Tag: Senior School
Making the Most of Summer 2021
Ruth McGhee highlights different programs and ways for high school students to work ahead on planning for post-secondary
GALLERY: Back from Spring Break
Check out a photo gallery featuring shots of our Junior, Middle and Senior School students from the first week back after Spring Break
SMUS Spring Break Roundup
As we look toward the return from Spring Break, we provide a roundup of some student and alumni updates from the past couple of weeks
Through Their Eyes: Exploring the Past from Multiple Perspectives
David Lynch highlights the redesigned Grade 10 Social Studies course that brings multiple perspectives and voices into students' learning
GALLERY: Spring Has Sprung
Check out a gallery of photos from our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools showcasing what has been happening in the weeks leading up to Spring Break
This Isn’t Your Grandparents’ History Class
David Lynch highlights how social studies is more than just learning about what happened by having students answer larger historical questions
21 Chump Street: Staging a COVID-Safe School Musical
We chat with the student directors and musical director of 21 Chump Street, our COVID-safe Senior School musical
Artists Create Windows into History at Fort Rodd Hill
Digital Art 11 students use technology to combine history and art together for a project on display at Fort Rodd Hill
SMUS in the News: Makena Anderson ’23 and Lauren Rust ’23 Named Top BC...
Athletes Makena Anderson and Lauren Rust are named by Varsity Letters as two of the top AAA basketball players to watch in BC
GALLERY: Final Days of February
Check out a gallery of photos from our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools showcasing some of the learning and happenings during the past couple of weeks
How Do I Get Into My Dream School?
Ruth McGhee, Director of University Counselling, shares how students can stand out as leaders when applying for their dream school
Debate Club Builds Invaluable Skills for Life
Three skilled public speakers represented SMUS at an international debate competition for independent school students
Bringing Authentic First Nations Voices into the Math Classroom
Senior School teacher Allison Higinbotham highlights how First Nations voices are being used to teach students math and history
Mapping Your Route to University
Ruth McGhee offers advice to high school students on choosing a university and program of study
GALLERY: The First Week of 2021
Check out a gallery of photos from the first week back at our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools.
SMUS in the News: Devon Oneschuk ’22 Talks Youth Clothing Drive with CBC Radio
Grade 11 student Devon Oneschuk, youth lead with The Foundry Victoria, speaks with CBC Radio about the organization's winter clothing drive
Senior School Christmas Celebration
Watch the Senior School Christmas Celebration, with performances by our band, choir and strings students, as well as our Senior School Christmas Assembly
GALLERY: Countdown to Winter Break
Check out a gallery of photos from the last couple of weeks at our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
An American Perspective on Boarding School in Canada
American boarding students Neekan and Jenny write about what it's like moving from the United States to attend boarding school in Canada
Student Athlete Offered 3 Full-Ride Rowing Scholarships
Grade 12 student Firinne Rolfe signs with Boston's Northeastern University after earning more than $1.2 million in scholarship offers
Grade 9 ADST is a ‘Hard Fun’ Course by Design
Jordan Tessarolo highlights the new Grade 9 ADST course and how it helps students develop skills that will prepare them for life
Remembering the Fallen
Watch the 2020 Remembrance Day Service and join us in remembering the 134 students and faculty who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars
The Importance of Fitting Service into Your Life
Heads of Service Council Emily Selwood and Julia McDermott write about why being mindful of others’ needs is important in our world
GALLERY: Happy Halloween from SMUS!
Check out photos from this year's Halloween festivities at SMUS
From AP Capstone to a Yale University Magazine
Grade 12 student Daniel Chen's interest in improving the gig economy has helped land him a research article in a Yale University magazine
How to Vet Political Candidates Before You Vote
Grade 11 student Jonah Boeckh offers advice on how to vet political candidates so you can cast your ballot as an informed voter
This is a Climate Change Wake-Up Call
Grade 12 student Firinne Rolfe highlights the need for action on climate change
PHOTO GALLERY: Welcoming Autumn on Campus
Check out a gallery of photos from the first few weeks of autumn at our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
Why Do We Wear Orange Shirts?
Grade 12 students Grace Vickers and Dewi Wahono highlight the history of residential schools in Canada and the meaning behind Orange Shirt Day
Meet Our New UC Team, Ready to Support Post-Secondary Prep
Ruth McGhee introduces our University Counselling team that supports Senior School students with their plans beyond high school
SMUS in the News: David Lynch ’98 Named a Governor General’s Teaching Award Finalist
Senior School history teacher David Lynch is named a finalist for the 2020 Governor General's History Award for Excellence in Teaching
SMUS in the News: How to Choose the Best Private School for Your Child
Grade 12 student Amelia Nugent is highlighted in a story from The Globe and Mail on choosing the right school for your child
Making the Most of This Atypical School Year
"We endure these irrevocable changes over and over in our lives, whether we realize it or not. We are constantly facing a 'new normal.'"
PHOTO GALLERY: First Week of the 2020-21 School Year
The first week of school has been a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as a school community
SMUS Revamps Boarding Program to Safely Reunite Full Community
With new health and safety measures in place, we revamped boarding to bring our whole community back together
Meet Our New SMUS Teachers
Meet the four teachers joining our community for the 2020-21 school year
2020 Retirees: Janice McCachen
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Janice McCachen, Senior School English teacher
2020 Retirees: Kevin Cook
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Kevin Cook, Director of Community Engagement and Global Expeditions
2020 Retirees: Pete McLeod
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Pete McLeod, Director of Outdoor Education
2020 Retirees: Tony Cordle
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by postmaster Tony Cordle
Congratulations to the Class of 2020!
Congratulations to the Class of 2020! Watch the ceremony and read excerpts from valedictorian Kate O'Connor's speech
SMUS in the News: Three Blue Jags Named Among BC’s Top Boys Rugby Players
Three Grade 12 athletes are named among the top 50 boys rugby players in BC
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
What I Hope Parents Know
Jim Kingstone writes a message to Grade 12 parents as high school graduation will look different this year
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.'
