Bishop's College School - Viewbook

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Bishop’sCollegeSchool

Since 1836

With a campus bordered by farmland and rolling hills, Bishop’s College School is a small, welcoming community established in 1836.

Located in a university town in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, our school programs are rigorous yet supportive, and challenging yet nurturing. Our students are well-rounded, motivated learners who are eager to welcome new challenges.

Our mission is simple: to provide students with a complete education to prepare them for success in university and in life.

Photo: Ville de Sherbrooke

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BCS is an English-language co-educational seven-day boarding and day school for Forms II through VII (grades 7 through 12).

Our sprawling campus is a blend of picturesque landscapes, historic architecture and modern facilities. BCS provides the ideal venue for your departure into a whole new world of higher learning, discovery and opportunity.

We’re closer than you think!

Montreal, QC 161 km / 100 mi Quebec City, QC 239 km / 148 mi Portland, ME 278 km / 173 miOttawa, ON 353 km / 219 miBoston, MA 403 km / 251 miHartford, CT 455 km / 283 miNew York City, NY 640 km / 398 miToronto, ON 703 km / 436 mi

The ideal location

Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lakes, BCS is less than two hours east of Montreal.

Our campus is 10 minutes from downtown Sherbrooke, a small city with two universities and two colleges. There’s no shortage of things to do, with numerous ski centres, hiking trails, stores, restaurants, and movie theatres nearby.

Discover more about the area online:

www.destinationsherbrooke.com/enwww.easterntownships.org

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4 ACADEMICS 5 A Caring Network Advisors Program Learning Skills

6 University Preparation

9 Technology in the Classroom Applied Learning

11 Bilingual Option: French and English English as a Second Language

12 Arts Visual Arts Dance

15 Drama Music

16 Athletics Facilities 18 A GLOBAL COMMUNITY A Culture of Leadership

20 Beyond the Classroom

23 Community Outreach Co-curricular Activities

24 RESIDENTIAL LIFE 26 Boarding Life, Trips, Activities House Amenities

29 COME VISIT US! Admissions Process

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The very essence of BCS is the strength of our rigorous academic program that empowers students to think independently, critically, and creatively.

Small classes create a highly collaborative educational experience. Students learn alongside motivated classmates from around the world, with guidance from teachers and supervisors. A

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Learning SkillsA wide range of services are available to empower students to become self-assured, independent learners, including: class workshops, a writing centre, math support, one-on-one assistance, tutoring, and individualized lesson plans.

Learning strategists at the R.D.W. Howson Enrichment Centre work in conjunction with teachers to help students develop confidence in their own abilities. The centre provides the tools students need to excel in their studies and in life.

Recognizing that not everyone has the the same learning styles or needs, our staff work collaboratively with students to help them set goals, manage their time, rank their priorities, and find strategies to help them succeed academically.

With this network of support in place, students are better equipped to rise to any challenge, whether it’s signing up for the SATs, taking advanced courses or reciting a poem in front of the whole school.

A Caring NetworkThe average class size is 15 students, making it possible for teachers to be involved in each student’s development. The individual attention goes far beyond the classroom—our dedicated faculty members provide a strong network of support, offering after-hours help, mentorship, and guidance. Teachers, Advisors, Houseparents, Assistant Houseparents, Residential Assistants, staff, and coaches help ensure students are on the path to success.

In addition to their regular duties, faculty and staff participate fully in the life of the school: leading activities, coaching sports teams, and organizing school trips. They are passionate about BCS and help to promote a positive, collaborative learning environment.

Advisors Program

Each BCS student is paired up with a member of faculty or staff who serves as their Advisor. The Advisor focuses primarily on the student’s academic and social progress and is involved in their daily lives. They also serve as a key advocate for each student and help mentor them through academic and personal challenges. Students regularly meet with their Advisor in small discussion groups with the aim of cultivating an atmosphere of trust in which students can speak openly. Advisors provide an important link between home and school, supporting students and keeping the lines of communication open with parents.

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Bishop’s University Bridge Program Form VII students in high academic standing have a unique opportunity to further excel through our Bridge Program with neighbouring Bishop’s University. Eligible students can enroll in a first-year university course of their choice, giving them exposure to lecture-based instruction and advanced curriculum. Students receive university credit for successfully completing courses, helping to accelerate their post-secondary studies.

University PreparationPursuit of academic excellence is a fundamental goal at BCS, and the school is proud that all BCS graduates go on to post-secondary education. Our diplomas are recognized by universities around the world. With the required prerequisites, Form VI students will receive a Quebec High School Leaving Diploma, while Form VII students graduate with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). With the OSSD, students can attend universities in Quebec, across Canada, or around the world.

Our university counsellor is eager to assist students in choosing a college or university that matches their interests, abilities, and career aspirations. Students also have access to teachers, tutors, and advisors for guidance and encouragement throughout the application process.

