Schools & Educational Services

In the following pages you will find a range of educational resources from preschool to post-secondary. For more information about these programs, please refer to the advertising in this issue.

Preschools

Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre has a long history of providing outstanding early learning programs to the Victoria community. We previously operated as Goosey Gander Kindergarten for 46 years until moving to our new 1.4 acre site in 2004. We offer half- and full-day preschool programs for 3- and 4-year-olds, and a small after-school program for K-Grade 1 students attending Frank Hobbs Elementary. Our skilled and caring educators provide stimulating and engaging experiences that nurture each child’s sense of wonder, curiosity, and innate desire to learn through play, exploration, discovery and creative expression. www.arbutusgrove.ca or 250-477-3731.

Carrot Seed Preschool—Play Paves the Way! We provide a wonderfully rich, inclusive environment for children to play, explore and “live in the moment” so they can grow into independent and self-directed individuals. Children have lots of outdoor time in our large, natural play space, which gives them the room they need to engage in both big-muscle and fine-motor skill exploration. There’s lots of opportunity for imaginative play and curiosity as children are encouraged to “ask why” and are supported in their quest to solve the mystery. Our teachers are dedicated to the philosophy of play-based learning and demonstrate their love of teaching every day. www.carrotseedpreschool.com.

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare. ECE and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all-day licensed program specialized for 3- and 4-year-olds in our spacious and welcoming facility, where children begin to learn for the adventure of life. www.cathedralschool.ca. 250-383-5132.

Cloverdale Preschool and group day care is operated by Cloverdale Child Care Society, located at Cloverdale Traditional School, 3427 Quadra Street. Children wear school uniforms and enjoy a smooth transition into kindergarten. Our centre celebrates learning through play. Our qualified early childhood educators offer a supportive and caring environment where the children can learn and grow through play. We use a positive approach to guidance, and consistency that encourages positive behaviour through reinforcement, pre-teaching concepts and recognizing children doing the right thing. For more information, contact Cindy or Tanya at 250-595-1766 or cloverdalechildcare@shawbiz.ca. Come learn and grow with us! www.cloverdalechildcare.com.

Emmanuel Preschool is a welcoming and inclusive Christian preschool where students with special needs have the support of an additional teacher. Our morning classes are offered either two or three days per week. Both programs are for 3- and 4-year-olds and include stories, games, singing, arts and crafts, science activities, free play (indoors and outdoors), and some field trips. Each class is licensed for a maximum of 20 children and has two licensed and experienced early childhood educators. Our staff strives to teach and model Christian attitudes and values, and to maintain a warm, caring and safe environment in which children can create and explore. For more information, visit www.emmanuelpreschool.ca. 250-598-0573 or preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca.

Fiddlesticks Studio of Fine Arts for Young Children offers kodály-based music and art education for children 21/2-8 years of age. Lessons at Fiddlesticks are filled with wonder-inspiring activities designed to engage, delight and challenge the whole child. Authentic folk songs, poetry, singing games, violin and cello. Creative movement, dance and dramatic play. Storytelling, nature study and friendship. Drawing, sculpture, painting, crafts and sewing. An exploration of a child’s world. 250-858-7034. fiddlesticks.studio@shaw.ca, www.fiddlestickschild.ca.

Lakehill Preschool—Play is children’s work. Lakehill Preschool presents an Open House Saturday, February 18, 10am-1pm. If you are looking for a quality preschool for your 3- or 4-year-old, come visit our preschool and meet our exceptional ECE team. Enroll now for September. Our preschool community gives you the opportunity to be a part of your child’s first school years. Different levels of participation are available to suit your family. Watch your child blossom as they enjoy free play, arts and crafts, circle time and more. 3821 Cedar Hill Cross Road. 250-477-4141, www.lakehillpreschool.org.

Oak and Orca Pre-primary School is a licensed facility offering bioregional programing for 3- to 5-year-olds. Founded on 12 years of experience in quality instruction for children, the pre-primary program offers an early learning curriculum based on child-directed learning, individual awareness and choice. Natural learning is supported through investigation, experience and play. Relationships take priority for teaching time, where a focus on needs helps create harmony and self-awareness. Regular out-trips connect youngsters with the natural world, while at the school they enjoy experiences in science, math, language and more. Located in the Hillside area, the program is run by an ECE and certified teachers. 250-383-6609, oakandorca.ca.