Countering Loneliness and Solitude with Poetry
English Studies 12 students share poetry and written works inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic
Me to We Club Continues to Support Street Community
Senior School students spread compassion by making cookies and candygrams for Victoria's street community
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
SMUS in the News: Chloé Hill-Huse ’20 Ready to Conquer the Rugby World
Grade 12 athlete Chloé Hill-Huse '20 is highlighted in The Scrum, an online rugby magazine
Health and Wellness Week at Home
Students and teachers share tips to help you stay happy, healthy and well in times of change
SMUS in the News: Matias Totz ’20 Earns Commerce Scholarship
Grade 12 student Matias Totz is featured by the Saanich News after winning a scholarship to the University of Calgary
Athletics Week in Review: March 17
Basketball, rugby, soccer and squash are featured in the latest Athletics Week in Review
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
NEWSIES: Meet the Cast
Four SMUS performers playing the lead characters in NEWSIES talk about their experience in the Senior School musical
Athletics Week in Review: March 6
Basketball at the Grade 7/8 Girls and Junior Girls levels are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Students Prepare to ‘Seize the Day’ with NEWSIES
The Saanich News sits down with two student actors to highlight NEWSIES, the Senior School musical
NEWSIES: Meet the Head of Props
Ria Sheoran, Head of Props, takes us behind-the-scenes of NEWSIES, the Senior School musical
Teamwork is Key at Robotics Competition
Maureen Hann recaps our students' success at the FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition
Career Day Highlights a Wide Range of Professional Paths
Alison McCallum highlights our upcoming Career Day event and puts a call out for speakers
Kindness Can Change the World
Pink Shirt Day at SMUS highlights the power of kindness
Athletics Week in Review: February 26
Basketball and squash, and a look-ahead to the rugby Boot Games, are highlighted in the Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Junior Girls Basketball Team Wins Island Title
The Junior Girls Basketball team's Island victory is highlighted in the Saanich News
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'
Athletics Week in Review: February 12
This week's Athletics Week in Review highlights the latest basketball and rowing news
Students Buddy Up for Language Learning
The Foreign Language Reading Buddy Program pairs students learning Chinese, French and Spanish with a classmate proficient in the language
Building Leaders in BC’s Backcountry
Pete McLeod, Director of Outdoor Education, highlights the Outdoor Leadership Winter Camp experience
Athletics Week in Review: January 29
Basketball and squash are featured in the latest Athletics Week in Review
Athletics Week in Review: January 22
Basketball and squash are highlighted in the latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
Athletics Week in Review: January 15
Basketball, rugby and squash are highlighted in the latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review.
SMUS in the News: Chloé Hill-Huse ’20 Named to Canadian U18 Rugby Team
Grade 12 student Chloé Hill-Huse is named to Canada's U18 women's rugby team for the Can-Am Tour
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
Athletics Week in Review: December 10
Basketball, cross country, rugby, soccer and volleyball are highlighted in the latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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
Athletics Week in Review: November 19
Field hockey, rowing, soccer and volleyball are highlighted in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
Student-Run Café Supports Green Coffee Farming in Brazil
Grade 10 students give back to a small coffee farm in Brazil to help it become a more environmentally friendly business
Students Excel at Public Speaking and Debate Tournament
Three Grade 11 students recently represented SMUS at the International Independent Schools' Public Speaking Competition in Boston, Mass.
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
Athletics Week in Review: November 5
Cross country provincials, soccer, volleyball and padel are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Tion McLeish ’22 Wins BC Cross Country Championship
Grade 10 athlete Tion McLeish won the Junior Boys race at the BC High School Cross Country Championships
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.
Athletics Week in Review: October 29
Cross country, field hockey, soccer, squash and volleyball are highlighted in our latest Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Student Captures Morning Traffic with Drive-Thru for a Cause
Grade 12 student Mark Finamore is featured in the Victoria News and Times Colonist newspapers for winning $2,500 for a Me to We Club initiative
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...
Athletics Week in Review: October 24
Cross country, field hockey, soccer and volleyball are highlighted in our latest Athletics Week in Review
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
Athletics Week in Review: October 15
Cross country, field hockey, soccer and volleyball are highlighted in our latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
‘Now is the Time to Take Action on Climate Change’
This week's Senior School chapel featured our Green Team and sustainability prefects talking about sustainability and climate change
GALLERY: A Week of Community and Service
Check out a gallery of photos from the past week of events that highlight community and service
Athletics Week in Review: October 2
Cross country, field hockey, rowing, soccer, squash and volleyball are highlighted in our latest Athletics Week in Review
Athletics Week in Review: September 25
Cross country, field hockey, soccer and volleyball are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
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'
Athletics Week in Review: September 18
Field hockey and soccer are highlighted in the first SMUS Athletics Week in Review of the 2019-20 school year
Building a Student Community in Boarding
Student leaders help their fellow housemates find a home and build a caring community at boarding school
Athletics Summer in Review
When the school year came to a close in June, many of our student athletes did not take the summer off. Along with many...
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
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
SMUS in the News: SMUS Athletes to Represent BC at Rugby Championships
Five SMUS rugby players were named to the Girls' and Boys' provincial teams to represent BC at next month's U18 Western Championships
2019 Retirees: Mike Jackson
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Mike Jackson, former Senior School science teacher.
2019 Retirees: Jake Humphries
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Jake Humphries, former Senior School university counsellor.
2019 Retirees: Dorothy Hawes
Learn more about the outstanding contributions to SMUS by Dorothy Hawes, former Senior School faculty member.
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
Reflections From Our Outgoing Head Prefects
Grade 12 leaders Morgan Warner and Ewan Halliday look back on their year as heads of the Prefect Council
Three Students Recognized in National Poetry Contest
Three SMUS students were recognized with the League of Canadian Poets' Jessamy Stursberg Poetry Prize
Athletic Awards 2019
As the 2018-19 athletics season came to a close, we recognized some of our Senior School athletes at our annual Athletic Awards Banquet
Students to Spend Summer Working as Cancer Researchers
Two Grade 11 students will spend their summer working on groundbreaking cancer research at the BC Cancer Agency in Victoria. Christian Turpin and Kevin...
Get Your Brain Fit for Exams
Imagine this: you’re launched into the future and neuroscientists tell you that physical activity is just as important for your brain as it is...
Athletics Week in Review: May 27
Golf, rugby, track and field, and our Tennis team's provincial win are highlighted in our latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
Memories and Connections
While students (and staff) head into a well-deserved long Victoria Day weekend break, many students are taking the opportunity to practice their leadership skills...
Athletics Week in Review: May 16
Badminton, rowing, rugby, soccer, tennis, and track and field are highlighted in our latest Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Celebrating 25 Years of the Rees Rugby Boot Game Rivalry
CHEK News previews the 25th rugby Boot Game happening on May 4
Athletics Week in Review: April 30
Badminton, golf, rowing, rugby, soccer, tennis, and track and field are highlighted in this edition of the Athletics Week in Review
Celebrating 25 Years of the Boot Game Rugby Rivalry
Alumni Weekend marks the 25th SMUS vs. Oak Bay rugby Boot Game, named in honour of Gareth Rees '85
Spring Break Service Trip 2019: Tanzania
Grade 10 student Devon Mills reflects on the Spring Break service trip to Tanzania
Athletics Week in Review: April 23
It was a jam packed couple of weeks on the athletic front, with athletes representing SMUS in no fewer than eight sports.
