All parents want what’s best for the children. It may seem like a cliché or obvious sentiment, but being a caregiver is not only an immense privilege, it comes with an innate sense of duty to provide our kids with every opportunity, every resource and every option to give them the best possible chance not just at success, but happiness.
That’s because our children’s potential exceeds far beyond what we can even begin to imagine. They are the next generation of leaders, change-makers, artists and activists, meaning nurturing their yet-to-be-realized prospects is a vital and pivotal responsibility for a better and brighter future.
And it starts with a comprehensive and well-rounded education.
Much like how fostering independence in kids can breed self-sufficiency and reliance, independent schools offer a different avenue for guidance by providing an alternative educational experience built on a foundation of diversity and enrichment that ensures your child not only learns and develops the skills necessary to succeed but engages with the material in a way that allows them to become considerate, critical thinkers.
With smaller class sizes, personalized learning, research-based specialized programs and alternative teaching methods, these institutions represent a new approach to education while still adhering to provincial curriculum standards.
Focusing on a more globalized approach that nurtures your child’s unique abilities and learning style across all levels, from pre-elementary and primary to secondary education, enrolling them in an independent school provides a unique opportunity to foster and realize their potential from the classroom and beyond.
Within Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland are several of these innovative institutions pioneering a new way forward, paving the path for the scholars of today and the leaders of tomorrow.
Fraser Academy
Boasting over 40 years of experience and research-driven expertise, Fraser Academy is the only school in the Lower Mainland exclusively serving students from Grades two to 12 whose primary academic obstacles are language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia.
Fraser Academy teaches differently, harnessing each students’ intelligence and unique strengths in creativity, problem-solving, communication and innovation while implementing evidence-based teaching methods, including 1:1 and small group Orton-Gillingham instruction, multi-sensory math and explicit instruction to build confidence, independence and resilience.
Small class sizes of seven to 12 students allow for personalized instruction and a supportive environment to help students succeed academically and emotionally. The students also enjoy an impressive selection of enrichment opportunities, including arts, athletics, and outdoor education. Graduate students are equipped to tackle post-secondary adventures, whether at college, university or in the workforce.
October is dyslexia awareness month. While one in five people have dyslexia, most go undiagnosed. If your young child or teen is experiencing unexpected difficulties or inefficiencies in reading and/or writing — whether mild or severe — Fraser Academy can help them discover how, with the right support, dyslexic thinking becomes a powerful asset, not a barrier, and equip them with the skills and knowledge to thrive.
Call 604.736.5575 or email [email protected] to learn more or arrange a personalized tour today. Register for an upcoming Open House and an info session to learn how to access up to 70% relief on tuition expenses.
Brockton School
Brockton School takes pride in its unique approach to education, steering clear of comparison and instead honing in on its true mission: inspiring the growth of outstanding humans.
Nestled in the heart of Lynn Valley, Brockton is a vibrant school where every student matters, every family matters, community matters, and learning for life matters
And, learning goes beyond the classroom, offering a rich blend of innovative academic programming that emphasizes holistic development. With exceptional opportunities in extracurricular activities, outdoor education, music, arts and student leadership, Brockton empowers students to thrive not just as learners, but as well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world.
Brockton provides an authentic, warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff-to-student ratio of 1:6 ensures that every student receives personalized attention and support in becoming self-aware, purpose-filled and lifelong learners.
As one of the few International Baccalaureate (IB) World Continuum Schools offering all four IB programs—the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme, and the Career-Related Programme—this school provides specialized courses taught by expert teachers and mentors. Designed for students from Junior Kindergarten (age 4) to Grade 12, these programs equip learners with the skills and knowledge essential for today’s world and their future aspirations. Graduates emerge not only prepared for post-secondary education but also ready to lead lives filled with passion and purpose.
Brockton is pleased to offer intake years at the Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten and Grade 1 levels, as well as intake spaces in grades 5 to 10. Visit brocktonschool.com/open-house to attend an Open House and for more information.
Cousteau French International School
Cousteau, the French International School, offers bilingual education from Pre-K (age 2.5) to Grade 9, welcoming students regardless of their previous exposure to the French language up to age 5.
Cousteau provides a distinctive educational experience by integrating both the French Ministry of Education curriculum and the British Columbia Ministry of Education curriculum. This unique dual approach offers students the best of both French and Canadian systems, delivering a rigorous yet engaging learning environment
The French International School’s multicultural student body of 250 students is representative of over 30 nationalities. Cousteau provides personalized attention to students’ progress through small group classes with an average of 15 students per class, ensuring tailored support for each pupil within an environment conducive to academic and personal growth.
