News

7 Reasons to Choose Alcuin College

7 REASONS TO CHOOSE ALCUIN COLLEGE

Published: April 04, 2025 2:00PM PDT    |   Updated:  April 04, 2025 2:00PM PDT

Published: April 18, 2023 3:21PM PDT
Updated: April 20, 2023 3:21PM PDT 

7 REASONS TO CHOOSE ALCUIN COLLEGE

At Alcuin College, we believe in an education that is more than traditional academic achievement. Our approach empowers students to grow into confident, curious, and compassionate individuals. Here are 7 reasons why families choose Alcuin College—and why it might be the right choice for yours:

  1. Personalized Learning & Customized Pathways
    At Alcuin College, every student receives personalized teaching tailored to their unique strengths and needs. Our dedicated teachers create customized learning pathways that not only boost academic achievement but also encourage children to discover and develop their individual potential.

  2. A True Sense of Belonging
    We are more than just a school, Alcuin College is a community where every child is valued. With smaller class sizes and strong personal connections, students feel truly seen and supported. This sense of belonging extends beyond the classroom, with lasting bonds among peers and a vibrant alumni network that underscores our community spirit.

  3. A Safe Space for Growth
    Safety goes beyond the physical—it’s about creating an environment where students feel secure enough to take risks, learn from their mistakes, and ask for help when needed. At Alcuin, we build a secure space rooted in trusted relationships and consistent support from caregivers, ensuring your child’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

  4. Experiential Learning Opportunities
    Students frequently engage with the real world through partnerships with local businesses and professionals. These hands-on experiences provide context and skills that traditional classrooms may not offer, enriching the academic program.

  5. Empowering Every Child to Be Their Own Hero
    We believe that “every child is their own hero.” At Alcuin College, we empower students to explore their passions, embrace challenges, and grow through trial and error. By celebrating each child’s unique journey, we inspire them to recognize their own strengths and potential, paving the way for lifelong success.

  6. Trusted Educators & Lasting Relationships
    Our teachers are more than just instructors—they are mentors who invest in building genuine relationships with students. By offering consistent guidance and care, we foster an environment where children feel confident, understood, and ready to tackle academic and personal challenges head-on.

  7. Innovative Learning Spaces
    Alcuin College’s open-plan classrooms encourage collaboration and the exchange of ideas across different age groups. This design fosters social skills and diminishes age-related divisions, promoting a cohesive learning environment.

Each of these pillars reflects how Alcuin College goes beyond traditional education, ensuring that your child not only achieves academically but can continue to thrive as a confident, secure, and well-rounded individual.

Join us on May 8th, 2025 for our Open House and experience our community in action. Meet our passionate educators, explore our learning spaces, and discover how Alcuin College nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth. Come see why families choose Alcuin for an education that empowers students for life.

Author
Stella Abblett
Head of School

MORE QUESTIONS?

GET IN TOUCH WITH PENNY DUNDAS

If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15 minute call with Penny Dundas or book a School Tour to learn more about our school and find out if Alcuin is the right fit for your child.

ADDRESS

200-1046 St Georges Avenue North Vancouver BC V7L 3H6
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
How Small Class Sizes Can Support Academic Excellence

HOW SMALL CLASS SIZES CAN SUPPORT ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Published: April 04, 2025 2:00PM PDT    |   Updated:  April 04, 2025 2:00PM PDT

Published: April 18, 2023 3:21PM PDT
Updated: April 20, 2023 3:21PM PDT 

HOW SMALL CLASS SIZES CAN SUPPORT ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

“We accept your kids as they are—and we can take them way further.” – Stella Ablett, Alcuin’s Head of School

Class size has a profound impact on how students learn, connect, and grow. At Alcuin College, our intentionally small classes are designed to foster meaningful relationships and individualized learning. Every student benefits from the kind of personalized attention that helps them feel seen, supported, and challenged in the right ways. This approach not only boosts academic outcomes but helps students build confidence and a lasting love of learning.

Smaller classes allow our teachers to focus on the individual learning styles and needs of every student. Tailoring lessons to match a child’s unique pathway ensures that each concept is not only learned but understood deeply by individual students. This individualized approach naturally leads to stronger academic performance and a deeper understanding of key concepts, laying a rock-solid foundation for future success in higher education and beyond.

