AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Shawnigan Lake School vs. Seneca Hill Private School

one-to-one comparison:

View Shawnigan Lake School's full report
VS.
View Seneca Hill Private School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    1975 Renfrew Road, Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia, V0R 2W1, Canada

    33 Overland Drive, Toronto, Ontario, M3C 2C3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1916

    1988

    Enrolment

    540

    130

    Grades

    8 to 12

    JK to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Boarding, Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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.
    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.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Progressive

    Curriculum pace

    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.
    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.

    Academic culture

    Rigorous
    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”.
    Rigorous
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    17

    12 to 16

    Special needs support

    Learning

    Learning

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted class

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $35,500

    $14,635 to $16,635

    Boarding Tuition

    $64,500 to $90,000

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    No

    Students on FA

    30%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    8 to 12

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    108

    9

    Percent in boarding

    81%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    60%

    0%

    Day entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 8 - 12

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Shawnigan was founded in 1916 with just six students and cast in the mold of the leading English grammar schools. Its direct model was Westminster School, whose history stretches back to 1179. As such, it provides, aesthetically at least, a contrast to Brentwood, which neighbours the school. Both, as well as Brookes to the south, have some of the most stunning campuses that you could hope to find. The setting of Vancouver Island simply adds to the luster. The founders of Shawnigan Lake felt that all of those things—buildings, vistas, space—were important aspects of learning, and that a school’s setting should be inspiriting. And, certainly, it is. What the campus might lose in terms of warm and cuddly, it gains in a sense of tradition, organization, and consistency. The centennial celebration included school founder C. W. Lonsdale’s 1932 Packard convertible, adding a touch of the Great Gatsby. Still, there is a nice mix of modernity as well, perhaps most obviously in Genius Hour, a program developed by Wendy Milne, assistant head of academics. It’s a cross-grade, cross-curricular program in which students are challenged with creating their own project and seeing it through to completion. The only provisos are that each project involve collaboration, have a clear guiding question, and involve research. All of that—cross-curricular, cross-grade, hands-on, collaborative—are hallmarks of the Shawnigan approach. And, in Genius Hour and beyond, the results are impressive. The student who will do best is one who is a self-starter, operating at the top of his or her peer group, and able to dive in, making the most of the breadth of opportunity provided.

    View full report

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Small class sizes, strong academics, a nurturing environment, and a supportive community—Seneca Hill, by any metric, meets and exceeds all the things that families look for in a private education. Founded in 1988, it has a long history in the region, and a consistent leadership throughout. The student population is 120 across K-12, so each student is known, and curriculum is delivered through keen understanding of their strengths, talents, and needs. An attention to project based learning and 21st century literacies is also a plus, as is a dedication to proving strong foundational skills in order to support them.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    "The academic level is higher than average schools."
    Boudiguet Bruno - Parent   (Nov 16, 2020)
    Our two girls spent a semester of studies in Canada. We already feel emotional because that was an u... View full review

    "The academics offered at Seneca Hill are challenging."
    Arielle Baubie - Alumnus   (Jan 31, 2022)
    As a former student of Seneca Hill from Grade 1 -12, I can truly attest to the warm community and ac... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    "Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Beginning in Grade 8, our unique Shawnigan Journey purposefully guides students through a distinct, unparalleled and bold educational experience. Through empowering involvement in unique experiential, service, academic, fine art and athletic programs, Shawnigan graduates have the capacity, compassion and courage required to create exceptional lives for themselves and others."

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    "With personal goal-setting, enriched academics, STEM programming, athletics, & extracurriculars, our students are motivated and challenged daily. We focus on developing good skills and habits while also supporting our students to become compassionate critical thinkers. We nurture curiosity and actively involve students in developing good work habits, positive attitudes & GRIT in their journey as lifelong learners. It's not unusual to share a high-5 with a teacher or spot our principal playing guitar for students."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    "With faculty that truly cares for your child’s well-being, we provide a rare tight-knit community that feels like home. Our teachers take the time to get to know all students that walk our halls– not just their own. With a warm school culture and a welcoming environment, our students are inspired to confidently make their mark in the world."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    "Families choose Seneca Hill because they feel their child will thrive in a close-knit community that emphasizes skill-building as the foundation for academic success. When families drop their child off at our school, they know their child is well cared for, valued for their unique contributions in the class, and rigorously prepared for future success. This is all underpinned by a focus on skills and growth mindset habits. We use the framework from the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    "At Seneca Hill Private School, we blend rigorous academics with real-world learning, like our annual Science Expo, Career Days, and projects on global issues. This approach prepares students for the future, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Join us to give your child a transformative education where they not only learn but thrive in real-life scenarios. Welcome to where future leaders are shaped!"

