REVIEW OF St. George's School BY student, Timothy Trinh

(5) Student Experience

My experience at St. George's School has been amazing, and I truly feel like I couldn't have asked for a better place to grow and learn. The transition was smooth when I arrived in grade 6, thanks to the welcoming community and supportive teachers who made it easy to adjust. I love the range of activities here, especially the sports, arts, and leadership opportunities. The athletics at St. George's, with my passion for basketball, keeps me active and allows me to bond with my classmates and develop team skills. Music is another passion of mine, and playing the bass clarinet here has been such a rewarding experience, with ample support and opportunities to improve. Ultimately, I have no regrets about coming to St. George’s, as it will be a great fit for anyone seeking greater opportunities to challenge themselves and find ways to impact others as they become a balanced, well-rounded learner.

(5) School Leadership

I have a lot of respect for the leadership at St. George's School, with many resources to reach out to, from your teachers, advisors, counsellors, and head of grades to our principals and headmaster. They truly create an environment where students feel supported academically, socially, and personally, making it a place where we can truly thrive. One thing I appreciate is the teachers’ dedication—they go above and beyond to ensure we understand our material and succeed, providing extra help when we need it and challenging us to reach our full potential. The personal and university counsellors are also fantastic; they make themselves available for personal or academic advice, helping us navigate both school and life challenges. All in all, the resources dedicated to us students are all we could ask for, they aim to help us succeed and gain valuable knowledge to take with us into life after St. George's.

(5) Teaching

At St. George's School, I think the teachers strike a good balance in terms of their expectations. They push us to achieve our best, but they’re also aware of the pressure and stress students experience. Generally, I feel I know what’s expected because they clearly outline assignments and provide rubrics, and they’re open to answering any questions we might have. This transparency helps alleviate any uncertainty about what we need to do to succeed. At times, they may challenge us, but through our perseverance, we grow and learn that it is acceptable to ask for help, as communication is the primary catalyst to our academic success. When teachers talk about success, I feel they mean more than just high grades. They encourage us to build skills that will serve us well beyond school, like critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience. Success, as they describe it, seems to be about becoming well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of the future, both academically and personally. Their focus on our overall development as people and learners makes our study feel purposeful and motivates us to put in the effort.

(4.5) Academics

I find the academic workload at St. George's to be challenging and overwhelming at times. However, it all comes down to our personal growth in finding ways we learn and study best, efficiently managing our time and understanding ways we best focus. It's a level that pushes me to work hard and manage my time well, which I think is perfect for preparing us for future studies. The teachers make sure that the material is both challenging and achievable, and they provide support when we need it so we don’t feel lost. Much of what we’re learning feels practical and relevant to real life. Beyond facts and formulas, the school focuses on developing skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, which I know will be valuable later on. This kind of learning feels purposeful and is one of the reasons I think St. George's prepares us well, as we know our learning and growth may lead us to future success as long as we stay consistent and determined.

(5) Extracurriculars

I take part in extracurriculars like basketball, boxercise, concert band, and Investment Club, which I enjoy. St. George's offers a good variety of clubs and sports, hoping students get out of their comfort zones. Many co-curriculars have recreational options for students to experience the sport even if they do not hope to take on the competitive versions. The range of activities helps students pursue their interests and find something they have strengths in, as the school hopes we make the most out of our time at St. George's. On the other hand, for the arts, there are also ways to get involved with the theatre performing arts and multiple music ensembles and bands to pursue if you are passionate. As well, for clubs, students often take their knowledge and experiences to teach and guide others. With their interests, they can have an impact on others, inspiring them to dive deeper into these areas which they may have never known of but find valuable for their future.

(5) Students

St. George's feels more like a close-knit family than just a school. We're a band of brothers, connected by shared values and a strong sense of community. Despite coming from different backgrounds, we bring unique experiences and perspectives that enrich our learning environment and make us stronger as a group. The school encourages respect, inclusivity, and teamwork, creating a place where everyone feels they belong and where friendships easily form. This atmosphere makes it easy for students to thrive, especially those who are open-minded, motivated, and willing to engage in the many opportunities the school offers. While students who struggle with balancing commitments might initially find it challenging, there’s always support available to help them adjust. Overall, the sense of camaraderie makes everyone feel connected, seen, and included, making St. George’s a welcoming place for all.

(5) School Life

As a current Student Ambassador Lead, with my experience, I’d start the tour at our gymnasium because it’s a place where I feel most connected. For me, the gym represents not just basketball practices and games but a space where students come together to cheer each other on, show school spirit, and work toward shared goals. It’s where friendships are strengthened, and team spirit is alive. From there, I’d guide them to our auditorium. This space holds many memorable moments for me, especially through concert band performances. The auditorium is also where we gather for assemblies, setting aside our busy lives to listen, reflect, and grow together. Both the gymnasium and auditorium showcase how St. George's fosters a strong sense of unity, providing places where students can connect, support each other, and feel part of something bigger than themselves.

(5) Community

St. George’s truly feels like a home to me. I often come in early to practice basketball or study before the school day begins, and those quiet, focused moments make the school feel like my personal space—a place where I can grow and prepare for each challenge. The memories I’ve made here, along with everything I’ve accomplished and worked hard for, make this school a permanent part of who I am. The school community is inclusive and supportive, creating a family-like atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to be themselves. Teachers, students, and staff all contribute to a culture that values each person’s unique talents and experiences. I feel appreciated and connected here, and I hope that future generations will find the same warmth, opportunity, and encouragement that I have. St. George’s will always be a place I hold dear.

(4.5) School Location

I’m currently in Grade 11, meaning I am not allowed to go off campus during the school day. However, looking forward to my Grade 12 year, I hope that I will be able to get out with friends for lunch as we enjoy our final year together. Nevertheless, looking back to days in the past when I stayed after school for activities or basketball, I’d sometimes head up to Dunbar with friends, creating memorable moments together. Locations like Pacific Spirit Regional Park and Camosun Park also hold special memories, especially from my time at Junior School, where we would compete, play, or explore, making these spots meaningful parts of my school experience.

(5) Admissions

The admissions process at St. George’s felt surprisingly smooth and well-structured, though I remember feeling quite nervous at the time. It included both a group and personal interview, which initially felt intimidating. I spent a lot of time stressing over these interviews but looking back, they were simply a way for the school to get to know us better—as individuals and as learners. St. George’s wanted to understand how we’d fit into the community and what unique qualities we’d bring. If I could advise someone applying, I’d say to relax and just be yourself. The admissions team genuinely wants to see who you are, so take a deep breath, trust yourself, and enjoy the process. It’s about discovering whether this environment is the best fit for your growth and learning.