Campfire at Camp Qwanoes (see below for more)
Dear Brookes Westshore families and friends,
We are delighted to share the joyful news that Ms. Clackson and Mr. Shaw welcomed their baby girl last weekend. Congratulations to them on this wonderful milestone! We are also very fortunate to have Ms. Nicole stepping in to cover for Mr. Shaw’s classes this week and next week.
On Monday, our teachers engaged in a powerful professional learning day focused on truth and reconciliation. It was a valuable time of learning and reflection for all of us.
Thank you to all the parents who joined us for the DP1 Parent Info Session and MYP2 - 5 Meet the Teacher this week. Your support and partnership are appreciated as we work together for your child’s success.
Wishing everyone a restful weekend and looking forward to another full and exciting week ahead!
With gratitude,
Dr. Rui Li
Principal
Staff learning about Indigenous perspectives on Monday.
- Friday 10th October - Thanksgiving Lunch
- Tuesday 14th and Friday 17th October - FSA testing
- Wednesday 15th October - Immunizations
- Thursday 16th October - BC Shake Out
- Friday 17th October - Interim Report Cards issued
- Thursday 23rd October - MYP3 to DP2 Halloween Dance
Friday 31st October - Pumpkin Carving and Costume Contest
Welcoming the University of St. Andrews
We were delighted to welcome Alisdair, an admissions officer from the University of St Andrews, Scotland, one of the world’s most renowned institutions, for an engaging presentation with our DP2 students on Wednesday. The session highlighted the university’s rich history, vibrant community, and strong academic programs while providing practical guidance on the application process for international students. Our students especially enjoyed hearing about the university’s student-centred approach, which emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth. The visit not only offered valuable insights into the opportunities available at St Andrews but also inspired our students to think ambitiously about their own futures.
Upcoming University visits to Brookes:
- October 9th – University of Victoria
- October 23rd – UVic Engineering and Computer Science
- November 27th – McMaster University
- November 20th – University of Alberta
- November 4th – DP2 students will visit to UBC/Emily Carr
Hands-On Science: Extracting DNA in MYP 5
In MYP 5 Science, students recently brought biology to life through a hands-on investigation into DNA extraction. Using strawberries as their primary material, students carefully followed a procedure to isolate visible strands of DNA—an experience that moved concepts from the textbook directly into the laboratory. For some, this wasn’t enough. Inspired by curiosity, a number of students extended the experiment by testing oranges as a secondary investigation, demonstrating creativity and a willingness to embrace challenge.
This lab exemplifies the IB Learner Profile in action. As inquirers, students asked thoughtful questions about the methods and possibilities of DNA extraction. By venturing beyond the standard procedure, they embodied the qualities of risk-takers, showing resilience and confidence in pursuing new approaches. Working together to refine their techniques and share their observations, they also grew as communicators, learning how scientific discovery thrives through collaboration and exchange of ideas.
At Brookes Westshore, science is not just about mastering content but about cultivating curiosity, critical thinking, and a spirit of exploration. Through experiences like this DNA extraction lab, our students are learning the habits of mind that will prepare them to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Camp Qwanoes Adventure: Building Courage, Connection, and Community
Last week, our MYP4 students embarked on a memorable three-day adventure to Camp Qwanoes: a trip filled with laughter, learning, and lasting connections.
From kayaking and water sports on the sparkling ocean to high ropes, giant swings, and bungee drops, students embraced physical challenges that encouraged risk-taking and courage, key attributes of the IB MYP Learner Profile. Laser tag and campfire marshmallow roasting brought out their balanced and caring sides, while karaoke nights in the clubhouse showcased their communicator and open-minded spirits.
Beyond the activities, the camp fostered deep team-building, and a sense of belonging. Students supported one another through challenges, celebrated each other's successes, and reflected on their experiences with curiosity and joy.
Trips like these are more than just fun - they’re a chance for students to grow as principled, reflective, and knowledgeable learners, all while strengthening the bonds that make our school community so special.
We’re proud of MYP4 for stepping out of their comfort zones and into a space of growth, adventure, and connection.
The Senior Girls' Volleyball team had a very successful night on Tuesday last week. They defeated Vic High in decisive sets and split two very exciting sets against a strong Reynolds team 27-25, 24-26. Go Gryphons!
The Senior Boys’ Volleyball team hosted Stelly’s and EMCS on Wednesday, and although they narrowly lost both games, their coaches were pleased with their continued growth and improvement. Special thanks to our wonderful team of volunteers (Eva, Aii, Tish, and Lyla) who did an excellent job keeping score and being lines people. Finally, many thanks to our enthusiastic fans who helped create an exciting atmosphere!
The Saku Chosei Grade 8 students from Japan are coming to Brookes again in February 2026!
The students have a full itinerary of activities and visits. Saku Chosei are looking for local families who are interested in hosting a pair of students to stay with them from February 17th to the 24th. They are offering remuneration for this program.
If you are interested in exploring this opportunity, please email Mr. B for more information (jbaumgartner@westshore.brookes.org)
Uniforms
Now available: shorter ties for students are now available ($26.25) in the Uniform Store! Please email uniforms@westshore.brookes.org.
Also - a reminder to please label your children's clothing. We gather a lot of discarded items every week and it is a lot easier to return them to the right student if they have labels!
Lunch Menu
If you would like to know what is on the menu next week for our delicious lunches, please click here.
Follow our dining team on @brookesdiningwestshore for mouthwatering images of our breakfasts, lunches, and dinners!
Please find our School Accessibility questionnaire here.
Safer Schools information: erase Family Sessions (saferschoolstogether.com)
Your comments and feedback are welcome! Please click here to leave a comment, ask a question, or raise an issue. Thank you!
Do you have questions or concerns?
If you have a question about the school or just something on your mind, please feel free to contact our leadership team:
- Rui Li - Principal
- Andrea Salvador - School Manager
- Jacob Baumgartner - School Culture Director
- Kate Barton - MYP 3-5 and Personal Project Coordinator
- Linda Bayes - DP Coordinator & University Counsellor
- Martin Staffolani - Executive Director of Recruitment
Brookes Westshore acknowledges that our school is on the traditional lands of the Xwsepsum (Esquimalt) and Lekwungen (Songhees) ancestors and families.
With gratitude, we live, work and learn here where the past, present, and future of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, faculty and staff come together.