Badminton
The badminton team...
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
Athletics Week in Review: April 9
Badminton, rugby, soccer, track and field, and squash are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
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
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
Selecting Courses for Next Year
Head of University Counselling Ms. Alison McCallum provides resources from the Course Information Evening and info on how to make course selections
Athletics Week in Review: March 14
Basketball, squash, rugby and soccer are featured in the last Athletics Week of Review of the winter sports season
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
Personal Reflections on Mamma Mia!
Head of School Mr. Mark Turner reflects on last weekend's Senior School musical and the talent involved in making the show a reality
Behind the Scenes of Mamma Mia!
We sit down with the four talented students playing the lead roles in this year's Senior School musical, Mamma Mia!
Athletics Week in Review: February 26
Basketball and squash are featured in the latest Athletics Week in Review
Thank You for the Music: Previewing Mamma Mia!
Cast members in our upcoming Senior School musical, Mamma Mia!, reflect on their time performing in the show
Athletics Week in Review: February 15
Though winter weather threatened to interrupt various school sporting competitions, SMUS teams completed their respective commitments with rowing involved in two erg competitions, all basketball teams...
A Need for Adventure
Mr. Eliot Anderson, Director of the Senior School, writes about the SMUS experience can help impact a student's path in life
Walk Around SMUS in Our New Virtual Campus Tour
Tour around St. Michaels University School using our newly updated Virtual Campus Tour
Athletics Week in Review: January 30
Squash and basketball are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mrs. Laura Keziere
Ms. Laura Keziere, who has been teaching at SMUS since 1984, is highlighted in our latest Teacher Feature
Athletics Week in Review: January 22
Squash and basketball are highlighted in the latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Students Win Seed Money to Improve Quality of Life in...
A group of SMUS students was named a finalist in the South Island Prosperity Project's Future Innovator Challenge
Athletics Week in Review: January 15
Basketball and some big soccer news on the alumni front are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
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
‘Be Present. Phones Off and Away’ – Is Our New Smartphone Policy Working?
Our Director of Health and Wellness provides an update on the smartphone policy and considers the next steps that could be taken in the near future
The Top 11 @YourSMUS Instagram Posts of 2018
We highlight the 11 most popular @yourSMUS Instagram posts of the past 365 days!
Athletics Week in Review: December 14
Basketball
The first school term came to a close on a high note this week, with two of our Middle School basketball teams taking home...
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
Athletics Week in Review: December 5
Basketball and volleyball are highlighted the in latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
The Next Generation of Engaged, Informed Citizens
Students in AP Comparative Government and Politics use real-world example to understand the value of being informed citizens
Athletics Week in Review: November 29
Basketball, volleyball and soccer are highlighted in this edition of the Athletics Week in Review
Grade 10 Students Brew Up a Unique Coffee Project
Business students and Grade 10 experiential students work together to roast, market and sell coffee beans
SMUS in the News: Diya Courty-Stephens ’19 Wins Philanthropy Award
November 16, 2018
Diya Courty-Stephens '19
CTV Vancouver Island
Teenage trio aims to help save two global problems at once
Victoria News
Local leaders of all ages honoured at...
Athletics Week in Review: November 14
Cross country, field hockey, soccer, squash, volleyball and rowing are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
Great War History Comes Alive in Story Maps
Mrs. Kirsten Davel writes about how students are using technology and GIS mapping to learn more about the World Wars
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
Athletics Week in Review: November 1
It was a busy and successful week on the SMUS sporting front, with several teams qualifying for BCs and others positioning themselves to do...
Athletics Week in Review: October 24
Field hockey, rowing, volleyball, squash and rugby are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
Talking Peanut Butter with Business Students
Jill Van Gyn, a former SMUS student and entrepreneur, spoke to our Business Education 10 class
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
Athletics Week in Review: October 4
Soccer, field hockey, volleyball, rugby and rowing are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
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
Athletics Week in Review: September 27
Soccer, field hockey, volleyball, cross country and squash are highlighted in the latest Athletics Week in Review
Athletics Week in Review: September 18
Soccer and field hockey are highlighted in this week's Athletics Week in Review
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: Aysha Emmerson ’18 Shares Her Secrets to Success
Aysha Emmerson '18 talks with the Vancouver Sun and offers her advice to help high school students achieve success
‘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
Athletic Awards 2018
Congratulations to all student athletes on a great year in sport, and to our 2018 athletic awards recipients
Athletics Week in Review: June 7
Provincial and national results from soccer, track and field, rowing, tennis, badminton, rugby, golf as well as softball and squash news.
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
Athletics Week in Review: May 23
Soccer, field hockey, track and field and rugby are featured in this week's review
Athletics Week in Review: May 15
Track and field, rowing, rugby, soccer, sailing, badminton, tennis and golf feature in this week's review.
Whodunit? Grade 10 Students Investigate
Senior School Head of Science, Mr. Benson Young, takes us through a forensic investigation with plenty of intrigue.
Athletics Week in Review: May 8
Soccer, track and field, golf, badminton and rugby are all featured in this week's review.
Spring Break Trip 2018: Singapore/Cambodia (Part 2)
Grade 11 student Matthew Owen-Flood writes about the Spring Break trip to Singapore and Cambodia.
Athletics Week in Review: May 1
Rowing, track and field, badminton, soccer and rugby are all highlighted in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
Spring Break Exchange: Ecuador
Two Senior School students write about their exciting exchange trip to Quito, Ecuador during Spring Break.
Athletics Week in Review: April 25
Soccer, tennis, badminton, squash and rugby are all covered in this week's roundup of sports.
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.
Athletics Week in Review: April 18
Rowing, soccer, tennis, track and field, rugby, field hockey and sailing all feature in this week's review.
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
Athletics Week in Review: April 10
Some great SMUS squash news, along with track and field, rugby, soccer tennis and badminton are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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.
Athletics Week in Review: March 7
Basketball and squash seasons wind up with provincial tournaments; the Elk Lake Regatta is reviewed and we begin the spring rugby season.
Catching Up With the Con Artists
Meet Mark Finamore and Will Barry – the two SMUS students playing con artist Frank Abagnale Jr. in 'Catch Me If You Can - The Musical'
Athletics Week in Review: February 27
This week's review features Island basketball championships and Pacific Northwest Squash Championships results.
SMUS in the News: Senior School Musical ‘Catch Me If You Can’
The Saanich News chats with a couple of members of the cast of the Senior School musical, Catch Me If You Can
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
Athletics Week in Review: February 14
Basketball is covered in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
What Does a University Counsellor Do?
