School Leadership
What is the leadership style at North Point School? How do the school leaders shape the culture, priorities, and daily life of the community? How does this leadership style compare to that of other private and independent schools, and how might it influence your choice of school?
Page Contents
Facts and analysis
MESSAGE FROM THE LEADERSHIP
We asked Brent Devost, Head of School at North Point School for their message.
They offered insights into their vision, values, and the principles that define their leadership style.
Brent Devost, Head of School
B. Ed.
From our teachers and staff to our students and parents, we have all come together around the common purpose of making education exciting, invigorating, challenging and enjoyable for our boys. Over the past decade boys have fallen behind in classroom achievement, numbers going on to post-secondary education, and numbers getting jobs out of University. The research points to an education system not ideally designed for how boys learn and behave.
An education system that once focused on math and science and which encouraged healthy competition, now pushes reading and writing at a much younger age and rewards students who can sit still and listen quietly. This approach is not very effective for many boys, who tend to be kinesthetic learners. On occasion, this creates behaviour problems in the classroom simply because boys listen and learn better if they can move around and manipulate things. North Point provides a blended learning approach (using direct instruction and integrated technology platforms), and a daily program which integrates outdoor education and physical activity. This creates an environment where boys learn more attentively in a way that makes sense for them.
Research shows that boys develop language skills later than girls, and yet the pressure to read and write begins early in kindergarten, putting boys at a disadvantage right out of the gate, often turning them off school before they can develop a love of learning.
Teachers who have experience in an all boys' environment recognize that boys arrive to school fidgety, less organized and with a fascination for exploration, adventure and building. North Point School is about changing the way that boys are taught on every level, working with their strengths and appealing to their individual learning style.
