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S p e c i a l F e a t u r e head of school. "Grads say the focus on university prep gives them a distinct leg up. We had a young student who received credit for 30 units at Simon Fraser Univer- sity for her IB courses." Though it may seem like a program for academic elites, that's not the case, adds Salvador. "We have such a variety of students that come through … care is given to help each student reach their potential and create well-rounded students," he says, adding that the school has a rich diverse student body. "The program is not a passive one and is designed for those students who have a strong work ethic and a passion for learning." The environment at Dwight School Canada encourages independent think- ers from Grades 7 to 12. Its educational ideoloŸy re¡ects the IB philosophy with a challenging curriculum that helps students become the leaders of tomorrow. At West Vancouver's Mulgrave School, all of its students, from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12, follow the IB curriculum with nearly all pursuing the full IB Diploma Program. "We network and partner with both public and private schools worldwide who take part of the IB program," says John Wray, head of school. "By working collaboratively and sharing innovation together, we can bring about changes much quicker." As an independent, non-denomina- tional, co-educational school with just under 900 students, Mulgrave oers the Primary Years, Middle Years and the Diploma programs. "As an International Baccalaureate Continuum School, we are focused on forward-thinking global education for all of our students," adds Wray. The result of its strong IB focus is an impressive university placement for 100 per cent of its students. Mulgrave also prides itself on its holistic approach to teaching. It is based on a philosophy of education that believes each student •nds meaning and purpose in life through connections to the community and to humanitarian values such as com- passion and peace.¥ "We have the ability to oer a broad and holistic education that is focused on personal skills, service learning, athletics and the arts, all the while fostering a strong sense of community," explains Wray. Vancouver Island's Brentwood College School is another co-ed university prepara- tory boarding school that prides itself on innovative and unique programs. Its Tripartite Programme is designed to provide students with equal parts of academics, athletics and arts. Although academic studies are at the core of its curriculum, students also par- ticipate in athletic and art programs. "Students are required to enroll in one to three art courses, whether it's in the performing, visual or technical arts. It can be anything from public speaking, pottery, digital art or music," says Cheryl Murtland, director of academics. "You might have an artistic student who balks at athletics, but once they try something new they often get really engaged and in the process learn something new about themselves." When it comes to its athletic compo- nent, students can opt to join a competitive sport, yoga or Cross- Fit right up to outdoor pursuits such as hik- ing or kayaking. "We have a tradi- tion here of making sure we gradu- ate well-rounded students," says Murtland. "There is a real commitment to a balanced approach to education." Another important element here is a strong focus on social responsibility. Brentwood oers a selection of leader- ship opportunities on a local, national and international level. The bene•ts are many—students assist those in need while expanding their knowledge and compas- sion for others, both outside the school and across the globe—and its aim is to put "We have nurtured many community part- nerships; our students make sandwiches for our local soup kitchen and the whole school takes part in our Community Day to raise money for charity" — Cheryl Murtland, Brentwood College Athletics are an integral part of the holistic education independent schools offer

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