University counsellor Ms. Kate Knight details how she and her colleagues support students in achieving their post-secondary goals
Athletics Week in Review: January 30
Basketball at the Junior and Senior Schools are highlighted in the latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
Large Ensembles Hit the Right Notes
The Senior School Large Ensembles Concert featured the choir, orchestras and concert bands performing a variety of pieces
Summer Plans: Looking to the Future
Ms. Alison McCallum, Head of Universtiy Counselling, outlines a number of great opportunities for summer holiday experiences
Athletics Week in Review: January 25
From the courts, this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review features results from a variety of basketball and squash tournaments
Course Planning: All Eyes on September
January at SMUS means a focus on course planning for the next school year to help students make informed decisions about their high school courses
Athletics Week in Review: January 16
The return of basketball – after the winter break – is highlighted in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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.
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.
Athletics Week in Review: December 14
More basketball news as the season moves through league play in the latest SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Rugby Players Help Castaway Wanderers Win U18 Title
SMUS athletes helped the Castaway Wanderers U18 rugby team win the provincial title
“I’m Looking Forward to Being a Lifer”
Two Junior School students reflect on stories they heard at the Grade 12 Lifers Assembly.
Athletics Week in Review: December 4
Catch up on the latest SMUS Athletics as the basketball season gets underway
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
Another Great University Tour in the Books
37 students, 4 chaperones, 7 nights, 9 cities, 12 university campuses*, dozens of SMUS alumni, countless questions asked and application decisions made. This was...
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
Athletics Week in Review: November 24
Soccer
The Fall sporting season came to an official close this week, with Senior boys soccer, fresh off an Island title, competing in Burnaby at...
Learn the Ins and Outs of Hospitality at a Hands-On University in Switzerland
Ms. Alison McCallum writes about her visit to École Hôtelière de Lausanne, a university dedicated to business studies through the hospitality industry
Athletics Week in Review: November 16
Field hockey provincials, soccer, squash and volleyball are highlighted in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
A Prayer of Remembrance
Rev. Fletcher's words from the Remembrance Day Service highlight why the day has a deep significance for our school
Athletics Week in Review: October 31
Field hockey, volleyball, cross-country, soccer, rugby, squash and basketball are covered in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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
How Will No Letter Grades from K-8 Impact My Child’s University Applications?
University Counsellor Ms. Kate Knight explains how having no letter grades at the Middle School can have a positive impact down the road at university
Athletics Week in Review: October 19
Another busy sporting week came and went, with local league schedules winding down and teams jockeying for playoff positioning.
Cross-Country
The Senior cross-country team hosted the...
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
When is the Deadline for University Applications?
We break down the whens and whats of university applications so students and parents don't stress as deadlines approach
Athletics Week in Review: October 11
Soccer, cross-country, volleyball, rugby and field hockey are covered in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Weekly
Athletics Week in Review: October 4
The fall sports season continued on many fronts, with SMUS teams beginning league play and competing in various invitational tournaments or jamborees. October promises...
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
Should My Child Submit an Early Application to U.S. Colleges?
Early application to U.S. colleges can be a confusing subject for Canadian students. We break down the details to help you understand the admissions process to American schools
Athletics Week in Review: September 27
Cross-country, squash, field hockey, volleyball and rugby are highlighted in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Eliot Anderson
Mr. Eliot Anderson, Director of the Senior School, is highlighted in the latest SMUS Teacher Feature
Athletics Week in Review: September 19
Field hockey and soccer are covered in the first SMUS Athletics Weekly of the 2017-18 school year
Recapping the Grade 12 Parent Information Evening
A recap of this week's University Counselling Parent Info Evening about post-secondary planning. And download the useful slideshow from the presentation!
#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 in the News: Ewan Halliday and Matthias Hoenisch Battle For Yukon Tennis Title
Boarding students Ewan Halliday and Matthias Hoenisch were the last two standing in the men's single competition at the Yukon Tennis Championships
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 in the News: Quinn Ngawati
June 19, 2017
The Province
Head of the Class 2017: Quinn Ngawati
Boarding
When I was a boarding student, I wasn’t anywhere near as reflective as the students I heard today in our Closing Ceremony for Grades...
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)
Athletic Awards 2017
Congratulations to SMUS's student athletes on a great year in sport, and to our 2017 athletic awards recipients
Grade 10 Students Depart for Experiential Learning Pursuits
Grade 10 students head out on 'the pursuit' to immerse themselves in real-world activities and environments for experiential learning
Athletics Week in Review: June 6
Rugby, rowing, track and field, badminton and soccer are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: SMUS Rugby Takes Provincial AA Three-Peat
June 3, 2017
Varsity Letters
1st XV Rugby Team
SMUS play for fallen alum, top Brentwood College for B.C. AA three-peat
Athletics Week in Review: June 2
Tennis, golf, cricket and track and field are covered in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: SMUS Makes Provincial Tennis Finals
The Yukon News interviews two SMUS boarding students about their roles on the SMUS tennis team, which reached the provincials finals last week
Athletics Week in Review: May 26
Soccer, field hockey, tennis, track and field, and rugby are covered in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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...
SMUS in the News: Pro Rugby Career Beckons for Quinn Ngawati ’17
2017 grad Quinn Ngawati, who will play rugby next year with the Toronto Wolfpack, is featured by Varsity Letters
Athletics Week in Review: May 16
Sailing, soccer, rowing, golf, track and field, badminton and rugby are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Mark Turner
Our newly introduced Head of School Mr. Mark Turner is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
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
Athletics Week in Review: May 4
Golf, rugby, soccer and track and field are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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...
Athletics Week in Review: April 28
Track and field, squash, rugby, tennis, soccer, golf and badminton are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS Talks Event Builds Student and Community “Connections”
Senior School students share what they learned from organizing and experiencing the inaugural SMUS Talks event
Athletics Week in Review: April 19
Rugby, track and field, rowing and soccer are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Blue Jags Eye Another Rugby Title
The Times Colonist features the Senior boys rugby team and their quest for another B.C. boys rugby title
University Counselling: Thinking Ahead to Summer
Ms. Alison McCallum, head of University Counselling, offers some great advice for how to spend some of your time off in the summer
Spring Break Service Trip 2017: Mexico
Grade 12 student Fo Wu writes about the Senior School Spring Break service trip to Mexico
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Alex Cecill
Senior School art teacher Ms. Alex Cecill 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
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
Athletics Week in Review: March 14
Basketball, rowing and rugby are covered in this edition of the SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Quinn Ngawati ’17 Among the Pack
Grade 12 student Quinn Ngawati, recently named to the Toronto Wolfpack rugby league team, is featured by Kiwi League Central
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Mike Jackson
Senior School science teacher Mr. Mike Jackson is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
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
Athletics Week in Review: February 28
Volleyball and basketball are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
REVIEW: Opening Night of Ragtime
Senior School students – and members of the pit orchestra – review the Senior School musical, Ragtime
Athletics Week in Review: February 24
Squash, basketball and swimming are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Review
SMUS in the News: Natasha Kis-Toth ’18 at World Cup Fencing in Richmond
February 22, 2017
Richmond News
Natasha Kis-Toth '18
The Pulse: En Garde
SMUS in the News: Ragtime’s Message Still Rings True
Saanich News promos the Senior School production of Ragtime, and the important message the show presents
Curtain Call: Meet Ragtime’s Coalhouse Walker Jr.
