Read more details about Shawnigan Lake School on their 2025-26 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
To me, Shawnigan Lake School is unique in that it is a close-knitted community. Rather than compete, collaboration is how students and staff practice on a daily basis. Also, Shawnigan instills a sense of leadership, especially in grade 12. We learned to take care of the younger students and run events for each house.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
Shawnigan has helped me grown into a more confident person. Before coming to SLS, I had a huge fear of public speaking. The school's Model UN program definitely helped me conquer the fear. Also, I've learned to trust my peers and the adults in the school, which really helps when times get stressful.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
If you don't like sports, then you might have a hard time in Grade 8 and 9, but it gets better. The further you move up in grades, the more freedom and choices you get. I wished I came in later (in grade 10).
4.) What did you like most about your school?
The teachers, for sure, is my favorite part of the school. It's harder to form personal connections with professors in college. SLS's teachers are the kindest people I've ever met.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
I recommend Groves' house. Don't buy stuff in the commissary because they're overpriced. Stock up as much as you can before you leave for boarding school.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
My favorite thing about academics is the teachers themselves. They are all very approachable. They guide me inside and outside the classrooms. I feel comfortable enough to reach out to them on personal and academic matters. They act as parents.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
It's diverse, and let's you explore all kinds of sports. I've never been in any competitive team, but a lot of my friends did. They all enjoyed it immensely.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
My favorite thing about the arts program is the opportunity that comes with it. I was able to immerse in Model UN and homework helper without previous experience in the field. All the teachers are willing to teach you from step 1, which I appreciate.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
The volunteering opportunities are very enjoyable. More opportunities arise when I entered grade 11. My favorite has to be Children and Apple pie. We went to a local school to help out with an event. There were many games and good food.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
We don't really get to choose our roommates until grade 11 and 12. The dorm set up is basically dividing the grades by floor. Girls bake, watch movies, and do each other's nails often. It's a very nice atmosphere.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
I don't like the school's dining at all.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
I don't like the school's surrounding area. There isn't much access to entertainment. There is a small village nearby where people would walk over to escape the school's food on the weekends (about a 15-minute walk).
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
The social life is pretty much the same as you would get in an average high school. One problem I have is the adults' over-involvement in a student's social life.
Read more details about Shawnigan Lake School on their 2025-26 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
To me, Shawnigan Lake School is unique in that it is a close-knitted community. Rather than compete, collaboration is how students and staff practice on a daily basis. Also, Shawnigan instills a sense of leadership. . .
The first thing you'll notice about Shawnigan that sets it apart is its stunning natural beauty set in a quiet, quaint, rural area. The buildings and facilities are spectacular and the very first time. . .
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