Reflections from Our Class of 2020 Lifers
Lifers from the Class of 2020 reflect on being a SMUS student for their entire education
Politics Club Launches the SMUS Political Review
Politics Club launches a new publication at SMUS to highlight student writing and to continue political discourse
Meet Marina and Torr, Our 2020-21 Head Prefects
Meet Marina and Torr, the two students who were elected to be our Head Prefects for the 2020-21 school year
Helping Students in Uncertain Times
Our community continues to step up to help support students through the Financial Aid Relief Fund
PHOTO GALLERY: Junior School Spirit Parade
Enjoy photos from our Spirit Parade, which saw our Junior School community celebrate through the streets of Oak Bay
Staying Connected While Worlds Apart
'I didn't think boarding would come home with me. It makes it feel like we’re ... still together but just on a screen.'
Welcome to Wonder Wednesday
Margaret Lincoln highlights the Junior School's Wonder Wednesdays during remote learning
‘Goodnight SMUS’ Connects Our Community
Chaplain Keven Fletcher launches a nightly touchstone for Junior School families to help keep everyone connected
Introducing Director of External Programs Craig Kelley
Meet Craig Kelley, the new Director of External Programs at St. Michaels University School
Challenge Accepted! Take Up the Weekly Outdoor Challenge
Mr. Zyoji Jackson encourages students to get outside
SMUS in the News: Mark Finamore ’20 Wins Morehead-Cain Scholarship to UNC-Chapel Hill
Mark Finamore '20 is named a Morehead-Cain Scholar, earning a scholarship to UNC-Chapel Hill
Celebrating Earth Day
Leaders of the Green Team highlight the importance of Earth Day amid the COVID-19 pandemic
Giving Back to Make a Lasting Impact
Members of the SMUS community step up and give back during the COVID-19 pandemic
Health and Wellness Week at Home
Students and teachers share tips to help you stay happy, healthy and well in times of change
Floreat! SMUS Unveils Bold New Strategic Plan
We are delighted to introduce Floreat, St. Michaels University School's 2020-2030 strategic plan
#SMUSLearns at Spring Break
SMUS teachers and staff share resources, activities and tips to have a great Spring Break
Congratulations to The Best School Year Ever 2020 Winner
Learn more about the winner of this year's The Best School Year Ever® scholarship contest
Talking With Children About COVID-19
Our personal counsellors provide parents with tips on talking with children about COVID-19
Our Response to COVID-19
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As you are all aware the situation regarding the spread of the COVID-19 virus is changing rapidly. For much of this...
300+ Years of Service
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by educators and administrators who retired in 2019
Share Your Talents On Stage With Us for ‘The Armed Man’
Join our Senior School musicians on stage for a performance of 'The Armed Man'
Watch the Floreat Strategic Plan Presentation
Watch Head of School Mark Turner's presentation to parents on Floreat, our 2020-2030 strategic plan
Introducing Floreat
We are delighted to introduce Floreat, St. Michaels University School's 2020-2030 strategic plan.
The Rewards of Hosting an International Student
Dawn Wilson, Director of Education Extension and International Programs, writes about why it's so rewarding to host an international homestay student
Our Most Popular SMUSpaper Stories of the Past Decade
We look back at the 10 of the most-read stories on the SMUSpaper from the last 10 years
Ringing in the Winter Break as a Community
The final days before Winter Break are filled with traditions that bring us together as a SMUS community
What is it Like to Win The Best School Year Ever?
We chat with Chanel Khuu, winner of The Best School Year Ever® contest 2019-20, to learn about her time at SMUS so far
Carol Service: Traditions and Rituals Connecting a Community
The SMUS community gathers for the annual Carol Service to enjoy music and thoughtful student reflections
Celebrated Storytellers Talk First Nations History and Respect
Authors Roy Henry Vickers and Robert 'Lucky' Budd spoke with students about First Nations history and respect
SMUS in the News: Tessa Lloyd on Fatherhood and Famous Canadian Dads
Junior School counsellor Tessa Lloyd speaks with Global News's The Morning Show about her new book, Forty Fathers
Remembrance Day: ‘Today We Remember Them All’
The SMUS community gathered to celebrate Remembrance Day and honour the men and women who fought for their country
Help Share the News That The Best School Year Ever is Back!
Check out the new The Best School Year Ever® video and learn more about this year's scholarship contest.
SMUS in the News: Students Celebrate Victoria-Hosted Pan Am Cross Country Nations Cup
SMUS hosts the announcement of the Pan Am Nations Cup to coincide with the international cross country event in Victoria
Ariel Khoo: Discovering a Passion for Rowing
When Ariel Khoo tried out for a new sport last September, she never imagined that nine months later she would have two national silver...
Introducing Tim McGee QC, Chair of the Board of Governors
Meet Tim McGee QC, the new Chair of the SMUS Society Board of Governors
SMUS in the News: Counsellor Tessa Lloyd Talks New Book ‘Forty Fathers’
Junior School counsellor Tessa Lloyd sits down with the Vancouver Sun to talk about her new book on fatherhood, Forty Fathers
Mark Finamore Wins ‘Power of Youth’ Contest for Coffee Fundraiser
Grade 12 student Mark Finamore wins $2,500 for the Me to We Club to help tackle homelessness in Greater Victoria
Welcome to the New SMUS Photo Gallery
The new SMUS Photo Gallery gives you access to more than 360,000 photos taken over nearly two decades
What is an Appropriate Way to Mark Orange Shirt Day?
In 1973, Phyllis Webstad arrived at the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in Williams Lake, British Columbia. Having just turned six years old and...
Should We Lower the Voting Age in Canada?
'Students of a young age have informed opinions and can make choices that are important to them'
Building a Student Community in Boarding
Student leaders help their fellow housemates find a home and build a caring community at boarding school
GALLERY: First Week of the 2019-20 School Year
The first week of school has been jam-packed full of fun and memorable moments for students and teachers
Introducing Adrienne Davidson, Director of Advancement & Campaigns
Get to know Adrienne Davidson, our new Director of Advancement & Campaigns
Ask SMUS: What Has Changed About the SMUS Smartphone Policy?
Mr. Ritch Primrose writes about the phone policy at the Senior School that prioritizes student health and wellness
Meet Kenzi and Max, Our 2019-20 Head Prefects
Meet Kenzi and Max, the two Grade 12 students who were elected to be our Head Prefects for the 2019-20 school year
Opa! Grade 8 Students Return from Unforgettable Greece Trip
After learning about Greece in school, a group of Grade 8 students travelled to the Mediterranean country at the start of Summer Break
A Lifetime of Learning
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Peter Gardiner, former teacher and member of the advancement and alumni relations team.
2019 Retirees: Sharon Buckingham
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Sharon Buckingham, former University Counselling administrative assistant.
2019 Retirees: Paul Leslie
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Paul Leslie, former Director of Admissions.
2019 Retirees: Nancy Mollenhauer
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Nancy Mollenhauer, former Middle School physical education teacher and field hockey coach.
2019 Retirees: Mike Jackson
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Mike Jackson, former Senior School science teacher.
2019 Retirees: Michael Murgatroyd
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Michael Murgatroyd, former Director of Finance and Administration.
2019 Retirees: Mary Smith
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Mary Smith, former Middle School music teacher.
2019 Retirees: Jim Williams
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Jim Williams, former Middle School science and math teacher.
2019 Retirees: Jennifer White
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Jennifer White, former executive assistant to the Head of School.
2019 Retirees: Janice Iverson
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Janice Iverson, former Senior School receptionist.
2019 Retirees: Jake Humphries
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Jake Humphries, former Senior School university counsellor.
2019 Retirees: Gordon Chan
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Gordon Chan, former Junior School teacher and IT coordinator.
2019 Retirees: Evelyn Zapantis
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Evelyn Zapantis, former Boarding Services coordinator.
2019 Retirees: Dorothy Hawes
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Dorothy Hawes, former Senior School faculty member.
2019 Junior School Closing Ceremonies
Students, teachers and families come together for Closing Ceremonies that mark the end of the 2018-19 school year
2019 Middle School Closing Ceremonies
Our Middle School community celebrates the end of the 2018-19 school year at Closing Ceremonies
Congratulations to the Class of 2019!
Congratulations to the Class of 2019! Watch the complete Graduation Ceremony and read the insightful reflections from valedictorian Matthew Owen-Flood
Sunsets and Smiles
This past Sunday our boarding community gathered for the first of what will be several “this is the last time we do this together...
Outdoor Education: Learning to Build a Connection with Nature
Our outdoor education program blurs the line between learning and building a connection with nature
David Kim ’05: Helping Students Reach Their Full Potential
David Kim is the person he is today because generous donors supported financial assistance that allowed him to get a SMUS education
4 Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health
Personal Counsellor Ms. Allison Peace offers invaluable tips for parents to support their child's mental health
Spring Break Service Trip 2019: Tanzania
Grade 10 student Devon Mills reflects on the Spring Break service trip to Tanzania
Spring Break Trip 2019: Europe
Grade 10 students McKenna Williams and Amalia Mairet write about the Spring Break trip to Europe.
Spring Break Service Trip 2019: Costa Rica
Grade 11 student Linden Girardeaux writes about the Spring Break service trip to Costa Rica
Sun Shine
The new Sun Centre student commons and dining hall is at the heart of student life and community
Beyond the Classroom Walls
As we may recall from our own educational experiences, there is so much worthwhile learning that happens outside the traditional classroom: in the art...
Brown Hall Upgrades Bring New Opportunities
The school's former dining hall underwent a seismic upgrade this school year, which brings with it the creation of newfound space for our community
Spring Break Europe Trip: March 20-26
Mr. Eliot Anderson recaps the last leg of the Senior School music students' Spring Break trip to Europe
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Richard Brambley
Meet Mr. Richard Brambley, our incoming Director of Middle School, in this SMUS Teacher Feature
Spring Break Europe Trip: March 16-19
The SMUS music students travelling through Europe during Spring Break made their way to England this week
Spring Break Europe Trip: March 13-15
After a long travel day, a large group of SMUS students arrive in Germany, the first stop on the Spring Break music trip to Europe
Fun Outdoor Activities for Spring Break
Mr. Jamie Pope highlights fun activities to enjoy outdoors during Spring Break
The Winner of The Best School Year Ever 2019 is…
Find out who won The Best School Year Ever contest and a scholarship to SMUS for the 2019-20 school year
The Lasting Impact of Financial Assistance
Financial assistance helps bring amazing students to SMUS, and a SMUS education has a lasting impact on their lives
Saying Goodbye to Our 2018 Retirees
We say farewell to the faculty and staff who retired in 2018 and look back on their time at our school
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. David Enns
Middle School band teacher – and director of Seussical – Mr. David Enns is highlighted in our latest Teacher Feature
Students reflect on Global Play Day
On February 8, students at the Junior School celebrated Global Play Day. Global Play Day is an opportunity for the Junior School to highlight...
Introducing Chief Financial Officer Rita Lord
Meet Rita Lord, the new Chief Financial Officer at St. Michaels University School
Walk Around SMUS in Our New Virtual Campus Tour
Tour around St. Michaels University School using our newly updated Virtual Campus Tour
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mrs. Laura Keziere
Ms. Laura Keziere, who has been teaching at SMUS since 1984, is highlighted in our latest Teacher Feature
How Our Community Supports Students in the Classroom
Many projects at SMUS that support student learning in the classroom would not be possible without the support of the Annual Appeal
An Interview With Mr. Xavier Abrioux ’76
An extended interview with Mr. Xavier Abrioux '76 from the Winter 2018 edition of School Ties
The Hidden Benefits of SMUS’s Career Day
Career Day offers much more for students than simply learning about a career you're interested in
The Top 11 @YourSMUS Instagram Posts of 2018
We highlight the 11 most popular @yourSMUS Instagram posts of the past 365 days!