Beyond academics, the close-knit environment in our classrooms fosters strong relationships. When students feel safe and supported—both academically and emotionally—they are more likely to engage, ask questions, and take intellectual risks. This secure space means that even when failure occurs, it’s seen as an opportunity for growth rather than a setback or a shortcoming.

In addition to academic rigour, our smaller classes support the development of essential life skills. By working more closely together, students learn to communicate effectively, collaborate on projects, and build trust with their teachers and peers. At Alcuin College, our small class sizes aren’t just a metric—they’re a cornerstone of an education that prepares your child to excel both in school and in life.

Join us on May 8th, 2025 for our Open House and experience our community in action. Meet our passionate educators, explore our learning spaces, and discover how Alcuin College nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth. Come see why families choose Alcuin for an education that empowers students for life.

Author
Stella Abblett
Head of School

MORE QUESTIONS?

GET IN TOUCH WITH PENNY DUNDAS

If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15 minute call with Penny Dundas or book a School Tour to learn more about our school and find out if Alcuin is the right fit for your child.

ADDRESS

200-1046 St Georges Avenue North Vancouver BC V7L 3H6
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
The Importance of Resilience and Secure Attachment in A Changing World

THE IMPORTANCE OF RESILIENCE AND SECURE ATTACHMENT IN A CHANGING WORLD

Published: April 04, 2025 1:15PM PDT    |   Updated:  April 04, 2025 1:15PM PDT

Published: April 18, 2023 3:21PM PDT
Updated: April 20, 2023 3:21PM PDT 

THE IMPORTANCE OF RESILIENCE AND SECURE ATTACHMENT IN A CHANGING WORLD

In today’s complex world, the ability to bounce back from challenges and form secure, trusting relationships is more crucial than ever. At Alcuin College, we recognize that building emotional resilience and fostering secure attachments are key to not only academic success but also overall well-being. Our approach not only accepts children as they are but also takes them further by fostering emotional resilience and nurturing secure attachments from a young age.

Every parent is rightfully concerned about their children’s safety, and, as parents ourselves, we understand that safety goes far beyond just physical protection. When we talk about a secure environment, we mean a holistic approach that safeguards children physically, emotionally, and mentally. 

  • Physically: Our school ensures that the environment is secure, safe from harm, and nurturing. 
  • Emotionally: We strive to foster trusting relationships and offer consistent support so children feel valued and understood. 
  • Mentally: Our teaching methods encourage curiosity and resilience, allowing students to express themselves openly, be challenged, and develop strong problem-solving skills. 

We strive to create an environment where children feel safe enough to explore, take risks, and even fail—with the confidence that every setback is just a stepping stone towards growth. By forming strong, trusting bonds with dedicated caregivers, teachers and peers, students learn to turn challenges into opportunities and see mistakes and failures as a natural part of learning.

Our team believes that secure attachment is more than a concept—it’s the cornerstone of our community. When our students trust that they are genuinely supported, they develop the self-assurance to ask questions, seek help when needed, and engage fully with their studies. Having a secure foundation has not only shown improvement in academic achievement, but also builds the inner strength needed for personal and professional success later in life.

Our commitment to fostering emotional resilience means that our educators invest time in understanding and responding to the individual needs of each child. This personalized care, coupled with our innovative teaching methods, equips our students with the ability to manage stress, communicate openly, and solve problems effectively. Together, these skills form a robust framework that prepares them to navigate life’s challenges confidently.

Alcuin College believes in a holistic approach to education—one that combines academic excellence with the essential life skills required to thrive in a changing world. Here, children are empowered to recognize their potential and are provided with the secure foundation they need to become the confident, independent leaders of tomorrow.

Join us on May 8th, 2025 for our Open House and experience our community in action. Meet our passionate educators, explore our learning spaces, and discover how Alcuin College nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth. Come see why families choose Alcuin for an education that empowers students for life.

Author
Stella Abblett
Head of School

MORE QUESTIONS?

