each class means the teachers have more of a personal relationship with each individual student, which also means there is more understanding of what’s going on in each lesson.
Jack G.R.
PARENT
the best in the world – they have helped me to feel confident and happy again. Genius hour is so much fun because we pick our own project to work on. I also love having a little buddy at the pre-school downstairs.
Sophie H.
PARENT
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
Q: What is the biggest benefit to your children
A: The Vancouver Waldorf School’s unique educational
A: Our boys feel empowered by their education at Alcuin.
in attending their school?
in attending their school?
approach supports my children in becoming creative, empowered, free thinkers. Not only are they receiving an excellent education, they are also surrounded by amazing teachers who care about their social development, physical health, and character.
Paige & Story W.
TEACHER
Small class sizes have allowed Alcuin teachers to learn our children’s needs and work with their strengths and weaknesses to become more confident and capable students. A love of learning is being fostered that goes beyond the confines of traditional classrooms.
Mehrgan F.
TEACHER
Q: What is the most rewarding part
Q: What is the most rewarding part
A: It’s in the little things: in the shimmer of expectancy
A: The most rewarding part of my job is the strong
of your job/workplace?
of your job/workplace?
in their eyes when they enter the classroom in the morning and the gleam of still-simmering-excitement when they go home; in the proud smiles when they conquer a challenge and the compliment between friends, instinctively handed out. They make my day.
Marlies D.
vws.ca
relationship and trust that teachers develop with each student. When students feel connected and safe in their school, their academic and personal lives blossom. It is a joy to see students arrive at school, smiling and eager to learn.
Sergio B
alcuin.ca
Info Sessions March 17 May 5 & June 2 vws.ca/info
Teaching students to be creative, critical thinkers who have a strong moral compass, are open and resilient, and can turn challenges into possibilities from Early Childhood to Grade 12! 2725 St Christophers Rd, North Vancouver | 604-985-7435 | info@vws.ca
Are you Alcuin? Alcuin College is a progressive, independent K-12 school on the North Shore. Providing a diverse, rigorous and personalised education in an intimate setting, we foster each child’s creativity, achievement and relationships.
Book a private tour and tell us about your child Kindergarten to grade 2 open for Sept 2020
info@stalcuincollege.com • 604.360.8656 • alcuin.ca