Located in the heart of Oak Bay for over 25 years, Oak Bay Parent Owned Preschool offers the opportunity to be involved in the first years of your child’s school. Our qualified ECE has over 14 years experience, and provides a nurturing environment where children can expand their social skills and learn about the world while having fun. We have a bright, permanent indoor classroom and a large outdoor playground. Classes for 3- and 4-year-olds. Attend our Open House on February 11 and register now for 2012/2013. Call 250-592-1922 or go to www.oakbaypreschool.com for more information.

Rainbow Express Daycare Early Childhood Centre for the Arts. Winner of B.C. Child Care Legacy Award 2011. Privately operated by the Rainbow Express Daycare Society, a registered non-profit society, Rainbow Express was established in 1971 and has spaces for 32 children. Our Executive Director and staff work together as a team of caring, energetic, fully qualified educators. Their credentials include certification in Early Childhood Education and First Aid for Childhood Emergencies. All persons working with the children are required to have a criminal record check. Our program focuses on providing a loving and nurturing atmosphere for children to learn through their play. We believe that each child is unique, and we promote the optimum development of physical, intellectual, language, emotional, and social skills and abilities. We provide a preschool program in a daycare setting. As a licensed facility, we meet all the requirements of the Community Care Facility Act.

Co-operative preschools are special and unique. Early childhood educators and parents work together on education programs that emphasize “Learning through Play.” Visit one of 15 cooperative preschools located on Vancouver Island and the surrounding Islands this month during their open house to discover how these schools strengthen families and communities. Members of the Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association (VICPA) are listed at www.vicpa.org. Cooperative preschools provide educational and creative play activities in half-day programs to children aged 3-5 plus orientation and education programs for parents/caregivers. Classes are small, warm, and nurturing, providing children with considerable individual attention and time to learn through play.

Schools

Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) is Victoria’s Anglican Preschool, Elementary and Middle School, welcoming students from all backgrounds. CCCS offers before and after school care, a wide range of extracurricular programs, small class sizes, high-calibre learning in math, science and technology, a strong focus on fine arts, and progressive athletics programs. Weekly chapel service and seasonal performances are held in beautiful Christ Church Cathedral just a few steps away. Through focused encouragement of personal responsibility, self-discipline, community service, and engaging learning opportunities with dedicated teachers, the school helps children realize their true potential. New website at www.cathedralschool.ca. 250-383-5125.

The Conseil scolair francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (CSF), also known as BC’s Francophone School District (SD #93) was created in 1995 to serve Francophones across the province. Since its creation in 1995, the CSF offers educational programs and services geared towards the growth and cultural promotion of the province’s Francophone learners. An active partner in the development of British Columbia’s Francophone community, the Conseil has presently in its system, and distributed across 78 communities in the province, over 4,350 students and 38 schools, which includes 21 homogenous schools. For more information visit www.csf.bc.ca, call (604)-214-2600 or 1-888-715-2200, or email info@csf.bc.ca.

In many ways Discovery School is like any other school. We are Ministry inspected and have bright cheerful classrooms where children study the B.C. core curriculum. What makes us unique is that we are dedicated entirely to helping students with learning disabilities, and have a proven track record in using the latest advances in brain research to the benefit of our students. Here students from age 7-16 work at their own pace in small classes under the direction of skilled, experienced teachers. We would be happy to show you our school. For more information, please visit www.discoveryschool.ca or call 250-595-7765.

Eaton Arrowsmith School is the only school in Victoria that focuses on the potential of children with learning disabilities to benefit from the brain’s ability to change itself in order to improve cognitive functioning for life. School-aged children spend three to four years strengthening their capacity to remember, attend, process and reason, thereby improving their ability to read, write, spell, do math, plan, prioritize and interact socially. Our students then transfer back to typical public and private schools in the area with greatly reduced or no need for accommodations or learning assistance. www.eatonarrowsmithschool.com. www.eatoncognitive.com.

