REVIEW OF St. George's School BY student, Ziming Wang

(5) Student Experience

Joining St. George’s in Grade 7, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the unique and supportive culture that defines both the Junior and Senior Schools. One aspect of Saints that stands out is the strong sense of community, where students cheer each other on through challenges and learn together from setbacks. The school has given me opportunities in academics, athletics, and the arts that I am incredibly grateful for. I’ve enjoyed playing volleyball and being part of the band, where I’ve grown as a student with the guidance of dedicated teachers and mentors. These experiences have allowed me to build meaningful relationships with teammates, coaches, and teachers who are always willing to provide support and encouragement. At Saints, there’s a genuine focus on helping each student reach their potential, creating a space where we can thrive not only as learners but as well-rounded individuals.

(5) School Leadership

At St. George’s, a value we strive towards learning, improving, and demonstrating is leadership and the importance of respecting those who embody it. I greatly admire our school leaders, including the headmaster, guidance counsellors, and teachers, who consistently set an example through their commitment and dedication. They play a crucial role in guiding us, offering wisdom and encouragement that inspire students like me to push beyond our limits. I especially respect how they lead by example, fostering a culture of empathy, accountability, and resilience. They excel in creating a safe and supportive environment, always ready to lend an ear or provide guidance when we need it most.

(4.5) Teaching

Through my experiences at St. George’s, I believe that the teachers push us to become the best version of ourselves, not only through academics but through the wisdom and life skills we gain along the way. Although they challenge us, they are always there to support us through any difficulties. I think they strike a good balance in what they ask of us—encouraging us to aim high while understanding our individual limits. The expectations are generally clear, and I appreciate that they often take the time to explain their goals to us. When teachers talk about success, I feel they envision it as more than just grades or academic achievements; they see it as developing resilience, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility. For them, success is about preparing us to make meaningful contributions to the world and become thoughtful, well-rounded individuals who can face life’s challenges with confidence.

(4.5) Academics

At St. George’s, the academic work feels well-balanced, challenging us without overwhelming us. One thing I appreciate is the ability to choose many of our own courses, which allows us to adapt our learning to our personal interests and strengths. This flexibility helps me stay engaged and ensures that I’m focusing on areas that will be meaningful to me in the future. The teachers also play a big role in supporting us through this journey; they’re always available to help clarify concepts or provide extra guidance when needed. I believe that the skills we are developing—critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving—will definitely be useful later in life. The academic program here isn’t just about memorizing facts but about shaping us into adaptable, capable individuals who can apply our learning beyond the classroom.

(5) Extracurriculars

I’m actively involved in extracurriculars at St. George’s. I played on the volleyball team, was part of the band, and now I take a lot of photos for the yearbook as well as participate in the Student Ambassador Program, where we guide new parents on tours. The school offers a wide range of clubs and activities, so there’s truly something for everyone. And if you have a unique interest, St. George’s encourages you to create your own club, so no one feels limited in their options. With all these opportunities, I feel like everyone has enough to do and is able to explore their passions fully. It’s a great environment for discovering new interests and connecting with other students who share them.

(5) Students

At St. George’s, each student is unique, bringing their own interests, strengths, and perspectives to the community. The school feels more like a close-knit town than a city, with a strong sense of support and connection among students. St. George’s strives to support everyone, recognizing that each student has different passions, whether they’re into sports, the arts, academics, or something else entirely. It’s easy to find your place here because the school offers so many options—from clubs and sports teams to music and academic programs. With such a wide range of activities and opportunities, every student can explore their interests and connect with others who share them. There’s a genuine effort to ensure everyone feels included and valued, making St. George’s a welcoming space for students from all backgrounds and passions.

(5) School Life

If I were asked to give a tour of the school to a group of visitors, I would start with the library. It’s a space that truly demonstrates the sense of community at St. George’s, where students come together to work on projects, collaborate, and support one another. Teachers are often available here to offer guidance, making it a place where learning extends beyond the classroom. The library also has a wide range of books and resources that we can borrow, supporting both our academic and personal interests. Additionally, the maker space within the library, equipped with 3D printers, tools, and other creative resources, allows us to bring our ideas to life. It’s a place that embodies the spirit of curiosity, innovation, and collaboration that defines St. George’s, making it the perfect introduction to the school’s culture.

(5) Community

St. George’s does feel like home to me because of the strong sense of community and belonging that permeates every part of school life. Whether it’s in classes, sports teams, or clubs, there’s always a feeling that everyone is valued, encouraged, and supported. Teachers and staff make an effort to get to know each student, which creates an atmosphere where we feel seen, respected, and genuinely appreciated for who we are. I believe the school genuinely strives to ensure that everyone feels included, offering various opportunities to get involved and find a place that resonates with them. The school’s emphasis on teamwork, respect, empathy, kindness, and inclusion makes it a welcoming environment where students from diverse backgrounds can connect, share experiences, and grow together, building lifelong relationships.

(5) School Location

Grade 12 students at St. George’s have the privilege of going off campus, and as a Grade 11 student, I’m really looking forward to experiencing that next year. However, with the wide range of facilities available on campus, there’s almost no need to leave during the school day. The library is a great spot for studying, collaborating with friends, and accessing resources, while the art room offers a creative space filled with tools and supplies for any project. The Lower Great Hall provides a comfortable environment for socializing, relaxing, or getting work done between classes. With so many facilities to utilize, most students tend to stay on campus, as everything we need to succeed and enjoy our day is right here.

(5) Admissions

The admissions process at St. George’s was straightforward yet thorough, allowing applicants to get a real sense of the school. I found the group interview particularly valuable—it was a great opportunity to interact with other applicants and begin to grasp the school’s atmosphere and values. The school tours provided further insight into the facilities and daily life at St. George’s, making it easier to picture myself as part of the community. While the process was challenging, especially with the focus on academics, I appreciated that St. George’s also placed significant emphasis on extracurriculars, valuing well-rounded students with diverse interests. Looking back, I would tell future applicants not to stress too much and to be genuine about their interests. St. George’s looks for individuals who contribute to the school in unique ways, so showcasing your passions and character is just as important as your academic achievements.