7808 Pierre Drive, Summerland, British Columbia, V0H 1Z2, Canada
45 Waterloo St S, Stratford, Ontario, N5A 4A8, Canada
7808 Pierre Drive, Summerland, British Columbia, V0H 1Z2, Canada
45 Waterloo St S, Stratford, Ontario, N5A 4A8, Canada
2018
1994
130
425
JK to 12
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day, Boarding
Boarding, Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Liberal Arts
Varies
5 to 18
In-class adaptations
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$14,800 to $17,980
$15,750
$41,930 to $59,480
$32,275 to $37,275
Yes
Yes
30%
15%
1 to 11
7 to 12
$3,000
$11,700
9
71
23%
29%
70%
80%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Yes: grades Preschool - 11
Yes: grades 7 - 12
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 1994, Nancy Campbell Academy is a preparatory school intending to provide a strong academic program, a foundation in character development, and to deliver students prepared to succeed in university. Gordon Naylor, the founder, remains as principal, giving valuable consistency to leadership. Over that time, curriculum was developed to address the overarching concepts of world citizenship, consistent with the provisions of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It can risk sounding lofty, though the school works to ground those ideals within the day to day. “If we can create an environment that is based in an ethical way of doing things,” says Naylor, “then we can demonstrate what we’re about, rather than just posting something on the wall saying this is what we’d like to be.” Certainly, reports from students, parents, and alumni vouch for the success of the approach. Students are encouraged not just to consider the concepts of ethical citizenship, but to think about what they, personally, can bring to the world. Academic achievement is a source of social capital within the setting; this is a place where it’s very much cool to be smart, engaged, and curious. The student body is diverse, and the program is designed specifically to address the needs of international learners arriving from overseas. The program, in turn, is strengthened by the breadth of and diversity of perspectives that they bring with them. The size of the student population—enrolment averages 80 students across the secondary grades—ensures that every member is known to faculty and peers, and feels part of the school community.
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"The school has a unique educational sense and a commitment to the development of our children's education..."
Walquiria Francato - Parent (Nov 06, 2019)
Nancy Campbell Academy for My Daughter and Family is the realization of a dream. The school has a u...
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"The school staff cares deeply about the student body's well-being. There are constant consultations and actions being put into place..."
Gabriel Quinn - Alumnus (Nov 06, 2019)
My experience attending Nancy Campbell spanned from age 15 to 18 and were the most formative years o...
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"My child used to be shy, reluctant to talk, but changed a lot after attending NCA."
Angela Zhang - Parent (Nov 19, 2019)
My child enjoyed and appreciated the warm, family-like atmosphere and a solid academic foundation at...
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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."
"NCA invests in STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, our TEACHERS & TECHNOLOGY. Experience a superior education where youth address world issues using the ARTS. State of the art MEDIA Room / Robotics & STEM / Mentorship for capacity building."
"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."
"By focusing on helping students find purpose and happiness in their lives, NCA is creating an educational experience that goes beyond just academics.
Research has shown that having a sense of purpose and happiness can have a positive impact on academic achievement, as well as overall well-being. By teaching students how to choose happiness as a lifestyle, NCA is equipping students with important life skills that can serve them well both in and outside of the classroom."
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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."
"NCA values the whole student and is committed to promoting their personal growth and development, as well as their academic success. By providing an education that supports students' happiness and purpose, NCA may be helping to create a learning environment that is positive, engaging, and inspiring."
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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."
"Having a high IQ is no longer sufficient for success in today's world. In addition to cognitive abilities, social and emotional intelligence are becoming increasingly important for leadership and success in many fields. This is why Nancy Campbell Academy's emphasis on developing well-rounded leaders with high EQ is so relevant and valuable by teaching students how to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships."
"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!"
"By investing in state-of-the-art technology and providing opportunities for hands-on learning, NCA is creating an educational experience that is both relevant and exciting for students.
The use of technology like VR learning and robotics not only helps to keep students engaged in their learning, but it also provides them with valuable skills that they can use in their future careers. By partnering with leading robotic firms in Canada, NCA is also giving students access to real-world experiences"
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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
From Shanghai to Paris, from the Canadian Arctic to Argentina, Nancy
Campbell Academy has welcomed students from all over the world to
experience authentic happiness. As they pursue their academic studies they are
morally strengthened by our capacity-building programme. By strengthening
their ethical capability they are well prepared to make a difference to their
families, their communities and the world!