A Letter to Parents (End of Term 1 2018-19)
Our Head of School reflects on the last few months, confirms some recent appointments and talks about some plans for January
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Megan Blackey
Middle School teacher Ms. Megan Blackey is now in her second year at SMUS. She is originally from Chilliwack and was raised in the...
Helping Our Head of School Provide Opportunities
Head of School Mark Turner reflects on the Annual Appeal and how it impacts every student and every opportunity
Carol Service Brings the SMUS Community Together
The SMUS community gathers for the annual Carol Service to enjoy choir performances and thoughtful messages about the holiday season
Lest We Forget: Remembrance Day 2018
The SMUS community gathered to celebrate Remembrance Day and honour the men and women who fought for our country
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Chris Bateman
Mr. Chris Bateman, Head of Visual Art and Design, is highlighted in our latest SMUS Teacher Feature
Past, Present and Future
In light of our Founders' and Scholars' Dinner this week, Mr. Keith Driscoll writes about the past, present and future of our school community
Every Student, Every Opportunity
Shara Campsall provides an introduction to this year's Annual Appeal campaign: "Every Student, Every Opportunity".
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Gordon Chan
Junior School teacher Mr. Gordon Chan is highlighted in the latest SMUS Teacher Feature
Grade 12 Student Wins Youth Philanthropy Award
Student Diya Courty-Stephens is nominated for a philanthropy award for starting an organization that aims to reduce food waste
What is School Spirit?
The Prefect Council enlists students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 – and our Head of School – to define 'school spirit' at SMUS
The Importance of Boarding
Mr. Mark Turner discusses why boarding students are important for the whole St. Michaels University School community
Portrait of a Learner: Helping Students Find Balance in Their Busy Lives
Middle School students learn the importance of finding balance in their lives to help set them up for academic success
Indicators from the CAIS Accreditation Report
Head of School Mr. Mark Turner writes about our school's recent CAIS accreditation
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Reagan Daly
Teacher, houseparent and Head of Experiential Education, Mr. Reagan Daly is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Before and After: Why Families Choose SMUS
Mr. Paul Leslie, Director of Admissions, writes about the role SMUS plays in transforming students
New Junior School Playscape Emphasizes Imagination
Upgrades to the SMUS Junior School playscape this summer highlight the importance of "open-ended", imaginative play
Foundation Fortnight
Head of School Mr. Mark Turner writes about the "looking, listening and learning" he has been doing this school year
Meet our 2018-19 Head Girl and Head Boy
Meet Morgan Warner and Ewan Halliday, elected Head Boy and Head Girl for the 2018-19 school year at St. Michaels University School
SMUS in the News: Grand Opening of the Sun Centre
The grand opening of the Sun Centre dining hall and student commons is featured in the Saanich News
Sun Centre Grand Opening Kicks Off the New School Year
The Sun Centre, our new dining hall and student commons, has its grand opening to mark the start of the 2018-19 school year
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Kate Knight
Ms. Kate Knight was recently named Interim Director of the Middle School for the 2018-2019 school year.
Kate was born in Penetanguishene, Ontario and raised...
SMUS in the News: Mr. Mark Turner Arrives at SMUS
Head of School Mr. Mark Turner speaks with the Saanich News about his arrival to SMUS
Welcome to the 2018-19 School Year
Head of School Mr. Mark Turner welcomes the community back in his first address to the SMUS community of the school year
‘Be Present. Phones Off and Away’ – Explaining Our New Smartphone Policy
Mr. Ritch Primrose, Director of Health and Wellness, writes about the new smartphone policy at the Senior School this school year
Congratulations to the Class of 2018!
Congratulations to the Class of 2018! Valedictorian Dalal Tubeishat shares her thoughts on behalf of the SMUS graduates
2018 Middle School Closing Ceremonies
Watch the full Middle School Closing Ceremonies that marks the end of the 2017-2018 school year
2018 Junior School Closing Ceremonies
To mark the end of the school year, two Grade 5 students wrote a prayer with Rev. Keven Fletcher that highlighted what they are thankful for at the Junior School
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About SMUS Chapel (Part 3)
The last in Rev. Keven Fletcher's series on SMUS Chapel touches on getting more out of Chapel
CONTEST: Shoot Video of Life at SMUS and Win!
Want to win one of five Amazon gift cards? We want Senior School students to share their videos that show what it's like to be a SMUS student
2018-2019 School Prefects
Introducing the SMUS Prefect Assembly and Link Leaders for the 2018-19 school year
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About SMUS Chapel (Part 2)
This week's article in a series by Rev. Keven Fletcher delves into what happens during weekly Chapel services.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About SMUS Chapel (Part 1)
Rev. Keven Fletcher answers some questions about the history and context of chapel in the first in a series on SMUS Chapel
Spring Break Trip 2018: Singapore/Cambodia (Part 2)
Grade 11 student Matthew Owen-Flood writes about the Spring Break trip to Singapore and Cambodia.
Spring Break Exchange: Ecuador
Two Senior School students write about their exciting exchange trip to Quito, Ecuador during Spring Break.
Spring Break Service Trip 2018: India
Grade 12 student Atheer Al Hinai writes about the Spring Break service trip to India
Spring Break Rugby Trip: Australia
Grade 12 student Ranon Ng writes about the timeless memories made on the SMUS rugby trip to Australia.
Introducing Our New Alumni Relations Officer
We are pleased to introduce Denise Rees, our new Alumni Relations Officer
Spring Break Trip 2018: Singapore/Cambodia (Part 1)
Grade 11 student Nathan Yang writes about his memorable Spring Break trip to Singapore and Cambodia with the school
Looking Ahead to Health and Wellness Week
Mr. Ritch Primrose highlights the work of Dr. Greg Wells, the keynote speaker for our upcoming Health and Wellness Week
Spring Break Service Trip 2018: Nicaragua
15 students traveled to rural Nicaragua over Spring Break and experienced an amazing blend of nature, community involvement, warm people, and unique experiences.
SMUS Rugby Tour: March 20-23
The SMUS Rugby Tour continues, as the athletes head to Wollongong and return to Sydney for their final games
SMUS Rugby Tour: March 18-19
The 2018 SMUS Rugby Tour continues on through Australia with their arrival in Canberra and games against St Edmund's College
2018 Rugby Tour: March 15-17
The 2018 SMUS Rugby Tour continues on through Australia with games against All Saints' College in Bathurst
2018 Rugby Tour: March 10-13
The 2018 SMUS Rugby Tour hits the road and heads to Australia – by way of Vancouver and a quick stop to watch the World Rugby 7s tournament
And The Winner of The Best School Year Ever Is…
Find out who won The Best School Year Ever full-year boarding scholarship to St. Michaels University School for the 2018-2019 school year.
Catching Up with the Cast of Catch Me If You Can
Meet a few of the talented students performing onstage in this year's Senior School musical, Catch Me If You Can – running March 1-3 at the McPherson Playhouse
SMUS in the News: Let’s All Say ‘Levidrome’!
The Times Colonist highlights the continued push to get Grade 2 student Levi Budd's word 'levidrome' into the dictionary
Reflecting on a Great Grade 8 Leadership Conference
Middle School student Sophia H. writes about the experience of organizing and taking part in the Grade 8 leadership conference
Facilities Upgrades Revitalize School Spaces
Renovations and upgrades to classrooms and other facilities over the winter break have brought new life to some learning spaces.
Head’s Up: An Interview with Mark Turner
Grade 12 student Samina Makhanbetazhiyeva interviews Head of School designate Mark Turner about his passions, challenges and future role at the School.
SMUSTube Celebrates Anniversary With Milestones
SMUSTube celebrated it's 10th anniversary in 2017 by reaching a number of milestones.
Bob the Builder
We look back at the legacy of recently retired Head of School Bob Snowden, after serving 22 years in the leadership role at St. Michaels University School
Ryan Taylor ’11: A Dream Big Profile
Alumnus Ryan Taylor '11 talks about the impact SMUS and financial aid had on his life – and why it inspired him to give back to the school
Carol Service: A Time to Unwind
Students from our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools gathered to celebrate the season with songs and reflections.
Buddy Reading Club Promotes Literacy and Friendships
Grade 2 students take the bus to the Richmond Road campus and spend time reading with their Senior School counterparts.
“I’m Looking Forward to Being a Lifer”
Two Junior School students reflect on stories they heard at the Grade 12 Lifers Assembly.
The Jag: An Interview With Alex Cecill
The Jag student newspaper sits down with teacher Ms. Alex Cecill to talk about her experience running in the New York City Marathon
SMUS in the News: Oxford Responds to Grade 1 Wordsmith’s ‘Levidrome’ Quest
A rundown of the latest news stories highlight Grade 2 student Levi's quest to get the word 'levidrome' added to the dictionary
New Middle School Club is a Great Place to be Crabby!
Grade 10 student Matias Totz writes about the newly founded Marine Science Club at the Middle School
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Amy Stark
Middle School Humanities teacher Ms. Amy Stark is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS in the News: Student’s “Levidrome” Pitch Gains Momentum with William Shatner, Urban Dictionary...
Grade 2 SMUS student Levi's progress to get 'levidrome' into the dictionary is chronicled in a series of Oak Bay News articles
A Prayer of Remembrance
Rev. Fletcher's words from the Remembrance Day Service highlight why the day has a deep significance for our school
Remembrance Day: A Prayer for Humanity
Our Junior School community gathered for Remembrance Day by reading poems, stories and prayers to honour those who served their country
Author Kenneth Oppel ’85 Named 2017 Distinguished Alumnus
Author Kenneth Oppel '85 was the keynote speaker for our Founders and Scholars Day and he was also the recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Alumnus Award
Why the Playground is an Important Classroom
We explore why the Junior School playground is an important classroom for children to develop skills that are hard to teach in a purely academic setting
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Andrew Murgatroyd
Senior School math teacher – and 2002 grad – Mr. Andrew Murgatroyd is highlighted in this week's Teacher Feature
VIDEO: Aysha Emmerson Talks Acceptance and Inspiration at WE Day Vancouver
Head Girl Aysha Emmerson spoke at WE Day Vancouver about acceptance, mental health and the power people have to support and inspire others
SMUS in the News: Grade 2 Student Pitches ‘Levidrome’ as a New Word
A Grade 2 SMUS student wants to get 'levidrome' into the dictionary. The Times Colonist highlights the definition and story of how levidrome came to be
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mrs. Beth Johnston
Chemistry teacher Mrs. Beth Johnston is highlighted in this week's Teacher Feature. She's also opening up her classroom as part of Fall Spark Open House on Oct. 20
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mrs. Sarah Donatelli
Middle School teacher Mrs. Sarah Donatelli is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Grade 10 Students Sail Aboard the Pacific Swift (VIDEO)
Climb aboard the Pacific Swift with Grade 10 students who are learning outside the classroom! Watch them talk about their outdoor ed sailing experience
SMUS in the News: Simon Ibell ’96 Remembered at Vikes Championship Breakfast
The Times Colonist highlights the annual UVic Vikes breakfast, where teacher and coach Ian Hyde-Lay delivered the keynote address on behalf of and in memory of alumnus Simon Ibell
The Best School Year Ever is Back and Bigger Than Ever!
This year The Best School Year Ever® contest is awarding 20 boarding scholarships to high school students from North America
Grade 6s Head to Camp Thunderbird for Outdoor Education Trip
Grade 6 students Damon and Michael write about their fun outdoor education trip to Camp Thunderbird
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Eliot Anderson
Mr. Eliot Anderson, Director of the Senior School, is highlighted in the latest SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Kathryn Humphries
Junior School music teacher Ms. Kathryn Humphries is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
A Great Start to the 2017-18 School Year!
