Briercrest Christian Academy

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages:
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Medium integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Religious Education: 11 to 25% of curriculum
    • Advanced Placement courses :
    • Sex and health education: Saskatchewan curriculum
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Supportive
  • Developmental priorities: Spiritual
  • Special needs support: Indirect Support
  • Gifted learner support: In-class adaptations
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Traditional
    [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 Briercrest: Traditional

    Briercrest has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Traditional?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Traditional - 44%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Progressive - 27%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    What Briercrest says: At Briercrest Christian Academy, a Christian perspective is infused in everything we do. We provide a private Christian school experience while offering the best of public education. Since BCA holds associate status with Prairie South School Division our curriculum is held to provincial standards and graduates meet all provincial regulations to receive a Saskatchewan High School Diploma. In addition to the Saskatchewan credit requirements, students take a Christian Ethics class at every grade level. As well, students in our Reach Ahead track have the option of taking Briercrest College courses. While our primary focus is academic, Briercrest Christian Academy places a significant emphasis on co-curricular activities. We offer numerous athletic, fine arts, and service opportunities with the majority of our students involved in one or more co-curricular activity. This is an integral part of what we do at BCA as we support students to grow holistically. We specifically enable students to participate in a wide variety of activities with our unique semester system involving two periods per day and five terms within this academic year.

    Approach:

    Focus	Religious-based
    Academic	Christian (Non-denominational)

    If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    If you want to learn more about Christian education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    
    

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    
    

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at Briercrest: Equal Balance

      Briercrest 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 - 68%
        Traditional math - 29%
        Discovery math - 3%
      

      What Briercrest says: Students begin math in Grade 9 focusing on basic skills and preparation for further studies. In Grade 10 students choose between Workplace and Apprenticeship, which is highly interactive and uses work related examples as much as a possible, and Foundations and Pre-Calculus, which focuses on building concepts and foundational learning. Grade 11 and 12 students take one of three pathways in Mathematics. Workplace and Apprenticeship is designed for entry into the majority of the trades or directly to the work force. Foundations is designed for entry into post-secondary programs without theoretical calculus. Pre-Calculus is designed for entry into post-secondary with theoretical calculus.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: Grade 9 - Pearson’s Math Makes Sense. Grade 10 Math Pre-Calculus - Pearson’s Foundations and Pre-Calculus Math. Workplace and Apprenticeship- students engage with hands-on mathematics content and display their learning through project-based inquiry. Pre-Calculus 11 and 12- McGraw-Hill Ryerson

      Calculator policy: A TI-83 plus Calculator is required for math classes in Grade 12, including Pre-Calculus and Calculus. It is also helpful for Physics in Grade 12 but it is not required.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at Briercrest: Equal Balance

      Briercrest 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 - 73%
        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 22%
      

      Teaching approach: At BCA, science is taught with a biblical perspective from a conservative Christian tradition. Our faith is highly integrated to our study and practice of science. Students examine a range of philosophies and disciplines with a focus on giving students sound logical foundation for believing that the Christian viewpoint is compatible with science.

      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 Briercrest: Equal Balance

      Briercrest 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 - 20%
        Social justice - 3%
      

      What Briercrest says: As curriculum is planned, the themes for each grade are specifically chosen to be relevant and engaging for that age group. Students in grade 9 learn about unusual characters, friendship, and fairness as they study literature. In Grade 10, the themes of the unknown, challenges, decisions, and the environment are at the forefront. The selection of works in Grade 11 are centered around the themes of recollection and anticipation. Grade 12 students will study literature based on the diverse voices within Canada and around the world. Works will be drawn from both Christian and secular sources in an effort to portray a wide variety of response to the human condition and experience. It is intended that the exploration of various worldviews from a Christian perspective will prepare students for the world beyond the classroom, as well as postsecondary education.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Briercrest: Equal Balance

      Briercrest has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Pragmatism approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 85%
        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 9%
      

      What Briercrest says: Our “Equal Balance” approach to Humanities and the Social Sciences at BCA facilitates classroom conversation through the critical analysis of a variety of sources and the world in which students engage. These dialogues are contextualized within a Biblical perspective to help students create transferrable skills between the classroom, the Christian faith and their real-life experiences. By incorporating the Christian viewpoint and drawing on real-world experiences in our program, students learn to think with a biblical worldview, engage critically with written, visual and auditory sources and interact with the world around them in a way that prepares them for postsecondary education and experiences outside of the classroom.