The SMUSpaper sits down with the two students playing Coalhouse Walker Jr. in the Senior School musical, Ragtime
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
Athletics Week in Review: February 16
Volleyball, basketball and swimming are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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
Athletics Week in Review: January 31
Basketball, volleyball and squash are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Weekly
AP Students Map Their Family’s Migration History
AP Human Geography students learn about migration by researching and mapping their family histories
Athletics Week in Review: January 24
Basketball and squash are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
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
Athletics Week in Review: January 19
Basketball at the Senior School is covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
Ask SMUS: “Why Did the Senior School Timetable Change?”
The Senior School timetable change could be the start of a series of changes as we further explore how daily timetables and the academic year impact student learning
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. David Kerr
Senior School teacher Mr. David Kerr is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Athletics Week in Review: January 6
Squash and basketball played over the winter break are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Toronto Wolfpack See Quinn Ngawati ’17 As One to Watch
Grade 12 student Quinn Ngawati – who earned himself a rugby league contract recently – is featured in the Ottawa Citizen
SMUS in the News: Jamison Schulz-Franco ’17 Leads the Way on Field and Court
Grade 12 student Jamison Schulz-Franco is featured on Chek News in the lead-up to the inaugural Passion Sports UVic Alumni Basketball Tournament
SMUS in the News: Quinn Ngawati ’17 Earns Pro Rugby League Deal
Grade 12 athlete Quinn Ngawati recently earned himself a contract to play rugby with the Toronto Wolfpack, Canada's newest pro rugby team
SMUS in the News: Quinn Ngawati ’17 Chasing English Rugby League Dream
December 17, 2016
The Province
Quinn Ngawati '17
Victoria teen Quinn Ngawati chasing English rugby league dream
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
SMUS Teacher Feature: Ms. Sarah Beeston
Ms. Sarah Beeston, a SMUS alumnus, is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
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
Engage, Inspire, Empower
It started out as colourful words on a page as we gathered around a table. Three words, “engage, inspire, empower”, were written in green...
Athletics Week in Review: December 7
Colonist Cup soccer, alumni basketball and more are covered in this edition of the Athletics Week in Review
SMUS in the News: Quinn Ngawati ’17 Selected as Finalist for Pro Rugby Team
Grade 12 student Quinn Ngawati has been selected as a finalist to play for the Toronto Wolfpack, a new pro rugby team
Grade 10 Students Reflect on Experiential Opportunities
Three students write about their experiences so far in the unique Grade 10 experiential program
SMUS in the News: Blue Jags Take AA Soccer Title
The Senior boys soccer team's provincial AA victory is covered in the Times Colonist and Saanich News
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Kevin Cook
Mr. Kevin Cook, our Director of Service, is highlighted in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Athletics Week in Review: November 25
Volleyball, soccer and basketball are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Weekly
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
SMUS Captures BC AA Boys Soccer Title
For the second time in three years, the Senior boys soccer team has captured the B.C. AA title.
Starting as the 12th seed, based on...
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.
SMUS in the News: Senior Boys Punch Ticket to Colonist Cup Final
November 17, 2016
Times Colonist
Senior boys soccer team
SMUS, Reynolds punch tickets to Colonist Cup final
Vancouver Island AAA Girls’ Volleyball Championships 2016
Dates: November 18-19, 2016
Round robin matches are best of 3: first 2 games to 25, 3rd game to 15, no cap.
Semi-final, bronze, and final...
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
AP Students Travel to Bamfield for Hands-On Environmental Science
Grade 12 student Gina Brown writes about the AP Environmental Science field trip to the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre
Athletics Week in Review: November 9
The first week of November saw several provincial titles up for grabs.
Field Hockey
It was with great anticipation that the Senior girls team headed to Surrey...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: November 3
Basketball, soccer, rugby, volleyball, squash and cross-country are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Week in Review.
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.
Athletics Week in Review: October 25
Field Hockey
It was a banner 10 days for the Senior girls 1st XI team. First, thanks to a late game winner from Anna Mollenhauer versus Oak Bay, and...
UK Universities on the Ground: Snapshot Impressions
I had the great fortune to be in the UK this past summer for nearly two weeks, touring a dozen university campuses from London...
SMUS in the News: Grade 11 Student Tony Liu Fundraising for Our Place
Grade 11 student Tony Liu is organizing a tennis event for October 22 to raise money for Our Place Society
SMUS Teacher Feature: Mr. Adrian French
Get to know Director of Learning Mr. Adrian French in this week's SMUS Teacher Feature
Athletics Week in Review: October 19
Field hockey, rugby, soccer, volleyball, rowing, cross-country and squash are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Review
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...
East Coast Campus Visits Part II: Places and People of the Maritimes
SMUS University Counsellor Ms. Kate Knight visited universities on the east coast of Canada to learn about studying at schools in the Maritimes
How to Get a Great Letter of Reference from a Teacher
Asking a high school teacher for a letter of reference is a crucial step to help make your university or scholarship application stand out
Athletics Week in Review: October 7
Soccer, rowing, rugby, field hockey, cross-country and volleyball are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Review
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
University Options: Look Beyond the Usual Suspects
Earlier this week, the CUE (Canadian Universities Event) came to Victoria. This annual event is a fair format with representatives from about 50 Canadian...
“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.
Athletics Week in Review: September 29
Rugby, field hockey, volleyball, soccer and squash are covered in this week's SMUS Athletics Review
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.
Athletics Week in Review: September 20
The 2016-17 high school sports season at SMUS kicked off with our Senior boys soccer teams and Senior girls field hockey teams taking to the field
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."
Marching Toward Grad 2017
We hosted our annual Grade 12 Student and Parent Information Evening last week to help students and parents prepare for the year ahead. If...
