Spectrum Community School
Spectrum Community School
A multidisciplinary secondary school covering grades 9 through 12 in the western region of the Greater Victoria School District, Spectrum Community School is situated in Greater Victoria, Saanich, British Columbia. Established in 1974 as a replacement for Mount View High School, Spectrum Community School moved to its present facility in 1976. In 2005, the school underwent a significant $5.5 million addition and renovation, resulting in four computer labs and a thriving interactive whiteboard resources program. The school takes pride in its Aboriginal Nations Education program and welcomes international students from the Victoria International High School program.
At present, Spectrum Community School boasts a diverse student population of approximately 1000 students. Alongside a wide array of courses, clubs, and programs, Spectrum Community School offers several notable highlights, including the Hockey Skills Academy, various academic classes encompassing the new STEM program, junior and senior Musical Theatre programs, multiple athletic teams, and specialized Career Programs such as Culinary Arts/Cook Training, Law Careers, and Outdoor Leadership. The school takes immense pride in its comprehensive band program, consisting of Junior and Senior Concert and Jazz Bands, as well as a Marching Band. Spectrum students have access to modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art Library, two computer labs, and a popular cafeteria service.
Programs in Spectrum Community School
The staff and administration extend a warm welcome to all students at Spectrum Community School, hoping that they will find success and achieve their goals through the diverse opportunities offered by the school.
In recent years, Spectrum Community School has had the pleasure of hosting its first international students, with an increasing number joining from over 25 countries and five continents. These students, hailing mainly from Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, and Thailand, have proven to be high achievers, displaying a strong commitment to their education and academic excellence. Many of them actively engage in various extracurricular activities, including theater, art, sports, leadership, and other clubs, further enriching their experience at the school.
The school takes pride in providing a quality education to its international students, with a focus on enhancing their English language proficiency and fostering familiarity with Canadian culture. The interaction between the local students and their international counterparts creates a mutually enriching environment.
Furthermore, Spectrum Community School is actively promoting the Secondary School Apprenticeship (SSA) program. The school district seeks to identify "Hidden Apprentices" among secondary school students who may already be engaged in trade work. The SSA program offers a smooth transition from school to work and an expedited path to trade certification, leading to greater earning potential in the future. Eligible students can start their apprenticeship as early as Grade 10 and have the opportunity to qualify for a $1000 scholarship upon completing all requirements.
Additionally, the school offers courses in Film, Media, Photography, Television, and Drama, introducing and developing skills used in the film and television industries. Students learn about various aspects of filmmaking, including writing, producing, directing, acting, cinematography, sound, lighting, and post-production. They also have the chance to collaborate on successful short films and gain insights from guest professionals in the entertainment industry. In the Music Department, Spectrum Community School offers Music Ensemble courses that run for the full year on alternating days or special schedules. Students and parents can contact the band director to learn more about these courses, which provide an enriching musical experience for students throughout their academic journey.
The Concert Choir at Spectrum Community School caters to students in grades 9 to 12, with specific classes available for Choir 9 and Choir 12. No prior experience is necessary to join this performance-based ensemble that focuses on contemporary vocal music. It serves as an ideal entry point for aspiring singers and also welcomes those with a passion for singing. The course provides an opportunity for students to develop their musicianship, gain confidence, and enhance vocal technique through singing in 3 and 4-part harmony. Throughout the year, students participate in various performances, including festivals, school events, and community shows, which may require occasional extracurricular rehearsals. This year-long course is taken outside the regular timetable.
Spectrum Community School also offers Athletic Leadership & Outdoor Recreation courses, promoting physical fitness and leadership skills. Athletic Leadership 9 and 10 are selective courses designed for students interested in exploring various athletic pursuits. Alongside physical education, students engage in activities that foster leadership in school, elementary and middle schools, and the community. They also participate in outdoor activities like sailing, kayaking, disc golf, skiing, and more. This course at Spectrum Community School focuses on building a cohort dynamic and honing leadership skill, and students earn certifications in CPR A, CANSAIL I, and Kayak INT.