GET IN TOUCH WITH PENNY DUNDAS

If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15 minute call with Penny Dundas or book a School Tour to learn more about our school and find out if Alcuin is the right fit for your child.

ADDRESS

200-1046 St Georges Avenue North Vancouver BC V7L 3H6
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
SWIPE LESS AND LIVE MORE

SWIPE LESS AND LIVE MORE

Published: February 03, 2025 4:42PM PDT    |   Updated: February 03, 2025 5:02PM PDT

Published: April 18, 2023 3:21PM PDT
Updated: April 20, 2023 3:21PM PDT 

Raising Screen-Smart Kids with Unplugged Canada

Parenting in the digital age feels like navigating uncharted waters. We’re raising the first generation of true digital natives, and while technology offers incredible opportunities, it also presents real challenges. How do we equip our children with the tools to thrive in a digital world while protecting their well-being and fostering genuine connection?

The goal isn’t to reject technology but to find a balance—empowering children to become responsible, resilient digital citizens. As John Muir once said, “The best classroom is the world around you.” Unplugging fosters creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. It’s not about eliminating screens but setting mindful boundaries, creating tech-free zones, and modeling healthy digital habits.

The Trade-Off: Connection vs. Convenience

It’s easy to turn to screens for convenience—keeping kids entertained, quiet, or connected. But as Dr. Richard Freed, author of Wired Child, warns, technology becomes harmful when it displaces essential childhood experiences like outdoor play, creative problem-solving, and face-to-face interaction.

Catherine Steiner-Adair, author of The Big Disconnect, urges families to “create a culture of connection,” reminding us that technology should enhance, not replace, human relationships. Simple changes—like device-free dinners, screen-free bedrooms, and open conversations— can reinforce meaningful connections and model healthy habits for children.

The question is: what do we want our kids to remember—the time spent in front of screens or the time spent exploring, playing, and engaging with the world around them?

What’s at Stake? A Childhood Disrupted

Research shows that excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s mental health, sleep, and cognitive development. Jonathan Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation, links rising anxiety and depression in young people to the decline of real-world play and the overuse of social media. He stresses the importance of unstructured outdoor play to build resilience and confidence.

As parents, we face a tough reality: screens are easy, but they come with a cost. When children trade play for passive screen time, they miss out on developing critical life skills like creativity, problem-solving, and social connection.

The good news? It’s not too late to reclaim childhood. By setting mindful boundaries and encouraging real-world engagement, we can reverse this trend.

Screens Aren’t Evil, But Balance Is Everything

The goal isn’t to demonize technology but to use it wisely. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise, advises parents to treat technology as a tool, not a toy. This means setting clear expectations around device use, having open discussions about digital safety, and encouraging offline activities.

Dr. Katie Davis, in Technology’s Child, outlines key stages in a child’s development and how technology should evolve with them:

● Early Childhood: Tech should be interactive, used alongside caregivers to encourage real-world play and social interaction.
● Middle Childhood: Begin conversations about online safety and digital literacy, balancing screen time with outdoor and social activities.
● Adolescence: Focus on social media, online identity, and privacy. Open communication about digital life is crucial as teens navigate more complex interactions.

These stages help us understand how tech use should change as children grow, ensuring it enhances—not replaces—important developmental milestones.

The Digital Dilemma: Are We Protecting Kids Where It Matters Most?

Lenore Skenazy, author of Free-Range Kids, offers a sharp reality check: “We’re overprotecting kids in the real world and under-protecting them in the digital one.”

We’re quick to monitor physical safety—ensuring kids don’t wander too far, talk to strangers, or get hurt. Yet, we often hand them devices without fully understanding the potential risks of social media, online predators, and screen addiction.

What if we shifted our focus? What if we gave our kids more real-world freedom while setting firmer boundaries around digital spaces? Small steps, like encouraging outdoor play or independent errands, build resilience and confidence in ways screens never will.

The Power of Collective Action

This is where Unplugged Canada comes in. Their mission is simple: delay smartphone use until at least age 14 and empower families to reclaim childhood from screens. Their pledge offers practical support, workshops, and community connection for parents navigating this challenge.