Acting Head of School Mr. Andy Rodford's welcome message to the SMUS community
SMUS in the News: SMUS Shortlisted for Prism Award for Coaching
The Saanich News highlights SMUS being named a finalist for the International Coach Federation's Prism Award
New Spaces at SMUS
Students and teachers returned to St. Michaels University School this week to find some big changes had occurred over the summer.
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mrs. Shannon Williams
Middle School teacher Mrs. Shannon Williams is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
#SMUSSelfie Instagram Contest: Meet Your Prefect Council
The first week back at school is the perfect time to make new friends. That's why we're running the #SMUSSelfie Instagram contest with the SMUS Prefect Council
Meet SMUS’s 2017-18 Head Boy and Head Girl
Meet Sean Finamore and Aysha Emmerson, elected Head Boy and Head Girl for the 2017-18 school year at St. Michaels University School
SMUS Named as Finalist for International Executive Coaching Award
St. Michaels University School was named a finalist for the international Prism Award, awarded by the International Coach Federation
A Celebration of Life for Simon Ibell
The SMUS community gathered together to celebrate Simon Ibell's life, his accomplishments and his legacy.
The SMUS Class of 2017 “Lifers”
A "Lifer" is a SMUS student that began at the school in either kindergarten or Grade 1 and graduated. Recently, the Grade 12 Lifers...
The Class of 2017
Congratulations to the Class of 2017.
Valedictorian Speech
by Jamison Schulz-Franco
Family. Everyone here tonight is part of a family, within one big family. The big family...
2017 Senior School Closing Ceremonies
SMUS held the Senior School Closing Ceremonies on Friday, marking the official end of the school year for the Grade 9-11 students. Every year,...
SMUS Bids Farewell to Three of the Best
With almost 75 years of combined teaching experience at SMUS, we wish Jim de Goede, Lisa Hyde-Lay and Lindy Van Alstine a fond farewell....
2017 Middle School Closing Ceremonies
The Middle School Closing Ceremonies provide an opportunity not only for students to look forward to summer break but also to reflect on the year that...
2017 Junior School Closing Ceremonies
Junior School staff and families celebrated the end of the year on Thursday by wishing the best for the Grade 5 students who will...
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Bob Snowden
Head of School Mr. Bob Snowden, who retires at the end of this school year, is highlighted in the SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS in the News: Punch Buggy
June 11, 2017
CHEK News
Grade 10 Experiential Program
Punch Buggy: St. Michaels’ students convert classic Volkswagen Beetle into electric car
(Photo courtesy of CHEK News)
“Best Exploratory Ever” Pairs Middle Schoolers with Local Seniors
"I don’t know if there will ever be something at school that will impact me the way this did." Middle School students reflect on a unique partnership they made with residents at a local seniors home
Dream Big Stories: Ms. Bernadette Abrioux
Math is a tough subject. It's the one students tend to struggle with the most. But Senior School math teacher Ms. Bernadette Abrioux feels she...
Little Gems
Simon Ibell 1977-2017
As many will know from our website, or their own relationships in our extended SMUS family, Simon Ibell died this past weekend...
SMUS in the News: SMUS Bids Farewell to Bob Snowden
The Saanich News writes about Head of School Bob Snowden's retirement after 22 years at SMUS
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Andy Rodford
Mr. Andy Rodford, Director of the Senior School and next year's Acting Head of School, is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Sid Boegman ’16 Returns to SMUS to Talk Gender Identity
The SMUS Pride Alliance celebrated Pride Day this week with a variety of fun activities in the quad. The highlight was a talk and...
Dream Big Stories: Mr. Duncan Frater
Choir teacher Mr. Duncan Frater talks firsthand about how the Dream Big annual fund helps students do more of what they love: the arts
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Mark Turner
Our newly introduced Head of School Mr. Mark Turner is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Sun Centre Construction on Track for Spring 2018 Opening
Watch a time-lapse of the Sun Centre construction project. Our new dining hall and student commons is beginning to take shape
SMUS in the News: Students Participate in Mock Provincial Election
CTV Vancouver Island talks to Senior School students participating in a mock election ahead of the official B.C. election
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Dariol Haydock
Middle School assistant director Ms. Dariol Haydock is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Announces Mr. Mark Turner as New Head of School
St. Michaels University School is pleased to announce Mr. Mark Turner has been appointed as the new Head of School.
Why Facebook Doesn’t Replace Your High School Reunion
Here's 10 reasons why a high school reunion – or in our case Alumni Weekend – is an experience that a Facebook friendship will never replace
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Evan Fryer
Senior School math teacher, Senior boys soccer coach and Barnacle houseparent, Mr. Evan Fryer leads a very busy life inside and outside of SMUS.
Since...
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Matt Keil
Grade 5 teacher Mr. Matt Keil is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Talks Event Builds Student and Community “Connections”
Senior School students share what they learned from organizing and experiencing the inaugural SMUS Talks event
Dream Big Stories: Ms. Nikki Kaufmann
Ms. Nikki Kaufmann talks about how SMUS's annual Dream Big fund has a direct impact on the school's athletics program and student population
Spring Break Service Trip 2017: Mexico
Grade 12 student Fo Wu writes about the Senior School Spring Break service trip to Mexico
GALLERY: Junior School Students Photograph Health and Wellness Week
Check out the gallery of photos taken by Kindergarten to Grade 5 students during Health and Wellness Week at the Junior School
Ask SMUS: What is Acceptable Cellphone Use at School?
Director of Academics Ms. Denise Lamarche writes about technology and acceptable cellphone use at SMUS
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Zyoji Jackson
Middle School teacher and senior houseparent Mr. Zyoji Jackson is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Spring Break Culture and Service Trip 2017: South Africa
Grade 11 student Samantha Cuell writes about the cultural and service trip to Cape Town, South Africa at Spring Break
Health and Wellness Week Arrives at SMUS
Director of Health and Wellness Mr. Ritch Primrose highlights what's happening at SMUS as part of Health and Wellness Week (April 3-7)
Spring Break Service Trip 2017: Tanzania
Grade 11 student Sara Perelmuter writes about her experience travelling to Tanzania over Spring Break as part of a school service trip
SMUS in the News: Jamison Schulz-Franco ’17 Recognized as “Future 15” Award Recipient
Grade 12 student Jamison Schulz-Franco is recognized by UniversityHub.ca as one of their "Future 15" award recipients
Gurpreet & Zareen: A Dream Big Profile
Alumni Gurpreet (Pete) Leekha ’89 and Zareen Charania ’96 talk about the impact SMUS and financial aid had on their lives – and why it inspired them to give back to the school
The Best School Year Ever: “What is Your Dream?”
"It's always just been a dream of mine to go to boarding school." Find out who is the winner of a full-year boarding scholarship to St. Michaels University School
Grade 4 Student Becomes Principal for a Day
Grade 4 student Mr. Wil Woods becomes Principal for a Day at SMUS, and tries to ensure all students have a fun day, too
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Alison Galloway
Grade 3 teacher Ms. Alison Galloway is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Love: Building Bridges in a Time of Divisiveness
Love. It’s an obvious topic for the week of Valentine’s. Easy.
Yet, when we look at what’s happening in the world, it feels as though...
The Best School Year Ever 2017 Finalists Are…
We are excited to introduce you to the five finalists of The Best School Year Ever contest
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Amanda Chen
Middle School Humanities and Mandarin teacher Ms. Amanda Chen is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Lieutenant Governor of B.C. Visits the SMUS Junior School
The Lieutenant Governor of B.C. visited our Junior School and took
Dream Big Stories: Ms. Susan Vachon
Ms. Susan Vachon talks about how SMUS's annual Dream Big fund has a direct impact on the education students receive – in this case Learning Resources
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Susan MacDonald
Senior School English teacher Ms. Susan MacDonald is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Choosing the Right High School Courses at SMUS
Senior School students will soon pick their classes for next year. Find out everything you need to know to help you choose the right high school courses
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Jennifer Leyh
Grade 1 teacher Ms. Jennifer Leyh is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. George Floyd
Middle School science and technology teacher Mr. George Floyd is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Futures: Individual and Community
Last week I mentioned that I would be sharing some of the Futures Project in coming weeks and months. For those who missed last...
Reflections on a Service Day for Project Somos
Students Aysha Emmerson and Dalal Tubeishat spoke in Chapel this week about Project Somos, a charity in Guatemala that helps single and widowed mothers and their children
How Sleep Impacts Learning and Development
Listen to Director of Learning Adrian French discuss what happens when we sleep and why it is so important to learning and development
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Peter Butterfield
Choir teacher and boarding houseparent Mr. Peter Butterfield is covered in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Futures
One of my tasks this year is to complete a futures report: an attempt amid all the currents that flow inside and outside education...
Digital Detox: Challenging Students to Unplug for the Weekend
"I just can't imagine living without my phone for a weekend." Middle School students and teachers lock their phones away for a digital detox
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Becky Anderson
Ms. Becky Anderson, Director of the Junior School, is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. David Kerr
Senior School teacher Mr. David Kerr is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Dream Big Stories: Rev. Keven Fletcher
Rev. Keven Fletcher talks about how SMUS's annual Dream Big fund has a direct impact on the education students receive – in this case character education
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Shona Lazin
Kindergarten teacher Ms. Shona Lazin is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Putting the “Service” in Christmas Carol Service
Our annual Christmas Carol Service brings the community together for a beautiful evening of music and student reflections
GALLERY: SMUS Community Comes Together for Christmas
Students and staff gathered together to celebrate Christmas, sing some carols, have some laughs and enjoy the holiday season
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Mike Danskin
Middle School teacher – and SMUS lifer – Mr. Mike Danskin is highlighted in this week's Teacher Feature
Grade 10 Students Reflect on Experiential Opportunities
Three students write about their experiences so far in the unique Grade 10 experiential program
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Kevin Cook
Mr. Kevin Cook, our Director of Service, is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
At Home With Boarders Without Borders
Our annual Boarders Without Borders event sees boarding students invited into local homes for a home-cooked meal and an authentic Canadian experience
Walking the Talk On Healthy Eating
Mr. Ritch Primrose writes about how eating healthy food impacts the brain, and the newest healthy food options available in the Tuck Shop
Grade 12s Return to Junior School for Lifers Assembly
Our Class of 2017 includes 19 Lifers – students who've been at SMUS since Kindergarten or Grade 1.
Our Past and Future Reflected in the Sun Centre
This week I announced that we are beginning construction of the Sun Centre, our new Dining Hall and Student Commons. The Sun Centre –...
Remembrance Day: Stand in Silence and Remember
The St. Michaels University School community came together on Nov. 10 to mark Remembrance Day
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Nancy Mollenhauer
Middle School teacher Ms. Nancy Mollenhauer is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
WANTED: (Even More) Amazing High School Students
We're well aware of it: The Best School Year Ever® contest is a little corny. But we're OK with that – because we know that this opportunity changes students’ lives.
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Ruth McGhee
Ms. Ruth McGhee is no stranger to the SMUS neighbourhood. She was born and raised in Victoria, and her childhood home was three houses down...
SMUS in the News: Nancy Mollenhauer Inducted into Victoria Sports Hall of Fame
Middle School teacher Nancy Mollenhauer is inducted into the Victoria Sports Hall of Fame.
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Marcelle Kitengie
Junior School teacher Mr. Marcelle Kitengie is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Senior School Library Named in Honour of Bob and Joan Snowden
Senior School library is named and dedicated in honour of Head of School Bob Snowden and his wife Joan for their contributions to the school
GALLERY (Oct. 22-28): Family Fall Fest, Togas and Motocross Racing!