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
Winding up to get back in the groove
Alison McCallum, Head of University Counselling, offers advice to Grade 12 students looking ahead at their post-secondary options
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 Students Win Nanaimo Parklet Contest
July 13, 2016
Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC)
Fo Wu and Jasmine Yu '17
Nanaimo parklets leave lasting impact
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 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...
The Pursuit – The Culmination of a Grade 10 Experiential Year
After extensive research and collaboration, SMUS faculty designed a unique program for Grade 10 students focusing on experiential learning. Weaving hands-on and real-world opportunities...
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...
University Prep: Our Top 10 Tips for Summer!
We all know that lounging at the beach is great way to spend your summer vacation. But what else can you do that is...
Athletic Awards 2016
Congratulations to SMUS's student athletes on a great year in sport, and to our 2016 athletic awards recipients
SMUS in the News: Ryan Hindson ’17 a Standout in B.C. High School Basketball
June 10, 2016
Yukon News
Ryan Hindson '17
Whitehorse’s Ryan Hindson a standout in B.C. high school basketball
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
Athletics Week in Review: June 9
Our year of sports has officially wrapped up and there are several teams that competed in the last couple of weeks that deserve recognition.
Rugby
SMUS arrived in...
Wear Your Colours
There was a fabulous array of colours, university names, and accessories in assembly yesterday! We invited the Grade 12s and the school faculty (K-12)...
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
University Preparation for the Class of 2016: Beyond the SMUS Bubble
We hosted two events on Tuesday, May 24 with the goal of helping grade 12 students and their parents prepare for the next phase...
Experiential Learning: Was Mr. Buckingham Murdered?
Was it Mr. Jackson in the lunch room with the knife? Or was it Professor Plum in the laboratory with the lead pipe?
It's early Monday...
SMUS in the News: Blue Jags Repeat as Provincial AA Rugby Champions
May 28, 2016
The Province
1st XV Rugby
B.C. High School rugby results
Athletics Week in Review: May 19
Some major hardware was up for grabs on a number of fronts, as local playoff action finished in advance of the Island and provincial championships.
Golf
At...
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...
Students Seek Their Potential at CAIS Leadership Conference
Sliding doors at the airport opened to reveal a group of cheering individuals waving signs. In a haze of initial confusion, we were immediately...
French Public Speakers Deliver at Concours d’Art Oratoire
"Tout ce qui brille n'est pas d'or." (All that glitters is not gold)
These were the closing lines of Grade 6 student Vienna W.'s speech. Her...
East Coast Campus Visits Part I: Places and People
The Fitbit monitor read 20,805 steps. It was one very full day of walking – walking to subway stops, through train stations, around university campuses,...
SMUS in the News: Ryan Totz ’16 Wins Four-Year Scholarship to UNC Chapel Hill
May 17, 2016
Saanich News
Ryan Totz '16
St. Michaels student wins prestigious scholarship
SMUS in the News: Blue Jags find a way to Island soccer gold
May 18, 2016
Times Colonist
Senior girls soccer
SMUS Blue Jags find a way to Island soccer gold
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...
Athletics Week in Review: May 10
Soccer
The Senior girls team was in the news a lot, after a spectacular and exciting 10 days of play.
First, on April 26, a 74th minute goal...
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...
Applying to a University in the United Kingdom
Studying at a university in the United Kingdom is highly specialized. Students focus on one specific area (for three years in England or four...
Summer School Options: Victoria and Vancouver
If you are looking to complete one of your Grade 10-12 courses this summer at summer school in Victoria or Vancouver, you have options....
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...
Athletics Week in Review: April 27
Sporting events have been coming thick and fast, in multiple sports and in events taking place not only locally but across Canada.
Squash
The team competed in the...
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...
Kindergarten Students Learn to Measure with Senior School Buddies
It's always a special occasion when our Junior School students visit the Senior School campus for some hands-on learning, and that was especially true...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: April 20
Rowing
The spring season is now fully underway, with SMUS recently competing at the annual Maple Bay regatta on Lake Quamichan. The races, featuring local clubs...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: April 15
The spring sporting season well and truly kicked into gear, with multiple SMUS teams in action in the first week back at school.
Soccer
The Senior...
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...
University Pre-Requisites: The Devil is in the Details
It was the week leading up to Spring Break, and they were knocking on my door in the University Counselling office with increasing regularity....
Blue Jags Fall to Oak Bay in 22nd Boot Game
In front of a large and partisan crowd, on a glorious spring evening at UVic's Centennial Stadium, SMUS and Oak Bay contested the 22nd Rees Boot...
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...
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...
SMUS in the News: Delphine Ji ’16 Becomes a Gene Researcher for a Week
Prince George Citizen
March 15, 2016
Delphine Ji '16
Federal grant for mushroom research at UNBC
(photo courtesy of the Prince George Citizen)
Athletics Week in Review: March 16
With the winter season of play drawing to a close, the basketball season culminated in various BC championships, while rowing took place at Elk Lake.
Basketball
In Langley March 2-5,...
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...
SMUS in the News: Senior Boys Basketball at the 2016 B.C. AA Tournament
March 12 & 13, 2016
The Province
Jags, Cavs to collide for BC 2A hoops title
Epic first-half defence the key to stopping SMUS
Ryan Totz ’16 Wins Morehead-Cain Scholarship to UNC-Chapel Hill
One of the best parts about the work I do is the privilege I have to get to know so many incredible young people....
Standardized Testing for American College Applications
Standardized testing is a component of a student's application that some universities use to properly compare applicants from vastly different high school settings and...
Senior Girls Rugby Team Readies for Spring Debut
While the rugby season doesn't typically get under way until the spring, a group of SMUS students have been on the pitch since early...
Learning and the Brain: Mindfulness and Technology
As technology becomes more prevalent in all of our lives, the challenge of being mindful and living life the way we want to also...
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:...
SMUS in the News: Lelia Hoube ’17 Reports for the CBC
CBC's Jeun'info C.-B.
March 2, 2016
Lelia Hoube '17
Pour la sauvegarde de la langue squamish (scroll down to the second to last video)
SMUS in the News: Senior Girls Basketball Coach Lindsay Brooke Talks Provincials
Times Colonist
March 2, 2016
Senior girls basketball
Island's top girls basketball teams begin chase for provincial titles
Athletics Week in Review: February 29
The Senior boys basketball team hosted the Island AA Tournament late last week, with the eventual SMUS versus Lambrick Park final game producing an array of...
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...
Behind the Mask: Meet the Phantom of the Opera
Tonight the Senior School production of The Phantom of the Opera debuts to a nearly sold-out crowd at the McPherson Playhouse. For months, students,...