Elizabeth Buckley School is an independent K-6 school in Victoria. Low student to teacher ratios ensure that each child’s unique needs are addressed within a secure, nurturing environment. EBS provides an exceptional education based on B.C. curriculum, and fosters a life-long love of learning. Elizabeth Buckley School was founded in 1986 to provide educational opportunities for the deaf and hard of hearing. Today, “typical” children and those with special needs learn side by side in an inclusive, integrated setting at EBS. In keeping with our roots, we offer ASL instruction to all students in the school and use a “total communication” approach during instruction. Learn more at ElizabethBuckleySchool.com.

Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS) is a community made special by its people, its programs, and the synergy they create together. As one of only seven International Baccalaureate (IB) World schools in Canada offering all three of the IB programs, GNS is delivering curricula in a way that facilitates critical and creative thinking. Students in JK through Grade 12 benefit from the richness of opportunity that comes from being part of a small school with large school programs. GNS is now accepting applications for September 2012. Financial assistance is available. Call 250-360-6801 or visit www.mygns.ca.

Whether in Victoria, the Cowichan Valley or Port Alberni, you will find an Island Catholic School family ready to greet and support you and your child. Our seven schools offer dynamic, supportive and challenging learning opportunities, ranging from preschool to Grade 12. Our dedicated B.C. certified teachers and professional staff are indeed specialists. P.E., I.T., or French language instruction? We’ve got it. Activities for environmental stewardship or student athletics? You bet. Opportunities for system-wide activities or Fine Arts? No problem. Greater involvement with the local community? Of course. Lifelong and lasting friendships? Yes! Visit www.cisdv.bc.ca, or drop by one of our Open Houses this week. You’ll be glad you did.

Celebrating 25 years of providing quality Christian education, Lakeview Christian School invites you to become part of our extensive school system of over 7,000 Seventh-day Adventist Christian schools world-wide. Our modern, well-equipped school provides a comprehensive curriculum from preschool to Grade 9. Students come from a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds and all are welcome. At Lakeview, we believe that excellence in education is about more than academic achievement. We are committed to developing the whole person and enhancing qualities of character that will build a better and brighter future. Contact us at 250-658-5074.

Maria Montessori Academy enables students to learn at their own pace through self-directed, hands-on learning while meeting the B.C. Ministry of Education’s standards for each age level. Montessori education encourages students to reach their full potential, develop a solid sense of personal responsibility and to foster a love of learning. Our Montessori Middle School program (Grades 7 & 8) is specifically designed to meet the distinctive needs of the adolescent. Maria Montessori Academy High School currently offers Grade 9 with Grade 10 opening September 2012 in our newly renovated Senior Wing. Contact us at 250-479-4746 for a tour or visit us online at www.montessori.bc.ca.

Oak and Orca Bioregional School is an affordable option for kindergarten to Grade 11 in the Hillside area. The B.C. curriculum is offered in an individualized format through practical, engaging, child-directed learning. The ungraded program uses independent learning logs, conferences and workshop choices to provide children with the structure they need to learn at their own pace. Regular field trips encourage connections with the natural and cultural heritage of our home place. As part of a community of learners, children are able to communicate effectively, think and act creatively, and develop into responsible ecological citizens. Join a unique learning community. Call if you are curious about child-directed learning and bioregional education. oakandorca.ca; 250-383-6609 or 1-888-383-6619 outside Victoria.

Pacific Christian School is spiritually equipped, globally minded. Over 51 years ago, the Christian community took upon itself the task of fulfilling a vision that would see Christian education offered to families within the Greater Victoria area. PCS has changed its look, name and programing, but not its mission to offer quality Christ-centered education to a diverse and growing student body. Professional, dedicated Christian teachers, parents as partners, 900+ students from preschool to Grade 12, 500+ families from 100+ area churches, learning assistance and special education programs, enrichment and advanced placement courses, extensive athletics, music and drama programs, full curriculum and more. Accepting registrations for preschool to Grade 12 for 2012/2013 and beyond. www.pacificchristian.ca. 250-479-4532.

At St. Andrew’s Elementary School, our motto “To Build in Love” is in evidence in the classrooms, on the playing field, and in the family atmosphere of our community. Students thrive in small classes offering innovative academic programs, award-winning fine arts and specialists teaching French, music and physical education. All faith traditions are welcome in our multicultural community. St. Andrew’s offers Victoria families a convenient downtown location, well-established preschool and out of school programs, reasonable fees and a long tradition in educational excellence. For more information, call Mr. Keefer Pollard at 250-382-3815 or visit www.standrewselem.ca.