Across our school in all areas – athletics, academics, arts and more – our students were very busy these past seven days.
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Adrian French
Get to know Director of Learning Mr. Adrian French in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Shawn Zhang
Get to know SMUS's newest Middle and Senior School Mandarin teacher, Mr. Shawn Zhang, in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
GALLERY (Oct. 7-14): Seattle Trip, Cross-Country, Sculpting and More!
It was a short school week this week, thanks to the Thanksgiving long weekend.
A large group of boarding students travelled to Seattle for the long weekend to...
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Dave Hlannon
Get to know SMUS's Director of Educational Technology, Mr. Dave Hlannon, in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Tawnya Mullen
Get to know Kindergarten teacher Ms. Tawnya Mullen in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
“There’s No Such Thing as a Born Leader”
At St. Michaels University School, we believe the idea of the born leader is a myth. What we do believe is leadership is a skill all students can learn.
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Jordan Tessarolo
From studying biochemistry to playing in a professional ultimate frisbee league, get to know Senior School math teacher Mr. Jordan Tessarolo in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
GALLERY (Sept. 19-23): Terry Fox Run, Outdoor Ed, Volleyball and More!
Here are a handful of photos from the week of Sept. 19-23 at St. Michaels University School.
Digital Detox: Why Students Need to Unplug and Go Outdoors
"When we can do a five-day outdoor education trip and build in time away from technology, we're seeing that it’s really valuable for students."
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Crystal Vaughan
Get to know Middle School counsellor Ms. Crystal Vaughan in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Disruption
Next week we are convening a group of alumni, parents, staff and students to explore the future of the School. The title for this...
Cultural and Service Trip: Volleyball Tour to Cuba
Right before school started, I traveled to Havana, Cuba along with 12 of my classmates – and volleyball teammates – led by coaches Bendfeld and...
GALLERY: Faces and Fun from the First Week Back at School
Here are a handful of photos from all of the fun events that kicked off the 2016-17 school year
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Eric Donatelli
Get to know physics teacher Mr. Eric Donatelli in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Head of School Bob Snowden Announces Retirement
After 22 years at SMUS, Head of School Bob Snowden will retire at the end of the 2016-17 school year
6 Tips for New Boarding Students – from Veteran Boarders
The six Grade 12 students elected Heads of our boarding houses offer advice to new boarding students
10 Tips for Starting High School on the Right Foot
Head of Counselling Ms. Carole McMillan offers advice for starting high school on the right foot
SMUS in the News: SMUS Rocks Out with Musical Theatre Camp
August 23, 2016
Saanich News
Summer Musical Theatre Academy
SMUS rocks out with musical theatre camp
(photo courtesy of Saanich News)
SMUS in the News: Film Camp Puts Focus on Kids
July 29, 2016
Saanich News
SMUS's Education Extension: Shoot the Right Stuff
Film camp puts focus on kids
(photo courtesy of Saanich News)
Teacher Bruce Kuklinski Sets His ‘Cites’ on Rio Olympic Rugby
Middle School teacher Bruce Kuklinski heads to Rio de Janeiro to work as a citing commissioner for Olympic rugby sevens games
SMUS in the News: Feeding Our Future Program Helps Low-Income Youth in Victoria
July 15, 2016
Sodexo's Feeding Our Future program
Victoria News
Program helps feed youth from low-income families in Victoria
CTV Vancouver Island
July 14 – CTV News at 6...
SMUS Goes Greek
Earlier this summer, a group of Grade 8 (soon-to-be Grade 9) students headed around the world to visit Greece. The students were all members of...
The Graduating Class of 2016
Congratulations to the Class of 2016.
We are proud to add 151 names to the ever-growing list of SMUS alumni, as the graduating class officially...
2016 Middle School Closing Ceremonies
The annual Middle School Closing Ceremonies is a highlight of the school year – albeit held on the very last day of the year...
2016 Senior School Closing Ceremonies
On Friday afternoon, the Senior School Closing Ceremonies were held, marking the official end of the school year for the Grade 9-11 students. Among...
2016 Junior School Closing Ceremonies
For the youngest at our school, summer vacation started Thursday after each of the Kindergarten to Grade 5 students proudly crossed the stage, waved to...
SMUS Says Goodbye to Our Retiring Teachers
SMUS is saying goodbye to a number of longtime familiar faces this, year as five teachers – with more than 100 years of combined...
Athletic Awards 2016
Congratulations to SMUS's student athletes on a great year in sport, and to our 2016 athletic awards recipients
Innovation Hour is “Personalized Learning at Its Best”
What is your passion? Every student at SMUS has a different answer to that question. For some their passion lies somewhere in the realm of arts or...
Reflections from the Outgoing Head Girl and Head Boy
Outgoing Head Girl and Head Boy – Sarah Jones and Jasper Johnston – reflect on their time as school leaders and heads of SMUS's Prefect Council
SMUS in the News: Grade 4 Students Explore the ‘Emerald Forest’
June 8, 2016
CTV Vancouver Island
Fish Eye Project presents The Emerald Forest (clip starts at 20:20)
SMUS in the News: Grade 11 Students Have Designs on Parklet Competition
June 8, 2016
Saanich News
Fo Wu and Jasmine Yu '17
St. Michaels students have designs on parklet competition
The Rare Birds of China
One of the highlights of my role is to swell with pride when I hear our students or alumni praised.
On September 7 – yes,...
Walk for Water Promotes Global Awareness at the Junior School
"If I suddenly said you couldn't drink the tap water, you couldn’t get any clean water, does anybody know where you would go for...
The Mirror: A Chalkboard Talk from the SMUS Middle School
What does an average day entail when you're a Middle School student?
To gain a better understanding, I set up seven chalkboards around the school...
THE JAG: Hungry for Hope
It is estimated that every 4 seconds, someone dies from hunger. In the 30 Hour Famine, we go without food so others don’t have...
French Speakers Head Downtown for The Amazing Race
French students at the Middle School are learning about places, towns and how to effectively navigate a city using directions, so what better way to...
Grade 9 Outdoor Trips are a “Challenging” Way to Push Yourself
Last week, all of our Grade 9 students headed out to various corners of the province to participate in outdoor trips that pushed them out...
Beyond the Bubble: Making a Successful Transition to University Life
University decisions are being finalized as I write; students are making plans about residence life and starting course selections for their first year at...
SMUS in the News: Victoria Teacher Works with Disney Illustrator to Create Children’s Book
May 8, 2016
CBC News
Teacher Dorothy Hawes
Ogopogo Odyssey': Victoria teacher works with Disney illustrator to create children's book
Teacher Dorothy Hawes’ Children’s Book Comes Full Circle at SMUS
If it hadn't been for a couple "serendipitous" moments courtesy of St. Michaels University School, English teacher Dorothy Hawes likely wouldn't be celebrating the launch of her children's...
Personalization and Experiential Education
At SMUS we talk about personalization and experiential education as two distinct themes that will shape education in the next decade or more. While...
Balance and Resilience: Making Time for Health & Wellness
As a school that hangs its hat on preparing students for higher learning and for life, the ideas of balance and resilience are important....
Spring Break Service Trip 2016: Argentina
Argentina was better and worse than I expected, but it was undeniably memorable. Travelling with a group of 30 to a Latin American country where few...
Personalization visits
The path to personalization is simple in theory. It begins by recognizing several ideas: that all students have excellence inside them to discover and...
Alumni Weekend is a Celebration for the Whole Community
Don't be fooled by the name – Alumni Weekend is a celebration of (and for) our entire community, not just students who've graduated already.
Alumni Weekend is...
Spring Break Trip 2016: Japan
I suppose our Spring Break cultural trip began the day we left, which, since we were on our way to the other side of the Pacific...
Lynn Lyons on Building Emotionally Healthy Kids
Licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist Lynn Lyons returned (by popular demand!) to SMUS during Brain Awareness Week this week to talk about building...
Brain Awareness Week: An Active Brain Keeps It Healthy and Well
Our annual Brain Awareness Week – now in its fourth year! – is a time for our community of students, parents and staff to...
Eggs-periential Learning: Grade 2 Classes Welcome Baby Chicks
Mr. Giggles, Cottonball and Fluffy are the three newest members of our Grade 2 population, after the trio of baby chicks hatched in class Tuesday...
Toward Personalization
Most parents and alumni who read School material, and this blog, will know that the theme of personalization has been a steady, increasingly visible...
Spring Break Trip 2016: Europe
Before I went to Europe on a Spring Break music tour, I had never left North America. Being able to see just how similar...
My Week as a Gene Researcher
My interest in science began at a hospital when my grandmother was diagnosed with diabetes. I was intrigued by the thought that there were...
What Kind of Example Will We Choose to Be?
During this week’s Chapels, Mr. Snowden emphasized the importance of picking good examples, regardless of whether we’re talking about how we swing a golf...
Running Club Highlights Fun Fitness in Non-Competitive Environment
Even before the sun rises, a large group of Junior School students is spending three mornings a week getting a fun fitness session in before classes...
Spring Break Service Trip 2016: Nicaragua
This Spring Break a group of about 20 students travelled to the small rural town of Jiquilillo, Nicaragua on a service trip. A service trip...
SMUS in the News: Will Barry Wins The Best School Year Ever Contest
CBC News
March 28, 2015
Will Barry, Winner of the 2016-17 BSYE Contest
Rothesay student wins 1 year scholarship at St. Michaels University School in B.C.
First Ever SMUS Girls Rugby Team
Rugby is a tradition at the school; we’ve been playing for decades. And by “we” I mean the boys. Finally, years overdue, we're incredibly...
Interview with Garth Martens
Garth Martens is a Kelowna poet whose debut collection Prologue for the Age of Consequence, was shortlisted for the Governor General’s Award of English-language...
Olympic Values, History Celebrated at the Junior School
Grade 5 students at the Junior School, under the leadership and guidance of Mr. Gary Barber, spent the last 10 weeks researching, studying and learning all things Olympic...
A healthy mind in a healthy body
I only know one Latin phrase, and sadly, this basic lexicon may never improve. Mens sana in corpore sano. The motto of the old...
Best School Year Ever Answers the Question “What If?”
For the past three years, The Best School Year Ever® boarding scholarship contest has challenged students across North America to ask themselves this question:...
Middle Schoolers Make a Lasting Difference on Community Service Day
Last Friday, the entire Middle School spent the day out of the classroom and lent a helping hand in the community. Community Service Day at...
REVIEW: Opening Night of The Phantom of the Opera
The SMUS production of The Phantom of the Opera premiered on Thursday, February 25. The opening night cast starred Ajay Parikh-Friese as the infamous...
Robotics Club Takes Home Lego Trophies After Competition
Remember the days when you would sit in class, anxious to get home so you could keep building your latest Lego creation? Well, now...
20 Minutes to Figure Out Life – Really?
Back in 1918, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson was asked how long it took to prepare a speech. He answered, "That depends on the length of...
SMUS in the News: The Phantom of the Opera Production
February 24, 2016
Senior School production of The Phantom of the Opera
Saanich News
St. Michaels students stage Phantom of the Opera at McPherson
Shaw TV
(see video above)
The Best School Year Ever: And the Finalists Are…
For the past month, a panel of judges (made up of students and teachers) has been watching and rewatching all of The Best School...
Phantom Performers: Meet SMUS’s Two Christine Daaés
After months of hard work, long rehearsals and dedication, the Senior School musical production of The Phantom of the Opera debuts at the McPherson...
Valentines and Virtues at the Junior School
Valentine's Day at the Junior School is a wonderful day to highlight friendship and how much we care about one another. So it makes...
