The Importance of Wellness at School

BSS is a welcoming environment that supports the social and academic development of every student. In the process, our students find the confidence and ability to reach their full potential. Read on to learn more.

BSS fosters a community that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB). Every students’ voice is heard, and we take the time to listen to those in our community who may experience barriers to inclusion. From Black History Month to Transgender Awareness Week and YouBelong (a youth DEI conference), BSS supports numerous initiatives that promote open discussion on the issues. Discussing the support for the Muslim Student Union at BSS, Grade 12 student Szirina says, “Whether it was teachers and staff asking how they can help provide us with a prayer space, or students from other unions telling us about opportunities we can participate in, I am really happy to see the passion and drive from everyone in our community to make BSS a more inclusive place.” 

Students at our private academy for girls are assigned to one of 12 Houses at BSS. Our Houses serve as smaller communities within the school that provide a space for girls to interact formally with other students. This environment allows students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 to participate in many fun and supportive activities throughout the year. In an inclusive culture, each student learns the value of their own voice and finds the confidence to seek support with any challenges they face. 

The Wellness Centre at BSS has nurses on-site to support the physical and mental health of all students.  Whether a child is transitioning to a new school environment or adjusting to a different academic grade, every student at BSS is given the support they need. Our school psychologist and counsellors are available to talk about the complexities of school and personal life. “Our team of counsellors helps students to navigate the adolescent social-emotional world against the backdrop of a highly rigorous academic setting. Our practices are based on the theories of positive psychology and we use a strengths-based approach to foster growth and development,” says Kim Mitchell, Head of Student Services.

Additionally, Senior School students at BSS participate in Teacher Advisory Groups (TAG), in which small groups of students meet regularly with a faculty member. At our high school for girls, each student will meet and build a rapport with the same advisor from Grade 9 to Grade 12. These groups discuss any personal or academic challenges our students may be facing, and create a space that brings health and well-being into the spotlight. 

At BSS, we give every student the support they need to meet their academic goals. Whether a student is new to BSS, transitioning to a new grade, preparing for university or overcoming personal challenges, our Student Services team is there to offer individualized guidance. "The academic support and guidance provided to students at BSS is outstanding. I never once felt stressed about talking to my teachers or figuring out what to do about my grades” says Grade 12 student Kyra. “As an elite athlete, my teachers actively talk to me about how I can stay involved with my courses and how we can continue my education.”

Counsellors at BSS are experienced in helping students recognize their own strengths, develop interpersonal skills, and expand their educational paths. With the right academic support in their school years, students can develop a positive and balanced approach that will see them through a happy and successful future. 

Are you interested in an education at our all girls school?