It is through the experience of learning to be of service to others as an integral
centre of our curriculum that they build on their strengths. Giving creates
happiness and joy. On our foundation of ‘Nineteen Moral Capabilities’, students
develop positive qualities, attitudes and skills while gaining insight thus motivating them to
build their inner moral architecture, so necessary to be successful.
We have demonstrated our capacity to inspire leaders of the future. Our students do their
best to contribute meaningfully, while achieving excellence in their academics! In the spirit of
the pursuit of happiness through service to humankind we are confident students will be
inspired to learn, to grow and achieve their true potential!
Warm Regards
Gordon Naylor
Principal
Liberal Arts
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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.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
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.
By using the Ontario Ministry Curriculum, NCA is ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that is recognized and valued by universities and employers. Emphasizing academic integrity and the importance of studying the arts and sciences for the benefit of society can also help students develop a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. The emphasis on happiness and well-being is also important for fostering academic success. When students are happy and feel supported, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their learning, which can lead to better academic outcomes.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
We stress problem-solving techniques but also use traditional approach to help solve math problems
Nancy Campbell Academy offers a blended Math program. Our advantage of small class sizes and mentorship allows teachers to build knowing relationships with your child. That strong rapport enables the teacher to differentiate instruction of the curriculum according to each student's needs. This enables your child to feel comfortable, engaged, and encourages continual learning in the mathematics classroom.
In the delivery of the Ontario Ministry of Education, curriculum NCA uses the textbooks approved by the Ministry. A complete list can be found on their website by clicking on the Ontario Trillium list. This list is continuously updated.
It is important that students have mathematical literacy and fluency so they are not dependent on calculators for simple mathematics. However, learning to use calculators quickly and effectively is important to be successful in many university math courses.
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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.
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Phonics is used in the lower grade while we use whole language reading program in the high school years.
Information not available
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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.
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We focus on basic writing skills, as well as creative writing.
Information not available
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.
At Nancy Campbell Academy, students are exposed to an equal balance of inquiry and expository based sciences, in all streams (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Space). In all streams, students are asked to explore the unknown with an inquisitive mind and are encouraged to ask questions and search for answers.
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.
Using the Ontario Curriculum, our teachers help Grades 9-12 students become adept in four strands of communication, including oral speaking and listening, reading, wring, and media. We expose students to a range of literary forms from various time periods and nations and encourage them to think critically about these texts' relationships to historical context, social justice issues, and to the students' own understanding of the world. Every grade builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the preceding grade. We review and add to a list of literary devices required for conducting literary analysis in oral discussion and writing. With each successive grade, students also engage in a more rigorous process of essay planning and writing. Finally, students acquire increasingly sophisticated skills in processing, research, and presenting that are needed in post-secondary and in the workplace.
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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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.
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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.
Information not available
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
Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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.
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.
At Nancy Campbell Academy, Grade 9 Core French is offered. The course follows the Ontario French as a Second Language curriculum. The four areas emphasized are Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. These skills are developed in order to use them for understanding, interacting and to promote intercultural understanding. The ESL program teaches Listening and Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Socio-Cultural Competence and Media Literacy. Furthermore the 19 Moral Principles that serve as the foundation to Nancy Campbell are included throughout these four traditional strands. Students enjoy the benefits of small group instruction, which include frequent opportunities to speak and one on one attention from the teacher. ESL is offered grade 9 to 12 in addition to our summer camp ESL credit program and our after school tutor program aimed at assisting ESL students with any of there current courses at all levels.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Equal Balance
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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.
Art connects us across barriers of time, space, and language. It celebrates our diversity, brings beauty into the world, and can promote the noblest ideals of humanity. The arts come to life and fulfill their highest purpose when they contribute to the advancement of society and the betterment of the world. Arts Programs at Nancy Campbell Academy provides students with opportunities to develop their skills and capacities in various branches of the arts, cultivate their aesthetic sensibilities, and explore their own creativity. Emphasis is placed on positive personal transformation through the practice of focus, self-discipline, collaboration, and courage to push beyond personal boundaries. Our goal is to cultivate responsible young artists with a desire to use their artistic talents and capacities to enrich their lives and contribute to the lives of others.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
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!
