80 chemin Moulton Hill, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1M 1Z8, Canada
20561 Logan Ave., Langley & Burnaby, British Columbia, V3A 7R3, Canada
Indirect Support:
80 chemin Moulton Hill, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1M 1Z8, Canada
20561 Logan Ave., Langley & Burnaby, British Columbia, V3A 7R3, Canada
1836
1993
270
78
7 to 12
8 to 12
Coed
Coed
Boarding, Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional, International Baccalaureate
Progressive
12 to 15
3 to 6
Learning, Developmental
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Dedicated gifted school
Dedicated gifted school
$30,000 to $51,000
$8,900 to $19,500
$63,750 to $75,710
Yes
Yes
40%
25%
7 to 12
8 to 12
$23,800
$5,000
45
16
81%
0%
0%
0%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
No
information not available
“Whytecliff is different, something the youth and families who attend seem to deeply appreciate. … For students with diverse learning needs, especially those who have struggled with anxiety or depression, Whytecliff is a refuge—an island of stability in a turbulent world.”
“The hallmark of the Whytecliff program is that it’s community-based and anchored in real relationships.”
“Whytecliff is a hidden gem and an academic setting like no other.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Whytecliff Agile Learning Centres
Bishop’s College School (BCS) was founded in 1836, becoming an all-gender school in 1972 through an amalgamation with King's Hall, Compton. That long history is apparent in the traditions that remain at the school, including chapel (now non-denominational) three times a week, the social organization of the school into houses, and a thriving and varied co-curricular offering. BCS has a strong culture of leadership, and students are encouraged to get out of their comfort zone and take on leadership roles in their house, within activities and committees, and through cadets. Athletics are an integral part of daily life at BCS: every student participates in an individual or team sport five days a week (and they also participate in three different sports a year). BCS has been a member of Round Square since 1986, something which provides a foundation for the diversity of the student population, one that includes students from over 40 countries despite an annual enrolment of around 270 students.
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The school began operations in 1993, though is an expression of a larger program of activity that dates back to 1975 with the creation of the Focus Foundation, a non-profit intending to provide social and educational support for youth aged 13-19. Since the beginning, the force of the programs was in working with assets, rather than deficits: finding talents and passions, and using those as the means of developing skills and engagement. The school extends that mandate, providing a positive, understanding environment for students who, for a range of reasons, haven’t been able to thrive in prior academic settings. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding, and that’s demonstrated through high rates of attendance, course and degree completion, and academic success. Students arrive with a range of challenges, though also with a shared experience of finding themselves on the periphery of their various social circles. In that sense, while they may be different from each other, here they are different in the same way. The school, for many, is the first truly positive, inclusive community they’ve been a part of. That forms the basis of the work of the school, as does a faculty that brings a wealth of professional and therapeutic accreditation and experience.
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"Established in 1836 in Lennoxville, Quebec, Bishop’s College School (BCS) offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and course certificates along with Canadian curricula. Bordered by farmland and rolling hills on one side and the city of Sherbrooke on the other, BCS is a small, welcoming community with students from over 40 different countries. A well-rounded education of academics, athletics, arts, leadership development, and global citizenship prepares BCS students to become tomorrow’s leaders."
"Whytecliff Centres in Langley & Burnaby offer a highly successful Gr. 8-12 curriculum tailored for youth with diverse learning/personal challenges. Our caring and competent staff gently weave the academics with a positive strengths-based therapeutic program, paving the way for whole-life success. Despite struggling in other schools, attendance here soars, and course completion increases 4 to 8 times. 95% of students entering grade 12 graduate, and later self-report as 9.3 out of 10 for being on a solid life path! "
"No two students are alike and as such your BCS experience is unlike anyone else’s. Much like a ‘choose your own adventure’ book, your time at BCS is tailored to you, shaped by the classes you take, the sports and clubs you participate in, and the countless leadership and service opportunities you take advantage of. Our students graduate from BCS as caring, open-minded, confident, and engaged global citizens equipped to take on the world and excel in their pursuits."
"We reach kids on an emotional level. We’re not bound by a lot of the same rules and structures that some schools are. Everything that we do here, in the end, comes down to relationships. And the program that we’ve created here is a family. What we do here is create a warm, caring environment. It’s like a home."