Why delay smartphones? Research shows that limiting early access to smartphones reduces anxiety, improves social skills, and strengthens mental health. Dr. Jean Twenge, author of iGen, highlights a clear link between the rise of smartphones and the decline of adolescent wellbeing. When parents collectively agree to delay smartphone use, the social pressure shifts— and kids can thrive without feeling left out.

By signing the Unplugged Canada Pledge, families commit to fostering healthier digital habits, creating more time for outdoor play, and ensuring their children’s mental and emotional wellbeing come first. Together, we can redefine what childhood looks like in a tech-driven world.

You’re Not Alone—And It’s Not Too Late

Raising screen-smart kids is hard—but you don’t have to do it alone. Every parent at Alcuin College is navigating the same struggle, and there’s no perfect formula. What matters most is staying engaged, being flexible, and remembering that your role as a parent is more powerful than any device.

Unplugged Canada offers the tools, research, and community support you need to make informed choices. By setting mindful tech boundaries and encouraging real-world connection, you’re not just protecting your child’s mental health—you’re giving them the gift of a childhood filled with wonder, play, and connection.

So take a deep breath. Put down your phone. Invite your child outside. Together, we can help them build a future where technology serves them—without ever replacing the magic of real life.

CALL TO ACTION:

Join the Unplugged Canada Pledge today—and let’s reclaim childhood, one unplugged moment at a time.
Author
Jennifer Hepton
BEd, PBDE
Certified Conscious Parenting Coach
Alcuin Parent
Resources:
Here's a list of the books and authors referenced in the blog post
Freed, R. Wired Child
Steiner-Adair, C. The Big Disconnect
Skenazy, L. Free-Range Kids.
Haidt, J. The Anxious Generation
Heitner, D. Screenwise
Davis, K. Technology's Child
Twenge, J. M. iGen
Reference List Citation
1. Twenge, J. M. (2017). iGen: Why today’s super-connected kids are growing up less rebellious, more tolerant, less happy—and completely unprepared for adulthood— and what that means for the rest of us. Atria Books.
2. Freed, R. (2015). Wired child: Reclaiming childhood in a digital age. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
3. Steiner-Adair, C. (2013). The big disconnect: Protecting childhood and family relationships in the digital age. Harper.
4. Haidt, J. (2023). The anxious generation: How the great rewiring of childhood is causing an epidemic of mental illness. Penguin Press.
5. Heitner, D. (2016). Screenwise: Helping kids thrive (and survive) in their digital world. Routledge.
6. Davis, K. (2023). Technology’s child: Digital media’s role in the ages and stages of growing up. MIT Press.
7. Skenazy, L. (2009). Free-range kids: How parents and teachers can let go and let grow. Wiley.

MORE QUESTIONS?

GET IN TOUCH WITH PENNY DUNDAS

If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15 minute call with Penny Dundas or book a School Tour to learn more about our school and find out if Alcuin is the right fit for your child.

ADDRESS

200-1046 St Georges Avenue North Vancouver BC V7L 3H6
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
Japan 2025

JAPAN 2025

Join us on our adventure to Japan! Our group of intrepid travellers, from Grades 8-12 will post here about their amazing experience.

Day 1-4

Tokyo: a city pulsating with an energy unlike any other. In just days, we’ve been swept up in its symphony of contrasts. In a city of 14 million, ancient traditions exist in tandem with futuristic technology, and vibrant chaos is uniquely orderly. We journeyed from the tranquil Imperial Palace gardens, a haven of peace amidst the urban sprawl, to the electrifying streets of Akihabara, a kaleidoscope of anime and technology. We ascended the Tokyo Skytree, gazing at a cityscape stretching to the horizon, navigated the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, were mesmerized by the Art Aquarium in Ginza, and absorbed the sounds and aromas of Asakusa. Meiji Jingu provided a serene escape from Shibuya’s commercial bustle, and beyond the city, the beauty of Mount Fuji and Hakone was breathtaking in the sunshine. And through it all, we’ve savoured the culinary delights that make Tokyo a foodie paradise. Our favourite foods to date include char-grilled trout and Korean hot dogs at Oshino Hakkai; Yakitori chicken skewers, beef udon, gyoza, soy-milk ramen, and strawberries in our neighbourhood; matcha ice cream at Nakamise Shopping Street; and the whimsical dumplings at the remarkable village of Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba.

