Brentwood College School - Review #19

What makes Brentwood unique among boarding schools is its tripartite approach, which requires every student to balance academics, arts, and athletics. Unlike many schools where one area dominates, Brentwood makes all three equally important, and that balance helped me discover strengths I didn’t know I had. Another defining aspect is the campus itself right on the Pacific Ocean. Rowing, waterfront gatherings, even just walking to class with ocean views made everyday life feel extraordinary. The combination of this breathtaking setting with a community that values balance, independence, and global diversity makes Brentwood unlike any other place I’ve known.

The best thing that happened to me at Brentwood was realizing how much I could grow when pushed outside my comfort zone. Rowing at dawn, performing in front of an audience, or adjusting to dorm life all seemed intimidating at first, but they made me stronger, more confident, and more open-minded.

Looking back, I might have been less nervous about trying new things earlier, but I learned that saying yes leads to the best memories.

What I liked most about Brentwood was the balance it gave me. I wasn’t only a student or only an athlete or only an artist, I was encouraged to be all three. That sense of balance shaped me into a more well-rounded person.

For new students, I’d say embrace the opportunities, even the ones that feel unfamiliar. My favorite place on campus was the waterfront, where I could think, recharge, and remember how lucky I was to be in such a beautiful setting. If you’re considering a dorm, I’d recommend one where you’ll feel comfortable building close relationships, because those friendships will become your greatest support system.

The academics at Brentwood were rigorous, but what I liked most was how approachable the teachers were. They lived on campus, coached our teams, and were part of our daily lives, so they understood us beyond the classroom. The range of courses also gave me freedom to explore, from sciences to creative electives. The workload was demanding, but it prepared me well for university because I learned how to manage my time, advocate for myself, and study independently.

Sports at Brentwood were both inclusive and competitive. Everyone was expected to participate, which created a culture of activity and balance. Rowing stood out as the signature sport, and training on the ocean became a defining part of my experience. But there were many options, from traditional team sports like basketball and soccer to recreational opportunities. The facilities were excellent, and the coaches truly cared about our growth as people, not just as athletes.

The arts program was one of my favorite parts of Brentwood. The school really commits to supporting creative expression, whether through music, visual arts, or theatre. Being part of productions gave me confidence I hadn’t expected to gain, and the facilities were professional-grade. It wasn’t about being the “best” but about finding your voice and appreciating the variety of talents around you.

Beyond academics and sports, Brentwood had countless clubs and volunteer opportunities. I joined community service initiatives where we worked with local organizations, and I also participated in student-run cultural events. These activities taught me leadership and empathy, while also helping me feel more connected to both the school and the wider community.

Dorm life at Brentwood was where I truly built my second family. Living with students from around the world taught me patience, compromise, and respect for different cultures. We had late-night study sessions, celebrations, and moments of homesickness that we supported each other through. It wasn’t always easy sharing space, but it was one of the most formative parts of my boarding school experience.

The dining hall at Brentwood was a gathering place more than just a spot to eat. The food was diverse, with healthy options and comfort food mixed in, and there was a real effort to accommodate different dietary needs. Meals were also social, a chance to catch up with friends, laugh, and relax.

The campus itself was so self-sufficient that we didn’t need to leave often, but the surrounding Vancouver Island community was welcoming. We could go into town for small outings, and the natural environment around us from beaches to forests, became our playground.

What I liked most about the social life at Brentwood was its inclusivity. Because of the tripartite system, students interacted across different areas, so you weren’t defined just by being an athlete or an artist. Events like house competitions and waterfront gatherings brought everyone together, and I made friendships across grades and backgrounds that I know will last a lifetime.