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"BCS is situated in the ideal location—it's the perfect balance of safe, small-town convenience and big city accessibility. With an average class size of 15 students, our students develop close relationships with their teachers who also serve as their coaches, advisors, and are part of the boarding houses. Students are further supported by a full-time school counsellor, nurse, physiotherapist, and strength & conditioning coach, as well as academic support in our R.D.W. Howson Enrichment Centre."
"Most students are at Whytecliff because things didn't go well at other schools. Students chose us because they're looking for a fresh start, a new approach; a school that might have success where others hadn’t. And once here, both parents and students find it life altering."
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"Location matters and our 250-acre campus in bilingual Quebec is perfectly situated at a short walk from the cozy borough of Lennoxville and a quick drive from bustling downtown Sherbrooke. Our region is called the Eastern Townships and we are lucky to be surrounded by beautiful hills, lakes, trails, and farmland. Our students enjoy skiing and snowshoeing in the winter and hiking and watersports in the spring. The Moulton Hill landscape is one of the things our alumni tell us they miss most!"
"Since the beginning, the force of the programs was in working with student assets, rather than deficits: finding talents and passions, and using those as the means of developing skills and engagement. It’s unlike any school in the region or, for that matter, the country."
"Our elite hockey program comprised of a Varsity Team and a Prep Team is considered a ‘hidden gem’ in the hockey world. Three alumni of our hockey program have been drafted to the NHL in the past four years. Noah Dobson, BCS’18, Dawson Mercer, BCS’19, and Evan Nause, BCS’21, were all selected in recent NHL drafts. This year our Varsity team took home the MPHL championship and our Prep Team claimed the NISIC championship.
Discover our elite program that is taking players to the next level!"
"Parents are always surprised with the changes they see in their child and how quickly thrive at Whytecliff. Despite struggling in other schools, student attendance at Whytecliff soars, and course completion increases 4 to 8 times. 95% of students entering grade 12 graduate, and later self-report as 9.3 out of 10 for being on a solid life path."
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As we gear up for the 2023-24 school year, I share in your family’s excitement and anticipation of embarking upon your BCS journey. You now belong to a globally diverse group of engaged and motivated students preparing to impact the world. You will be challenged with programs designed to inspire, motivate, and grow each student’s mind, body, heart, and soul, in a place where young individuals can be themselves, develop respect for others, and explore the true meaning of leadership, character, generosity, and integrity. We are preparing you for a life of continuous curiosity and instilling in you the values to become compassionate and purposeful global citizens. Your experience, and that of your family’s, will be characterized by the relationships between caring and supportive faculty and staff and highly motivated and engaged students. One truth that I have learned in my 29 years in education is that life is defined by the meaningful relationships that we build, nurture, and value. Everyone at BCS embraces our inclusive community, celebrates our diversity, shares a commitment to care for each other, and understands the meaning of the work that we strive to accomplish. I believe that young people rise to the expectations that are set for them and that they can all reach their unique potential if they are provided with the appropriate support and encouragement. At BCS, those supports are in place for you from the first day you arrive on campus. Your houseparent is eager to welcome you with open arms, your teachers and coaches can’t wait to have you join their groups, and the best friends you will inevitably make are as excited as you are to form lifelong bonds. Your life-enriching adventure is only just beginning! I look forward to welcoming you to Bishop’s College School and witnessing first-hand the special qualities you will bring to our community. I am excited for you to experience, for yourself, the magic that is BCS.
Kind regards,
Michel Lafrance
32nd Head of School
At Focus Foundation of BC we work from a strength based approach with a focus on students' strengths and abilities. Each student has an IEP that helps them set and meet their educational, social, emotional and physical goals. This approach has a proven track record; this year we had a 95% graduation success rate with our grade 12 students.
Teaching Philosophy:
I want to create an exciting leaning environment that is challenging, interactive and respectful. I believe students learn best by being engaged and knowing it is okay to make mistakes. When students leave my classroom I want them to feel confident and have a passion for life long learning.
Why I work at Whytecliff
I work as a Teacher and Principal for the Focus Foundation of BC. I work here because I can’t imagine another job existing that has the perfect combination of challenges and successes. Whytecliff School has become a part of what defines me as a professional and as a person, and it is a part of me that I am extremely proud of.