    • Foreign Languages

      What Briercrest says: Students at BCA can take the following French as a Second Language courses through our school district’s online learning platform, Prairie South Virtual School: French 90; French 10; French 20; and French 30. Further, grade 12 BCA students with appropriate eligibility are able to take first-year college/university credit courses at Briercrest College in a variety of curricular areas, including languages; offerings vary by academic year.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at Briercrest: Creative

      Briercrest 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 - 37%
        Receptive - 2%
        Equal balance - 61%
      

      Program offers:

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

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What Briercrest says: Due to COVID-19 vocal and band ensembles are suspended. Until these can resume students at BCA are encouraged to pursue these interest through the variety of private lessons offered.

    • Computers and Technology Medium integration
      Computers and Technology approach at Briercrest: Medium integration

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

      [Show: About Medium integration?]

      Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Medium integration - 49%
        Light integration - 18%
        Heavy integration - 33%
      

      What Briercrest says: BCA has a full computer lab with student workstations for course work and printing needs. Students also have access to laptop computers for classroom use as needed. Due to our current COVID-19 protocols, we have asked students to come to school with their own personal devices both to support our learning formats and to decrease contact with shared surfaces. BCA also runs a STEAM Club (Science. Technology. Engineering. Arts. Mathematics.) which encourages students to engage with 3-D printing, CNC carving and laser engraving technologies; building and programming kit robots, kit model engines, as well as the Lego Architecture Series; and a variety of board games and visual arts endeavours.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What Briercrest says: Our Physical Education program supports student achievement of curricular outcomes through inquiring for healthy decision making, balancing the dimensions of wellness and well-being, embracing a comprehensive school community health approach, incorporating service learning, and designing a personal plan for well-being. We construct understanding through inquiry. Inquiry learning provides students with opportunities to build knowledge, abilities, and inquiring habits of mind that lead to deeper understanding of their world and human experience. Students who engage in inquiry construct knowledge and deep understanding rather than passively receiving information, encounter alternative perspectives and differing ideas that transform prior knowledge and experience into deep understandings, are directly involved in the discovery of new knowledge rather than passively receiving information, transfer new knowledge and skills to new circumstances, and take ownership and responsibility for their ongoing learning and master of curriculum content and skills.

    • Religious Education 11 to 25% of curriculum

      What Briercrest says: This information is not currently available.

    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education Saskatchewan curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at Briercrest: Saskatchewan curriculum

      Briercrest has a Saskatchewan curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About Saskatchewan 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:

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

      [Show: About Fairly value-based?]

      Sex is sometimes taught from a particular moral or ethical standpoint. Sometimes particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) are invoked when teaching sex and related issues .

      Briercrest has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).

      [Show: About Traditional?]

      This includes a range of positions. A traditional approach might, for example, go as far as emphasizing the nuclear family and complete abstinence from sex before marriage. Alternatively, this approach might simply involve placing less emphasis on sex outside of the context of marriage and more emphasis on abstinence. Or finally, it might just involve focusing less on sex outside of the context of marriage.

      Briercrest's approach to sex-ed: Our sex education is delivered in leveled, grade-appropriate formats across our academic, co-curricular, and student life programs. It is designed to be holistic in approach, acknowledging the whole person by learning about how sexually-focused aspects relate to overall well-being. Our goal is to include inter-connected layers of sexual health, relational health, cultural and ethnic diversity, and Christian faith. We explore how sex and sexuality affect friendships, romantic relationships, family relationships, and our relationship with God.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Religious Education

    • 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 Briercrest: Standard-enriched

    Briercrest 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 - 58%
      Accelerated - 17%
      Student-paced - 25%
    

    What Briercrest says: At BCA enrichment is supported through the adaptation of assignment paraments. Students also can supplement in-class studies with a wide variety of online courses through our school district’s online learning platform, Prairie South Virtual School. Eligible grade 12 students are invited to engage in first-year college* courses through Briercrest College.

    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 Briercrest says about flexible pacing: BCA students are supported towards academic growth in the context of our Attendance Support Program, Learning Support Program, and Academic Accountability Program. We provide resources for students through teacher and support staff tutorials, as well as through private tutoring opportunities. Our programming is differentiated providing both remediation and enrichment.

