University Counselling

List of 5 items.

• Grade 8

  In Grade 8, students are introduced to post-secondary pathways through curiosity-driven exploration; academic, course-planning and co-curricular conversations; awareness of resources; optional post-secondary event participation; and ongoing access to counsellor support. 

  
  

  Senior Student Mentor Discussions

  Students in Grades 9 to 12 share their experiences and advice with younger peers, helping them understand the realities of course selection, extracurricular involvement and preparing for post-secondary study.

  
  

  Student Transitions Presentations

  Designed to ease key academic and developmental transitions, these sessions help students build the skills and confidence needed to move successfully from one stage of their school and post-secondary journey to the next.

• Grade 9

  In Grade 9, students deepen their exploration of post-secondary pathways by engaging in early academic planning; exploring enrichment opportunities; reflection on strengths and interests; guided exposure to university planning tools and events; and ongoing conversations with counsellors to build foundational skills and encourage curiosity.

  
  

  Senior Student Mentor Discussions

  During TAG and House, students in Grades 10 to 12 share their experiences and advice with Grade 9 students, helping them understand the transition into the Senior School, making thoughtful course selections, getting involved in co-curricular activities, and beginning to explore post-secondary pathways. 

  
  

  Student Transition Presentations

  Designed to guide students through key academic and developmental shifts, these sessions emphasize how choices in the senior grades align with future university and college pathways. Students build the skills and confidence to manage increasing academic expectations while making informed connections between their interests, course selection and potential post-secondary studies.

• Grade 10

  In Grade 10, students build academic and life skills; clarify subject interests; pursue enrichment opportunities; explore university planning tools; and engage with counsellors and Careers Studies classes to begin aligning their choices with potential post-secondary pathways.

  
  

  PSAT Preparation

  BSS administers the PSAT each fall, providing students with valuable practice for the SAT. This also helps them identify academic strengths and areas for growth in preparation for U.S. university applications. 

  
  

  Student Presentations in Careers Class

  Students listen in on presentations about course selection, finding the right post-secondary fit and the process from research to decisions.

  
  

  Careers Studies

  Senior University Counsellors visit Grade 10 Career Studies classes throughout the year to provide specialized guidance on the post-secondary application process.

• Grade 11

  In Grade 11, students commit to post-secondary pathways by deepening academic and enrichment engagement, clarifying intended areas of study. The expanded Grade 11 guidance curriculum and increased counsellor involvement provides structured academic planning, application preparation, testing, and interview readiness.

  
  

  Guidance Classes

  Senior University Counsellors lead sessions on self-reflection and finding fit, researching post-secondary options, navigating college and university applications, exploring scholarships and financial aid, developing strong application writing and preparing for next steps. 

  
  

  Family Planning Meetings

  In addition to other touchpoints throughout the year, we host individual post-secondary planning meetings with students and their families in the spring. During these meetings, University Counsellors discuss pathways, timeline and next steps in the application journey.

  
  

  Oxbridge Writing and Interview Preparation

  Students receive targeted preparation for the Oxbridge application process, beginning with guided conversations and resources about selecting the right college and course of study, followed by focused writing development and interview preparation to ensure they are confident and well-prepared.

• Grade 12

  In Grade 12, students focus on application execution by finalizing materials; refining essays and personal statements; preparing for tests and interviews; and working closely with their counsellor; faculty and a writing coach to meet deadlines and present their strongest post-secondary applications.

  
  

  Guidance Classes

  Our University Counsellors guide students through every stage of the application process, including scholarships, international applications, Ontario/OUAC and other Canadian applications. They provide support with interviews, portfolios, auditions, supplemental materials, and planning for post-secondary transitions. Counsellors also help students interpret admission decisions and map out next steps, ensuring they feel informed, confident and fully prepared in their final year.

  
  

  Interview Preparation

  University Counsellors help students prepare for a variety of virtual and in-person interviews for specialized programs and universities, including Oxford, Cambridge and US-style interviews, multiple mini interviews for medical and veterinary programs, and video interviews. Counsellors do pre-interview research and mock interviews.

  
  

  Professional Writing Guidance

  University Counsellors work with students to strengthen the quality of their applications. They have extensive knowledge of international and regional application requirements and can provide feedback on students’ application essays. In Guidance class, students participate in ongoing writing workshops.

  
  

  Writing Coach

  Students may access up to four 30-minute virtual sessions with professional writing coach Alison Uys. Participation is voluntary, and sessions are designed to help students refine their voice, strengthen structure and polish grammar and syntax, ensuring they present their best work in the application process.

  
  

  Connecting with Students’ Consultants

  We encourage families to connect consultants with our University Counsellors to ensure we take a collaborative approach to successful applications. Our University Counsellors oversee every aspect of a student’s application and carefully guide the curation of a cohesive narrative to ensure strong applications.

  
  

  Grade 12 Parent and Guardian Post-Secondary Evening

  Each year, we welcome parents and guardians to learn about the Grade 12 Guidance topics, and the key elements of the application processes and timelines for Canada, the U.S. and the U.K. Our Well-being Counsellors also offer advice on how to support students during this exciting time.