Brookes Westshore

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Progressive, International Baccalaureate
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Process approach
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Social Studies : Thematic
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Perennialism
    • Foreign Languages: Communicative
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Light integration
    • Physical Education:
    • IB Diploma courses: 20 courses
    • Advanced Placement courses:
    • Sex and health education: British Columbia curriculum
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Balanced
  • Special needs support: No support
  • Gifted learner support: In-class adaptations
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Progressive, International Baccalaureate
    [Show definition of Curriculum]

    Central to your child's school experience is the underlying curriculum taught in the classroom. "Curriculum" refers to both what is taught and how it's taught. When considering the different curricula outlined in the next few pages, keep in mind that few schools fall neatly into one category or another. Most schools' curricula comprise a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. Having said that, most schools do have a general overall curriculum type. These are identified for each school on OurKids.net.

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    Curriculum approach at Brookes Westshore: Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Brookes Westshore has a Progressive, International Baccalaureate approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Progressive, International Baccalaureate?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Progressive - 28%
      Traditional - 42%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 2%
    

    Brookes Westshore has a International Baccalaureate approach to secondary curriculum.

    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.

    What Brookes Westshore says: We currently offer the IB Diploma Programme for grades 11 and 12, and the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6 through 10. Our school embraces the newly revised BC Ministry curriculum and is taught through the MYP and IB framework. Our approach is to engage students in big ideas, asking essential questions to make learning meaningful and relevant. For 2020 we will be pioneering a grade 4 and 5 class as we build towards offering the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).

    International Baccalaureate offered:

    Program	offered
    Primary Years
    Middle Years
    Diploma program
    Career-related program

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at Brookes Westshore: Equal Balance

      Brookes Westshore has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math , Discovery Math approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 66%
        Traditional math - 30%
        Discovery math - 4%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: This information is not currently available.

      Calculator policy: This information is not currently available.

    • Early Reading Balanced Literacy
      Early Reading approach at Brookes Westshore: Balanced Literacy

      Brookes Westshore has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive , Whole Language approach).

      [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

      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.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

        Balanced literacy - 56%
        Phonics-intensive - 42%
        Whole language - 2%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

      DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Process approach
      Writing approach at Brookes Westshore: Process approach

      Brookes Westshore has a Process approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach , Equal balance approach).

      [Show: About Process approach?]

      The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

        Process approach - 8%
        Systematic approach - 9%
        Equal balance - 83%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at Brookes Westshore: Equal Balance

      Brookes Westshore has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Inquiry approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      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.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 72%
        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 23%
      

      Teaching approach: This information is not currently available.

      Treatment of evolution:

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

      Topics covered in curriculum:

      Subject	offered
      Biology
      Chemistry
      Ecology
      Geology
      Meteorology
      Physics
      Physiology
      Zoology

    • Literature Equal Balance
      Literature approach at Brookes Westshore: Equal Balance

      Brookes Westshore has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional , Social Justice approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 77%
        Traditional - 19%
        Social justice - 4%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: We teach literature as a progression of analysis skill building, and learning to express ideas through presentations and writing through the grades. Students are exposed to diverse cultural views through different types of texts and being able to understand the different means through which a writer can convey their ideas and purpose to an audience. Students are encouraged to think independently and collaborate with others in the learning process. In the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, students will study Language and Literature course in their mother language. Many of our international students in this programme love to be able to have this opportunity.

    • Social Studies Thematic
      Social Studies approach at Brookes Westshore: Thematic

      Brookes Westshore has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge , Expanding Communities approach).

      [Show: About Thematic?]

      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.

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Thematic - 30%
        Core knowledge - 43%
        Expanding communities - 27%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Perennialism
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Brookes Westshore: Perennialism

      Brookes Westshore has a Perennialism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Pragmatism , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Perennialism?]

      Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 10%
        Equal balance - 84%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages Communicative
      Foreign Languages approach at Brookes Westshore: Communicative

      Brookes Westshore has a Communicative approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Communicative?]