For Grade 8 students at Spectrum Community School that are keen on athletics, possessing self-motivation, and willing to volunteer their time, the opportunity to apply for Athletic Leadership 9 is available. However, it's important to note that the course involves associated costs, and fundraising options are available.
For those with a passion for outdoor education and recreational leadership, Spectrum offers a two-year program, Outdoor Recreation Leadership 11/12. The program aims to equip students with knowledge and skills in outdoor education, community recreation, and recreational leadership and management. Successful applicants are expected to be strong academically, responsible, reliable, well-organized, and self-disciplined. Fitness evaluations are part of the selection process, and there are costs associated with the program.
Furthermore, Spectrum Community School boasts a wide range of comprehensive and acclaimed Fine Arts courses, including band, dance, digital design, drama, media arts, musical theatre, stagecraft, video arts, and visual arts. Qualified instructors actively engaged in local professional and community Fine Arts endeavors lead these courses. Students excelling in Fine Arts during their four years at Spectrum and completing 40 credits of approved coursework can be recognized with the Spectrum Fine Arts Certificate, with options for a single major, double major, or general focus diploma.
Accommodation in Spectrum Community School
As students from around the world seek quality education and enriching experiences, Spectrum Community School in Saanich, British Columbia, Canada, stands as an attractive choice. The school prides itself on offering a diverse and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. However, for international students planning to study at Spectrum Community School, the question of accommodation becomes a significant consideration.
At Spectrum Community School, the focus remains on providing exceptional academic and extracurricular programs rather than on-campus housing. As such, the school does not offer dedicated housing facilities for international students. However, this does not hinder the welcoming and supportive environment that the school strives to cultivate for all its students. Despite the lack of on-campus accommodation, Spectrum Community School ensures that international students feel included, supported, and part of a vibrant community.
Reword this: For international students seeking a more immersive cultural experience, the option of living with a homestay family can be a wonderful choice. Spectrum Community School collaborates with trusted homestay providers to ensure that students are placed in safe and caring homes. The homestay experience not only fosters language improvement but also allows students to immerse themselves in Canadian culture, creating lasting memories and friendships. The cost of homestay accommodation typically ranges from $1,000 CAD to $1,500 CAD per month, covering lodging, meals, and essential support services.
Additionally, students have the option of exploring off-campus rentals, shared apartments, or rooming with fellow students. These alternatives provide flexibility and independence while allowing students to experience life beyond the school campus. The cost of off-campus living varies depending on location and amenities, ranging from $800 CAD to $1,500 CAD per month for rent and utilities.
Future Prospects
Congratulations on your graduation from Spectrum Community School! As you embark on the next chapter of your life, a world of exciting opportunities awaits you. Before diving into the various possibilities, it's important to note that to qualify for the post-graduation work visa program, you must take the next step in your educational journey by pursuing post-secondary coursework at recognized institutions, such as polytechnics, colleges, or other higher learning centers.
The post-graduation work visa program is a valuable pathway that allows you to gain practical experience and put your acquired knowledge to use in the Canadian job market. It also enables you to work in Canada for a duration equivalent to the length of your study program, with a maximum validity of up to three years. It provides a unique opportunity to explore potential career paths within your chosen field and contribute to the Canadian workforce.
Aside from the work visa program, you have the opportunity to explore the path of obtaining permanent resident status in Canada. The Canadian government provides various routes to permanent residency, such as the Express Entry system, provincial nominee programs, and family sponsorship. These alternatives offer you the chance to establish stronger ties to Canada, access social benefits, and experience the stability and security that comes with being a permanent resident.
The appeal of settling in Canada permanently is undeniable. With its thriving economy, diverse job market, and exceptional quality of life, Canada presents a myriad of prospects for personal and professional advancement. As a permanent resident, you can enjoy all the privileges and rights of a Canadian citizen, except for voting in federal elections. Moreover, should you decide to make Canada your forever home, you can pursue Canadian citizenship by fulfilling the necessary residency and language requirements.
In case, if you need help with Custodianship and Homestay in order to study in Spectrum Community School or other schools in Canada, please fill in application below or contact us directly.