St. Joseph’s Catholic School integrates Christian values with Ministry of Education curricular outcomes. Faith formation and development involve all students, and academic excellence is fostered across the grades. Leadership opportunities are provided by way of assigned extra-curricular duties and involvement with student council. Out-reach projects are encouraged through Religion classes involving seasonal drives. Co-curricular and extra-curricular athletics allows students to develop positive attitudes and sportsmanship. Choral Music, a Band program, and French from K-7 complete the learning program. Phone 250-479-1232 or visit www.stjosephschool.ca.

St. Margaret’s School provides a highly personalized education for girls from preschool to Grade 12 that fosters confident, capable leaders with genuine enthusiasm for learning. An extensive extracurricular program combining athletics, arts and community service provides every student with opportunities to take on new challenges and leadership roles in all areas of school life. Every class is tailored to the way girls learn, using strategies that draw on their strengths. The result is a learning environment where girls can be themselves, find their voices and discover their passions. For more information, visit www.stmarg.ca or call 250-479-7171.

At St. Michaels University School, we are as proud of our students’ academic accomplishments as we are of their courage, compassion, honesty, and their desire to make the world a better place. From kindergarten to Grade 12, our students flourish in a welcoming, interactive and resource-rich curriculum where they can continuously challenge themselves with the support of dedicated teachers and the encouragement of their peers. Music, physical education, art, and second language instruction are not extras—they are integral to the program. At the end of their time here, SMUS grads are exceptionally prepared to find their place as engaged citizens of the world. www.smus.bc.ca.

South Park Family School (K-5), has been a successful parent-involved alternative school since 1974. Teachers and parents work closely together to provide a nurturing, stimulating learning environment. Fine arts are an important part of our vigorous academic program. Because we emphasize cooperation over competition, we write narrative reports rather than assigning letter grades. Our fostering of self-esteem and creativity in our students prepares them to meet the challenges of future schooling. 508 Douglas Street. 250-382-5234. southpark@sd61.bc.ca.

Sundance Elementary School offers a responsive and engaging school experience that fosters a love of learning in a vibrant community. Staff, students and parents work together to create a dynamic school spirit within a rich inclusive learning environment. Our school boasts ongoing opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning in different ways and provides anecdotal progress reports that do not include letter grades. Our collaborative environment generates high academic standards, connected learners who reflect and think critically, and students who are environmentally responsible. The Sundance Community believes that these lifelong skills enable our students to embrace their passions and develop the building blocks for a successful and fulfilling future. www.sd61.bc.ca/school/sundance. 250-598-5012.

The Victoria School for Ideal Education (VSIE). Visit this wonderful little school where individual personalities blossom in a dynamic, peaceful, nurturing environment. With a maximum class size of 12, VSIE provides quality individual attention to each child from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. The curriculum goes well beyond the mandated B.C. curriculum by developing an understanding of how each subject area relates to broader life principles. Daily meditation develops clearer thinking, creativity, happier relationships and improved self-esteem. In our Outdoor Education Program, we regularly study science, social studies, art, language arts and P.E. in beautiful, natural settings. In this school, “there is an atmosphere of calm respectfulness underlying a richly child-centered approach to learning.” (Quote from the B.C. Ministry of Education External Evaluation Report, Nov. 2007.) Call 250-383-6654, visit www.vsie.ca, or email vsie@shaw.ca.

Distributed Learning

Hands-On Home-Learning For a Sustainable World is a K-9 distributed learning opportunity offered by Oak and Orca School. This certified program weaves local and global perspectives into a supportive foundation to help your child discover her/his own learning path while satisfying the B.C. Curriculum. Through regular communication, certified teachers are accessible to support families in creating their own educational programing. Hands-on, child-centred activities are available to supplement and enrich what you naturally offer and to cover the basics. Parents are provided with the guidance they need, without pressure. The program is free and includes an expense budget to help meet educational needs. oakandorca.ca; 250-383-6619 or 1-888-383-6619.

navigate offers a blended learning model which allows students to forge relationships with their teachers and the broader community while offering all the flexibility of traditional distributed learning, distance learning, and home school models. Though we are located in the Comox Valley, we serve more than 4,000 learners throughout B.C. in our K-9, high school and adult learning programs. Many parents considering home school for their children find we offer a rich educational approach that provides the flexibility of traditional homeschooling. A navigate education meets all provincially mandated learning outcomes and is instructed by a B.C.-certified teacher. For more information, please call 250-337-5300 or visit www.navigatenides.com.

