2735 Mount Baker Road, Mill Bay, British Columbia, V0R 2P1, Canada
400-570, Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6B 1Y1, Canada
1923
2013
553
300
8 to 12
10 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day, Boarding
Homestay, Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Liberal Arts
Progressive
16
10 to 16
$32,000 to $37,000
$16,500 to $22,800
$68,000 to $96,300
Yes
No
27%
0%
9 to 12
None
$20,000
$0
111
100
80%
0%
0%
100%
9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
Brentwood was the first all-boys' boarding school in Canada to begin admitting girls, something that remains emblematic of the school's tradition of looking forward, actively anticipating a changing social context and the evolving needs of students. In the 1990s, Brentwood became one of the first schools in the country to make a substantial commitment to sustainable energy, building a performing arts centre with a geothermal loop for heating and cooling. The new dining hall and service centre, completed in 2010, continues that commitment while also providing an example to the student population. A current 10-year strategic development plan, launched in 2013, is as robust as it is comprehensive, providing a unified vision for the school as it embarks on its second century. Arts and athletics are emphasized, and the instructional day is organized in order to ensure that all students take active part in all aspects of curricular life. Brentwood is distinguished by a world-class rowing program that has produced a long list of Olympians, though academics remain the central focus. The program of pastoral care is integrated throughout the school, and begins within the student houses, in which both day and boarding students actively participate. The ideal student is one with sights firmly set on university and inclined to leadership roles in student life and beyond.
Read The Our Kids Review of Brentwood College School
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Brentwood was the first all-boys' boarding school in Canada to begin admitting girls, something that remains emblematic of the school's forward-looking approach. In the 1990s, it became one of the first schools in the country to make a substantial commitment to sustainable energy, building a performing arts centre that includes a geothermal loop for heating and cooling. The new dining hall and service centre, completed in 2010, continues that commitment, also providing an example to the student population. Arts and athletics are emphasized—the school is distinguished by a rowing program that has produced a long list of olympians—though academics remain the central focus of the Brentwood program. The ideal student is one with sights firmly set on university and is inclined to leadership roles in student life and beyond.
View full reportIn many ways, Alexander is very much an expression of its context, namely the cultural and social life of Vancouver. The approach is international, drawing students from a range of cultural backgrounds, though also teaching with an eye to global communication and issues. The school is very forward looking, adapting programs to address 21st century literacies, and providing support for individual student success, including flexible scheduling. Academics are front and centre, just as they should be, but there is an attention to student life within the walls of the school and beyond. The location is proximate to a range of resources, including galleries and museums, arts venues, and transportation. The ideal student is one preparing for university studies.
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"The community at Alexander Academy is welcoming."
Kate Mezentseva - Parent (Nov 03, 2022)
The school is very compact, has under 100 students, and feels very private and personal. My son love...
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"Located on a spectacular oceanfront campus on Vancouver Island in BC, Canada, Brentwood is a progressive, co-ed boarding school for Grades 9 to 12 well suited to globally-minded students who embrace our values of grit and joy. Student choice is a unique part of our culture and a deciding factor in who attends the School. This creates a supportive community of students from over 50 countries who gain the independence and skills to succeed in the post-secondary world."
"Alexander Academy is a private high school for students in grades 10-12 and is dedicated to educational excellence that is both student-centred and community-oriented. Alexander Academy offers the BC Dogwood Diploma, a unique University Transfer Program and an English Language Development Program for our international students. Our approach is to offer personalized learning, relevant out-of-classroom experiences, and the opportunity to earn advanced university transfer credits."
"Brentwood is a unique place of learning that gives students the choices and opportunities they need to discover their passions. We harness the power of a boarding environment to build strong relationships throughout our fully engaged, authentic, and inclusive community. Choice plays a large part in a student’s journey at Brentwood. Choice is a theme embedded in the philosophy underpinning our enrolment process, boarding culture, course options, and post-secondary opportunities."
"We recognize that each student has their own academic goals, learning style, passion, and talent. Our teachers are committed to ensuring students have the opportunity to challenge themselves academically to reach their full potential. Alexander Academy’s teaching staff is comprised of 11 full-time equivalent qualified faculty members, as well as our Head of School, Headteacher, Student Services Manager, Health and Wellness counselor, and a full-time Librarian. Our student-teacher ratio is 1:11."
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"At the core of the Brentwood philosophy is how we provide our students with meaningful opportunities to learn and grow in academics, arts, and athletics. This is our Tripartite Program—balanced, intentional, and designed to support both student success and student wellness. Our evidence-based approach to learning, as expressed in the Brentwood timetable, offers academic classes in the morning—all morning—followed by alternating afternoons of arts and athletics."
