Brentwood College School - Review #20

What makes my school unique compared to others is its balance of strong academics with a very intentional connection to nature. Coming from Edmonton, I loved that the school made outdoor education mandatory and it wasn’t just about hiking or camping, but about learning how ecosystems work and how humans fit within them. The fact that service, arts, and athletics were all required also pushed me into areas I might not have chosen myself. It’s a school that refuses to let you be one-dimensional.

What I liked most about the school was how it encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. I didn’t think of myself as a leader before, but by Grade 12 I was running a council and helping to organize environmental campaigns. The confidence I gained came directly from opportunities the school put in front of me.

If I could give advice to a new student, I’d say don’t be afraid to try something that scares you, whether it’s a new sport, a new subject, or introducing yourself to someone. The best moments usually come from those leaps.

Without a doubt, the sense of balance. I never felt like I had to choose between being “the science kid” or “the sporty one” or “the artsy one.” The school expected us to try everything, and in doing so, I discovered passions I didn’t know I had. That combination of academics, arts, athletics, and service shaped me into a more well-rounded person.

Don’t be afraid to try something that scares you whether it’s speaking up in debate, joining a team you’ve never played before, or signing up for a class outside your comfort zone. The best memories usually come from the risks you take here. Also, small but important, try the cinnamon buns at the snack bar. They were legendary and always worth the wait in line. If you’re visiting campus, make sure you check out the science labs and the astronomy dome, they’re incredible. And if you’re choosing dorms, I have a soft spot for mine, which always felt like the coziest, most welcoming spot after long days.

As someone who naturally gravitates toward science, I loved how hands-on and lab-focused the courses were. For example, in chemistry we didn’t just learn formulas; we were constantly running experiments and even designed our own mini-research projects in Grade 12. Teachers pushed us to think critically, not just memorize. I definitely feel the way I was taught, asking questions, designing experiments, working in teams, prepared me for university-level Natural Sciences.

Athletics were taken seriously, but they weren’t intimidating. I wasn’t the best but I still found a place on the volleyball team and also tried cross-country skiing, something I never would have done in Edmonton. Coaches emphasized growth and effort over raw talent, which made sports a lot more fun for me.

Even though I’m more of a science person, I appreciated how the arts were woven into school life. I joined ceramics one term and still keep the (slightly lopsided) bowl I made. The theatre productions were professional-level sets, costumes, lighting, watching friends on stage gave me a real sense of pride in the community.

Clubs ranged from robotics to comic to photography. The rule was if you wanted to start something new, find a staff sponsor and you had the freedom to make it happen. That culture of initiative shaped a lot of how I see leadership now.

Dorms were welcoming and surprisingly homey. Living with peers meant that study groups formed naturally, and there was always someone to chat with late at night when homesickness hit. Senior students looked out for juniors—something I appreciated my first year. It felt like an extended family, with all the quirks that come along with that.

Food was actually better than I expected, there was always variety and effort to reflect cultural diversity. I especially loved “international nights,” where students from different backgrounds got to help plan the menu. For someone who had never tried much beyond Western food before, it was eye-opening.

The school’s location was small-town, but I came to appreciate that. On weekends, friends and I would walk into town for coffee or a bite to eat. It wasn’t Edmonton, but it didn’t need to be. The quieter setting helped us focus, while still giving us the occasional escape.

Social life centered around house events, sports games, and weekend outings. Everyone had different circles, but the community was small enough that you knew almost everyone by name. The friendships I made felt genuine because we lived, studied, and grew together every single day.