Blended Learning Through a partnership with Ontario’s Virtual High School, we offer blended learning in Form VII. BCS teachers provide instruction, assessment and enrichment in the classroom, while students follow an online course containing additional notes and exercises. Students learn to take initiative, be self-motivated, and manage their time effectively. Graduates of our blended learning program have commented on its significant role in preparing them for university classrooms of the 21st century.

University Placement Our students have abundant post-secondary choices. In recent years, they have been offered admission at many universities, including: (Canada) McGill, University of Toronto, Queen’s, University of British Columbia, Concordia, Waterloo, Western, Dalhousie, Ryerson, Carleton, Bishop’s University; (USA) Harvard, Stanford, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Brown, Carnegie Mellon, University of California Berkeley; (Asia) KAIST Seoul, Chulalongkorn University; (Europe) University of Edinburgh, Imperial College London, University of Sheffield, University of St. Andrew’s, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, MBA Institute Paris.



Technology in the ClassroomTechnology is integrated into our academic program, allowing students and teachers to take advantage of innovative tools to connect with each other, deepen their understanding of complex topics, and gain new insight. Each student will be issued a laptop for the year, provided by BCS. As of fall 2014, students in Form II-III will have iPads. The project will be expanded to other grade levels in the future. Our facilities are modern and well equipped, with Apple TVs and short-throw projectors in every classroom, a new science wing, campus wide Wi-Fi, and web-based tools.

Applied LearningBCS students are exposed to a range of teaching methods, tools and resources that spark imagination, accommodate different learning styles and cater to individual interests.

All departments—English, French, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, Arts, and Physical Education—start with the fundamentals in Form II and build toward a wide array of challenging options through Form VII, such as:

In all of our courses, students develop critical thinking, writing, speaking, listening, and reading skills. They learn to analyze, articulate, and defend conclusions, while also looking to other disciplines for solutions to real world problems.

EnglishCreative WritingAdvanced FunctionsCalculus & VectorsData ManagementBiology

ChemistryPhysicsAccountingEconomicsHistoryPolitical Science

PhilosophySociologyArtMusicDramaComputer Science

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Bilingual Option: French and EnglishThe T.H.P. Molson Bilingual Option Program allows students to learn a second language and benefit from the unique cultural richness found in Quebec and Canada. Well-structured courses help students attain a working practical knowledge of French. Program graduates will be able to use French with confidence in academic, professional, or social settings.

In order to sign up for this option, students should have basic proficiency in French allowing them to write essays and participate in class discussions.

French-speaking students can also benefit from this program, since they can take certain classes in their mother tongue, helping ease the transition to an English school.

Current courses offered in French:

Form III Univers social (Social Science)Form IV Histoire et éducation à la citoyenneté (History & Citizenship)Form V Histoire et éducation à la citoyennetéForm VI Monde contemporain (Contemporary World)

English as Second Language (ESL)

Students for whom English is not their first language receive dedicated support through our ESL program for Forms II to V.

A well-appointed ESL Centre provides a welcoming environment for students to improve their English proficiency and work towards integration into our regular English program.

Summer Language Camp

For students who want to learn either English or French as a second language, BCS also offers a Summer Language Camp. Please see our website for details:

www.bishopscollegeschool.com/summer-language-camp

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ARTScreate


Visual ArtsStudents with a passion for the arts have no shortage of opportunities at BCS, and students who have not yet discovered their passion have a place to learn and explore. In our spacious art studio, students can experiment with a wide range of media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture and any others that interest them. The art program has a focus on creativity and studio work as well as art history and theory.

Since 1992, BCS has held the Stoker Arts Festival each spring for students to attend workshops run by local artists. They also have a chance to participate in an exhibition of student works and enjoy live performances by musicians from the Sherbrooke area.

For those who would like to see their work published, our award-winning student-run magazine, Inscape, features drawings, paintings, photography, stories, and poetry.

Dance Led by a professional dance instructor with more than 25 years of experience, students learn, practice and perform jazz, classical ballet, contemporary and hip hop in the dance studio.

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Drama The BCS Drama program offers students a chance to challenge themselves by working on stage, developing acting skills and portraying authentic characters. There are opportunities to write and perform monologues, short plays and film scripts; to build sets and props; and to create film projects.

The performance space is the R. Lewis Evans Memorial Theatre, a 90-seat black box theatre with computer-controlled lighting and audio systems, which are operated by students. BCS Drama also has a studio classroom / rehearsal hall. Two major productions take place each school year.

Music With four bands (marching, junior, senior, stage), a choir, and the chance to perform at events throughout the year, music is well integrated into life at BCS. In class, students develop an appreciation for various styles of music, including jazz, classical and popular. The BCS Choir performs at the school, in Montreal, and at Bishop’s University during the year.

