Located in Vancouver, Canada, St. George’s School is a place where the focus isn’t solely on textbooks and grades but on sculpting resilient, compassionate, and responsible individuals primed for success. At this institution, education transcends rote learning—it’s about nurturing holistic beings who excel academically while embodying empathy and integrity.
St. George’s School is an all-boys program that offers several benefits. Parents choose this setting for their children because it provides a focused environment that caters to the unique learning styles and needs of male students. The school places a great emphasis on developing positive role models and provides a space where boys can form positive peer relationships and support networks. Moreover, the curriculum is tailored towards boys’ interests, offering a wide range of academic, athletic, and artistic options.
Imagine a dynamic atmosphere pulsating with lively discussions, community service endeavours, and collaborative ventures. Here, students don’t just absorb knowledge; they actively engage with diverse viewpoints and embrace the beauty of inclusivity. Whether they’re debating in class, volunteering for local causes, or teaming up on projects, every interaction fuels personal and intellectual growth.
Yet, what truly distinguishes St. George’s is its unwavering commitment to character development. Recognising that education extends beyond the confines of textbooks, the school infuses values like empathy, integrity, and resilience into the very fabric of daily life, from academic pursuits to extracurricular pursuits.
Consider the advisor program, a cornerstone of the school’s ethos. Each student is paired with a mentor who becomes their trusted guide throughout their academic journey, offering support, encouragement, and a compassionate ear. It’s akin to having a personal champion cheering them on as they navigate the highs and lows of adolescence.
And when it comes to facing challenges, St. George’s encourages students to embrace risk and glean wisdom from setbacks. Whether on the sports field or in the classroom, they’re urged to step outside their comfort zones, take calculated risks, and emerge stronger and more resilient. After all, life’s journey is rife with hurdles, and St. George’s equips its students with the fortitude to surmount them with grace and determination.
Shaping Multi-Talented Leaders
When it comes to preparing students for the fast-paced world we live in, St. George’s School in Canada stands out from the crowd. First off, let’s talk about options—St. George’s offers a smorgasbord of academic courses and extracurricular activities, ensuring every student finds their niche. With nearly 30 AP courses, 40 athletic options, and 50 clubs to choose from, students here aren’t just scholars—they’re multi-talented, multi-passionate individuals. Whether they’re hitting the books or hitting the field, there’s something for everyone at St. George’s.
But it’s not just what happens inside the classroom that sets St. George’s apart—it’s what happens outdoors too. Nestled in the breath-taking landscape of Vancouver, the school takes full advantage of its natural surroundings with an extensive outdoor education program. From mountain hikes to coastal kayaking, students here don’t just learn about nature—they experience it first-hand, fostering a deeper connection to the world around them.
And let’s not forget about history—St. George’s has been shaping young minds for over 90 years, with a legacy of excellence and community engagement that runs deep. Alumni from all walks of life—CEOs, artists, athletes, and even politicians—have passed through these halls, leaving their mark on the world and inspiring future generations to do the same.
Looking at the business sector, St. George’s spirit of entrepreneurship is evident in the many CEOs and leading corporate executives that we have produced over the years, including Jake Kerr ‘61 and Bill Thomas ‘85, both who led Canadian Fortune 500 companies. However, the wide range of careers of St. George’s alumni speaks to the well-rounded nature of its students, including graduates who have gone on to become Supreme Court justices and nationally recognized artists, or award-winning rock stars and elected members of government. Finally, the school’s athletics performance is demonstrated by the many Olympians the school has produced over the years – a dozen in the past 20 years alone.
The Harkness Method and Dragons’ Lair
To contribute to the overall learning experience of the students, St. George’s School employs secret weapon: the Harkness method. Picture this: instead of the typical teacher-at-the-front-of-the-classroom scenario, students gather around a table for a lively, collaborative discussion. Here, the teacher isn’t the sage on the stage but a guide on the side, encouraging students to lead the way. It’s all about fostering critical thinking, communication skills, and a sense of accountability.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting—this method is particularly effective in an all-boys environment like St. George’s. Why? Because boys thrive when they’re actively involved in their learning. The competitive spirit kicks in, and suddenly, they’re eager to share their thoughts and learn from each other. It’s like turning learning into a team sport—everyone wins when they collaborate and compete in a healthy way.