As the first Eco-School in Canada, Cousteau fulfills more than 30 eco-actions, including nature classes, waste management activities, protection of biodiversity projects, and community actions, as initiated by the student eco-committee.
Cousteau’s extensive network of educational partners, comprising 600 French International schools worldwide, fosters international collaboration and equips students with the skills and knowledge to seamlessly pursue their education anywhere in the world.
For more information, visit www.cousteauschool.org.
Bodwell High school
Nestled into the North Vancouver waterfront, Bodwell High School students receive a well-rounded experience that goes well beyond academics, with strong counselling and academic support, a range of extracurricular activities and an opportunity to form lifelong friendships with other peers from around the world.
Bodwell welcomes all students, especially those entering IB in grade 8 or aiming to get a step up and strengthen their university preparation through Advanced Placement courses in the senior grades (AP). The North-Shore School is committed to enhancing student engagement with their strong combination of university preparation and student diversity. The school's diverse learning environment cultivates not only academic excellence but also interpersonal growth, shaping well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
Bodwell's counselling team, made up of 10 dedicated counsellors, stands out among competitors for its expertise in university preparation and comprehensive student planning. This ensures that each student feels well-supported throughout their academic journey. With this strong foundation, students benefit from a personalized pathway program designed to help them achieve their individual goals.
In line with their commitment to innovation, Bodwell is launching an honours cohort in STEM, directed at providing students with a strong foundation for studies and work, preparing them for an ever-changing world. Additionally, they will be providing scholarships for strong local students to make exceptional education more accessible for everyone.
This year, Bodwell is focused on strengthening and refreshing community partnerships and is looking to invite interested organizations that are youth-focused as well as fellow schools to learn more about Bodwell and develop potential collaborations with student success always at the forefront.
Visit bodwell.edu for more information.
North Star Montessori Elementary School
Through the Montessori education model, the dedicated teachers at North Star nurture the various social, academic, and developmental needs of each student in an exciting and engaging way.
North Star Montessori Elementary School is the only school on the North Shore offering an authentic Montessori preschool, kindergarten and elementary program. The school also offers BC’s first Parent-Infant & Toddler program for children between two months and three years old, which is the most important period in children’s educational and emotional development.
Parents are drawn to North Star for its nurturing environment and commitment to academic development. The school’s curriculum surpasses B.C. grade-level standards, with specialized programs in French, Music, Physical Education, Arts, and STEM. The curriculum is proficiency based and the school maintains a non-competitive atmosphere without traditional testing. Montessori education is also enhanced through experiential learning experiences such as outdoor classes and field trips.
North Star is known for its individualized approach to education and its ability to ignite a deep love of learning in all its students. The collaborative nature of student relationships across the ages in North Star’s mixed-age classrooms provide inspiration and motivation to younger students, along with leadership opportunities with reinforcement of knowledge for older students. This mutually beneficial relationship more closely reflects the social dynamics outside of school.
Through a Montessori education at North Star, students will develop into well-rounded individuals, prepared for lifelong success with creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills which they carry with them throughout their lives. For more information, visit www.northstarmontessori.ca.
St Thomas Aquinas Regional Secondary School
Centrally located in the vibrant community of North Vancouver, St. Thomas Aquinas Regional Secondary (STA) is deeply committed to Catholic values and nurturing the hearts of their students.
STA is devoted to fostering an inclusive and compassionate environment where faith, knowledge and character development thrive together.
At the heart of the STA community is faith, which is evident through the dedication of their teachers and staff who help guide students to reach their fullest potential both inside and outside the classroom. The close-knit community ensures that students are known by name, and senior students have the opportunity to mentor those who are new to the school.
Recognizing that post-secondary planning can be overwhelming for both students and parents, STA’s academic advisors provide guidance every step of the way. They support students in identifying their interests, selecting courses that align with their goals, exploring university options, and preparing for the future.
STA’s physical education classes, sports academics, Kaizen program and athletic teams help students gain knowledge, skills and genuine sportsmanship needed to stay active for life.
School counselors at STA are trained mental health professionals who provide support for students facing social, emotional or relationship difficulties. Counseling offers students a confidential, non-judgemental, space to share their concerns.
All students are welcome at STA. Applications are now open until November 29, 2024. For more information visit aquinas.org/student-life/admissions.