"Alexander Academy is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in an ever-changing world. We aim to foster a safe, caring, student-oriented community by focusing on building strong relationships between a diverse and inclusive group of internationally-minded learners. We do this by cultivating a collaborative and supportive learning atmosphere that encourages action, inquiry, healthy living, and life-long learning."
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"We recognize the importance of having support structures in place for all aspects of student life. Facilities and programs to support students’ mental and physical wellness can be found in all corners of the campus as well as throughout the school calendar. We continually strive to help our students understand and find solutions to the challenges they face."
"What makes us special? Alexander Academy is widely proud of the 100% University Acceptance of its students."
"One in four students at Brentwood are here wholly or in part thanks to financial aid. That surprises families quite often."
"Our staff promotes holistic education and sustainability practices that place the students first. We aim to cultivate creativity, engagement, collaboration, empathy, and integrity in our students. Alexander Academy seeks to raise awareness for the process of truth and reconciliation and creating authentic connections with Indigenous communities. We nurture skills such as leadership, creativity, resilience, and responsibility to prepare our students for success in an increasingly interconnected w"
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A warm welcome from our spectacular ocean front campus on Vancouver Island, BC. Our unique Tripartite programme and timetable allows for an engaging combination of academic rigour, artistic opportunity, athletic challenge, and independent learning that can only be provided at Brentwood. Here, every student is supported by an exceptional faculty and staff to find their passion in a nurturing boarding environment.
We welcome you to explore our web site but nothing can compare to a visit to our campus. Please come enjoy some of our Brentwood hospitality.
Be well,
Bud Patel
Head of School
Welcome to Alexander Academy. We are delighted that you have found us and invite you to get to know us better. As you will see, at Alexander Academy our lively classrooms celebrate the joy of learning and foster the quest for excellence and exploration. The first thing you will notice when you arrive at Alexander Academy is that the excitement is tangible: you will feel the energy and sense the vibrancy as soon as you enter our school. You will grasp the wonder of discovery in the classrooms as each student and faculty member engage in authentic critical thinking and learning. Our small classes provide the opportunity to challenge students to express themselves in an environment where teachers are a vital part of each student’s daily experience. Our personalized community also helps to build lifelong friendships among students and faculty.
We are a professional learning community following a holistic approach to education. We educate the whole person: academically, artistically, physically and socially as we put the student and their strengths and interests first. No two students or journeys are alike and we will go out of our way to find and nurture each student’ unique abilities. To help students on their path, we craft a unique program designed for each student. Ultimately, it is our goal is to shape 21st century leaders who have the courage to take intellectual risks as they work effectively with others. Our aim is that every student should leave Alexander Academy happy, fulfilled and prepared for the next stage of their life.
In navigating through the pages of this website, I hope that you will get a real sense of the richness and diversity of life at Alexander Academy. Above all else, I hope that you will gain a strong impression that, at Alexander Academy, the interest of our students comes first.
Please do come and visit Alexander Academy. You will be warmly welcome.
Progressive
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Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
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As a university preparatory school, the pursuit of academic excellence is one of Brentwood’s fundamental aims. Our curriculum is built around authentic learning opportunities that allow our students to experience a wide variety of teaching styles and learning techniques. Our academic schedule is flexible—enabling students to take courses that provide the best learning experience and strongest academic support. The teaching staff are committed to inspiring students and helping them discover a passion for lifelong learning.
Alexander Academy is authorized to offer the BC Graduation Program. We also offer an English Language Development Program and a unique University Transfer Program in conjunction with Alexander College. Alexander Academy is dedicated to providing educational programs that inspire students to follow independent paths to success. We recognize that each student has their own academic goals, learning style, passion, and talent. Our teachers are committed to ensuring that each student has the opportunity to challenge themselves academically, enabling them to reach their personal level of academic excellence. Out-of-Classroom Learning Alexander Academy recognizes that students thrive in an environment that has relevance and context to their learning. Through authentic, out-of-classroom learning experiences, students are inspired and obtain in-depth knowledge of the curricular subjects they are studying through active and engaged learning, inquiry, real-world exploration, and challenges.
Traditional Math
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Mathematical literacy is a primary goal of the school curriculum. Competence in mathematics underpins the successful study of many academic disciplines at Brentwood. Becoming numerate involves developing the ability to explore, conjecture, reason logically, and use a variety of mathematical methods to solve problems. It also involves the development of self-confidence and the ability to use quantitative and spatial information in problem solving and decision making.