Learning Through Play at the Junior School
A few minutes before sending his Grade 5 class out to play, Mr. Matt Kiel asked them a question: What is the point of play?
Students were...
Mia Roberts: Overcoming Injury with Commitment and Leadership
Mia Roberts, like many SMUS athletes, is a multi-sport student; soccer in the spring, field hockey in the fall and basketball in the winter....
Grade 8 Student Brings Harry Potter Magic into the Classroom
The Middle School will soon be transformed into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, thanks to the passion and ingenuity of a Grade 8 student.
Jenna S....
Grade 3s Develop Fine Motor Skills in Quilting Club
Quilting may not necessarily seem like the kind of skill that a 21st-century learner would want to develop. It's a really low-tech and finicky process,...
Student Life
Our boarding past and present has done a lot to shape SMUS. By far the most ubiquitous legacy – and the one students are...
SMUS Head Boy Talks “Excellence” at the Junior School
On Friday, SMUS Head Boy Jasper Johnston visited the Junior School and spoke during assembly. He spoke from the heart to the K-5 students...
Syrian Refugees Talk Family, Compassion With SMUS Students
by Liza Weymar and Radha Raina, Grade 9 students
Last week in Modern Studies 9, our class had the fortune of meeting two Syrian refugees...
Talking Virtues and Excellence in Junior School Chapel
Our Junior School isn’t shy about promoting character.
Inspired by the work of The Virtues Project, we take a closer look at a particular value...
B.C. Curriculum Changes Reaffirm SMUS’s Technological Vision
by Ms. Maureen Hann, education technology specialist
In December, SMUS students participated in the Hour of Code, a worldwide initiative aimed at introducing school-aged children to...
Exploratory: Freedom to Try Something New Without Being Graded!
Once every couple of days in the Middle School timetable, all students in Grades 6 through 8 step outside of the traditional classroom setting...
Reflecting Our Student Population in Chapel
Our school shows the marks of its age – our array of traditions being one of them. How we frame those traditions makes the...
THE JAG: A Species Profile on the Blue Jaguar
by Jack Forgrave
When it comes to our beloved mascot, the Blue Jag, numerous naysayers claim that this majestic beast “isn’t even a real animal.”...
THE JAG: The Pride Alliance
by Jacki Zhang and Jiawen Chan
What does pride mean to you? To Pride Alliance members Sid and Molly, pride is more than a lunchtime...
THE JAG: An Interview with Dr. Sarah De Leeuw
A Professor and Journalist visits SMUS
by Jiawen Chan & Jacki Zhang
What is your writing process and editing process like? Do you have any quirks...
THE JAG: The Harsh Realities of War
On Thursday, November 26, Canadian veteran soldier Rafiele Gardezy, brother of senior student Desirée MacIntosh, came to campus to speak to students in AP...
SMUS Community Gathers for Fun Christmas Celebration
As with any family, the holiday season just doesn't feel complete unless everyone gathers together for some fun and merriment. And at SMUS, that...
Primary Students Spread Christmas Cheer at Concert
In what is probably the most adorable show of the Christmas season, our Junior School played host this week to two performances of the...
Music, Reflections Bring Christmas Carol Service to Life
Against the backdrop of the majestic Christ Church Cathedral, our annual Christmas Carol Service is a wonderful way for our school community to assemble and get into...
Grade 2 Students Learn Real-World Math With Hands-On Lesson
Fifteen or 20 years ago, you'd be hard-pressed to find a math teacher who hadn't told their class at some point during a conversation...
Never Forget: Remembrance Day at the Middle and Senior Schools
May 8th of this year marked 100 years since University School founder Capt. Robert Harvey's death as a prisoner of war in a German...
Honour and Remembrance at the Junior School
Heartfelt poetry, recitations, storytelling and music is how our Junior School students honoured Remembrance Day this week. The Tuesday morning service was a touching tribute...
‘SMUS Reads’ Event Brings Community Together Around Literacy
At the start of the school year, every Middle School student was gifted a book. And not a math textbook or a dense history...
THE JAG: Thinking About an Exchange?
by Saje Griffith
Ever thought about doing an exchange? Do you enjoy getting to know people from other places and cultures? Wondering what other people think...
THE JAG: Environmental Service Outtrip Review
by Delphine Ji
At the beginning of October, I was given the chance to lead the very first Environmental Service Outtrip to Salt Spring Island. No one knew...
THE JAG: Meet Hinton Chair Mr. Bruce Maxwell
by Sara Owen-Flood
Mr. Maxwell is the new Hinton Chair at SMUS teaching History 9 and Law 12. You may have seen him coaching the Junior...
THE JAG: Welcome to The Jag!
Welcome to The Jag! It’s a new school year, and the SMUS school newspaper has a new name and editor. My name is Becca Thomson and...
Learning and the Brain: Sleep and Exercise
How are sleep and exercise crucial for learning in students of all ages? Using John Medina's book, Brain Rules, as a starting point, SMUS...
#SMUSStyle Instagram Contest: Show Us Your Knot-Tying Skills
Our students' return from the Thanksgiving long weekend marks a change in the school's dress code – summer dress is out, and our regular uniforms come back to...
Junior School Celebrates New Students at Welcoming Assembly
Last Friday, the Junior School ceremoniously welcomed all our new students to the school with an address from Head of School Mr. Bob Snowden,...
New Head Girl and Head Boy Aim to Strengthen Cross-Campus Community
We may only be a couple of weeks into school, but some students – Sarah Jones and Jasper Johnston, in particular – have been thinking...
Grade 6 Outdoor Ed Trips Underscore Inclusiveness and Risk-Taking
To start the year on the right foot for our new Middle School students, we sent our Grade 6 classes on Outdoor Education experiences...
Kindergartners Choose What They’re Most Excited About This School Year
Do you remember your first days of Kindergarten? After a day or two of realizing just how awesome it is getting to learn and...
Clubs and Councils are a Great Way to Get Involved
One of best ways to jump in head first at the Senior School is by joining a new club or council; getting involved in something...
Taking ‘Appropriate Risks’ to Make for a Great School Year
When Mr. Andy Rodford (Director of the Senior School) addressed students this week at the opening day assembly, he encouraged students to take "appropriate risks" over...
A Joyful Return to the Junior School
Students were all smiles (okay, a couple of them were a little sad to say bye to mom and dad) to return to the...
Middle School Library Gets Upgrade for 21st-Century Learning
Libraries aren’t what they used to be – just ask Middle School teacher-librarian Ms. Sarah Craig.
“Well, in classic libraries there was no talking, no...
Professional Development: The Teachers Become The Students
Before students come back to campus ready for school, members of our Junior, Middle and Senior School faculty arrived ready and eager to learn....
The SMUS Chapel: Reworking Space for Our Growing Community
More than half a century ago the school community came together to do something extraordinary: build the Chapel.
In the early 1960s, the school –...
‘Band Geeks’ Heads to Victoria Fringe Festival
Students from SMUS and a handful of other Greater Victoria schools returned to class a little earlier than most of their classmates this summer, all for...
SMUS Musician Shines in ‘Once-in-a-Lifetime’ Symphony Performance
POP QUIZ: Which talented musician performed to a screaming crowd of more than 40,000 British Columbians this past long weekend?
a) Taylor Swift
b) SMUS student Ben...
Student Travellers Return from Service and Culture Trip to Greece
Learning about Greece from a classroom is interesting; learning about the Mediterranean country and its rich history by actually travelling there is unforgettable.
Last school year, Middle...
Sodexo and SMUS Help Feed Hungry Children This Summer
St. Michaels University School and Sodexo, the food service organization that runs Brown Hall, have partnered up once again this summer to fill a hunger gap in Greater...
‘This Has Been The Best School Year Ever!’
Last September, Santiago Mazoy, Alessandra Massa and Silke Kuhn began their school year at St. Michaels University School. The three finalists in our inaugural...
SMUS in the News: Paul Almond’s SMUS-Filmed "Ups and Downs"
June 19, 2015
Times Colonist
Tim Williams '83; Andrew Sabiston '82; Leslie Hope '82; Nick Etheridge '61; Santiago Garcia de Leaniz '82; Colin Skinner (former drama...
Congratulations to the Class of 2015!
An excerpt from a speech by Eva Grant, co-valedictorian
When I was going through the college application process last fall – and can I get...
Senior Students Celebrate School Year’s End
As the school year comes to an end, students and staff alike take the time to think back to September and reflect on all...
Leavers’ Chapel Marks Last Days for Grade 12 Students
Before the Class of 2015 finishes at SMUS, the Grade 12 students were treated to their final chapel service. Weekly chapel is always a...
2015 Athletic Awards
by Lindsay Brooke, Athletic Director
The 2014-15 school year has simply been the finest ever in SMUS sporting history. Pride of place goes to the athletes and coaches...
Grade 5 Students Grow Out of the Junior School
This year's Grade 5 class enjoyed its final days at the Junior School this week. After spending the school year as the oldest students...
Lifers Look Back on 13 Years at SMUS
September 5, 2002. Avril Lavigne's "Complicated" was sitting atop the charts, kids everywhere were anxiously awaiting the release of the second Harry Potter movie,...
Grade 8 Students Anticipate Life at the Senior School
Four Grade 8 students who've enjoyed their time at the Middle School reflect on their experiences in Grades 6-8
Aspiring Young Fashion Designer Wins National Student Design Contest
For someone who only recently took an active interest in the fashion world, Kiko Wu is very quickly making her talents known.
The Grade 11 student...
Junior School Sports Day – great kids, great coaches.
I have composed my blog entries in all kinds of places: on airplanes, on the ferry to Vancouver, in hotel rooms, in airport waiting...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Middle School WEB Leaders
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
SMUS in the News: Chris Hadfield’s SMUS Chat
Retired astronaut Chris Hadfield's digital visit to SMUS on Monday (May 25) piqued the interest of some of our local media. Two great stories, courtesy of...
12 Graduating SMUS Athletes Moving on to Play at Post-Secondary Level
It's been a banner year so far for SMUS athletes – and the year isn't over! Since the school year started, SMUS has taken...
Astronaut Chris Hadfield Talks Space, Music and Education with SMUS Students
Astronaut Chris Hadfield became the unofficial ambassador of science to the universe in 2013 when he took command of the International Space Station and gained international attention...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Prefect Assembly
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
19 SMUS Grads Earn Dogwood Scholarship for Extra-Curricular Excellence
Nineteen Grade 12 students were recently announced as recipients of a $1,000 Dogwood District Award, recognizing their excellence in non-academic work.
The awards, which recognize achievement...
Oman – the Takatuf Scholars
The country of Oman forms what you might call the “ball of the foot” of the Arabian Peninsula: on the southeast corner, at the...
Middle School Donations Help Educate Youth Halfway Around the World
A library, like a yard, sometimes needs a good weeding (but for very different reasons). Unlike unwanted garden trimmings though, books that are no longer...
Senior Students Sharpen Leadership Skills at Montreal CAIS Conference
With an outrageously early wake-up call of 3:45am, four intrepid students and a chaperone embarked on a cross-country journey to the Canadian Accredited Independent...
Building Sweet Friendships on Service Outings to Care Home
by Kathleen Cook, Assistant Director of the Junior School
As a part of a school-wide commitment to external community service for all the students at...
Grade 12 Student Composes a Personal SMUS Musical Journey
The journey that is high school is unique and very personal for every student. Most don't express that full experience in a public forum; offering up something tangible that...
Junior School Celebrates Being Environmentally Friendly
Kindergarten and Grade 5 classes are trying to make the world a little greener by drawing environmentally friendly messages on Thrifty Foods paper grocery bags....
