7808 Pierre Drive, Summerland, British Columbia, V0H 1Z2, Canada
455 Cochrane Drive, Unit 30, Markham, Ontario, L3R 9R4, Canada
2018
1978
130
295
JK to 12
Nursery/Toddler to 8
Coed
Coed
Day, Boarding
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Progressive
Varies
15 to 20
In-class adaptations
Dedicated gifted school
$14,800 to $17,980
$17,500 to $17,700
$41,930 to $59,480
Yes
No
30%
0%
1 to 11
None
$3,000
$0
9
23
23%
0%
70%
80%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 11
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
The setting for the campus couldn’t be more attractive, nestled comfortably on 17 acres in the Okanagan Valley. The school prides itself on a ability to remain agile, and to innovate programs and approaches. It’s a candidate for the full IB continuum, though, as any school in a similar position, is of course already teaching to that curriculum. While we think of innovation in terms STEM instruction—engineering and digital design perhaps particularly—there is also a core belief in what outdoor education can offer, something that adds dimension to the academic delivery and the student experience. The boarding program adds depth and diversity to the student population. Founded in 2016, Unisus is comparatively a young school, though the leadership brings a wealth of experience in private schooling. The school was founded to offer an exceptional learning experience, something that it has proven, through hiring and program development, to be very adept at achieving.
View full reportFounded in 1978, Wishing Well is one of the older Montessori programs in the region, as well as the country, so has had a lot of time to develop its programs. Today it provides the foundational elements of the method, including a strong sense of place, as well as a wealth of opportunity to peer interaction. The Casa classrooms are of a size that the work well, allowing for mentorship relationships to develop naturally among the students. In addition, the administration has demonstrated a keen desire to develop the program with an eye to the kinds of things that students need when they advance to grade 9 and beyond, including a keen interest in developing 21st century literacies, including digital literacy and a robust science curricula. The extended care option, included in tuition, is understandably a very welcome feature for the families that enroll; it’s also a sign of the school’s attention to the needs of the parent community. The school has built a reputation on providing a strong, varied program based firmly in the ethos of the Montessori method, with an eye to educating students to be creative, confident, and social learners.
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"Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's beautiful four-seasons Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) with a strong focus on outdoor education, technology and entrepreneurship. Everyone knows each other’s name in our safe, tight-knit, and inclusive community: students and boarders never get lost in the crowd."
"Delivering accredited Toddler and Montessori programs endorsed by CCMA, coupled with an accelerated Elementary program spanning Grade 1 to 8, our focus is on nurturing qualities like independence, creativity, collaboration, intrinsic motivation, and leadership. At Wishing Well Schools, students not only flourish in a supportive setting but also cultivate a sincere passion for learning. Upon completing their education, they carry with them the self-assurance to excel in academically demanding settings."
"As an IB World School, the IB curriculum encourages students to think critically, challenge assumptions and consider both local and global contexts. Outdoor Education is a foundational part of our K-12 learning curriculum. Unisus is based in the four-seasons Okanagan Valley with access to unparalleled outdoor recreation, including skiing, boating, and watersports! We offer English language instruction. We offer ELL, Outdoor Ed and boarding in our custom-built facility."
"Wishing Well Schools distinguishes itself through a holistic learning environment, comprehensive Grade 1 to 8 programs, integration of 21st-century skills, and a focus on character and leadership development. With a 45-year legacy, we offer a trusted and time-tested education that prepares graduates not only academically but also with the resilience, adaptability, and leadership qualities for success in the evolving world."
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"Where you send your child to school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. At UNISUS, we inspire our students to be globally-minded citizens and critical thinkers through Academic Excellence, Student Empowerment, and Global Citizenship. We are proud to be the only IB World Boarding School in the Okanagan. Our location in beautiful Summerland allows us to offer an extensive and varied outdoor education program, including downhill skiing. High standard+high support."
"Families opt for Wishing Well Schools due to its advanced academic programs spanning Grade 1 to 8, coupled with a 45-year legacy of excellence. The institution's commitment to character and leadership development, along with an emphasis on collaboration and project-based learning, resonates with parents seeking a comprehensive and forward-thinking educational environment. Wishing Well's dedication to academic advancement solidifies its position as the preferred choice for families."
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"What might surprise students - particularly international or national boarding students - is the opportunity to explore four-season outdoor recreation activities: skiing, snowboarding, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, water sports. Boarding students who had never skied before arriving in the Okanagan, are all proficient skiers after spending weekends at Apex Mountain Ski Resort and Nickel Plate Nordic Centre! Add to that, a tight-knit, supportive community where no student feels lost in the crowd."
