Brentwood College School - Review #13

Brentwood wasn’t just the place I went to school; it was the place that shaped how I see myself and the world. Coming from Vancouver, I thought I had a sense of community already, but Brentwood showed me what it means to really live, learn, and grow alongside people who push you to be your best. Between the sea, the campus, and the energy of the people, it felt like every day had purpose.

The best thing that happened to me at Brentwood was finding confidence in myself. I came in unsure, quiet, and worried about how I’d fit. I left with lifelong friends, stronger values, and the belief that I could handle tough challenges.

If I could do something differently, I’d tell myself in Grade 9 not to hold back anymore but jump in sooner, try more, and stop worrying about what others think.

What I liked most about Brentwood was the balance. It wasn’t just academics, or just sports, or just arts, it was everything. Brentwood gives you the chance to grow in ways you didn’t even know you needed.

If you’re new to Brentwood, don’t be afraid to stretch yourself. Join the activity you think you can’t do, sit with people outside your usual group, and spend time on the docks whenever you can. Also, never underestimate how quickly the brownies disappear in the dining hall, so get there early.

The IB program was tough. No way around it. But that challenge prepared me for Western’s science program better than anything else could. I liked how Brentwood’s teachers, like Mr. Garcia in chemistry or Ms. Li in biology, never made you feel like you were in it alone. They stayed after class, answered endless questions, and reminded us that the goal wasn’t just grades but it was learning how to think.

Even though I wasn’t a varsity star, being part of athletics at Brentwood gave me discipline and balance. Whether it was training with the rugby guys or hitting the gym with friends, the focus was always on pushing yourself a bit further than you thought you could. The coaches never let you forget that showing up every day matters just as much as winning.

One of the coolest parts about Brentwood is that you’re always surrounded by creativity. I had friends who lived for the stage, and seeing them in plays or musical showcases gave me a whole new appreciation for the arts. You didn’t have to be in the program to feel included as the whole school rallied around the performers. That was special.

I spent a lot of time in service opportunities, like helping with food drives and community cleanups. It wasn’t just about padding a résumé but it felt meaningful to be part of something that connected Brentwood to the wider world. The fact that service was built into the culture made it easy to step in and contribute.

Dorm life was unforgettable. Sharing space, night study sessions, borrowing toothpaste, arguing over playlists, those things made us more like brothers than classmates. Your dorm isn’t just where you sleep; it’s where you really learn about yourself and others. I wouldn’t trade those nights of laughter (and sometimes stress) for anything.

I will forever miss the dining hall hash browns and the Friday desserts. The food was always better than I expected at a boarding school, but what stood out was how meals brought everyone together. Sitting with friends, swapping stories about the day, and sometimes even eating with teachers, it felt like family dinners.

Mill Bay isn’t a big town, but it’s part of Brentwood’s charm. Going into town for coffee or snacks on the weekends, or just walking down by the water, gave a sense of calm and escape from the busyness of school life. It was the right mix of peaceful and connected.

It wasn’t about cliques but it was about community. What I loved most about Brentwood’s social life is how inclusive it was. Whether it was spirit events, house competitions, or just chilling on the dock, you always felt like there was a place for you.