SCHOOL STORY

Sir William Osler is on the west side of Vancouver and nestled on a beautiful site beside Montgomery Park. Our staff and students use our outside space as much as our indoor space! With a collection of Chestnut and Redwood along with shrubs our school garden is brimming with opportunities to embrace nature. Field studies take the classes to Musqueam Bog to learn the indigenous stories knowledge keepers share.

There are twelve divisions, one being a MACC, Multi Age Cluster Class program. Student enrolment has been on the rise with many families coming through the Newcomers Welcome Center. We have welcomed students from many countries around the world, adding to the cultural fabric of Osler. At this time our enrolment number is 283. The staff strive to ensure VBE Education Plan Goals are front and center when it comes to equity and inclusion, such as ‘Ensuring that students develop and can implement a plan for a successful transition upon

completion of in the secondary school.’ In past years our School Plan has percolated while health matters have focused increased attention. 2022-2023 reflects on our past goals centered around the social emotional wellbeing of students. It was important for the Osler staff to connect with students and families and to provide support and comfort at the forefront. By first working with students on their self-regulation, resilience and stamina, our academic goals can be further developed. Continued focus of self-regulation has supported learners and while we continue to continue this work, we also highlight our practice on literacy.

WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS?

Our school community is a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. As we strive for inclusivity and equity, we recognize several key aspects. Families arrive from various corners of the world, seeking a better life and education. Initially, some students attend schools outside their designated catchment area due to space constraints. Students may struggle to see beyond their immediate viewpoint. Their growing awareness of the world presents both opportunities and challenges. Our students actively participate in a rich array of programs, from sports to arts to academics. These engagements foster holistic development and a sense of belonging. Risky play, once a staple of childhood, has shifted.Many students now choose online games over physical adventures. Striking a balance between safety and exploration is essential. While adults play a crucial role in shaping young minds, we must encourage independent thinking. Overreliance on guidance can hinder creativity and problem-solving. Parents hold high expectations for their children’s success. Ensuring consistent follow-through is vital for student growth. Our students are curious learners, eager to discover and understand. They seek answers promptly, driven by their thirst for knowledge. Families vary widely in structure and dynamics. Building strong relationships within our community is essential. Our students exhibit politeness, follow rules, and show kindness. They actively volunteer, contributing to the well-being of others. Students focus on mastering content. Balancing this with process-oriented learning ensures a well-rounded education. By acknowledging these nuances, we create an environment where fairness and justice thrive, nurturing each student’s potential.