Interview with The Bishop Strachan School PARENT, Candice Braun

As a parent, I appreciate most their ability to recognize my daughter's growth and her challenges; they just know her, and they work with her. They are big cheerleaders for her, and they're very open to communication. I've had a really good relationship with all her teachers through the years, and I think that's something special.

What impressed me most when my older daughter and I were looking for the senior school was how helpful booking a tour was, especially since the tour was led by a fellow student. This student, probably around 14 or 15 years old, showed us around the school with so much confidence and excitement. We were blown away by not just her interest in us, but her compassion for others, her excitement for the school, and just the way that she was able to communicate with us. I was impressed, and I think my daughter was too.

They don't look at anyone's challenges; they look at them as opportunities. Instead of turning down her light, they’ve tapped into all her different facets and are positive about it. For example, with math, which is probably not her best subject, they work with her to make it one of her best or at least something she likes and can be proud of.

The curriculum keeps her on her toes, active, and engaged. While she doesn't always like everything they're learning, I think the school is very good at leaning into the students’ inquiring minds, which is something I wouldn't get from a public school.

I believe the school's values are put into practice on a daily basis; I see it every day. They truly value leadership skills and recognize everyone's unique attributes and leadership qualities—whether it's a quiet leader or someone with a particular skill. They also value diversity, celebrating every different religion and ethnicity in a proud, understanding, and caring way, which I feel sets a good foundation for my kids’ future as they head into this world. The last value I love is that they recognize balance for young women, understanding academic excellence, but also balancing the ability to find oneself. They look at the whole person, and I think when they go to university and venture out into their careers, they'll be really set up for success.

There’s no typical family at this school, but we come together to form a warm, closely connected community. Parents come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, countries, and faiths—but we all respect where everyone is coming from and have a shared goal of raising good global citizens.

I'm proud of all of my daughter's achievements at school; I feel that she has become very well-rounded and confident in expressing her voice. She loves creative writing and creative thinking, and they give her time in their daily schedule in the Junior School to really focus on English and writing and to explore ideas. What I was most surprised and proud of was when she won a poetry award for really expressing herself.

The teachers and administration at The Bishop Strachan School have been nothing short of amazing; I really feel like that is the heart of the school. Starting from the admission process, which was very smooth, I felt comfortable and like it was a fit for me. The teachers are very approachable, and everyone knows my daughter by name. It’s a casual and relaxed environment that’s also very focused on student growth, creating a great balance.

If I were to summarize why I would send my kids to this school, it comes down to three reasons: they teach grit, fairness, and they recognize students' potential.