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)
Athletics Week in Review: February 24
The hoped-for basketball "dream weekend" never quite materialized, as SMUS suffered a series of close defeats in playoff action.
First, the Senior girls took part...
Victoria – A Hub for Off-Campus Learning Opportunities
One of the many advantages of SMUS’s location is our ability to participate in opportunities that exist in a thriving city like Victoria. Looking...
Phantom Performers: Meet SMUS’s Two Viscount Raouls
The clock is ticking, and we are now less than one week away from the debut of the Senior School musical, The Phantom of...
Athletics Week in Review: February 16
Squash
The squash team enjoyed a very successful Pacific Northwest Tournament, with the event held in Victoria at various sites February 9-12. More than 220 athletes from...
Learning and the Brain: Managing Stress and Anxiety in the Dark Months
As the short days of winter continue, Director of Learning Heather Clayton's latest brain session looked at managing stress and anxiety in the dark...
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...
Higher Learning and Life: A Look at Our Grade 10 Experiential Program
This September the school took a big step forward in offering a Grade 10 experiential program that blends into everyday classes, applies the lessons...
Career Day 2016: Preparation for Life After SMUS
On January 27, the Senior School hosted its 7th annual Career Day. Students in Grades 9 through 12 had the opportunity to learn about a...
Athletics Week in Review: February 3
Basketball
Another busy sporting week saw the Senior girls team capture another title, this time after going unbeaten at the Southridge KFACE (Kenya Foundation to Aid Children...
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....
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...
Athletics Week in Review: January 21
It was another frenetic week of basketball, with multiple SMUS teams in action and with the school playing host to the 37th annual Victoria...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: January 12
Before the winter holiday break was over, numerous SMUS basketball teams were back in action early in the new year.
Pride of place went to the Senior...
Taylor Rankin ’99 Inspires Students to Play Outside of the Box
SMUS alumnus Taylor Rankin and his violin Leroy returned to SMUS this week to work with our Senior School strings students on improvisation and...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: December 16
Senior girls basketball enjoyed a successful week, playing in the Victoria Christmas Tournament and winning three straight games before falling to Pacific Christian School in...
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...
Law 12 Students Head to Court for Mock Trials
by Mr. Bruce Maxwell
The two Grade 12 Law classes participated in mock trials this week. One class experienced firsthand a criminal case, while the other had a civil...
Athletics Week in Review: December 11
SMUS basketball got underway on multiple fronts, with teams eager, after weeks of practice, to see game action.
The Senior girls had a particularly busy schedule, giving...
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...
SMUS in the News: Ajay Parikh-Friese ’16 Returns to the Belfry Stage in...
Oak Bay News
December 3, 2015
Ajay Parikh-Friese '16
Oak Bay teen returns to the Belfry stage
Math 10 Students Use Trigonometry to Solve a Crime
A newscaster (very much resembling math teacher Mr. Steve Bates) comes on the television to deliver breaking news.
"At precisely 7:47 this morning, Mr. Andy...
Athletics Week in Review: November 26
Senior boys soccer headed to provincials in Burnaby November 23-25, looking to repeat as AA champions.
An Island No. 1 seeding resulted in a favorable...
Surf, golf, and study…come to St. Andrews (but not for the weather!)
On a blustery Scottish day, I took the train from Edinburgh to St. Andrews to have a wee visit with my former advisee and...
Athletics Week in Review: November 12
The fall sports season moved into its closing stages, with Senior girls field hockey taking centre stage, as SMUS hosted the BC AA tournament on the turf...
SMUS in the News: Senior Boys Soccer Wins Island Title
Times Colonist
November 12, 2015
Blue Jags bag another Island AA boys Soccer title
Blue Jags eye third straight Colonist Cup
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...
Athletics Week in Review: October 28
As Halloween approaches, most of the SMUS fall sports teams are gearing up for playoffs at the local, Island and provincial levels.
Front and centre has been the...
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...
It’s the most wonderful time of the year … to be in Grade 12!
Fingers dog ear pages of an academic calendar. Eyes squint at the computer screen as the mouse clicks, scrolling through program choices and admission...
Post-Secondary Information for Parents
If you were unable to attend our information session held in the Chapel on Tuesday night, please visit the webpage below to view a...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: October 9
Twenty-one members of the squash team took part October 2-4 in the Vancouver Island Open.
Unlike most junior tournaments, which are divided by age group, this event...
7400 College Counselling Peers, 2 Campuses, and 1 Coalition
My University Counselling colleague, Timio Colistro, and I spent 4 days in San Diego last week attending the 'National Association of College Advising and...
A SMUS grad at UC San Diego
Len (SMUS Grad ’12) is in his fourth year of study at the University of California, San Diego, in the Jacobs School of Engineering....
Summer days…
Before summer memories fade away completely, I asked our students to share some interesting things they did over the summer holidays.
Jonathan attended the Shad Program at...
‘We Need Students to Understand the Impact of Politics’
With the federal election less than two weeks away, the SMUS Review asked some of our politics and history teachers to write about why it's important to...
Three ways to support our young leaders
Shifting from summer mode to the pace of September at SMUS can be a significant transition and the amount of information at this time...
Tour de Rock Team Rolls in to SMUS
by Kyle Slavin, SMUS Review blog editor
This week the Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock team finished their 1,100-km ride down Vancouver Island, but...
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...
Grad 2016, Start Your Engines!
In the world of education, September really is like everyone else's January: it's when we set new directions, make resolutions, and fine tune our...
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...
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...
Grace Thomas Represents Canada at World Squash Tournament
In the world of squash, Nicol David, Ramy Ashour, Raneem El Weleily and Nick Matthew are all household names.
And before each one of them...
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...
Go to university in Norway? Hvorfor ikke?
One of the many reasons I love my job is because I get to live vicariously through my students as they find out about...
The perfect addition to summer vacation!
Wondering how to fill your time this summer? Want to get a jump start on narrowing that list of university choices?
Why not combine a visit...
‘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...
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...
AP Students Get Behind-The-Scenes Tour of B.C. Legislature
by Olivia Roberts, Grade 11
On June 1, all three AP Comparative Government and Politics classes went on a field trip to visit the British...
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...
Getting Ready for USA Applications
Grade 11 - Most applications to USA colleges and universities will be completed using the Common Application (https://www.commonapp.org). This is where you create your...
A day at the beach or 5 hours in an exam room?? Know your...
Standardized testing is a component of a student's application that some universities use to properly compare applicants from vastly different high school settings and...
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,...
Athletics Week in Review: June 10
The 70th edition of the Canadian Secondary Schools Rowing Association Championship was held June 5-7 in St. Catharines, Ontario. Some 2,000 athletes, including the...