      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.

      Foreign Languages at schools on OurKids.net

        Communicative - 33%
        Audio-lingual - 2%
        Equal balance - 65%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: Most of our students study French until Grade 10 and many universities require an additional language for their programs. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme requires all IB students (Grade 11 and 12) to complete a second language.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at Brookes Westshore: Creative

      Brookes Westshore has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Creative?]

      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.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Creative - 36%
        Receptive - 2%
        Equal balance - 62%
      

      Program offers:

      Subject	offered
      Acting
      Dance
      Drama/Theatre
      Graphic Design
      Music
      Visual Arts

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What Brookes Westshore says: Visual Arts encourage students to challenge their own creative and cultural expectations and boundaries. Students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking, while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers. By exploring and comparing visual arts from different perspectives and in different contexts, students are expected to engage in, experiment with and reflect upon a wide range of contemporary art practices and media. Courses are designed for students who wish to study the arts at a post High School level, as well as for those who are seeking lifelong enrichment. We celebrate the visual arts in the way we create images and objects, and in the way we appreciate, enjoy, respect and respond to the practices of art-making by others from around the world. Theories and practices are dynamic and connect many areas of knowledge and human experience through individual and collaborative exploration, creative production and thoughtful interpretation.

    • Computers and Technology Light integration
      Computers and Technology approach at Brookes Westshore: Light integration

      Brookes Westshore has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration , Medium integration approach).

      [Show: About Light integration?]

      Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Light integration - 19%
        Heavy integration - 33%
        Medium integration - 48%
      

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What Brookes Westshore says: We believe in a creating a balance of the physical and academic by providing PE to all of our students. Daily physical activity is a requirement of all of our students.

    • IB Diploma courses 20 courses
      Group 1 (Language A)

      • English Literature SL

      • English Literature HL

      Group 2 (Language B)

      • French SL

      • French HL

      • French ab initio SL

      • Japanese ab initio SL

      Group 3 (Individuals and Societies)

      • History SL

      • History HL

      Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)

      • Chemistry SL

      • Chemistry HL

      • Biology SL

      • Biology HL

      • Physics SL

      • Physics HL

      Group 5 (Mathematics)

      • Mathematical Studies SL

      • Mathematics SL

      • Mathematics HL

      Group 6 (The Arts)

      • Dance SL

      • Dance HL

      • Visual Arts SL
    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education British Columbia curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at Brookes Westshore: British Columbia curriculum

      Brookes Westshore has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]

      The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

        Follows provincial curriculum - 55%
        Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 45%
      

      Approach to sex and health education: Mostly value-neutral

      Brookes Westshore has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).

      [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

      By and large, students are taught about sex free of any particular moral or ethical standpoint. The school doesn't impose any particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) on students when teaching sex and related issues.

      What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • IB Diploma courses

    • Advanced Placement courses

    • Sex and health education
  • Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched
    [Show definition of Curriculum Pace]

    This refers to the rate at which students move through the curriculum (e.g., topics, textbook material, skills, etc.). Curriculum pace is often defined in comparison to provincial standards.

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    Curriculum Pace approach at Brookes Westshore: Standard-enriched

    Brookes Westshore has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

    [Show: About 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.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Standard-enriched - 59%
      Accelerated - 17%
      Student-paced - 24%
    

    What Brookes Westshore says: The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a robust programme that encourages inquiry-based learning and a deeper understanding of the practical applications of each lesson. IB graduates are independent thinkers who are more easily able to adapt to the high demands of life past high school.

    Flexible pacing style

    Flexible pacing style	offered
    Subject-streaming (tracking)
    Multi-age classrooms as standard
    Ability-grouping (in-class) as common
    Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace)
    Regular guided independent study opportunities
    Differentiated assessment

    What Brookes Westshore says about flexible pacing: This information is not currently available.

