While the pursuits described below are essential to the schedule each week, Shawnigan is more than the sum of its core programs. At the center of a Shawnigan education lies a conversation about values, leadership, spirit, friendship, and commitment. This living conversation -- comprised of example, support, and trust, not lectures or finger-wagging -- makes Shawnigan a truly extraordinary school. We're looking for students who want to distinguish themselves, but, more than anything, we're a place to belong.
Academics: Shawnigan teachers are highly qualified, dedicated, and accomplished, and they create a learning environment relevant to the 21st century. From students, they demand commitment and hard work. The result is personal excellence, whether that means a full-slate of APs and admission to top universities in North America or abroad, or finally earning an 80% average.
Athletics: Our athletics program aims to develop the full potential of each student. A finer collection of coaches would be hard to find at this level anywhere in the world. Every student enrolls in one sport per term, and our coaches stress sportsmanship and respect for others at all times. We offer a range of sports, but intentionally limit the choices for juniors. We compete at the highest level in both local and Independent School leagues and have won both Provincial and National championships.
Fine Arts: The fine arts play a vital role in the development of Shawnigan students. Emphasis falls on personal growth and the development of life-long skills. We encourage students to try a variety of fine arts during their Shawnigan careers, and many achieve a stunning level of excellence. Shawnigan's superb studio facilities are available to the students seven days a week. Throughout the year, performance students are involved in concerts and festivals both locally and nationally. The visual arts also showcase student talents through national competitions and local galleries.
Leadership is a fundamental value at Shawnigan. We provide many official opportunities to lead, and we encourage all students to make leadership values central to their daily lives. Students are invited to set an active, positive example in any and all aspects of school life - in academics, fine arts, sports, around campus, and within the boarding houses. Although the most visible leadership positions go to senior students, we don't believe leadership depends upon visibility or seniority. Our grade eights have the opportunity to participate in the Junior Duke of Edinburgh program, for example, and each grade level provides leadership opportunities through the "Round Table" program.
We challenge students to set high standards for personal and collective commitment. Our faculty leads by example, as students are quick to perceive the gaps between the behaviors they are asked to embrace and the actions of the adults around them.
Through recognition of success, students from all disciplines are rewarded for leadership in their given fields, but we also ask students to recognize and accept the intangible rewards of leadership.
Our 300-acre campus is one of our greatest assets. The Shawnigan grounds have been described as among the most beautiful school campuses in the world, and our facilities and student services are second to none. The abundance of space provides a peaceful, safe educational environment.
Over the past number of years, we have completed a residential renewal program through which we have replaced or renovated the majority of student rooms. During the same period, we have reconstructed, or added, a number of academic facilities. Rather than wandering the halls of a vast academic building, students move between buildings in an academic village, with relatively small buildings organized more or less by department.
A picture may be worth a thousand words, but the extraordinary beauty and utility of the Shawnigan campus are best appreciated in person.
"The cost of a Shawnigan education is significant, but I believe the value is immeasurable." - David Robertson, Headmaster
Fees for the 2009-2010 school year (September 2009 to June 2010)
$34,900 BC Resident
$35,200 Canadian Resident
$39,800 US Resident
$46,400 International Student
$18,800 Day Student
A reduction of 5 percent will be allowed in respect of the annual fees for each younger brother or sister who has an elder sibling currently enrolled in the school.
Registration Fee and Deposit for New Students (Entering September 2009)
1. At the time of application: $200 Non-refundable Application Fee
2. At the time of acceptance: $2,000 Non-refundable Registration Fee, plus $3,000 Deposit on Fees
Funding a Shawnigan Education
Shawnigan is widely known as one of the finest university-preparatory schools in Canada. We understand the sacrifice families have to make for this remarkable educational opportunity. We believe that a school experience should prepare young people for the academic, emotional, and social challenges that will confront them in later life. Part of this experience involves working and living with people from diverse backgrounds-economic, social, cultural, and religious. At Shawnigan, we are committed to making our school accessible to as many gifted students as possible.
Financial Assistance/Bursary Program
Shawnigan offers need-based financial aid, or bursaries, to Canadian citizens who cannot afford the full tuition. Approximately one-fifth of Shawnigan students receive financial assistance, for up to 40% of the fees. While we attempt to assist as many families as possible, each year the need demonstrated by families exceeds our financial aid budget. Awards to both new and returning students are based on demonstrated need. Returning students applying, or reapplying, for financial aid must be in good academic and social standing. Final decisions rest with the Headmaster and financial aid applications are available through the Head's office. Requests should only be made after a student has been accepted and enrolled.
Scholarships
In addition to our Bursary Program, Shawnigan awards numerous merit-based scholarships to new students. Applicants who currently have an "A" average and strong involvement in extra-curricular activities are encouraged to write Scholarship Examinations. Scholarship Day for candidates applying for the 2010-2011 school year will take place in May 2010. Awards are based on competitive examinations (enriched mathematics, English composition, and school ability test), overall academic background and achievement, and extra-curricular involvement, including community service.
Assistance for All Families
Shawnigan's Annual Fund effort raised more than $900,000 during the 2007-2008 school year. The greater part of this total supports student services. As well, Shawnigan's endowment provides annual interest income to help meet our considerable budget needs. We are pleased to report that Shawnigan's annual tuition increases in recent years continue to be below those of most of our peer institutions.
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