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...
Long summer days ahead
Ah, June. There is so much to do this month, and also so much promise for the two months that lie in wait. Some...
Athletics Week in Review: 1st XV Win Provincial Gold in Rugby
The 1st XV rugby squad travelled to Abbotsford May 27-30 to take part in the BC AA Championships. Among other things at stake, following...
Athletics Week in Review: Senior Girls Soccer Wins Bronze at Provincials
The Senior girls soccer season came to an end in a most exciting manner, as the team took part in the BC AA Championship...
SMUS in the News: Victoria’s Blue Jags rare triple crown winners
May 31, 2015
The Province
SMUS boys rugby lets peerless defence carry day, Victoria’s Blue Jags rare triple crown winners
Times Colonist
Vancouver Island schools take BC rugby honours
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...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: May 22
Congratulations to the 32 SMUS Track and Field athletes who took part in the Vancouver Island Championships May 13-14. Over two busy days, athletes...
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...
Students Deliver at French, English Public Speaking Competitions
Trophy shelves are a little heavier this month for a number of talented SMUS students who spoke their way to a fantastic finish at...
SMUS’s Club Hub: 30 Hour Famine 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...
Athletics Week in Review: May 12
Senior badminton traveled to Nanaimo last week to compete in the Island Championships. Historically, SMUS has performed very well at this event, and, once again,...
One road to med school
I had the opportunity to meet with one of our '09 grads, Colin, this morning to talk with him about his path from high...
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...
Summer study opportunities
AP season is upon us now and there is ever increasing talk of exams in June, but many students are also turning their minds...
Athletics Week in Review: May 5
After winning the league early last week, the Senior badminton team entered the City tournament April 30 as top seed and slight favourites. Jake You and Theo Wu played especially...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: April 30
It was a banner week for Senior girls soccer, as SMUS won six straight games in a 72-hour window to capture the local AA City...
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’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...
Grade 12 Student Uses Science Fair Project to Offer a Helping Hand
As 3D printers grow in availability around the world, so too will affordable 3D-printed products. And one of the more innovative and life-changing devices that makers...
University Counselling Parent Information Evening
On Tuesday evening, there were over 80 parents and students in the Lecture Theatre listening to our University Counselling team talk about the myriad...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: April 21
The spring season has kicked into high gear, with numerous teams on the go.
This past weekend, seven members of the Senior School squash team traveled...
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...
The University of Guelph-Humber
Some record low temperatures were set in the Toronto area this winter (2015). On my visit to the University of Guelph-Humber on the west...
Athletics Week in Review: April 15
The SMUS spring rowing season began April 11-12 at the Maple Bay Regatta, held this year on Lake Quamichan.
Several local clubs (Maple Bay, Nanaimo, Victoria City Rowing Club) and a...
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...
Blue Jags Lose the Boot to Oak Bay in Tight Rugby Match
In what will go down as one of the most exciting games in Boot Game history, Oak Bay roared back from a large deficit to...
Athletics Week in Review: April 10
Senior girls soccer has made a strong start to the season. Just before spring break, SMUS decisively defeated St. Margaret's. Gabby Freer, Claudia Wheler (2), Maggie Manson-Blair,...
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...
Student’s Connection to Vanuatu Strengthened By Natural Disaster
It was just last summer that Grade 9 student Finn Goodyear and his family were on the island of Tanna, Vanuatu. There, they stayed...
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...
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....
Students Make Meaningful Connections to Local Charities
A trio of students earned $5,000 for the Bridges for Women Society last week as part of a service project in their Planning 10...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: March 4
The Senior boys basketball team took part in the Island AA tournament February 26-28 at Kwalikum, registering three comprehensive victories to capture the title. In...
Legally Blonde
Legally Blonde is a clever title – for a movie, and more so, I think, for the musical the movie begat. Last night our...
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...
Beyond the Blonde: Meet SMUS’s Lead Actors
After months of hard work, our Senior School presentation of Legally Blonde: the Musical opens tonight! Students, staff, parents and volunteers have been at it...
Athletics Week in Review: February 25
The pressure was on this past week as basketball swung into playoff mode.
At Junior boys level, SMUS traveled to Brentwood to compete in the...
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...
Students become more effective leaders at SMUS
Over the past two weeks, I have had the opportunity to teach two lessons to all Grade 10 students. The overarching questions that students...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: February 18
The junior squash circuit moved to Victoria last weekend in the form of the Pacific Northwest Jesters tournament. Four venues around the city, including SMUS, were required to host...
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...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: February 4
Basketball was the name of the game at SMUS this past week, as our teams participated in a number of tournaments as we approach playoffs in...
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...
Squashing the Competition: A Mid-Season Review
by Chris Hanebury, coach
The 2014-15 SMUS squash season started with a number of amazing results. In November, four members of the team traveled to...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: January 27
Squash took centre stage this past week with a highly competitive ISA Tournament at Shawnigan Lake School. After three days of relentless action, the...
Pitch Perfect: Large Ensembles Concert
If there's one thing that's certain about attending a SMUS concert, it's that your ears are always in for an outstanding auditory smorgasbord. From...
Athletics Week in Review: January 21
A busy January week featured, as usual, a lot of squash and basketball.
This past weekend 16 members of the Senior School squash team traveled to 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,...
SMUS Broadens Its Technological Scope
by Denise Lamarche, Director of Academics
One hour is all it takes to introduce children of all ages to coding and get them excited about...
Athletics in Review: January 13
Much has occurred on the basketball front since the last Week In Review blog post.
The Junior boys, in the Oak Bay Invitational in December, played extremely...
Cambridge Update from Keiler Totz ’13
Life at Cambridge University has been an incredible experience so far. Any initial fears about moving to a new country and attending one of...
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...
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...
Athletics Week in Review: December 10
The basketball season continued apace, with numerous SMUS teams in action through the week.
The Senior boys started proceedings with a physical 65-43 league-opening win...
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...
Global Issues Are Everyone’s Responsibility
by Livia Newman, Grade 10
One hundred and three students, teachers and parents took time out of their busy schedules last Friday to attend the...
Athletics Week in Review: December 2
Second term sports got underway November 24, with many of the SMUS basketball teams in action.
The Senior boys, behind David Lee's game high 19...
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...
Small Ensembles: Small on Numbers, Big on Talent
Each year the Small Ensembles Concert, the first major event of the music season, offers students the opportunity to perform in front of an...
Athletics Week in Review: November 26
With the first-term sporting calendar drawing to a close, SMUS Senior girls volleyball traveled to MEI near Abbotsford November 22 for a six-team wild card event. At stake was...
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...