"Families at Wishing Well Schools often witness the vibrant and collaborative community, but one aspect that may not be accorded sufficient significance is the Quiet Waters Outdoor Education. The serene outdoor setting serves as a unique extension of the learning environment. Families may not fully grasp the transformative impact of outdoor education on their child's holistic development, including enhanced creativity, resilience, and a deeper connection with nature. Emphasizing the significance"
"Based in the beautiful Okanagan, British Columbia, we have a unique chance to ignite a passion and respect for outdoor exploration and recreation. The UNISUS outdoor education program has the natural advantage of the renowned sunny Okanagan climate and four-season outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, ziplining and direct access to some of the best hiking trails, lakes, and ski hills in the world. We also boast a tight-knit, caring community!"
"At Wishing Well Schools, families discover a strong community, individualized attention, innovative teaching methods, emphasis on emotional intelligence, a global perspective, opportunities for parental involvement, and a focus on lifelong learning. These unexpected aspects contribute to an enriching educational experience, surpassing initial expectations."
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Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) with a strong focus on outdoor education, technology and entrepreneurship.
Everyone knows each other’s name in our safe, tight-knit, and inclusive community: children never get lost in the crowd. Every single student is known, accepted, encouraged, and supported to discover their voice, true self, and potential to shine. Small class sizes and dedicated IB teachers (most of whom have lived and taught overseas) mean your child will never be just a face in the crowd!
Founded in 2018, the UNISUS campus sits on a 17-acre hilltop at the base of Giant’s Head Mountain, in Summerland, the Central Okanagan. The school and our custom-built 60-student capacity boarding facility (and dining hall) is nestled among miles of vineyards and orchards, with a view to Lake Okanagan and all lake life has to offer. The Okanagan Valley offers four season recreation, a beautiful natural environment, and a safe place to learn and live
The UNISUS IB Diploma Programme (DP) offers students world-class university preparation programs and pathways to esteemed universities worldwide. The academically rigorous Diploma Programme (DP) offers an unsurpassed breadth and depth of knowledge that develops students intellectually, emotionally and ethically - increasing our student's candidacy to their university of choice (100% of our graduates continue to universities in Canada, the U.S. and Europe).
Students become confident and capable globally-minded citizens and thinkers, empowered to meet life's challenges with intelligence, compassion, and courage.
UNISUS is a community guided by three Learning and Teaching Goals:
Academic Excellence: where students are continually challenged and excel in their learning within a curriculum rooted in rigorous standards and real-world applications
Student Empowerment: where students develop the skills, confidence and resilience to embrace challenges and opportunities
Global Citizenship: where students commit to international mindedness through ethics, global perspectives, communication, leadership through service, and sustainability.
These learning and teaching goals are based on research and intention and ensure that UNISUS students are “future ready” and best equipped for our rapidly changing, interdependent world. We think our graduates will agree!
Dr Beverley von Zielonka
At Wishing Well Schools, we take pride in fostering an exceptional learning environment for our students. Within this nurturing environment, students not only achieve academic excellence but also cultivate confidence and a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Our objective extends beyond providing them with the academic accomplishments needed for entry into competitive programs post-elementary school; we also strive to instill in them the character and confidence necessary to emerge as successful leaders.
Our ongoing commitment to providing an enriched and forward-thinking educational experience for our students is continuously revised and enhanced. With so many emerging changes in the world, we aim to empower our students with a robust foundation, setting them on a trajectory towards academic excellence and success.
As we celebrate 45 years of educational excellence at Wishing Well Schools, we look forward to another 45 years marked by continued success, academic excellence, and the emergence of upstanding student graduates. Our enduring commitment to providing a nurturing and enriching environment sets the stage for an even brighter future, as we look forward to shaping the next generation of accomplished individuals. Here's to the ongoing journey of learning, growth, and success at Wishing Well Schools for the years to come.
Progressive
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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.
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.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
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SCHOOL PROFILE Unisus International School is an independent, co-educational, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School serving students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. All students follow the IB curriculum. ABOUT UNISUS UNISUS School is a leading co-educational, day and boarding, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School located in Summerland, British Columbia. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and/or the B.C. government Diploma (Dogwood) program. Our fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP). UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Unisus is the only program of its kind in the Okanagan Valley and the only boarding school between Vancouver and Saskatchewan. Four foundational pillars anchor the school: The IB, Outdoor Education, Technology & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Small and personalized, UNISUS places the learner at the core of the school experience.
Wishing Well Schools delivers the Montessori curriculum from Toddler to age 6 and an enriched academic program following the Ontario Curriculum from Grades 1 to 8. We believe in teaching the skills of critical thinking, with a 21st century approach to teaching and learning.
Traditional Math
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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.