SelfDesign Learning Community is a K-12 Ministry certified distributed learning program for learners ages 5-19. In the K-9 program, parents and learners design a learning plan together with a learning consultant (B.C. certified teacher), then interact on-line weekly with the LC about the learning. Self-Design High’s online program takes a similar learner-centred, inquiry-based approach, encompassing the Grade 10-12 graduation program, including independent studies and community initiatives. Our Homelearner’s Network registers learners under Section 13 of the School Act. The parent provides the educational program; there is no LC or reporting. All of our programs offer various services. www.selfdesign.org.

The South Island Distance Education School (SIDES) is a K-12 public school specializing in distributed learning. Part of the Saanich school district, SIDES offers B.C. curriculum to students through online and print courses, on-site activities and outings. Parents partner with SIDES teachers to support students as they learn at home. For more information, check our website at www.sides.ca, or call us at 250-704-4979 or 250-479-7125.

Mid-Island Schools/Education Services

Is your child showing signs of an interest in music? Arbutus Music Education Centre (AMEC) provides a family music facility with programs ranging from Toddler Tunes to Composing for Kids and Music Movie Nights. It is never to early (or too late) to start introducing music, rhythm and melody to your child. Build self-confidence, problem solving and social skills with the magic of music. AMEC offers a wide range of programs and private lessons for beginners, intermediate and advanced youths who want to take the next step into composing music and recording at home. Come and visit us at www.arbutusmusic.com.

Cowichan Valley Co-op Learning Community is a choice for those who want a little freedom, flexibility and quality of lifestyle. Learners attend the classroom 1 to 3 days per week. Social learning in a multi-aged class along with home learning are valued. Parents and learners document and share home learning experiences. The teacher keeps track of how and what is being learned. A plan is created around B.C. curriculum and the learner’s interests. Parents are welcome to participate. Commit your family to this program by March 1st to secure funding. Preschoolers’ names on a waiting list are voices that count. Serious curiosities, contact learning4yourlife@yahoo.com.

Dwight International School (DIS) is a co-educational and non-denominational high school located on the shores of Shawnigan Lake. Open to students from Grade 6-12, DIS features both the world-renowned International Baccalaureate Diploma Program along with the provincial curriculum. Students enjoy small class sizes with a focus on global perspectives and community awareness. Igniting each students’ “spark of genius” is a priority, always putting the individual learner’s strengths and interests first. Home to students from around the world, DIS is recognized for its world-class education, in a safe and caring environment. To apply or learn about our Quest Centre, call 250-929-0506 or email admissions@dwightinternational.org.

Evergreen Independent School provides a balanced education where academic excellence and individual development are equally valued, and where the inherent joy of learning is nurtured in a caring and respectful community. We offer small class sizes and our multi-age grouping philosophy ensures that children of all ages interact and cooperate with each other. Evergreen strives to instruct children in ways that best fit their individual learning styles. We believe that children develop in different ways and that their development is best accomplished in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Call 250-743-2433 or visit www.evergreenbc.net for more information.

Island Oak Waldorf High School, Duncan B.C. Think for yourself. We encourage clarity, conviction, and freedom of thought. At IOHS, you’ll develop strength, new thinking, and responsible leadership, essential qualities for all local and global change-makers. Our 10 to 1 student-teacher ratio means maximum agility in responding to students’ needs in the context of a quickly-changing world. Waldorf education is dynamic and evolves to meet contemporary issues. It is based on Rudolf Steiner’s profound understanding of the human spirit and human development. Students at IOHS earn the Dogwood Diploma with more credits than required by the Ministry. islandoak.org. 250-701-0400.

Kool & Child is a unique store with a product mix that meets the needs of teachers, homeschoolers and caregivers who want quality educational toys and supplies for their children. We have a great selection of teacher resource books and student workbooks as well as decoratives for the classroom: bulletin board sets, trimmers, stickers, charts and posters. Our Art & Science departments are well stocked with essential items and kits that make learning fun. At Kool & Child, you have over 6,000 sq. ft. of resources at your disposal. With our unique blend of educational toys and learning supplies, we are a store like none other. Prepare to be amazed! Visit us at #102-2517 Bowen Road or www.koolandchild.com. New shopping cart coming to our website in February!