SMUS Students Sell Prayer Flags to Raise Money for Nepal
Grade 8 students Georgia Haydock, left, and Anna Considine hang handmade prayer flags in the lobby of the Middle School.
If there's one thing that...
Young Artists Put Works on Display at ISA Art Show
SMUS students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 hung their hard work and dedication for all to see, at an art show last weekend hosted...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Photo Club
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
Relive Your Glory Years at Alumni Weekend
by Jason Penaluna '91, SMUS Alumni Association trustee
We are just one day away from the kick-off to Alumni Weekend 2015 (May 1-2)! SMUS is so excited to...
Middle School Explorers Set Out For Weekend Camp Experience
by Matthew, Grade 8
I love cities. I admire places such as Hong Kong and New York for their pace, skyscrapers and for how urban...
Spring Break Service Trip: China/Vietnam – Part II
by Lucas Simpson, Grade 10
After a ferry ride, several bus rides, a 13.5-hour flight, another two-hour flight, and hours of layovers, we finally arrived...
SMUS in the News: Lynn Lyons’ Brain Awareness Week Talk at SMUS
Times Colonist
April 25, 2015
Let kids feel uncertainty, learn to solve problems, author says
Watch the full video of Lynn Lyons' talk at SMUS on SMUStube.
Kindergarten Students Lead Their Parents Around School
Kindergarten students were all excited to take their parents around the school this week, demonstrating to them what they've learned this year and showing off some wonderful...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Sustainability and Outdoor Council
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
Cross-Campus Strings Show Highlights Musicians of All Ages
by Darin Steinkey
Some people are surprised to hear that SMUS students begin learning to play stringed instruments in Grade 4. The real surprise, to...
Spring Break Service Trip: China/Vietnam – Part I
This week, Sara Owen-Flood and Derry Li each wrote about their Spring Break trip for a Model UN Conference in China; and for a week-long service opportunity at...
Brain Awareness Week: Junior School Inquiries
Junior School students spent Brain Awareness Week learning about the brain during daily assemblies and through in-class inquiries. Our youngest students are full of great...
Brain Awareness Week: Middle School Learns About Brain Injuries
A visit from UVic's Let's Talk Science outreach team was one of the big highlights of Brain Awareness Week at the Middle School. Not...
Brain Awareness Week: Staying Stress-Free at the Senior School
Brain Awareness Week at the Senior School is always fun and educational, with lots of activities to do and see. From terrific and insightful...
Spring Break Service Trip: Mexico
by Christian Okiring, Grade 10
A service trip is an opportunity to discover something about the world and about yourself. My service trip to San...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Reach for the Top
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
Brain Awareness Week: Moving Bodies, Active Brains
by Tanya de Hoog, Junior School program specialist
On Tuesday, Junior School teaching faculty welcomed guest speaker Colleen Politano, a highly respected and longtime Victoria...
Spring Break Service Trip: Kenya
by Amy Bodine, Grade 12
Author Pat Conroy wrote: “Once you have traveled, the voyage never ends, but is played out over and over again...
Back to School, Back to Learning the Virtues: Compassion
by Tessa Lloyd, Junior School counsellor
Compassion, according to German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer, is the “basis of morality.” If kindness is an act, compassion is...
2015 Rugby Tour: The Home Stretch
With happy memories of Seville still fresh in the mind, the tour party heads west into the Algarve in southern Portugal for a day...
2015 Rugby Tour: Lisbon
We have finally found some consistent sun and, as I type, happy sunburnt faces are filing in for breakfast on a blue sky day...
2015 Rugby Tour: A Dose of Sun!
As we gear up to leave the sun and pool of gorgeous Abufeira, here are a few shots of our time in Sevilla and...
2015 Rugby Tour: Chasing the sun
March 23, mid day, and the tour party, after a three hour bus transfer from Granada, arrives in Seville. First impressions of the city...
2015 Rugby Tour: A Few Pictures
Without consistent wifi in Marbella, we were unable to load pictures. Here are a few from our days at La Alhambra and Marbella. Stay...
2015 Rugby Tour: Dos Victorias!!
The spectacular La Fallas "cremata" complete, the tour party, after just few hours shut eye, boarded the bus for the six hour bus ride...
2015 Rugby Tour: Carnival
It was an early morning departure from Barcelona, with the tour group still buzzing from the previous day's visit to La Sagrada Familia. The...
2015 Rugby Tour: Off and Running!
We have enjoyed a fantastic start to the tour! Sunday morning opened with blue skies and cool temperatures and the group started with a...
2015 Rugby Tour: A Long Haul
After almost 25 hours in transit the tour group has finally touched down to clear skies in Barcelona!. A long layover in Calgary afforded...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Math Challengers
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
SMUS Students Earn Perfect Scores on Advanced Placement Exams
Grade 12 student Nick Scholz and 2014 grad Jennifer Park achieved something quite rare last year.
The two students are among only 285 in the world to...
Model UN Competitions Are Fun and Rewarding Experiences
by Jonathan Mostovoy, Grade 12
Last weekend I attended the Canadian High School Model United Nations (CAHSMUN) in downtown Vancouver. Being a veteran at these types...
Grade 4 Students Teach Mindfulness at the Senior School
by Ms. Heather Sandquist
Mindfulness has become an integral part of many of the classes at the Junior School. A number of teachers incorporate various...
Talented SMUS Athlete Represents BC at Canada Winter Games
by Grace Thomas
Competing in the 2015 Canada Winter Games was one of the best experiences of my life.
I started playing squash about five years ago....
Best School Year Ever: And the Winner is…
It happened again. SMUS launched its second Best School Year Ever contest in October 2014 with the tagline: "Wanted: One amazing high school student." What...
2015 Rugby Tour: Ten Days To Go!
Departure day is nearing as the SMUS Senior Boys Rugby squad gets set for its March 14-31 tour to Spain and Portugal. The excitement...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Buddy Reading Club
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
Pink Shirt Day a Big Piece of the Kindness Puzzle at SMUS
It wasn't just the cherry blossoms, blooming flowers and Legally Blonde posters showing off their pink pride this week at SMUS, our students also donned...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Outdoor Leadership
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
Grade 1 and 11 Students Become Fairy Tale Heroes
Once upon a time there lived a group of young princes and princesses learning about fairy tales in their Grade 1 class. Her Royal Highness the...
SMUS’s Club Hub: Admissions Ambassadors
SMUS students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities that interest them. We offer more than 100 fun and rewarding clubs or councils that provide students...
Meet the Best School Year Ever Finalists
The SMUS campus has been buzzing with Best School Year Ever chatter for months now. We launched the 2015-16 scholarship contest in late October,...
Beyond the Blonde: Senior School Musical Behind the Scenes
by Kyus Hicks, Grade 12
Since watching Guys and Dolls while visiting the school in Grade 9, I knew that I wanted to be a...
2015 Rugby Tour: Four Weeks Out
We are officially 6 weeks away from our departure on March 14th. The boys are excited and have been impressing the coaching staff with...
SCHOOL TIES: In Their Own Words
In September, 1978, 35 girls made St. Michaels University School history. They walked through the doors to form the first co-ed class.
Grade 5 Students Rise to the Challenge of Staging a Musical
Putting on a school musical is never just a walk in the park. They're always a lot of fun and very rewarding, whether you're...
From Surviving to Thriving: Grade 8 Students Shine as Leaders
Last Friday, Grade 8 students from Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland descended on SMUS to participate in a unique, student-organized leadership conference, From...
Spreading the Word About the Life-Changing Value of Service Trips
Every week, students attend Chapel for an opportunity to talk about leadership, character and belief. It's also a venue for students to report back...
Experience the SMUS Community at Open House: February 20
by Paul Leslie, Director of Admissions
The SMUS Open House is an opportunity for families to visit our Junior, Middle and Senior school campuses and get...
Athletic Review
Last week we sent out the summary of our recent Athletic Review, as promised before Christmas. (Read it here.) The document has elicited some...
Transformed Grade 10 Program Opens Doors to a World of Experiences
On Tuesday, we hosted our Course Information Evening to provide insight and information to parents and students about the programs SMUS has to offer in the coming...
Navigating Your 21st Century Career
by Jake Humphries, University Counselling
Students graduating from high school today face a world of unparalleled opportunity that requires careful navigation and constant attention to...
Junior School Students Go Crazy for Science!
by Nina Duffus, Grade 2 teacher
It may not be the most common of career paths, but there are now 49 young sleuths at the...
How to Rock a Networking Event
by Laura Authier, Director of Marketing and Communications
One of the most valuable tools I have in my professional kit is my network. In my...
Learning and the Brain: Executive Functions Part III
"It's impossible." "It's too hard." "I want to give up." "I don't think I can do it."
Do any of those sound familiar? All of us,...
11-Year-Old Takes Over Junior School as Principal for a Day
If ever Junior School director Nancy Richards needs a day off, she now knows she can put her trust in an 11-year-old to hold...
SMUS Filmmakers Get Red Carpet Treatment at the Victoria Film Festival
What do three SMUS students have in common with world-famous directors Martin Scorsese, Frederick Wiseman and Lone Scherfig? They all have films selected to...
Happy SMUS Year! Looking Back at 2014
As is customary for most people at this time of year, the first days of January is a time for reflection; looking back at the previous 365...
Primary Students Jingle All The Way Onstage
To cap off the holiday season, our Junior School hosted its annual Primary Christmas Concert this week, much to the delight of proud parents...
Treasured Boarding Experiences are a Hot Commodity
This is the final part in a series of candid blogs written by our 2014-15 Best School Year Ever winners on the Good, the Bad and the Surprising of their boarding...
The Best Way to Spread Christmas Cheer is Singing Loud for All to Hear
Every family has Christmas traditions. For the SMUS family, our tradition is a very large gathering (everyone from Kindergarten to Grade 12 comes together)...
How to Win the Best School Year Ever Contest
With the deadline to enter our Best School Year Ever video contest fast approaching, we want to help boost your chances of winning the once-in-a-lifetime...
SMUS in the News: Best School Year Ever
Saanich News
December 6, 2014
Saanich's St. Michaels University School lures top students with unique competition
Carol Service Brings Reflections on the Holiday Season
Our annual Carol Service is a joyous opportunity for members of the SMUS community to gather and reflect on what the holiday season means to...
Boarding Community is Full of Good Surprises
This is the fourth part in a series of candid blogs written by our 2014-15 Best School Year Ever winners on the Good, the Bad and the Surprising of their boarding...
The Challenges of Living as a Boarder
This is the third part in a series of candid blogs written by our 2014-15 Best School Year Ever winners on the Good, the Bad and the Surprising of their boarding...
Exploratory Camping Trip Leaves Lifelong Memories
by Zyoji Jackson, Middle School teacher
“One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” – William Shakespeare.
While I cannot assume exactly what Mr. Shakespeare had in...
Building Lasting Friendships is Intrinsic to Boarding Life
This is the second part in a series of candid blogs written by our 2014-15 Best School Year Ever winners on the Good, the Bad and the Surprising of their boarding...
Gold Medal Victory for Senior Boys Soccer Team at Provincials
With ISA, Colonist Cup and Island trophies already on the mantel, the Senior boys soccer team traveled to Burnaby November 17-19 to compete in the BC AA Championship.
A...
Bonjour, Montréal! Middle School Soccer Competes in Quebec
Words and photos by Xavier Abrioux
A few weeks ago, 15 of our Middle School boys travelled to Montreal to compete in the CAIS U13...
Middle School Choir Joins Victoria Symphony to Remember World Wars
From the balcony of the majestic Royal Theatre, as Maestra Tania Miller conducts her Victoria Symphony on the stage below, the melodic voices of...
Vibrant Boarding Community is My Second Family
This is the first part in a series of candid blogs written by our 2014-15 Best School Year Ever winners on the Good, the Bad and the...