There are three major music events every year: the Christmas Concert, the Spring Concert and the Cadet Inspection.

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ATHLETICS

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Athletics are an integral part of daily life at BCS, with all students participating in either team or individual sports five days a week. Being part of a team helps young people develop maturity, confidence, cooperation, and leadership. For those who seek the thrill of competition, we have a wide range of options including rugby, hockey, skiing, and ultimate frisbee. Recreational sports are also available: non-competitive intramurals, fitness, and adventure training. Sports offered by season:

FacilitiesBCS athletic facilities include an on-campus indoor hockey rink, two full-size basketball courts, a 40-foot climbing wall, three international squash courts, and a fitness centre. Outdoor facilities include six sports fields, three tennis courts, a softball field, and several kilometres of wooded cross-country trails. A university swimming pool and the local golf course are within walking distance of BCS.


“ I have been exposed to a new standard here: a standard of challenging yourself and exceeding your limits, which now translates into every-thing I do. Although many people think sports get in the way of our daily lives, I think they add in many ways: they teach us respect, coopera-tion, communication, sharing, focus, hard work, and commitment.” Victoria L.

Fall Adventure TrainingCross-country RunningFootballHorseback Riding*SoccerIntramurals

WinterAlpine Skiing* Basketball Winter Adventure TrainingCross-country SkiingCurling Dance HockeySnowboarding*SquashSwimming

Spring Climbing Fitness Ultimate Frisbee Golf* Rugby Softball Tennis Horseback Riding*

* Additional fees required

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A GLOBAL COMMUNITY


Smaller class sizes create a highly collaborative educational experience. Learn and develop close associations with enthusiastic class-mates, teachers, coaches and staff. Actively participate in discovery, new ideas, and different points of view—learning from each other in a myriad of imaginative ways. At BCS, we all share the goal of enriching one another’s lives, personally and academically.

A Culture of LeadershipBCS has a strong culture of student leadership. We are committed to helping students become well-rounded individuals, who feel empowered to assume leadership roles. Through our involvement with global organizations, students have many opportunities to explore their capabilities by volunteering for service projects locally and internationally. Students assist those in need while cultivating skills and a compassion for others—inspiring what we hope will be a lifelong commitment to engagement in their communities.


The diversity of our student body is one of our greatest strengths. International students make up nearly 40 percent of our population, representing 24 different nations. Students from around the world live, work, and play alongside each other, developing lifelong bonds. The cultural exchanges that take place on a daily basis allow our students to learn about each other’s traditions, values, languages, and beliefs.

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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Students aged 14 and up can participate in the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program, which operates in more than 100 countries. By being involved in a wide range of activities and volunteer opportunities, students accumulate hours toward a Gold, Silver, or Bronze level award. Duke of Ed, as the program is known at BCS, helps develop character, discipline, teamwork, confidence, and responsibility. The awards are recognized by universities and employers.

www.dofe.org

Ondaatje Endeavour A small group of students join our annual Ondaatje Endeavour, a world class expedition which tests stamina and courage. The goal of this endeavour is to challenge students to do things they would not otherwise do, so that they discover that their potential is, indeed, greater than they would have otherwise thought. In recent years, groups have gone horseback riding in the Andes, hiking in Morocco, scuba diving in Belize, and cycling in Peru.

Beyond the ClassroomAt BCS, we believe that participating in school activities, volunteering for community events, and taking part in international projects are all key learning experiences that help develop active, contributing members of society. Our students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones by getting involved in multi-cultural initiatives, exchanges, and adventure programs. For example, at the end of every school year, an exemplary Form V student is presented with the Outward Bound Award, which includes an all-expenses paid leadership trip through Outward Bound, a non-profit educational organization and expedition school. Students can also spend a term abroad at another school, immerse themselves in a new culture during a service trip, or represent the school at global leadership conferences. In the end, the entire school benefits: upon returning to BCS, students share their experiences with their fellow students and teachers through presentations at morning assembly.

Round Square BCS believes in fostering international understanding, and is one of more than 100 members belonging to Round Square—a worldwide association of schools working to promote dedication to service, internationalism, democracy, environmental conservation, and adventure. Through Round Square, students can go on exchange, volunteer for projects in developing countries, attend international conferences as BCS ambassadors, and participate in activities at school and in the local community.

www.roundsquare.org


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Co-curricular Activities

Community OutreachBCS is honoured by its relationship with our neighbours in the Lennoxville-Sherbrooke area. Our students engage with the community in many ways: helping stock the local food bank; singing carols at the seniors’ home; preparing a holiday dinner at the women’s shelter; participating in the Lennoxville Terry Fox Run for cancer research; attending memorial services for veterans; caring for pets at animal shelters; cleaning up graffiti and trash; and raising funds for homeless teens. Our students, teachers and staff also organize awareness days and fundraisers for many causes, including Pink Shirt Day (on the left) against bullying, Denim Day for domestic abuse, Media Awareness Week, Movember for men’s cancers, and many more.