Morning Glory School, just minutes from Qualicum Beach in a beautiful natural setting, offers quality education from preschool to Class 8. MGS blends the best of Waldorf ideals with the B.C. curriculum as an established Group 1 Independent School. We are able to provide students with individualized attention and encouragement to participate in all subjects. Children here enjoy a well-balanced school life. Academics are integrated with art and music, as well as practical skills (such as knitting, woodwork and gardening), and plenty of outdoor activities—guided and free play time. With a focus on lifelong learning, we strive to teach children how to think, not what to think. Special activities and events create a vibrant school community for both students and parents. 250-752-2722, mgs@shawcable.com, www.morninggloryschool.ca.

navigate is pleased to offer two new eCademies in September 2012. Using a blended model of classroom-based instruction and distributed learning, the Fine Arts eCademy and ENTER (eCademy of New Technology, Engineering and Robotics) are designed with the future in mind. The Fine Arts eCademy is a K-9 program emphasizing the visual, performing and music arts, as well as supporting a unique approach to curriculum integration and global studies. ENTER is a middle years program for Grade 6-8 students who thrive on learning through a hands-on, practical environment. It is centered on explorations in engineering, science and robotics. For more information, please call 250-337-5300 or visit www.navigatenides.com.

Queen Margaret’s School (QMS) in Duncan has been providing an enriched education to boys and girls since 1921. We deliver small and inspiring co-ed programs for preschool through Grade 8, and a university-preparatory high school for girls in Grade 9 through 12. QMS staff is committed to providing an educational environment where the love for learning flourishes through involvement in academics, the arts, athletics, service, and an integrated equestrian program. Through these experiences, our students learn to embrace life, seize its opportunities, and face its challenges with creativity, courage, intelligence and optimism. Discover QMS. Call 250-746-4185 or visit www.qms.bc.ca.

At Sunrise Waldorf School, we develop analytical, imaginative minds capable of prolific, life-changing ideas. Our students will shape the future by redefining society’s concepts of intelligence, acumen and originality. For 90+ years, Waldorf schools have created an educational experience that inspires students to evolve into confident, creative thinkers who are socially responsible and environmentally conscious. SWS is nestled on 7 lovely acres in the Cowichan Valley, a beautiful setting where your children will be allowed to develop naturally, supported by the wisdom of experienced teachers who are truly interested. Visit us to learn why 94% of North America Waldorf graduates attend university and 50% attain a master’s or PhD. Parents from over 2,500 schools and kindergartens in 70 countries have made Waldorf the world’s fastest growing educational movement. Parent and child programs, Pre-K to Grade 8. 250-743-7253. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

Parent Education

Hip Baby offers free educational workshops on cloth diapering. Are you daunted by the idea of using cloth diapers? Curious about the advantages? We will answer your questions in an interactive and friendly atmosphere. We’ll show you how to put them on, clean and care for them, with lots of cloth diapers to see and feel. Come with an open and curious mind and we guarantee you’ll leave informed and able to decide which system best suits your lifestyle. Workshops are held on a monthly basis. Call us to register at 250-385-8020 or email hipbabyvic@hipbaby.com.

Educational Services & Programs

Dyslexia Victoria Online offers assessments and teaching programs for dyslexic students. We assess children for dyslexia and create individualized teaching programs for them. Whether the issue is spelling, reading, printing, comprehension, understanding time, arithmetic/math, instructions, or trying to write in a logical order, we have created a program for that. The recommendations and accommodations are easily implemented in the teachers’ classroom work, by a tutor or a parent, if homeschooling. Recently, a child we helped went from C’s to B’s in less than six weeks while still attending his regular classes. Call 250-715-3034, or email degraaf@dyslexiavictoria.ca for prices or more information.

Karen Murdoch, Therapeutic Tutor. Private, one-on-one tutoring specifically designed for those children who are really struggling at school. Does your child seem to be falling further and further behind? Are you having difficulty getting your child to go to school? Are there tears or anger over his or her homework, writing, spelling or math? There is a solution. They need lessons presented to them the way they learn best. They need to learn using their strengths, using their learning style. They need their learning needs met. To find out how I can help your child, call 778-430-3183.

