SIEMENS Oia SOE SAEL OT a ae A growing number of parents are considering private schools, looking Jor smail class sizes, academic excellence, committed teachers aud a safe asd supportive environseent for their children. But eaciy institution has its own philosophy, areas of specialty, and particular spirit. Extra-cusricular Activities Private schonts are well known for the academic achievements of their students, and several offer specialized sniversity preparation. Bui they also focus on the needs of the child beyond the class- room. Several of our featured schools offer a wide array of extra-curricular activities, allowing every student to find a particular place to shine. These programs, unthreatened by government cuts, provide a well-rounded educational experience. In a boarding schoo! environment such as Shawnigan Lake, students are immersed in an energetic culture of fine arts, sports and commu- nity activities. Students at Vancouver Island's Brentwood College also participate in a huge assort- meat of artistic and athletic pursuits, including sailing, rowing, and other water sports. Stressing leadership along with learning, York, House school challenges giris to set their own goals in aca- demics and many other activities. At island Pacific School, students participate in skiing and hik- ing trips, and take excursions to the maintand every two weeks. These outdoor pursuits are part of the school's emphasis on “building character," which is included in the curriculum. Fine arts, athletics and horseback riding are yart of the long tradition at Queen Margaret's School. The unique equestrian program offers training for both competitive and recreational riders. Educational Philosophy Private schools have the freedom to focus on different models of education, offering parents sev- esal alternatives. At Vancouver College, extensive fine arts, athletics and personal development programs work in concordance with strong Catholic based faith. Mulgrave School encourages its students to excel in the classroom and to become compassionate, tolerant and community-mind- ed citizens. At L'Ecole international, it is not only the French language which has attracted par- ents, but the French curriculum. Children begin school full-time at age three, and receive regu- lar progress reports. North Star Montessori offers another time-tested approach to education which focuses on respect and independence. The Kenneth Gordon School teaches strategies to students with learning disabilities. Based on phonetics, sequential learning and a multi-sensory approach, these strategies aim to prepare children for a regular curriculum. Parental Involvement Those parents who make the firancial and time investments in choosing a private school for their children are often very committed to the institution, resulting in a strong school community. Many private schools have alumni associations, whose members continue to attend events and con- iribute to the instiution long after they have graduated. This gives students a sense of belonging to an important tradition. Private schools are often built by a group of people who have a vision and want something special for their children. Both Island Pacific School and L'Ecole average class is 16 students and, although all classes are university preparatory, we offer enriched courses aud a wide range of Advanced Placement courses. Every student must be involved in athletics and in fine arts in the extra-curricular programme, and values education also plays an important part in our daily lives. wstoon wr 11998 - 20003 uniter Requiem Cur staff is dedicated and caring. They get to : know our smdents in a variety of roles, as they re not only teachers, but academic advisors, coaches, residential assistants and superb role models. Siaff members do not come to Shawnigan for 2 job; they come to be part of at demanding, exciting, and fulfilling way of life. hawnigan Lake School is a wonder- And they are people yon would like to be an ful educational community of 390 students on a magnificent i170 acre campus. We are a seven-day-a-week boarding school for boys and girls in grades 8to 12. Shawnigans’ programmes are designed to give students a well-rounded education. The influence in your son's or daughter's life. Gur environment is without peer. The School's campus is both: beautiful and inviting, and provides a wonderful setting in which to learn and grow. Come and see the School for yourself. Sunday, November 7, 1999 - Norin Shore News - 57 CHOO! News shove Paul McGrath Students at North Scar Montessori Scheol International are relatively new and have seen considerable growth. Students a these schoois can pacticipaie in the buiiding of a new iegacy. Choosing a Private School ‘The decision to enroll your child in a private school is an enormous one. Give yourself lots of time to discuss the issues with your family and research your options. While many people still think of private schools as elitist institutions, that perception is changing. Many schools offer scholarships and bursary programs, and work hard to keep tuition rates affordable. Find out about those options when you contact the school. Several websites offer information on private schools, including Peterson's Guide, at www.peter- sons.com, and the TABS guide, at www.schools.com. These can help narrow your search before you go to visit individual schools. Your child can probably give you the best idea of which school is right for them. It will be 2 place where he or she feels comfortable and has the chance te thrive. With the right choices, education can be an experience io treasure for a lifetime. We belisve in education. We believe in the future. We believe in cur students. ‘tel (250) 743-6207: email rhl @ sis.bc.ca™* website www.sis be. ca.