Wanted: Three Amazing High School Students
Last school year, we launched an unusual recruitment campaign: we made available a once-in-a-lifetime contest experience for North American high school students. Up for grabs...
Remembrance Day is a Time for Honouring and Understanding
On Wednesday, our Junior School hosted its annual Remembrance Day service, featuring beautiful songs, evocative poetry and rich storytelling. Every year, our Head of...
Remembrance Day: We Need to Remember
Remembrance Day at SMUS is steeped in tradition as a way to honour those who served our country; those members of our community –...
Happy Halloween!
Fuelled by tons of fun activities (and maybe a little bit of candy), Halloween at SMUS is always a great event!
The festivities kicked off...
"Howdy partner!" Barn Dance Strengthens SMUS Community
Barn dances have long been associated with socializing and community-building. And that's no different at SMUS, as our Junior School hosted its annual Barn...
SMUS Distinguished Alumnus: Melissa Sawyer
This week, Melissa Sawyer '94, the recipient of the 2014 SMUS Distinguished Alumnus Award visited the school to speak with students about her life and...
Harvard Instructional Rounds at SMUS
At SMUS we believe in life-long learning, and that extends to our teachers as well. From one-on-one mentoring and coaching to cross-campus collaboration between...
Open House: 10 Good Things about the Junior School
Kathleen Cook, Assistant Director of the Junior School
On Friday, October 24 the Junior School welcomed many visitors to the Open House. As a part...
Robert DiYanni on Critical and Creative Thinking
Robert DiYanni, prolific author and NYU professor, held a series of workshops for faculty, parents and students on Thursday and Friday. His topics included...
A Junior School Tribute to Grandparents
Nancy Richards, Director of the Junior School
Over 200 grandparents and grandpals were honoured at the first Grandparents’ Day in the history of the Junior...
Tolmie’s Rugged Hill: A Grade 7 Perspective
by Angelina & Josh, Grade 7
On Thursday, September 11th, the Grade 7 Science students at the Middle School went with Mr. Floyd, Mr. Jackson...
Funding Big Dreams
Did you know that tuition at SMUS accounts for approximately 85% of our total budget? The extra 15% is raised annually via our Dream...
Student Exchanges Offer Cultural Immersion
“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have...
Link Crew Leads the Way
Link Crew is a way that Senior students at SMUS can welcome new kids to the school as well as learn and practice their...
A Different Perspective: Nicaragua
By Siri Knudsen and Megan Harrison, Grade 12
Over the past two school years, two service trips have gone to Nicaragua. We participated in the...
The Reggio-Inspired Classroom
by Nancy Richards, Director of Junior School
Thursday night was the Junior School Curriculum Night, an opportunity for parents to not only meet their son’s...
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Roommates
One of the greatest parts of attending boarding school is living with a roommate from another country. Each roommate pair at SMUS is specially...
Junior School Serves up BBQ Fun
On Friday, September 5th the Junior School community gathered for a Welcome Back barbeque. Over 500 people, including parents, grandparents, children and teachers gathered...
New Year, New Brain Series
If you've never been to a Learning and the Brain lecture, well, you're forgiven. But you should sign up right away for the September...
Simple Things
Each September, you only get one chance to make your first address to the students, in my position. Sort of like remembering you only...
SMUS Welcomes the World
by Paul Leslie, Director of Admissions
Dear SMUS Team:
Congratulations to all on an excellent and well organised orientation week. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and...
True Colours at the Middle School
Students and faculty were abuzz with opening week excitement as the Middle School opened its doors for the new year. WEB (Where Everybody Belongs)...
New Students and Spaces at Junior School
There were lively conversations, smiles and hugs at Junior School on Wednesday as students and parents alike returned for another year, eager to meet...
The Best School Year Ever
This phrase is a very ambitious one. At the same time it speaks the aspiration of every student at the School this week, Kindergarten...
SMUS in the News: Peter Alec Caleb
Times Colonist
August 13, 2014
Peter Alec Caleb, former Headmaster
Peter Alec CALEB (1933 - 2014)
SMUS in the News: Texan Teen Meets Prime Minister
The Austin American-Statesman
July 17, 2014
Alessandra Massa '16
Bastrop teen wins scholarship, meets Canadian prime minister
The Class of 2014
An excerpt from a speech by Lydia Kenzie, co-valedictorian
Allow me to speak to one particularly memorable day spent with all of you. Valentine’s Day,...
Middle School Closing Ceremony
by Jared, Grade 8
Looking back at our years at the Middle School, we are not only filled with very positive memories, but also some...
How to Download Images from the SMUS Photo Gallery
The SMUS photo gallery can be intimidating but if you refer to this post, you will have access to more than 200,000 (and counting)...
Junior School Closing Ceremony
by Nancy Richards, Director of the Junior School
The Junior School Closing Ceremony provides us with an opportunity to reflect upon the past school year,...
Grade 9 & 10 Closing Ceremony
While our Grade 9 and 10 students are not entering their final year of SMUS or heading off to university, the end of the...
SMUS Lifers Go Back to Kindergarten
by Claire Williams, Grade 12
As lifers, we have 12-13 years of SMUS behind us and the Junior School was a big chunk of that....
Dream Big: Saeed
Our 2013-2014 Annual Fund is very close to reaching its $1.3 million goal. With just over a month until the June 30, 2014 deadline,...
Walk for Water
by Sarah Taylor, Grade 12
Walk for Water is happening on Friday, May 23. Free the Children puts on this annual event to raise awareness...
Mother’s Day Celebration
by Allison and Anna Fowler, mother and daughter
As students progress from grade to grade within the Junior School there are traditions that each grade...
Service Day: Fundraising for Nicaragua
Throughout the year, Service Days offer students a chance to shed their uniform in exchange for a small donation to a good cause. Next...
Earth Awareness Week
Following a wonderful student-led assembly to kick off Earth Awareness Week at the Junior School, the children have all been involved in a week...
Found: Three Amazing High School Students
WANTED: One amazing high school student.
So said the tagline for SMUS's first Best School Year Ever scholarship contest. Who knew we'd find so many...
SMUS Ecuador and the Galapagos Trip
by Caryn Cooper, Grade 10
The 2014 SMUS Ecuador/Galapagos trip! Where to begin even writing about it? Begin at the beginning, you say? Very well...
In...
Grade 5 Students Go Greek
by Theo
Yesterday was Greek day and I have learned so much about Greek mythology! I learned a very interesting fact about my god Poseidon:...
And the BSYE finalists are…
Ever since January 15, when Kalkidan Amare, David Boroto and Ann Makosinski helped SMUS launch the Best School Year Ever scholarship contest, there's been...
Alumni Weekend: Not Just For Alumni
by Gillian Donald, Alumni Associate
As the Easter weekend begins, we are only two weeks away from another major event: Alumni Weekend (May 2-4). Despite...
The Leadership Puzzle
Every student at SMUS is a leader, but each one will have to figure out what kind of leader they will be and how...
Easter Arrives at the Junior School
Easter is a fun holiday for our younger students and our Junior School teachers arranged some exciting craft opportunities just in time for the...
Brain Awareness Week: Senior School
It was a busy week at the Senior School with many opportunities for both students and faculty to expand their understanding of the human...
Brain Awareness Week: Middle School
Many of the Brain Awareness Week events at SMUS focused on research, what we can do to improve our learning and how our brains...
Brain Awareness Week: Junior School
by Tori, Grade 5
This year Brain Awareness Week was lots of fun and I learned so much. I enjoyed learning about how my brain...
Arboreal Life at SMUS
Our campus is now officially in bloom and over the break we had a visit from Verna Mumby of Mumby Tree Services, who is...
Adventures in Experiential Education
Every year at this time, a group of eager Grade 10 students challenge themselves with an experiential education. For the third term, the students...
SMUS in the News: Passion and Patience
Victoria News
April 2, 2014
Cindy Kim '15
Youth Inspired: Passion and Patience
The Value of Student Travel
This Spring Break, some SMUS students will be taking part in an annual tradition of Spring Break trips. These international trips will take students...
An Alternative to Parent/Teacher Conferences
While Middle and Senior School parents get a chance to talk to teachers at Parent-Teacher Interviews, our Junior School parents hear about how things...
How to spend a Thursday night
This week, that was easy: you go and see the Senior School production of Spamalot. Every year on opening night my wife, Joan, and...
Connecting the Dots
In her final parent talk for the school year, Director of Learning Heather Clayton discusses personalized learning and how SMUS teachers use our growing...
A Visit from an Olympian
As the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games continue, the Junior School hosted an Olympian from the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. Jon Beare, a...
Choosing A Course
Even though September 2015 seems a long time away, the time for students to plan their courses is, well, right now. For a peek...
Student Council Spreads the Love
by Catie, Grade 8
Our Middle School has many leadership opportunities, one of them being Student Council. Student Council organizes dances, service days and spirit...
All We Need is Like
There was lots of Valentine's Day love spread around all three campuses today, but love isn't confined to one day of the year. Last...
Why Go On An Exchange?
by Jasper Johnston, Grade 10
This March break, I get the amazing opportunity to travel with two other Senior School students, Oria James and Emily...
Outdoor Education: Leadership in the Wilderness
See some amazing photography and listen to outdoor leaders Celine and Gareth talk about their Outdoor Leadership 12 experiences in the video above.
Through our...
Junior Students Bond With Seniors
by Kathleen Cook, teacher
As a part of a school-wide commitment to community service for all the students at SMUS, the Junior School regularly visited...
Course Selection Information
The annual Course Selection Information Evening covers a range of topics related to everything from graduation requirements to special co-credit options for AP classes....
Frozen Victoria
I mentioned to a colleague this morning that for the first time that I can remember, the ground outside is actually frozen....
Financial Aid February
Financial aid is a big part of the Annual Fund, with over $300,000 last year going towards making SMUS education more accessible. For the...
Celebrating Chinese New Year
In honour of the lunar new year, the Grade 1 classes took a field trip to Victoria's historic Chinatown to learn about Chinese culture...
Climate Change Showdown
Our Middle School has had the environment on its mind this week. Last Friday, the Eco-warriors won a presentation from the BC Sustainability Energy...
SMUS in the News: Free School Year
Victoria News
January 24, 2014
Free school year in Victoria for best and brightest
Students on Ice in Antarctica
by Tessa Owens, Grade 11
This winter, I was lucky enough to participate in a two-week international scientific expedition to Antarctica called Students on Ice....
The Reality of Life Online
We hosted Jesse Miller of Mediated Reality this week, and he spoke to students, parents and staff about the illusion many people have of...
Junior School Gets Greener
by Diana Nason, librarian
We introduced the recycling and composting program a few years ago and the students have been quite committed. Recycling is a...
Malala Yousafzai: Activism or Exploitation?
Malala Yousafzai is the young Pakistani girl who the Taliban attempted to assassinate because of her activism for the right to education, especially for...
The Best School Year Ever
Today is the Day of Silence organized by our student chapter of Amnesty International. Good thing, therefore, that I was able to say my...
Service Trip? India?
If you have ever considered going on a service trip, this video (created by SMUS student Olivia Sorley) may motivate you to sign up! She...
Student Short Film Tops VFF Contest
http://vimeo.com/81909195
Grade 12 student Olivia Sorley took first place in the Senior student category for the Victoria Film Festival, which officially begins on February 7,...
Young Designers Revive House Shirts
The Middle School house shirts have undergone an overhaul thanks to some talented student artists. Every Middle School student submitted at least one t-shirt...
Bamfield Trip Fuels Environmental Science Experience
Way back in 2013, our AP Environmental Science students travelled to Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. Soon after they returned, we received this great report...
