Personalized, student-centred learning focused on the needs, strengths and aspirations of each student is an important aspect of the new B.C. Educational Plan, which is intended to modernize the education system.
There are countless alternative programs offered in B.C., including the program at Thomas Haney and another self-directed learning style school, Frances Kelsey secondary school in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.
Other alternatives include everything from French Immersion programs to sports academies, mini schools, outdoor learning, apprenticeship programs and more. Some are designed for students struggling scholastically, some for high achievers and still others are tailor-made for any student with a special interest.
Some examples of other programs in the province include Streetfront, a Vancouver alternative program that is all about physical activity and getting outside. The program has only 22 students and three staff, and is for students in Grade 8 through 10. Traditional classes are provided, as well as P.E., outdoor education, and other electives. About 35 of the 190 school days in a year are spent outside and many students train and participate in Vancouver and Seattle full and half marathons.
In Greater Victoria, SD 61, SJ Willis Alternative Education offers both self-paced classes and project-based learning for students in Grades 9 through 12. The school offers academic courses, as well as a bike mechanics class where students build bikes for elementary students, a get growing class — where students grow herbs, create concrete plant pots, and bird baths — and a foods class where students prepare and sell healthy lunch options to the rest of the school. The school also has some First Nations programs, such as a cultural connections class, a drumming group and a guitar group. All of the students have an Advisory Teacher and a Youth and Family Counsellor.
Many schools and school districts throughout the province offer trades and technical training programs that enable students to complete a year of training while still in high school. Secondary school apprenticeships and the ACE IT program allow students to gain experience, education and training in various trades while they are still in high school.