But wait, there’s more! The Dragons’ Lair program—a highlight of the St. George’s experience. This annual business pitch competition isn’t just about presenting ideas; it’s about turning dreams into reality. Students get the chance to develop products or services that could change the world, then pitch them to a panel of alumni with industry expertise. The best pitches receive not only investment funds but also invaluable mentorship to bring their ideas to life.
The ideas that come out of Dragons’ Lair are mind-blowing. From cutting-edge sports training tools to innovative home security systems, these students aren’t just thinking outside the box—they’re redefining it. Who knows, the next big thing in technology or innovation could very well come from the halls of St. George’s School.
Global Citizenship and Innovation
St. George’s School’s global perspective is not just about learning within the four walls of a classroom—it’s about understanding our place in the world and making a difference in our communities, near and far. Enter the Global Stewardship program—a cornerstone of the St. George’s experience. Every student, from the youngest to the oldest, gets involved in activities that go beyond textbooks and tests. It’s all about becoming active participants in our communities, whether through mentoring, environmental initiatives, or volunteering throughout the city of Vancouver.
Take, for example, the mentorship programs in community schools or the annual beach clean-ups. These aren’t just one-off events—they’re opportunities for students to forge meaningful connections and make a real impact in the world around them.
At St. George’s, global perspectives aren’t just sprinkled here and there—they’re woven into the very fabric of the curriculum. Teachers don’t just teach—they inspire, using real-life examples and case studies to broaden students’ understanding of the world. And with a diverse and multicultural community representing over 18 countries in the boarding program alone, learning isn’t just about textbooks—it’s about learning from each other.
On the other hand, critical thinking and problem-solving are more important than ever in today’s rapidly changing world. That’s why St. George’s places a strong emphasis on developing these skills across all subjects. Whether it’s through inquiry-based learning or project-based assignments, students are challenged to think creatively and devise innovative solutions to complex problems.
And let’s not forget about technology. In a world where AI is king, St. George’s is ahead of the curve, integrating tech seamlessly into the curriculum. From online learning platforms to media arts and computer programming courses, students here aren’t just users of technology—they’re creators, shaping the future with their ingenuity and innovation.
Thriving in the Urban Hub
St. George’s School’s urban boarding program, catering to students from Grades 8 to 12, plays a pivotal role in fostering holistic growth and development. Unlike traditional rural boarding programs, the urban setting in Vancouver opens up a world of possibilities. From thrilling evenings at laser tag and performances at the Vancouver Symphony to outdoor adventures like skiing and kayaking, there’s never a dull moment for the boarders. Whether it’s sports, arts, or student organizations, there’s something for everyone to explore and lead.
But it’s not just about the activities—it’s about the community. The boarding program fosters a tight-knit environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to live and learn. Here, independence isn’t just encouraged—it’s embraced. Boarders learn to manage their daily routines, make responsible decisions, and navigate the complexities of university life, all while developing a strong sense of self-reliance and discipline.
When it comes to academics, the boarding environment provides the perfect balance of structure and support. With dedicated study spaces, supervised study sessions, and faculty serving as House-Parents to offer additional assistance, students have everything they need to excel academically.
But perhaps most importantly, St. George’s School is committed to preparing students not just for success, but for significance. The vision for the future, outlined in the strategic plan “Ready and Relevant,” is rooted in the belief that education should empower students to make a positive impact on the world around them. Whether it’s through ambitious action, new thinking, or simply striving to do good, the graduates are equipped to shape the future and make a difference wherever they go.
As the Head of School eloquently puts it, “There are many ways to be a man and many places where our graduates may choose to make an impact. Many different ways to positively support, partner, nurture, inspire and lead the communities that they choose to be in.” At St. George’s, the focus is on nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and ready to lead with compassion and integrity.
So, for those ready to embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and making a difference, the St. George’s School’s urban boarding program is the place to be. Join the community, and let’s redefine what it means to be an impact maker in the world.
For More Info: https://www.stgeorges.bc.ca/