  • Academic Culture Supportive
    [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 Briercrest: Supportive

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

    [Show: About Supportive?]

    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.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Supportive - 49%
      Rigorous - 51%
    

    What Briercrest says: Our values at BCA are based on Matthew 22:37 which highlights the significance of loving the Lord with the whole of our heart, soul, strength and mind, as well as of loving our neighbours as ourselves. We seek to model and to call students towards a growth mindset in every area of our lives, including academics. Through supportive teachers who equip and engage students towards achieving learning outcomes and supportive structures that promote work ethic accountability, we challenge and encourage our students towards personal success. Our caring, rigorous academic culture provides intentional internal support towards developing competent and successful learners.

  • Developmental priorities Spiritual
    [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: Spiritual

    The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced

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

    What Briercrest says: BCA exist to offer a Christ-centered, Bible-based, and ministry-focused education that prepares students to excel academically, relationally, spiritually, and professionally. Briercrest Christian Academy is a launch pad of holistic growth, personal development, educational encouragement, and discipleship that invites our students to strive for excellence in every area of life.

  • Special needs support Indirect 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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    Briercrest offers Indirect Support

    Students remain in a regular classroom for the whole day; the teacher receives special training in accommodating special needs and/or learning disabled students.

    What Briercrest says about their special need support: BCA students are supported towards academic growth in the context of our Attendance Support Program, Learning Support Program, and Academic Accountability Program. We provide resources for students through teacher and support staff tutorials, as well as through private tutoring opportunities. Our programming is differentiated to provide both remediation and enrichment through the adaptive dimension. Remediation is supported through course adaptations or modifications and through the use of an accompanying record of adaptations and/or a personalized education plan, often in conjunction with psychoeducational assessments.

    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: This information is not currently available.

    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 Briercrest says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    Briercrest 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, Briercrest students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	9	10	11	12
    Briercrest	60 mins	90 mins	90 mins	120 mins
    Site Average	69 mins	80 mins	97 mins	107 mins

    What Briercrest 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. 9 to Gr. 12
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	Gr. 9 to Gr. 12
    Habits and behaviour reporting	Gr. 9 to Gr. 12
    Parent-teacher meetings	Gr. 9 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 Briercrest says:

  • Many co-curricular activities at BCA are integrated into the daily class schedule in such a way that students be involved in numerous activities and scheduling conflicts are reduced.
  • A variety of activities at BCA are offered in partnership with Briercrest College which allows students to be mentored and challenged by those at a more advanced level. This leads to immense personal and performance growth in students.

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 8
  Recreational sports: 5

  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

  ---

  Clubs offered

  Briercrest Christian Academy offers 11 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”).

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  Day (Domestic: in province) Boarding (Domestic: in province) Boarding (Domestic: out of province) Boarding (International)

   

  	9	10	11	12
  Day (Domestic: in province)	$3,216
  Boarding (Domestic: in province)	$12,781
  Boarding (Domestic: out of province)	$21,251
  Boarding (International)	$31,538

  
  

  What Briercrest says about their tuition: Tuition cost listed includes standard fees. Where applicable, cost includes room, board, and boarding fees. Additional fees are required for graduation, vehicle plug in, payment plans, athletic teams, music lessons, and tutoring. Please note that financial discounts are on tuition only and not fees or room and board.

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  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	Day (Domestic: in province)	25%
  2nd child (sibling)	Boarding (Domestic: in province)	25%
  3rd child (sibling)	Day (Domestic: in province)	50%
  3rd child (sibling)	Boarding (Domestic: in province)	50%

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  Need-based financial aid

  Briercrest Christian Academy does not offer need-based financial aid.

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  Merit based Scholarships

  Briercrest Christian Academy does not offer merit-based financial awards.
• 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.

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  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Gr. 9 to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	75
  Group 2	Gr. 9 to Gr. 12	Coed	Boarding	60

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	135
  Average class size	15 to 25
  % of international students (total enrolment)	10%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	N/A
  Five-day boarding program offered	N/A
  % in boarding (grade-eligible)	41%

  Student Distribution:

  	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	15	30	20	20
  Boarding Enrollment	5	25	15	15
  Class Size	20	20	20	20

• 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.

