Here are some benefits of Winnipeg private schools:
- Facilities—Private schools generally provide excellent facilities because they work within their own budgets to provide superior resources to students and staff. Many of Winnipeg’s private schools, for example, have cutting edge technology, science, arts, and sports equipment.
- Small class sizes—Many parents choose private schools because they tend to offer small classes. A small class means that your child will receive more one-on-one time and attention from their teachers, with opportunities for extra help if required.
- Community atmosphere—Private schools are small, close-knit communities where students, teachers and parents know each other well and work together towards common goals. Due to a high teacher-student ratio common problems like bullying are less prevalent than in larger school environments, and are quickly addressed and resolved. The emphasis on community provides students the support and confidence they need to thrive.
- Leadership opportunities—Many private schools require extracurricular involvement within the school and in the local (and sometimes international) community. Participating in extracurricular activities helps promote leadership, collaboration, independence and self-esteem.
Private School Regulations in Winnipeg
Manitoba Education notes that there are two different types of independent schools in the province: funded and non-funded.
Funded independent schools implement provincially mandated curriculum, hire Manitoba certified teachers, and meet other provincial requirements. Non-funded independent schools don't need to meet these requirements.
To receive provincial funding, a funded independent school must:
- have a Board of Directors and an elected parent advisory board
- meet all building codes and fire inspection requirements
- have two or more sequential grades or a minimum of 10 students for a single grade
- employ Manitoba certified teachers
- use Manitoba Education curricula
- follow the same school calendar year and time commitment guidelines as public schools in the province.
In funded independent schools, Manitoba Education does not set school tuition or other related fees, so tuition and fees vary by school.
All students in funded independent schools must write provincial standards tests.