Progressive
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Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
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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The very essence of BCS is the strength of our rigorous academic program that empowers students to think independently, critically, and creatively. Our approach to teaching and learning is strongly influenced by our school mission and values. These drive the implementation of our programs as well as the continuous review of our curriculum so that it prepares students for an ever-changing world. Our students live academic and extra-curricular experiences on and off campus that help them grow into caring, principled leaders. At BCS, students study in a vibrant multicultural, collaborative environment. With a small average class size, students receive ample individualized attention and support through a coherent curriculum that balances the development of competencies, concepts, and approaches to learning. Students develop a love of learning and academic confidence to succeed in the different roles they will play in our global society. We tailor our holistic approach to meet each student’s needs, interests or passions so that they reach their full potential while maintaining the highest academic standards of our Middle and Senior schools’ rigorous programs.
Whytecliff Agile Learning Centres are the only schools in the Province of BC also certified as 'Positive Youth Development' programs by CARF (the gold standard for therapeutic accreditation). Our positive, strengths-based program focuses on fostering overall social/emotional well-being, while cultivating confidence, competence, creativity, future career readiness, and connection to the wider community. Each student at Whytecliff works from an individualized education plan (IEP) tailored to their unique strengths, interests, and abilities. The goals is to match each student to a personalized curriculum that's fun, engaging, and personally meaningful to them. At Whytecliff, a student’s favourite comic book might serve as a source of inspiration for examining plot or character development in English. Or football or hockey passing strategies might spark their curiosity in physics or mathematics. Our person-centered, inquiry-based approach is particularly effective for students who've had negative experiences in school and are turned off traditional learning. In all we do, we strive to be flexible, empathetic, and sensitive to the needs of each individual student, doing everything we can to support their success.
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These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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We offer a regular math program and an advanced course for students who excel in the subject. We follow the Quebec Ministry of Education from grades 7 to 11. This has a standard integrative math program. In grade 12, we adopt the IB DP curriculum with students having the choice to take Math SL, Math HL, or Math Studies.
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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.
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We offer a regular science program and advanced courses for students who excel in the subject. We follow the Quebec Ministry of Education from grades 7 to 11. This has a standard integrative science program. In grade 12, we adopt the IB DP curriculum and the New Brunswick with students having the choice to take Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Systems and Societies, or Computer Science.
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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
Physiology
Not applicable
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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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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These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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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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These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
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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.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Student-paced
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.
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.
An individual education plan is developed and tailored for each student. Emphasis is on each child's strengths with sensitivity to their particular challenges and increasing capacity for attentional focus, emotional balance, and learning growth. Students may take time for initial progress and accelerate as they achieve balance and become comfortable.
Supportive
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”.
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.
In our supportive academic environment, each child has the time and latitude to study each subject according to their skills and abilities (with either slower-paced or accelerated learning). Our low student to educator ratio of 6:1 permits tailoring of the curriculum to each child’s learning capacity and interests, and for teaching to accommodate diverse needs. Our educational approach and curriculum emphasizes hands-on classroom activities and high-growth community learning opportunities. There is also one to one teaching, or students may choose to work in pairs or in small groups. Students may focus on one course at a time or do projects that integrate several courses. Students have access to out of school tutoring before or after regular hours.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
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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."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
BCS is dedicated to helping students become well-round global citizens. Through rigorous academics, daily athletics, social activities, leadership and team-building, students experience a truly international and balanced approach to learning and life. Our core values (Lead, Grow, Engage, Experience, Explore) shape the students' personal and academic journeys. We learn together in a diverse and inclusive community, where each individual contributes to the BCS family.
We all want to see kids grow up to be happy, healthy, and lead fulfilling lives. At Whytecliff, we recognize that students today are graduating into a world of immense complexity and change. In addition to helping children overcome any personal, academic, or emotional challenges, we also want to help them discover and develop the key traits and skills that will help them thrive, even in uncertain times. Within the Whytecliff community, children experience a range of opportunities to develop new skills and discover their talents. These experiences encourage personal growth and a strengthened relationship to family and the wider community. Whytecliff inspires hope and leads to promising futures rich with dignity, purpose, and options.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
| Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
| Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
| Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. | ||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Accommodations
Extra support
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
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Children at Whytecliff discover a safe, warm, and friendly community, sensitive to their unique needs and challenges, and supportive of their strengths and talents. Whytecliff’s physical environments are thoughtfully designed to accommodate children with diverse learning needs, with a mix of cozy individual study rooms and bright, inviting spaces (more conducive to group gatherings). Our compassionate, attuned, and well-educated staff both love children as well as their particular subject matter. Therapeutic support is tailored to fit the specific needs of each child attending our programs, addressing behavioural, emotional, mental health, addictions, and learning challenges in an integrated way, while building confidence and encouraging hope. Children can experience a wide range of physical activities and community enrichment opportunities, adapted to ensure the safety of each child while fostering developmental maturity and growth. We consider families and caregivers as active partners, and welcome appropriate involvement in their child’s curriculum, learning, and growth.