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  Application

  Admissions Assessments:

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview	N/A
  SSAT	N/A
  SSAT (out of province)	N/A
  Entrance Exam(s)	N/A
  Entrance Essay	N/A

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: August 02, 2021
  Boarding students: August 02, 2021
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

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  Fees:

  Application fee: $100
  Registration fee: N/A
  Deposit: $200

  What Briercrest says:

  Admissions Requirements

  Briercrest Christian Academy requires applicants to:

  • Have completed his/her previous academic grade/level.
  • Commit to live by biblical standards and according to the rules and guidelines of Briercrest.
  • Possess goals and desires that match the purpose of the school.
  • Show a willingness to grow in relationship with God and pursue Christian character. 

  Application Steps

  • Form A: Online Application
  • Form B: Self-Reference 
  • Form C: Spiritual Reference
  • Form D: Educational Reference
  • Form E: Parent/Guardian Reference
  • Report Card/Transcript
  • ESL Placement Exam (ESL/International Students Only)
  • ESL Interview (ESL/International Students Only)

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  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 96%

  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	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	20 - 30 (98%)	5 - 15 (100%)	5 - 10 (100%)	5 - 10 (100%)
  Boarding Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	15 - 20 (85%)	20 - 35 (90%)	15 - 20 (98%)	10 - 15 (98%)

  Type of student Briercrest is looking for:
  BCA welcomes students who want to excel academically, grow in independence, and live in an engaging community. We are looking for students who are open to learning how to follow Jesus whole-heartedly and want to pursue their interests inside and outside of the classroom for the glory of God.
• 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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  Key Numbers

  Average graduating class size	50
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	N/A

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	N/A
  Students who attended a Ivy+ school Number of students in the past 5 years that that attended one of Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, University of Chicago, Oxford or Cambridge (UK)	N/A

  Post-Secondary Schools Attended

  
  

  • Canada 15 universities
    • Acadia University
    • Briercrest College and Seminary
    • Dalhousie University
    • McGill University
    • Simon Fraser University
    • Trinity Western University
    • University of Alberta
    • University of British Columbia
    • University of Calgary
    • University of Guelph
    • University of New Brunswick
    • University of Regina
    • University of Saskatchewan
    • University of Victoria
    • University of Waterloo
  • International 1 university
    • City University of Hong Kong

  
  

  Areas of Study

  • Briercrest Christian Academy
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  Briercrest Christian Academy Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

  This information is not currently available.

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    25% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    25% - Business/Commerce
    5% - Fine and Performing Arts
    13% - Applied Health Sciences
    2% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    6% - Other
  

  
  

  Services Offered to Students

  Career planning
  Internships

  Mentorship Program	N/A
  University counseling

  What Briercrest says:

  • Grade 12 students are able to take Briercrest College courses through our Reach Ahead track. This enables students to graduate high school with a head start on their post-secondary education through experience with professors and college classes and credits that are transferable to many universities.
• Notable Alumni
  [Show definition of Notable Alumni]

  Many private schools in Canada have numerous graduates who have gone on to great things. Learn about a school’s most influential, important, successful, and famous alumni.

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  Alumnus	Grad Year	Accomplishment
  Jon Bryant	2004	Canadian singer-songwriter. Jon Bryant has performed solo and with Juno-winners Tim Neufeld & The Glory Boys.
  Kevin Smyth	1991	NHL Hockey player - Hartford Whalers

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  Alumni Highlights

  • Our alumni network is made up of graduates from Briercrest Christian Academy (formerly Caronport High School), Briercrest College, and Briercrest Seminary.
• Principal's Message
  Deborah Ike, Principal

  At Briercrest Christian Academy, we are committed to providing students with an educational experience that will develop every aspect of their being to their fullest potential. Jesus teaches us that His greatest commandments are to "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind … [and to] love your neighbour as yourself'" (Matthew 22:36, NIV). We believe that God has called us to address the whole person through a program of strong academics, varied extracurricular options, and intentional spiritual nurturing. This is the kind of education that can change you, and then change your world through you.

  As a body of learning, we are part of each student's journey of faith and career preparation – not just a destination point. Briercrest Christian Academy, an important facet of Briercrest College and Seminary, provides a unique learning environment where students enjoy spiritual, academic, and extracurricular activities that enables us more fully to walk this journey with them.

  It is our deepest hope and prayer that this unique school will become a place where you can be called closer to faith and, in turn, draw your world closer to Christ.

  
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