But beyond the iconic landmarks and delectable dishes, it’s our time together that will make this trip truly memorable. Happy memories shared so far include: enjoying late-night Family Mart ice cream when it (surprisingly) snowed; racing to the Mount Fuji viewing point (a strenuous climb for most of us!); spending the day with Masa and his mother; and playing hide-and-seek, spanning multiple floors in the dark, highlighting the simple pleasures of friendship and laughter. Tomorrow, we are on a bullet train for the next stage of our adventure!

DAy 5-7

Oh, the amazing adventure continues! With the bullet train, we were in Kyoto in no time. At the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the vibrant red torii gates brightened up the rainy morning. Next was the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a dream for our manga and anime fans, with shelves filled with classic and contemporary works. We ended the day at our hostel, surrounded by greenery and tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood of quaint homes.   

Continuing the symphony of contrasts, we started the next day with a visit to Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), the stunning gold leaf shimmering in the sunshine. Next, we explored Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where we learned the rituals of cleansing with sacred water, and drank at the fountain for love, academic success or longevity. The surrounding Higashiyama district was a maze of narrow streets, traditional architecture, and delightful shops. From there, we went to the busy Gion district, a shopper’s paradise. Some of us found hot-pot heaven, with an all-you-can-eat feast. Evening hit, and we hit Round 1! From bowling, racing, DDR, karaoke (in Japanese) – we did it all!

Our last day in the area took us to beautiful Osaka. We started by touring Osaka Castle, a majestic structure with a rich history. Then, we went to Shinsaibashi and Namba, the heart of Osaka’s vibrant shopping and entertainment districts. Our food adventure continued with tasting Osaka’s treasured street food: takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). From there, we explored Shinsekai, a retro district that feels like stepping back into the 1960’s. Our bike aficionado found a vintage bell and some colourful valve caps! Back at the hostel, was another massive, multi-level game of hide-and-seek. So many laughs.

As one student said, “What’s not to love about these past three days?” The culture, the fun and the amazing food continue to highlight our Japan adventure.

day 8-11

The Shinkansen, Japan’s iconic bullet train, whisked us back to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, a return that found us navigating the intricate subway system with a newfound confidence. Our first destination was TeamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum that masterfully engaged all our senses. The Water exhibit stood out, a mesmerizing blend of light, sound, and tactile experiences that left us feeling both invigorated and slightly disoriented. The darkened room provided a delightful space for the students to tumble and explore, a simple joy that they thoroughly enjoyed. 

The following day, we immersed ourselves in the magic of Disneyland. Despite the persistent rain that plagued the afternoon and evening, the students’ enthusiasm remained undeterred. Many chose to stay until the park’s closing, determined to savor every moment of the Disney experience. The next day brought a different kind of enchantment, a walking tour leading us to the Ghibli Museum. The older district we traversed was undergoing a captivating regeneration, revealing a charming blend of historical preservation and modern revitalization. We savored delicious local treats before entering the museum, a true animation paradise that showcased the artistry and imagination of Studio Ghibli. For our final evening in Tokyo, some revisited favorite restaurants, while others indulged in special meals, including an unforgettable Wagyu beef experience. A special treat was seeing Masa and Soto, adding to the festive atmosphere of our final evening. 

The next day dawned bright and sunny, allowing us to squeeze in some last-minute shopping before heading to the airport. This entire trip was a tremendous experience, filled with unforgettable moments and much laughter. We are happy to be home with our families, but we will certainly miss our special time together!

Author
Stella Ablett
Head of School

MORE QUESTIONS?

GET IN TOUCH WITH PENNY DUNDAS

If you have more questions, you can schedule a 15 minute call with Penny Dundas or book a School Tour to learn more about our school and find out if Alcuin is the right fit for your child.

ADDRESS

200-1046 St Georges Avenue North Vancouver BC V7L 3H6
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.
© 2023 by Alcuin College. All rights reserved.