If you’re thinking about sending a child to Shawnigan Lake School, or to a Canadian boarding school in general, there are a lot of things to consider. In this entry to A Voice in the Wilderness, Director of Admissions Mrs. Julia Pollock discusses some tips to help in the decision-making process and ways to help your child adjust to the boarding experience. Families often ask us about what the international student experience is like at Shawnigan. Why do families choose to come to Shawnigan and Canada to study abroad? What are some common challenges international students face? What are some helpful tips? What are the differences in the admissions process for international students compared to Canadian students? Shawnigan Lake School has international students from over 30 countries. The majority of these students come from Asia, Europe and Central America. There are a variety of reasons why an international family would look at education and a boarding experience in Canada. Canadian boarding schools offer a quality education that focuses on academics and experiential learning. Canada also has a welcoming culture, a safe environment, and beautiful natural scenery. Studying on Vancouver Island in British Columbia also offers a mild climate and clean air, and presents the opportunity to learn about Canada’s west coast. The Canadian boarding experience is a major reason that families choose to come to Shawnigan Lake School. A highlight for families in the decision-making process is the nurturing, supportive and enriching environment that is offered here, both within and outside of the classroom. Coupled with a quality education, our teachers truly care about the success and development of their students. The strong and positive relationships between teachers and their students is in the true interest of teachers to see them succeed. With the excitement that comes with the opportunity to come to Shawnigan often come nerves. Learning to liv