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    "How much their child can achieve when the right environment and people surround their child. Our goal is not just to have your child do well but to thrive. One way we track this is by understanding how much your child takes academic risks. We want our students to reach as far and wide as possible to discover their passions and dedicate themselves to building strong habits. These habits become the cornerstone of success in their lives both now and in the future."

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome to Shawnigan! Our responsibility as staff here at Shawnigan is to support and inspire our students – with our values-based education at the heart of our teaching – so that they can achieve their potential and live fulfilling lives.

    Shawnigan Lake School’s mission and values are inseparable from the fact that we are first and foremost a co-educational boarding school; a welcoming community whose aim it is to prepare our young men and women equally for independent and inspiring futures through the means of a well-balanced, holistic education.

    Five hundred students, representing over thirty nations, come together each year to live and study in this unparalleled setting on the edge of Shawnigan Lake, Vancouver Island. We encourage all students to develop an understanding of and commitment to the people, the place and the heritage of Canada, British Columbia and Shawnigan. At the same time, we challenge ourselves each year to be relevant, purposeful and of service in a changing and increasingly global world.

    The conversations, connections, sense of community, and friendships forged through these shared experiences are, I believe, part of the magic of our School.

    I look forward to meeting you. 

    Seneca Hill Private School has been in my family for over 35 years and I am proud and excited to continue our tradition of excellence into the future. Over the years our school has developed a reputation for strong academics, a range of athletics and a comprehensive extracurricular program. Inspiring our students to think creatively, critically and analytically, our school stimulates growth and provides a healthy balance between academics and personal development.

    As Principal, I am thrilled to carry on the legacy of our founder - and my grandmother - and take our school to the next level. I believe in a school culture that supports students in becoming independent and lifelong learners. We understand that as educators, we can't just teach the standard material. We must go above and beyond the classroom to give students the opportunity to demonstrate, exercise, perform, and build skills and experiences in their lives that cultivate success.

    We welcome all children and seek to understand all aspects of their abilities and learning styles. We are pleased to offer your child a personalized educational experience. We instill confidence in our students to act with purpose and strive for excellence. We foster a bully-free environment and teach conflict resolution, so that our students become strong collaborators who work towards solving complex problems.

    My promise to each of our students and families is open communication. The success of your child is of utmost importance to us. I look forward to helping your child unlock their true potential.

     

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Information not available

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      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.

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Shawnigan Lake School provides a learning community that fosters personal excellence for each and every student. In a School dedicated to a rigorous academic program, we blend the best from traditional education with the contemporary skills of 21st century learning. With our Learning Centre specialists, Advisor program and low teacher-to-student ratio, we ensure that every student is challenged and supported. The Shawnigan classroom is a respectful place, where students develop confidence by engaging, by creating and by taking intellectual risks.

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      We provide an enriched curriculum for students to discover, experiment and engage with the material. All students learn coding, gain practice with critical thinking and enrich their analytical thinking skills. Students are given the space, materials to grow, while supportive and caring teachers help motivate and mentor students to success.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Traditional Math


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        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.

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Not applicable


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Not applicable

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        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.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Physiology

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        At each grade we attempt to use a theme to guide our text choice, giving teachers freedom to choose literature they are passionate about. We do not mandate specific texts to be taught at each grade level to allow for this freedom. We see the great value in modeling the study of at least one class novel in order that we can demonstrate the process for analysis of a text, yet we also see the value in letting students choose their own independent novels for study in order to help foster a love for reading. We strive to help students make connections between texts and their life experiences. We work with students to synthesize their learning, their understanding of a broader theme, their study of a wide range of texts and their life experiences. We invite students to look at how stories (influence ideas, events, change a collective identity.

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Communicative


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        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.