Kumon is an after-school math and reading program that empowers children to achieve more on their own. It helps children master the fundamental skills vital to their overall academic performance. Kumon’s individualized study approach develops not only solid math and reading skills, but also the self-confidence, self-reliance, focus and motivation that helps students succeed not just in school, but in life. More than 16 million children around the world have benefited from Kumon since it was founded in 1958. Visit www.kumon.com or call a Kumon Centre near you: Colwood, 250-474-4175; Saanich, 250-479-1800; Sidney, 250-656-6696.

La Place French offers French classes for all ages and levels. Toddler French classes spark an early appreciation for French through songs, crafts and stories. French classes for preschoolers offer kindergarten readiness skills. Innovative after-school French classes aim to increase the academic success and fluency of students in French Immersion and Francophone programs. Tutoring and homework programs improve French listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. La Place French also offers French spring and summer day camps and French classes for adults. For our complete class program, visit www.laplacefrench.com, call 250-884-8485 or email info@laplacefrench.com.

Making Mathematics Meaningful, developed by Werner Liedtke describes activities and questioning strategies that contribute to the development of conceptual understanding. Suggestions are made for accommodating different types of responses. The focus is on learning that transfers to future learning. Settings are described that contribute to fostering the development of: confidence and risk taking—essential for problem solving; thinking as well as thinking flexibly; ability to visualize—essential for number sense, the key foundation for numeracy and spatial sense and essential for problem solving; communicating mathematically—essential for expressing understanding and sharing information. The strategies will also encourage and develop curiosity and imagination.

For nearly 30 years, Oxford Learning Centre has been helping hundreds of thousands of students to reach their learning potential—not for one grade or one year, but for a lifetime. Ours is a proven approach that generates results by breaking bad habits and getting kids excited about learning. We work with students aged 3-18 to build strong academic skills in all subject areas, including: reading, writing, spelling, math, French Immersion, ESL, and study skills. We also offer curriculum support and remedial programing specific to individual students. Furthermore, our Little Readers program prepares children aged 3-5 for kindergarten, teaching them how to read, write, and work with numbers. Call 250-477-5550 or visit oxfordlearning.com.

The READ Society provides extra help in reading, writing, mathematics and study skills for children and youth. Professional teachers conduct recognized assessments and develop individual plans to address specific skills gaps. We use diverse teaching approaches to capture student interest, increase confidence, and build skills. When you choose READ, you are supporting your child and you are contributing to literacy initiatives across our community. As a local non-profit, we offer tuition support for low-income households. We have classes Monday-Thursday afternoons in three locations: Victoria, Colwood and Sidney, and on Tuesday and Thursday in Sooke. Call us to book assessments and classes: 250-388-7225. Learn more at www.readsociety.bc.ca.

For more than 30 years, Sylvan Learning has helped students achieve success at school. At some point in their education, almost all students struggle to keep pace with the curriculum, and this is the moment that learning gaps occur. Sylvan is the bridge. Our student-centered approach to learning is the key to unlocking the potential of every child we teach. At Sylvan, we take kids back to the point at which they began to experience problems, identify their skills gaps, then construct individualized programs to address these issues and get the kids back on track. Call 1-800-educate (1-800-338-2283).

Other

Children’s Education Funds Inc. offers the greatest selection of RESP choices—anywhere—with the utmost flexibility, long-term growth and return on investment. Whether you select our highest paying CET Group Plan or our flexible and affordable CET Achievers or CET Self-Initiated Plans, please be assured that we are here to serve all of your “education funding” needs. We are education funding specialists—that is all that we do at CEFI! For more information, visit www.cefi.ca.

The Victoria Symphony’s 2012 Education Concert, “The Search for the Magic of Music” takes place at the University of Victoria’s Farquhar Auditorium February 21 and 22, and in Duncan February 24. Students will join secret agent Tania Miller as she searches for what is magical in music before the evil magician silences the world forever! For two magical days, music comes alive for over 7,000 children ages K-Grade 7, and for some children it is their first time experiencing live classical music. The Victoria Symphony’s entertaining and interactive Education Concerts inspire our future musicians, provide a well-rounded education, and enrich children’s lives in our community.•