  • Academic Culture Rigorous
    [Show definition of Academic Culture]

    Through the collective mindset of teachers, administrators, students, and parents, each school develops and maintains its own academic culture. This generally relates to the norms and expectations created around academic performance. Many parents look to private schools because they want a specific type of culture. Some want a rigorous environment that will elevate their child to new heights. Others want a nurturing environment that will help their child develop a passion for learning.

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    Academic Culture approach at Brookes Westshore: Rigorous

    Brookes Westshore has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).

    [Show: About 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”.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Rigorous - 49%
      Supportive - 51%
    

    What Brookes Westshore says: This information is not currently available.

  • Developmental priorities Balanced
    [Show definition of Developmental priorities]

    Schools have specific goals regarding how they want their educate and develop their students. This is part of a school's overall philosophy or vision, which is contained in its mission statement. While they tend have several developmental aims, schools tend to priortize certain aims, such as intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, or physical development.

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    Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced

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

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

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

    What Brookes Westshore says: We offer challenging learning environments to develop the imagination and the motivation to excel, and to inspire a joy of learning that is infused with enthusiasm and empathy.

  • Special needs support No support
    [Show definition of Special needs support]

    Schools offer a wide range of approaches and services to support students with special needs. This may include individualized learning, one-on-one support, small classes, resource rooms, and learning aids. These supports may be provided in a number of different environments such as a dedicated special needs school or class, an integrated class, a withdrawal class, or a regular class with resource support or in-class adaptations.

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    Brookes Westshore offers No support

    Brookes Westshore offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.

    What Brookes Westshore says about their special need support: As a small school our learning assistance is limited to extra support after classes with some in-class accommodations based on specific student needs and the classroom learning environment.

    Academic Support:

    Subject Type	offered
    Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
    Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD:

    Subject Type	offered
    Accommodations
    Modifications
    Extra support

    ---

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:

    Modification:

    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:

    Resource Assistance:

    Withdrawal Assistance:

    Partial Integration:

    Full-Time Class:

    
    

    Special NeedNeed

    Forms of SupportA

    EnvironmentsB

    ADHD

    • 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.

    Read our guide to special needs schools and special education

  • Gifted learner support In-class adaptations
    [Show definition of Gifted learner support]

    Schools support students with gifted or advanced learning abilities in a several ways. Whether they offer a full-time gifted program or part-time support, they normally provide some form of accelerated learning (delivering content at a faster pace) or enrichment (covering content more broadly or deeply). Many schools also offer a wide range of in-class adaptations to support advanced learners, such as guided independent studies, project-based learning, and career exploration.

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    Dedicated gifted programs:

    Program	offered
    Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school)
    Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class)

    Curriculum delivery: Enrichment (The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.)

    In-class adaptations:

    Program	offered
    Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement)
    Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement)
    Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement)
    Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement)
    Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others)
    Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement)
    Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement)
    Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement)
    Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement)

    What Brookes Westshore says: Our teachers work hard to help each student achieve their highest success. There are many ways for students to excel, particularly within the higher grades and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

  • Language English
    Brookes Westshore offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English
  • Homework Policy
    [Show definition of Homework Policy]

    Homework is work that's assigned to students for completion outside of regular class time. There's a long-standing debate over homework. Should homework be assigned to school-age children? If so, in what grades? And how much homework should be assigned? In selecting the right school for your child, it's important to look closely at a school's homework policy.

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    In grade Gr. 12, Brookes Westshore students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
    Brookes Westshore	0 mins	0 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	30 mins	45 mins	90 mins	90 mins
    Site Average	29 mins	34 mins	40 mins	52 mins	56 mins	69 mins	80 mins	97 mins	107 mins

    What Brookes Westshore says about their flipped classroom policy: This information is not currently available.

  • Report Card Policy
    [Show definition of Report Card Policy]

    While all schools measure individual progress and achievement in students, they have different ways of doing this. For instance, many traditional schools gauge progress through report cards, which give students lettered or numbered grades. Other schools, meanwhile, measure progress in other ways, either in addition to or instead of giving grades. For instance, they may offer prose-based feedback (i.e, comments), academic achievement reporting, habits and behaviour reporting, and parent-teacher meetings. In choosing the right school for your child, take a close look at its policy for measuring the individual progress of students.