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        The skill to function in more than one's native tongue will broaden intellectual and cultural horizons. To this end, the Department of Modern Languages offers courses in four languages: French, Spanish, Mandarin and German. We also offer French Immersion classes, and students completing this program may qualify for the Français Langue 12 credit. Our students have the opportunity to begin their study and to progress through to Advanced Placement level in all four languages. In French, many of our students take the internationally recognized DELF exams from levels A1 to B2. The classes all emphasize the communicative approach in all four language skills and provide opportunities for differentiated learning and individualized attention. A Japanese language tutor, also a native speaker, is available on Saturday mornings. Above all, however, it is the interaction and connection between teacher and student that is the biggest key to success in this subject area.

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        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.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Information not available

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Not applicable


      Our Take

      Our Take

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Not applicable

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Information not available

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      We use leading research on early childhood development to provide a comprehensive program that is responsive to the socio-emotional, physical and burgeoning academic needs of your child. It is here that your child explores their environment, become curious about the world and develops crucial social-emotional skills. Our program integrates play-based learning, academic skills, gross- and fine-motor development, and above all else, a fun and happy place to grow.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Standard-enriched


      Our Take

      Our Take

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      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.

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Information not available

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Rigorous


      Our Take

      Our Take

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      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”.

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Information not available

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      In a supportive and student-centered environment, our teachers motivate and encourage students to perform their very best. We do this through classroom interactions, inter-school competitions, and high academic expectations placed on students. We promote lifelong learning by combining curiosity and critical thinking throughout our curriculum.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."


      Secondary

      Secondary

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

      Information not available

      SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

      We are so proud of our graduates, who have gone through our educational system and emerge confident in themselves, empathetic about those around them and aware of the global currents that affect their lives. Through unique experiences, a faculty that mentors and a school culture that promotes empathy and personal growth, our students become leaders in their lives and in their careers.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    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.
    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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations


    Additional support

    Additional support

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    Information not available

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    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

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    • Ice hockey: member of the CSSHL; ice arena on campus
    • Rowing crewhouse on our lakefront campus is one of Rowing Canada's training centres
    • Rugby pavilion sits amidst numerous fields
    • Water-based turf for field hockey
    • Fish hatchery gives students the chance to engage hands-on with the life cycle of salmon
    • Geodesic growing dome teaches students about sustainable agriculture year-round
    • Research-grade observatory brings the beauty and mysteries of the universe closer than ever
    • Beyond the Gates program takes all Grade 9s out of the classroom and into the beautiful and diverse wilderness of BC throughout the year
    • Recording studio with industry-standard software gives students production experience

    SENECA HILL PRIVATE SCHOOL

    • Culinary Class
    • Dino Jurrasic (for grade 1 and down)
    • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
    • Painting
    • Dance
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    8 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    30%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    60%

    0%

    Day entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 8 - 12

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    Yes: grades 8 - 12

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    What the school says

    What the school says

    SHAWNIGAN LAKE SCHOOL

    -$260 application fee

    -Photo of applicant

    -Copy of valid passport

    - Academic reference form filled out by Math teacher

    - Academic reference form filled out by English teacher

    - Copy of mid-year report from current grade when available 

    - Copy of final report card from last school year

    - TOEFL or IELTS-test (submitted only by international applicants)

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Henry Pybus Bell-Irving (1931)
    23rd Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
    Peter Ladner (1967)
    Vancouver city counsellor. Journalist.
    Stephen Owen (1966)
    Federal Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State for Sport. Federal Liberal Member of Parliament for Vancouver Quadra.
    Barry F. Cooper (1961)
    Political Scientist and influential member of the "Calgary School" of political thought. Fellow at the Centre for Military and Strategic Studies.
    Steve Deering (1969)
    Declared 1994 "Geek of the Year" by Internet Talk Radio. Fellow at Cisco Systems. Worked at Xerox's Palo Alto Research Centre.
    Roger Stanier (1934)
    Influential in the development of modern microbiology. Made key contributions to the taxonomy of bacteria.
    Jon Kimura Parker (1977)
    Canadian concert pianist and Officer of the Order of Canada. Winner of multiple international awards and competitions.
    Tara Spencer-Nairn (1996)
    Canadian actress. Best known for her role in the TV series, "Corner Gas".
    Josh Jackson (1998)
    Canadian rugby union player, and member of the national rugby team
    Kristopher McDaniel (2000)
    Bronze-medal winning Canadian national rower. Two-time national champion at Harvard.
    View all
    information not available

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