All of our teachers are integrating technology into the classroom across every subject. A few courses revolve heavily around technology including "Introduction to Computer Studies" and "Communications Technology". Hardware and software are both used and learned in this courses to achieve a variety of goals including taking apart a computer and putting it back together, coding a game from scratch, recording and editing video, audio, and pictures, 3D design, and website implementation.
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
At Nancy Campbell Academy, students are encouraged to live a well-balanced life. As part of this, students are required to take one physical education course. This course allows students to participate in a wide variety of activities, allowing them to work individually and as part of a group to expand their capacity and understanding of the importance of being physically healthy. This course also exposes the students to the requirements of a healthy balanced life.
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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.
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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.
Information not available
Standard-enriched
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.
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.
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.
Students are given the opportunity to take courses online, pursue co-ops, and engage in internships in keeping with their unique interests, schedules, and goals. Those pursuing independent learning are paired with mentor teachers who are experienced in the subject matter and oversee the successful completion of the course.
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!
At NCA it is expected that all students strive for academic excellence, cultivate discipline, and achieve high standards. In today's overly competitive environments that consider discouragement and criticism to be the norm, we stand apart by fostering encouragement combined with high standards. NCA students achieve distinction because they are motivated and happy. They seek out opportunities to support one another, realizing that the fulfillment of the unique potential of their friends and class-mates is important too. Our school prides itself in fostering a supportive and distinct learning environment, which promotes academic excellence within a framework of happiness and moral leadership.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
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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.
Our unique educational model and school environment transform students. We consider intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development as synergistic and inter-related. The discipline required for athletic sports, artistic pursuits, and moral leadership enable students to build capacity in multiple areas of their lives including academics. Every NCA student has the right to be one of tomorrow's leaders, and our program helps shape them into thoughtful, empowered, and high achieving young people.
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Racquet Ball |
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Running |
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Snowboarding |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Track & Field |
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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
7 - 12
30%
15%
$3,000
$11,700
70%
80%
JK, SK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling
Yes: grades Preschool - 11
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 11
No
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
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.
It sounds like NCA values community, encouragement, and finding purpose in one's pursuits. NCA is looking for students who are interested in academic excellence, promoting good citizenship, and social justice. NCA also values creativity and innovation in the arts, sciences, and technology. Students who are interested in being part of a supportive and collaborative community of learners, and who are eager to make a positive impact on the world around them, may be a good fit for NCA.
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.
Admission Requirements
Student admission is based on a three part process.
Assessment of documents that include transcripts or report cards, I.E.P. (if applicable), psychological assessments (if applicable), the student’s letter of intent (stating why they might like to attend Nancy Campbell Academy and what they might contribute to our student body), certificates and proof of accomplishments and letters of reference.
Interview between student and vice principal or head of school. Approximately 30 minutes (can be done in person, by telephone or on Zoom). This is not a pass or fail situation - it is set up to get to know the student and to see how we can best meet the student’s needs and determine if it is a good school-student match. Students willing to learn is paramount.
The information gleaned about the student from parents or agents and any other professionals involved in the student’s life (health professionals, psychologists, etc.).
Students that are accepted receive an acceptance letter and students that are not accepted receive a denial letter with steps outlining what they could do better to reapply in the future.
Admission Process
Step 1: Complete the application and return it to the school with a copy of the applicant’s most
recent transcript or report cards from the previous school (previous 2 years) and a photocopy of
passport (photo page only) and immunization record.
Step 2: Documents are reviewed and the interview is scheduled for the student.
Step 3: An Invoice for the deposit is issued to the student with instructions on how to pay.
Step 4: Applicant is interviewed by the Principal or Vice-Principal (personal, telephone or skype).
Step 5: A Letter Of Invitation is issued to the successful candidate with the final invoice.
Unsuccessful candidates will receive a letter outlining the reasons and the deposit will be refunded.
Step 6: Upon acceptance of the invitation and receipt of the payment in full, a Letter of Acceptance, Custodianship, and an account
statement is e-mailed to the International students. The Letter of Acceptance and Custodianship
declaration can be used as evidence to support an application for a Canadian study visa.
Step 7: International students arrive at the school with an original copy of the following documents: Study
Permit and Visa; School records of the previous study; Immunization Record.
*If documents are not in English, they must have an official notarized translation.