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    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

    Lettered or numbered grades	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12
    Academic achievement reporting	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12
    Habits and behaviour reporting	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12
    Parent-teacher meetings	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12

• Extracurriculars
  [Show definition of Extracurriculars]

  While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.

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  What Brookes Westshore says:

  • Extracurricular activities span a wide range of interests and challenges. Offerings include athletic, creative, academic, service, and just plain fun.

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 7
  Recreational sports: 14

  Legend:     Competitive offered           Recreational offered

  all sports]

  • Archery
  • Curling
  • 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

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  Clubs offered

  Brookes Westshore offers 12 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  Legend:     Clubs offered           Clubs not offered

  all clubs and programs]

    Foreign Language Club

    Habitat for Humanity

    Jazz Ensemble

    Math Club

    Musical theatre/Opera

    Ballet and Classical Ballet

    Online Magazine

    Outdoor Club

    Outdoor Education

    Paintball

    Photography

    Poetry/Literature club

    Radio club

    Robotics club

    Round Square

    School newspaper

    Science Club

    Scouting

    Student Council

    Yearbook

    Yoga

    Animation

    Art Club

    Astronomy Club

    Audiovisual Club

    Band

    Chess Club

    Choir

    Community Service

    Computer Club

    Dance Club

    Debate Club

    Drama Club

    Environmental Club

  
  
• Tuition & Financial Aid
  [Show definition of Tuition & Financial Aid]

  This can depend on a number of factors, including the type of school, living arrangements, what’s included in tuition, school location, resources, and facilities. Many private schools in Canada have tuition that ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 a year. While some schools, such as schools which provide room and board, can be more expensive, many of these schools provide ways to defray the costs of tuition. For instance, they may offer merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial aid (often referred to as “bursaries” or “subsidies”).

  ---

  Boarding (Domestic - 5 days/week) Day Boarding (Domestic: in province) Boarding (Domestic: out of province) Boarding (International)

   

  	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Boarding (Domestic - 5 days/week)				$32,500				$35,500
  Day	$9,500		$14,400					$16,400
  Boarding (Domestic: in province)				$39,550				$42,500
  Boarding (Domestic: out of province)				$44,550				$47,500
  Boarding (International)				$49,550				$52,550

  
  

  What Brookes Westshore says about their tuition: Brookes Westshore offers the added option of weekday boarding for domestic students. Weekday boarders travel home on the weekends, which works well for families in nearby cities on the island or in Vancouver.

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  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	Boarding	5%

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	7 to 12
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	10%
  Average aid package size	$5,000
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	10%
  Total aid available	$0

  Application Deadline:

  Rolling deadline

  More information:

  westshore.brookes.org/scholarships/

  Application Details:

  This school works with Apple Financial Inc. for processing financial applications
  We use a third party service provider - apple financial - which makes an objective decision based on family financial information.

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  Merit based Scholarships

  • Academic Excellence ScholarshipAcademic
    Amount: $5,000

    Deadline: Rolling

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 7 to 12—

    Typically, entrance scholarships are in the $2,500 to $5,000 range. All ages and grades are eligible. Scholarships for IB Diploma Programme are designated for students entering Grade 10 and 11. 

    The Academic Excellence Scholarship reviews grades over the past two years.

    ---

    Application Details:

    Interested parents need to submit the academic application form and complete a separate scholarship application, both available on school's website. Parents can also contact the Admissions department to learn more.

    For more details, visit:shawnigan.brookes.org/admissions/scholarship-bursaries/
    

  • Citizenship/Leadership AwardOther
    Amount: $5,000

    Deadline: N/A

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade 7 to 12—

    Typically, entrance scholarships are in the $2,500 to $5,000 range. All ages and grades are eligible. Scholarships for IB Diploma Program are designated for students entering Grade 10 and 11.