We stress problem-solving techniques but also use traditional approach to help solve math problems
We use a variety of tools to help solidify math concepts and ensure automaticity and understanding of deeper mathematical problems. From Grades 4 to 8 we have specialized math teachers for all students. Included in our Math curriculum are our STEAM lessons where students are presented with problems using the engineering design process to solve. Coding is taught from Grade 1 to 6, with more intensive Computer Science taught in Grade 7/8.
Nelson Math, Jump Math, iPads and various resources created by teachers.
Calculators are used at more advanced levels of mathematics after students have learned important fundamental skills.
Phonics-intensive
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Phonics is used in the lower grade while we use whole language reading program in the high school years.
Our students learn to read during their Montessori years (age 3 to 6) in preparation for the advanced academic program in Grade 1.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
We focus on basic writing skills, as well as creative writing.
Writing is carefully planned and focuses on developing technical writing skills as well as creative expression. Varied lessons focus on essay writing, media literacy, film analysis, poetry and song writing, creative writing in a variety of narrative formats, and non-fiction writing (such as writing blogs, websites, speeches, biographies, etc.). We have specialist Language Arts teachers from Grades 4 to 8.
Equal Balance
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
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.
We used the IB framework to teach science, as well as the B.C. goverment curriculum.
Science is taught using varied materials and approaches in an inquiry based setting (such as in our STEAM lessons) as well as a traditional setting. Project Based Learning is emphasized and students are expected to test their hypothesis using the scientific method. Specialist Science teachers teach students from Grades 4 to 8.
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
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
We emphasise social justice but the curriculum also touches on traditional.
We begin teaching literature from Grade 1 with careful selection of challenging classic novels and shorts stories, as well as modern, award winning literature. Shakespeare is taught from Grade 6 to 8. Our curriculum focuses on appreciation of literature, with the deconstruction and analysis of both contemporary and classic novels and poems.
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
Core Knowledge
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
Our IB PYP and MYP programs place an emphasis on theme-based units of inquiry learning. UNISUS International School is a leading co-educational, day and boarding, International Baccalaureate (IB) World School is located in Summerland, British Columbia. With a fully accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and MYP (Candidate) and Primary Years Programme (PYP). UNISUS offers inquiry-based programs for students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Unisus is the only program of its kind in the Okanagan Valley and the only boarding school between Vancouver and Saskatchewan.
We teach Social Studies following the Ontario Curriculum and expand upon our curriculum by including an in-depth investigation of world events and their social/historical context. We have specialist Social Studies teachers from Grades 4 to 8.
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
The IB framework emphasis on both perennialism and pragmatism learning
Humanities and Social Sciences are taught following the Ontario Curriculum while also supplementing the curriculum with resources that investigate current events and globalization. Project Based learning and deeper investigation is used to further explore the issues that effect the world, lending students an understanding of their place within it.
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
We offer Spanish language classes at senior levels and Spanish is also incorporated into junior-level classes. We have a full-time languages teacher on staff. The balanced approach is the most effective way to learn - we offer Spanish, starting in the early years.
French is taught from age 3 to Grade 8. Our French teachers are classically trained and speak European French, providing students with the diction and fluency required in advanced courses of language in Secondary School and University. Our students are confident, fluent speakers and enter Grade 9 far ahead of their peers.
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
Information not available
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.
Art, Dance and Drama are all components of our after-school program, CASE, and we have an on-staff part-time art teacher in the school. Art is an important everyday part of K-7 classes, as well. UNISUS is a community guided by three Learning and Teaching Goals: Academic Excellence: where students are continually challenged and excel in their learning within a curriculum rooted in rigorous standards and real-world applications Student Empowerment: where students develop the skills, confidence and resilience to embrace challenges and opportunities. Global Citizenship: where students commit to international mindedness through ethics, global perspectives, communication, leadership through service, and sustainability. These learning and teaching goals are based on research and intention and ensure that UNISUS students are “future ready” and best equipped for our rapidly changing, interdependent world.
We believe that the arts are as important as Language and Math and lend students the ability to become truly well rounded individuals. The ability to perform with confidence, analyze artistic pieces fluently and create art and media with freedom of expression are all embedded within our curriculum.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium 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.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
At UNISUS School our goal is to develop responsible global citizens equipped with the critical thinking and technological literacy skills necessary to participate effectively in the worldwide community of learners. To that end, we offer an innovative Applied Design, Skills and Technologies (ADST) program. The ADST British Columbia curriculum is an experiential, hands-on program of learning through design and creation that includes skills and concepts from traditional and First Peoples practice; from the existing disciplines of Business Education, Information and Communications Technology, and Technology Education; and from new and emerging fields. It fosters the development of the skills and knowledge that will support students in developing practical, creative, and innovative responses to everyday needs and challenges. ADST learning at UNISUS can include 3D modelling, animation, Virtual Reality, product design, photography, stop-motion, computer graphic design, and more!