All We Want for Christmas is SMUS
It wouldn't be the holidays at SMUS without the annual all-school assembly. From chipmunks to kings, the traditional student-led skewering of the faculty, a...
Dream Big: Alex
Earlier this year, we unveiled the new motto for our annual fund. The money raised supports many aspects of school life but in particular...
A Season of Giving
Our Middle School students put together 18 hampers to brighten the holiday for local families in need. Below, one of our students writes about...
Tiny Voices Perform Holiday Tunes
Our Junior School hosted their own very special Christmas concert this week. Students from Kindergarten to Grade 3 performed a few fun holiday pieces...
Writing for Human Rights
by Dariol Haydock, Assistant Director of Middle School
On December 10, the Middle School held our second annual Amnesty International Write for Rights event. In...
Take a (Virtual) Tour Around Campus
We're not trying to put our amazing Admissions tour ambassadors out of a job, but our new virtual walking tour is pretty sweet. Click...
Find Meaning in the Season
Our Carol Service encourages us all to connect with the spiritual side of this holiday season, whatever our faith or beliefs. Through music and...
Learning and the Brain: Cultivating Strengths
http://youtu.be/uEEj2m80o5k
How are our personal strengths defined? Often, other people - our parents, teachers and bosses - tell us what we are best at and...
YALP: Local Activists Inspire Grade 8 Students
by Aysha and Taylor, Grade 8
Aysha: Inspiration
When I was younger, I would see people on the streets who looked ragged and scruffy. I never...
YALP: Keynote Speakers Provide Fresh Perspective
by Zachary Kahn, Grade 12
Seeing as I had never been extremely involved with local poverty and never having attended a conference like this, I...
SMUS in the News: Heather Clayton on Real Parenting
CFAX 1070
November 16, 2013
Director of Learning Heather Clayton
Real Parenting on CFAX (beginning at 34:50 mark)
Remembrance Day: A Collective Experience
Remembrance Day on the SMUS campus is marked with special ceremonies, traditions and this year, a first.
As you may have seen on the livestream...
Eco-Warriors in Their Natural Habitat
by Terra, Grade 7
On October 29th, the Middle School Eco-Warriors went down to Uplands Park and worked on restoring the Garry Oak ecosystem there....
A Hectic Halloween
Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 had a very happy Halloween, showing off some amazing costumes and enjoying all sorts of spirited activities.
Both the...
The Consequences of Cyberbullying
by Saje, Grade 8
Bullying in the world is a big problem, but cyber bullying is often much worse in today's digital world. On the...
Throwing the Doors Wide Open
Eager to show their pride in the school, our Grade 5 leaders have been touring prospective parents around the Junior School. This is what...
Dream Big: Our New Annual Fund
For over 20 years, the SMUS community has come together to support our school and our students through the Annual Fund. This year, the...
Examining Introversion and Extraversion
Based on the best-selling book Quiet, Director of Learning Heather Clayton gives parents insight into how introverts and extroverts behave in different situations and...
Thanksgiving, Canadian Style
The Top Five Canadian Thanksgiving Traditions
5. Watch sports on television
4. Get outside!
3. Give thanks for health, family and friends
2. Spend time with family
1. Eat....
Excellence in all of us
The information that sweeps over new parents has been flowing – and overflowing – for several weeks now. It does ebb, if any new...
Starting at SMUS: A Parent Perspective
One of the most important aspects to becoming a boarder at SMUS is the new boarder orientation. Sculpted by the Admissions team and aided...
Starting at SMUS: A Student Perspective
by Elaine, Grade 10 boarder, Symons House
Last Christmas, I got an email from SMUS and it gave me the email address of a girl...
Two Steps Closer to a Graceful Space
by Nancy Richards, Director of Junior School
Over the past week, our Junior School faculty, parents and neighbours have had opportunities to share their thoughts...
Terry Fox Run: A Canadian Tradition
Each September for the last 33 years, Canadians have run to remember one of our heroes: Terry Fox. Terry lost his leg to cancer...
A Joyful Approach to Education
by Nancy Richards, Director of Junior School
Last night was the Junior School Curriculum Night, an opportunity for parents to not only meet their son's...
The Mission
At this time of year I refer to our School’s Mission frequently. It is a time of numerous parent evenings, when they meet the...
All Aboard!
As students have written in recent Link Leader program posts, it's not always easy coming to a new school. Imagine, then, if you were...
Leadership Via Horsemanship
On Thursday, our new Prefects, Heads of House and Council Heads jumped the Clipper ferry to make the annual journey down to Silk Purse...
Follow Me: Link Leaders
Last week, we talked about our two student-led welcome programs for new students from the perspective of the newcomer. This week, two Grade 12...
Our Growing School
by Nancy Richards, Director of Junior School
The school year is off to a fantastic start and everyone at the Junior School is talking about...
Meet Your Head Boy and Girl
Dear New SMUSdents,
Welcome! On behalf of the entire school, we welcome you to our SMUS family! As you may already know, our school welcomes...
From Secret Garden to Shakepeare
After taking on the role of Mary in the SMUS production of The Secret Garden last year, Grade 12 student Ellen Law spent her...
A Junior Welcome
Our Oak Bay campus was a bustling place as our students returned to school and two new classes of kindergarten students arrived. Our Grade...
Kindergarten
After living through several decades of Septembers in the teaching life, this September I am also experiencing it as the grandfather of a four-year-old...
Graduation: A Rite of Passage
by Darin Steinkey, Senior Houseparent, Timmis House
There are different types of energy all rolled into one when it comes to a graduation ceremony. There’s...
A Fitting Close to the Grade 9 and 10 Year
by Darin Steinkey, Senior Houseparent, Timmis House
A colleague sitting next to me mentioned how much she enjoyed what she called the "lighter" closing ceremony....
Middle School Closing Ceremonies
The Middle School ceremony is always an interesting mix of perspectives. Students from Grade 6 are celebrating their first year at the Middle School,...
Junior School Closing Ceremonies
Director of Junior School Nancy Richards opened the Closing Ceremonies, sharing both the perspective of the teachers and the students on the past year....
Reflections on India
by Darin Steinkey
Each member of this group has spent time in India and wanted to share their impressions in Chapel. Whether it was a...
Annual Fund Scholars: Dawit
Dawit Workie first came to SMUS in Grade 8, joining our boarding community and settling in to life not too far away from his...
Lifers
SMUS "Lifers" are students who have spent their school lives at SMUS. This year, Grade 12 lifers will finally be leaving the SMUS nest....
Mindfulness
by Virginia Ronning, counsellor
The 21st Century learner has to keep up with a grueling pace of change, and it’s our job at SMUS to...
iSpy: A Musical
by Stephanie Geehan, teacher
It has been a lot of fun putting together this musical. The journey began around this time last year, when I...
Idols and Heroes
Excerpt from my talk at Leavers’ Chapel, June 7, 2013
To talk about heroes at graduation time is common, even easy. In the popular media...
Gratitude for War Child & Keep the Beat
Words by Lindon Carter, Grade 12; video by Olivia Sorley, Grade 11; pictures by Song Panvichean, Grade 10 and Darin Steinkey
My first year in...
An Olympian End
After a year of intense competition - both physical and mental - the house games season wrapped up this weekend with the House Olympics....
Differences
Earlier this week I heard a group of our teachers reflect upon the completion of their stint in our Learning Institute, organized by Director...
Campuses Unite in Song
by Darin Steinkey
I love shooting pictures at Christ Church. Although it's dark, the light is usually fairly even and the performers are set against...
A Blind Date With A Book
by Eva Grant, Grade 10
The Book Club worked hard last week and the week before to prepare for our pilot project for Grade 9:...
Alumni Return
It was a bright and beautiful weekend this past weekend, as alumni returned to campus for our annual Alumni Weekend. The SMUS community welcomed...
In Memory of David Gauthier
by Laura Authier
Another op’nin, another show
In Philly, Boston, or Baltimo’
A chance for stage folks to say hello!
Another op’nin of another show…
Four weeks, you rehearse...
Annual Fund Scholars: Kali
Albertan boarder Kali Salmas has made the most out of her two years at SMUS. A fixture in our music program, she's also made...
Pitt Meadows, and remembering
You know you are no longer in Vancouver when you are enveloped in the scent of horse farms, that combination of hay and manure,...
Banding Together for a Farewell Concert
by Erin Anderson, editor
It was an exciting and moving concert that marked John Reid’s final appearance on UVic’s Farquhar stage. Special guests, dedicated songs...
No Batteries Required
Just in time for Earth Week, we spoke to Ann Makosinski, whose human-powered flashlight just won her a trip to the Canada-Wide Science Fair....
Cross Campus Strings: Firsts and Finals
In the opening show of concert season at SMUS, the Cross Campus Strings featured appearances (musically, anyway) from Mahler, Saint-Saëns, the League of Legends...
Building A Better Brain
SMUS held its first annual Brain Awareness Week from April 5-12 in order to educate our entire community about not only how our brains...
India: A Festival of Colours
by David Boroto, Grade 11
India. Just a few weeks ago the word was a mystery to me and nine other SMUS students and staff....
Island Leadership for Bolton Boys
Boarding is bursting with leadership opportunities, and a group of Grade 11 boarders dedicated last weekend to building their leadership skills. Travelling to Tortoise...
Nicaragua: Changes
by Claudia Wheler, Grade 10
Going to Jiquilillo, Nicaragua was a whole new experience for me. I had never been on a service trip -...
Mexico: My First Service Trip
by Flora Feng, Grade 9
I once saw a man on TV, who spent a year doing service in Africa. His mind and values, and...
Paris and Amsterdam: Music & Culture
by Danny Park
Although it is difficult to express how spectacular this trip was, I will try.
On March 13th, 36 students and four wonderful music...
Model Students Replicate the UN
There's nothing unusual about SMUS students participating in a Model UN, but this week was the first time we involved some Middle School students...
Boarders Vs. the West Coast: A Lively Weekend
After the longer breaks, the boarding community comes back together with Community Weekends. This means our usual weekend activities are replaced with house activities...
SMUS in the News: Canadese gasten op Griftland
De Weekkrant
March 27, 2013
Canadese gasten op Griftland (in Dutch)
Translation
On the 21st of March, Griftland College had a visit from Canadian school St. Michaels University...
Squeezing the Brain
Yesterday at our weekly Management Team meeting, Heather Clayton, our Director of Learning, handed out to us little gray “squeeze-ball” models of the brain,...
Let’s Get Mathematical: The Challengers
For many, math may not be an exciting subject, but SMUS seems to have more than its share of avid mathematicians. Math contests bring...
Parents Get a Lesson on Learning
During the final week of the term, the Junior School parents are invited to the school to spend time with their child at a...
Energetic Cast Powers Annie
The Middle School launched their production of Annie on Thursday night and we have three reflections on the play supplied by actors from last...
Annual Fund Scholars: Remy
Three years ago, Remy Furrer was told he shouldn't even bother going to high school. Now he is set to graduate and attend university.
When...
Black History Month
Students from around the world celebrated Black History Month in one of the most exuberant and power-packed chapel services of the year. We hear...
Unearthing The Secret Garden
by Erin Anderson, editor
When I first heard SMUS would perform The Secret Garden, I recalled the book I read as a child, and thought,...
Pink Shirts Remind Us To Be Kind
This Wednesday, students wore pink shirts to show their support for a bullying-free atmosphere. Pink Shirt Day, an international movement against bullying, was celebrated...
Annie Prepares to Take the Stage
Next week, the Middle School will be on the McPherson stage, debuting their production of Annie. For a three-day run, there is much work...
Buddies With Books
Our reading buddies program brings Junior School kids to the Senior School throughout the year to share their favourite books with older SMUS students....