    The Leadership Award reviews community service endeavors over the past two years and rewards youth who participate actively in their community.

    ---

    Application Details:

    Interested parents need to submit the academic application form and complete a separate scholarship application, both available on school's website. Parents can also contact the Admissions department to learn more.

    For more details, visit:shawnigan.brookes.org/admissions/scholarship-bursaries/
    
• Enrolment
  [Show definition of enrolment]

  Private schools come in all shapes and sizes. Some larger schools have enrolment numbers in the thousands, while some smaller schools have only a few dozen students. Boarding schools tend to be on the larger side, while alternative schools, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, are normally smaller. Besides the overall size of school, there are other important facts you’ll want to know about a school’s enrolment. For instance, here you can learn about a school’s enrolment for separate streams (if they have them), such as day and boarding, its average class size, and its average enrolment per grade.

  ---

  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Gr. 4 to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	150
  Group 2	Gr. 8 to Gr. 12	Coed	Boarding	150

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	300
  Average class size	12 to 18
  % of international students (total enrolment)	60%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	20
  Five-day boarding program offered	Yes

  Student Distribution:

  	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Boarding Enrollment			N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Class Size	15	15	15	15	15	15	15

• Admission
  [Show definition of Admission]

  Private schools in Canada have admissions policies. All schools have some required application materials, though these vary between schools. These may include letters of application, application fees, essays, and exams (such as the SSAT). Many schools also require interviews with prospective students, either with their parents, on their own, or both. Schools also have different standards and priorities when evaluating student applications, different acceptance rates (which may vary between grade levels), and target different kinds of students. To improve your child’s chances of acceptance, you should find out everything you can about a school’s admissions policies and how they assess applicants.

  ---

  Application

  Admissions Assessments:

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		6 - 12
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Boarding students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: $250
  Registration fee: $2,500
  Deposit: $10,000

  What Brookes Westshore says:

  We require an online application with supporting documentation, including:

  • 2 Report cards
  • 2 Letters of reference
  • Interview (online or in person)
  • If needed an online English test

   

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  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 95%

  This is the percentage of applicants typically accepted into the school. So if 50 students are admitted out of 100 applicants, the school has an overall acceptance rate of 50%.

  
  

  Day Boarding
  

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  Student Entry Points

  This shows approximately how many openings there are likely to be in each grade in a typical year, as well as the estimated acceptance rate for each grade level.

  
  

  Student Type	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)			0	0	0	0	0	0	0
  Boarding Acceptance (Acceptance rate)				0	0	0	0	0	0

  Type of student Brookes Westshore is looking for:
  It is our goal to enrol a diverse student body united by every student's ability and interest in an international education, global citizenship and passion for service and leadership.
• University Placement
  [Show definition of University Placement]

  Where graduates of a school do their post-secondary studies can be an important factor in choosing a private school. Do you want your child to go to a Canadian university, an Ivy league school in the US, or some other institute? Regardless of your inclinations, take a look at a school’s university placement record, and the services they offer to support university applications and decisions.

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  This information is not currently available.
• Principal's Message
  Jerry Salvador, Head of School

  At Brookes, feel the positive energy that fills the corridors with a spirit of adventure, and sense the wonder of discovery in each classroom. 

  Our students thrive in the challenging, productive, and supportive learning environment we offer. Our goal is to nurture the joy of learning within our students and provide a safe place for them to explore their interests and discover their potential. We encourage students to take intellectual risks, to think creatively, and to work effectively with others. 

  Brookes Westshore is an authorized IB World School. Our mission is to prepare young men and women to become global citizens who have a passion for service and leadership, and who use compassion and communication to inspire peace in our world. Our small size allows us to tailor our classes to each student's need, allowing for a highly personalized learning experience.

  I invite you to rise to the challenge of an IB education. Take a step beyond the average and begin to realize your boundless potential!

  
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