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Equal Balance
Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
The study of science is an integral part of the curriculum, with all students taking foundation courses in Science 9 and 10, a Science and Technology 9 elective, and at least one Science 11 elective. Many students gain Grade 11 credits in all three major sciences – physics, chemistry and biology – with a significant number studying two Science 12 courses.
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Brentwood students in any grade will study a variety of texts in various rhetorical modes, will write both critical and creative prose in multiple styles, and will learn how to communicate.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
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Equal Balance
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
The Social Studies Department includes the major disciplines of history and geography and covers government and leadership, global studies, and law. Through the humanities curriculum, each student develops thinking, writing, speaking, listening, and reading skills, and learns how to articulate, modify, and defend a position by learning and analyzing a defined body of content. Additionally, the student learns about the physical world in a geographical context.
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Equal Balance
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
With students from over 50 countries on campus, we understand the importance of language proficiency. Our modern language department has a philosophy based on the communicative-experiential approach. The focus of instruction is the purposeful use of the language; in other words, teaching students to get things done, perform real-life tasks, share ideas, and acquire information. While grammar instruction will always have a place, its role is a supportive one to provide useful strategies to facilitate communication and comprehension. Language-learning strategies are important components of the program and are an essential part of our students’ success. Some strategies we use include: recognizing cognates; relying on visual clues; recognizing and adapting language patterns; brainstorming, sharing, revising, editing, and publishing; and using context to support and extend learning.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
At Brentwood, we believe the arts promote creativity, self-expression, and teamwork. The arts help students visualize an idea and see a complex process through to reality. They teach patience, humility, and confidence. They enrich the imagination and challenge the mind. They provide balance and perspective. The arts create the culture and civilize us.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
Students are encouraged to use technology in the classroom both with their teacher/in groups and individually. Also, across teh academics and several arts offerings. Specific technology courses are offered, as well—for example, Coding 11: Python. Programming is a tool that helps us implement computational thinking, as students will discover in this course. Problem-solving is a creative process, and many problems can be solved with a coding application. Classroom activities are based around problem-solving and projects. There is a blend of online work to learn the basics of the language (theory and mini-challenges) and larger coding challenges so that students can learn by doing. The beautiful thing about coding is that they immediately see the results of their thinking. This course is designed for those who enjoy learning from their mistakes.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Since 1923, Brentwood has developed a remarkable athletic history that includes championship banners at the regional, provincial and national level and 28 alumni who have gone on to be Olympians. While results have been impressive, it is the journey that students remember and cherish the most. Today, we continue to develop student-athletes with the goal of supporting the school’s vision, mission, and values.
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Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
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Rigorous
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Our academic program is driven by a commitment to provide a leading-edge place of learning for our students and staff. Brentwood recognizes that all students learn in their own unique way and need to be engaged to achieve their best. We ensure our students can capitalise on problem-solving opportunities through creative and critical thinking. We empower students to embrace curiosity and a willingness to take risks and make connections across a wide array of disciplines.
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"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Brentwood has a long tradition of seeking new and innovative ways to enhance learning for each individual student. An inimitable physical location, our tripartite program, and culture of inclusion and support create a singular place of learning. The underlying foundation of our school can be found in our boarding program and everything that surrounds it—what we call Student Life, which draws all members of this community together. Our students have found that the Brentwood formula results in unparalleled opportunities for educational discipline and experimentation.
Our aim is to see well-rounded citizens gain acceptance to the university of their dreams.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
9 - 12
8 - 12
27%
0%
$20,000
$0
0%
100%
9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 9 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
At Brentwood, we seek the right fit for both the student and our school. We only accept students who choose to be here; no one is sent to our school. Student choice is a unique part of our culture and a deciding factor in who attends the School. It’s why this place is so special. We believe when students truly choose to be here, and they’re surrounded by a family of like-minded friends and supporters, they can be anything. We seek students who value opportunity, embrace our values of grit and joy, and are prepared to enrich our vibrant, friendly, boarding school community. We find the students best suited to Brentwood's course of studies are those capable of succeeding in a tripartite university-preparatory program. This means that admission is not solely based on an applicant's academic potential, but also on character and eagerness to participate actively in our arts and athletic programs. We care about what students accomplish in and out of the classroom. Application to Brentwood is always competitive and we encourage families to start the application process as early as possible.
We seek to identify students who will be the best educators of one another and their teachers—individuals who will inspire those around them during their high school years and beyond.
Our Admissions Department has a rolling admissions policy and accepts applications throughout the year until the school is fully enrolled.
Applicants are required to submit the completed online application, supporting documents and fees, and attend an admissions interview either via Zoom or in person.