To best accommodate all students at BCS, we have multiple supports available to provide the tools necessary for success. The R.D.W. Howson Enrichment Centre has promoted this mission for over a decade and is central to the culture of excellence at BCS. A students' level of need and support is assessed on an individual level. Please contact the school directly to see if we have the tools to accommodate your child's needs.
Whytecliff’s two sites are recognized by the BC Ministry of Education (2 of only 15 schools in the Province of BC) as specialized independent schools dedicated to meeting the needs of students with diverse learning needs and personal/life challenges. Whytecliff focuses on each individual child and can adapt our approach to meet a variety of needs. This makes us especially well-suited for children with co-occurring challenges. Children also develop the inner skills & resources and grow their personal confidence & competence, so they’re better positioned to deal with any other life/learning challenges as they proceed to graduation and beyond.
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RecreationalRec. |
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RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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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
7 - 12
8 - 12
40%
25%
$23,800
$5,000
0%
0%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 12
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
No
No: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
We are looking for well-balanced students.
Whytecliff considers applications of any child in the Lower Mainland or Fraser Valley, age 13-18, who is not being successful or engaged in school. The majority of children we accept have challenges with anxiety & depression and are seeking an environment where they can feel safe ⎯ a real school offering Dogwood and Evergreen graduation that doesn’t seem remedial or like an ‘alternative school’, and a place where they can begin to relax, feel normal, and develop their personal abilities and self-esteem. Many of the children who are successful and qualify for acceptance at Whytecliff have been labelled within a diagnosed category such as: –ADHD –FASD –Dyslexia –Dyscalculia –Dysgraphia –Language Processing Disorder –Nonverbal Learning Disorders –Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit –Chronic Health Impairment –Gifted –High Functioning Autism –Asperger’s Syndrome –Behavioral and Emotional Challenges –Troubled Behavior –Clinical Depression –Clinical Anxiety –Suicidal Thoughts –Drug and Alcohol Abuse –Oppositional Defiant Disorder If you don’t see your child’s challenge listed above, that doesn’t mean they won’t qualify; we have a policy of actively considering all applications to the program.
BCS works on 'rolling admissions,' meaning we will accept applications year-round. We do, however, recommend that students apply by February 1 for enrolment the following September.
Tour our Campus
As part of the admissions process, we are excited to help schedule a student-led tour of our campus for you and your family. This is the best way for you to see the school in action and get a sense of what BCS is all about. Individual tours may be done virtually or in-person at BCS and tours are organized on weekdays at 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, or 2:00 PM EST.
Necessary Documents
Schedule an Interview
All prospective students must complete an interview with a member of the Admissions Team. Interviews usually takes 30 minutes and can be done in-person or by Zoom on weekdays between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM EST.
Complete Math & English Worksheets
All applicants complete a BCS Math worksheet.
All applicants whose first language is English complete the BCS English worksheet.
All applicants whose first language is not English complete the BCS English as a Second Language worksheet.
The Math and English Worksheets can take up to two hours to complete. They can be completed on campus or under the supervision of a teacher or office worker affiliated with your current school. If you choose to have the worksheets done remotely, please provide the Admissions Team with the contact information of the person who has agreed to supervise these subject reviews.
Results from the SSAT or TOEFL Junior completed within the current year may be submitted in lieu of these worksheets. Additional testing may be required in some cases.
To apply for a place in one of our programs, contact us, ideally by email.
Most of our intake occurs in August or early September, for the full school year, and in January and before February 10th for the Spring session.
We’re also happy to call you and get further details if you would prefer to apply that way. As we’re seeking to build a real community, we like to make sure the program is a good fit for each student.
We also have several Open Houses during the year. To find out our next open house date or arrange a private tour, please contact us.