Clubs and Groups BCS has a myriad of student-led groups, such as: Human Rights, Choir, Yearbook, Pride Alliance, Amnesty International, Environmental Club, Players’ Club, Band, Inscape literary magazine, Robotics, Model UN, and Carnival.

Activities Students also have activity periods, during which they can choose from many options, including: Chess, Debating, Film, Knitting, Rocketry, Yoga, Philosophies Café, Recreational Hockey, and Zumba.

Cadets Established in 1861, the Bishop’s College School No. 2 Cadet Corps is the oldest continually active school cadet program in Canada. Our program focuses on leadership, teamwork, skills development, self-discipline, and cooperation. This respected school tradition provides formal training in team-building as well as outdoor survival and emergency first aid.The highlight of the cadet program is the ceremonial Cadet Parade and Inspection that takes place every spring. All students participate in the cadet program throughout their time at BCS.

“ My three sons attended BCS and learned about the importance of community service and giving back to the world through their experiences at the school.” Perry C.

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BCS is a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. With a strong campus support system, varied activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, our residential program helps students thrive—growing and learning surrounded by caring and attentive role models.

Our structured boarding program helps students develop independence and personal responsibility, which will benefit them once they move on to university.

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House AmenitiesThe residences provide everything students need for studying, living, and socializing at BCS. Each room is shared by two students and includes workspace and storage. Residences feature common rooms, internet access, telephones, TVs, DVD players, and kitchens where students can prepare food at night or on weekends. Each house also runs its own tuck shop, where students can purchase snacks and drinks.

Boarding Life, Trips, Activities Houseparents provide structure within the residences. Just like parents, they celebrate victories, inspire achievements, and comfort heartaches. Teachers are also involved in residential life, offering supervision and mentorship alongside Houseparents on evenings and weekends.

On weekends, both boarding and day students take part in a variety of fun activities, such as: skiing/snowboarding, movies, go-karting, shopping, dances, sporting events, talent shows, skating, amusement parks, and drop-in basketball. They also have access to the town of Lennoxville, the Student Centre and the sports complex, for a relaxing or hanging out with friends.

From sightseeing to white-water rafting, attending hockey games or an opera, students regularly enjoy cultural, recreational, and sporting events in the area. Long weekends feature trips to destinations such as Toronto, Quebec City, Niagara Falls, Disney World and New York City.

Through these interactions and experiences, international students have a chance to learn about Quebec and Canadian culture. For students who must travel on their own, we supervise ground transportation to and from the airport and coordinate arrangements with families.

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“ I have developed so many great friendships and wonderful memories over my six years here. BCS is a community that celebrates multiculturalism and opens many doors around the world through the close relationships we build.” Laurie I.

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All applicants write a BCS Math and English entrance test. These tests can be administered at BCS or at your current school under the supervision of a teacher or counsellor.

Results from the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), or TOEFL Junior completed within the current year may be submitted in lieu of these tests.

Additional testing may be requested in some cases.

Admissions Process

BCS Application Form $100 CAD application fee.Two recent passport size photographs of the applicant. Apply online at www.bishopscollegeschool.com/admissions/apply or send the completed forms via fax, email, mail or courier.

Confidential Report from SchoolsAn administrator or teacher at the applicant’s current school must complete the report and send it directly to BCS by mail, email or fax (819-566-8123).

Financial Assistance Application (if applicable)

Government-issued IdentificationFor Canadian applicants: a copy of the official long version of the birth certificate showing the names of both parents. For international students: a copy the passport identification page and a birth certificate translated into English.

Copies of school transcripts We require copies of the previous year’s transcript and the most recent report card with the application. The student’s year-end transcript must be submitted prior to arrival in September. If these documents are in a language other than English or French, they must be translated into English prior to submission. Additional transcripts may be required for Form VI and VII applicants.

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Join us for a student-led tour of our campus to find out more about life at BCS. To arrange a visit, please contact the Admissions Office by calling 819-566-0227 or by sending an email to [email protected]

Come Visit Us!

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. We require entrance tests and an interview with a member of the Admissions staff. For students who are unable to join us on campus, interviews can be arranged via Skype.

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For more information, visit www.bishopscollegeschool.com/admissions

80 Chemin Moulton HillC.P. 5001, Succ. LennoxvilleSherbrooke, QC J1M 1Z8 CANADAT +1 (819) 566-0227 1 (877) 570-7542 (toll-free) F +1 (819) [email protected]

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Bishop's College School - Viewbook