In our Elementary program, we have a 1to1 iPad program and we are fortunate to have many opportunities to integrate technology into our curriculum. This technology is used to enhance the pedagogy and is curriculum driven. We teach coding from Grade 1 and Computer Science in Grade 7/8.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
As the only independent private IB World school in Canada’s Okanagan Valley, we have a unique chance to ignite a passion and respect for outdoor exploration and recreation. Our Outdoor Education curriculum instills confidence, resilience, and life skills that students will carry beyond their time at UNISUS. Based in beautiful Summerland, British Columbia, the UNISUS outdoor education program has the immediate advantage of the renowned sunny Okanagan climate and four-season outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and ziplining. With direct access to some of the best hiking trails, lakes, and ski hills in the world, UNISUS students have the opportunity to acquire a lifelong appreciation for active living and unparalleled outdoor experiences. https://www.unisus.ca/outdoor-education
We believe that Physical Education is the key to success. We have a mandatory 20 minute whole school DPA every morning and three to four gym classes per week. Our ski program is a six week program every winter and we are part of the SSAF.
Montessori
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Unisus IB World School Junior Kindergarten At UNISUS, we believe that igniting a love for learning and a passion for making a positive impact starts at the beginning of each child’s education. The structured, play-based approach of our Early Years Program encourages the natural wonder and curiosity in each child and introduces the youngest members of our UNISUS community to a lifelong journey of learning. The Early Years Program is currently available for learners ages 3 - 5 years.
Our focus is to provide students with a stimulating and academically challenging education that is deeply committed to the Montessori principles, so that they may reach their full potential with integrity and trust.
Accelerated
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Learning at Unisus is personalized. Each student's learning plan is carefully tailored to the need and interests of each student with lesson planning guided by IB and BC Curriculum. IB takes the approach to teaching and learning to the next level. We also offer a B.C. government Diploma (Dogwood) program.
Information not available
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”.
NURTURING A LOVE OF LEARNING AND CREATIVITY Looking for an education that's out of the ordinary? Unisus School is a Pre - K to Grade 12 day and boarding school in Canada's Okanagan, offering the International Baccalaureate program + the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) with a strong focus on outdoor education, technology and entrepreneurship. Everyone knows each other’s name in our safe, tight-knit, and inclusive community: children never get lost in the crowd. Every single student is known, accepted, encouraged, and supported to discover their voice, true self, and potential to shine. Small class sizes and dedicated IB teachers (most of whom have lived and taught overseas) mean your child will never be just a face in the crowd!
Our rigorous academic environment is further enhanced with a balanced, well planned curriculum, specialist teachers for Language, Math, Science and Social Studies and a firm foundation from the Montessori curriculum we offer. We expect our students to strive for excellence.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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.
With a vision to be a leader in global education and prepare students for an ever-changing world, UNISUS supports students to become globally-minded citizens, critical thinkers, and empowered to make a positive change in the world. Four foundational pillars anchor the school: The IB, Outdoor Education, Technology & Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Small and personalized, UNISUS places the learner at the core of the school experience.
We value citizenship and academic achievement. We aim to shape students into leaders of their communities, with character, grit and integrity.
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Golf |
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Ice Hockey |
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Racquet Ball |
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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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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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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
1 - 11
30%
0%
$3,000
$0
70%
80%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Nursery/Toddler, Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 11
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - 8
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 11
Yes: grades 1 - 8
Yes: grades 7 - 11
Yes: grades 1 - 8
No
No
Where you send your child to school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent – thank you for making UNISUS part of that decision. At UNISUS, we inspire our students to be globally-minded citizens and critical thinkers through Academic Excellence, Student Empowerment, and Global Citizenship. We are an International Baccalaureate World School uniquely located in beautiful Summerland, B.C., Canada, and are proud to be one of the only IB World Boarding Schools in British Columbia. We offer both an IB Diploma and/or the B.C. Diploma (Dogwood) stream (new for 2023-2024!) We look forward to touring you through our campus and sharing the benefits and opportunities that come from a UNISUS education.
Students who strive for excellence and can cope with academic rigour, finding joy in learning, are ideal candidates for Wishing Well Schools.
Please visit www.unisus.ca and apply online. All applicants will be date and time stamped. As our classes are at capacity in many grades, only full applicants will be considered for the wait list if applicable.
Students in 3rd Year Casa (SK) to Grade 8 must spend a day to determine suitability for our program. Within the day visit, an entrance test will also be administered.