FAQs

How is Windsor House different from other schools?

Unlike most schools, Windsor House does not require students to attend classes or follow a set curriculum. Students are not separated into age groups and are allowed to mix freely. Students are free to choose how and where to spend their time, and with whom. Windsor House is also a democratic school, meaning each member of the community, regardless of age or role, has a vote in the decision-making process.

How long has Windsor House been around?

The school was founded in 1971 in an era that saw the beginning of a number of democratic schools, many of which are still thriving day (e.g., Sudbury Valley, Albany Free School, Summerhill).

Can students graduate from Windsor House?

Students wishing to graduate with a BC "Dogwood Certificate" must complete the standard provincial requirements. This can be done at Windsor House by taking required academic courses and the corresponding provincial exams. Students can also acquire these courses through distance education or a youth learning centre while attending Windsor House.

Are students eligible for post-secondary education?

Many Windsor House students go on to post-secondary education. Students who choose the formal graduation route may apply straight out of Windsor House, while others may choose to wait two years to apply as a mature student. Some students choose career paths that don't involve formal education.

Are classes offered?

Classes may be requested by students or offered by staff, students, or other community members through the "open space" model. Students may also request or organize field trips, speakers, short-term activities, and mentoring sessions.

Is there homework?

Students may choose to work on school projects at home, but staff does not assign homework.

Are there grades and report cards?

Intrinsic motivation is highly valued at Windsor House, so staff do not offer external rewards such as letter grades or special praise. Instead, students work with family and staff to build learning portfolios that are reviewed during several conferences throughout the year.

Is there child care?

Child care is available after school on regular school days and all day on professional days and during conference weeks. For more information or to register, contact Annette Selke at 604-202-7691 or childcare@whs.at.org.

What if students choose to play all day?

Play is highly respected at Windsor House, where children are free to explore the flow of their own curiosity in different ways — and they do, particularly in the early years. The result is a lively mix that at first glance may appear unstructured but is in fact supported by many underlying structures and theories (e.g., inquiry-based, experiential, and active learning).

Is Windsor House for everyone?

Windsor House is ideal for self-directed learners who can regulate their own behavior, but the school welcomes an assortment of students aged 5 to 18 with diverse backgrounds — from homelearners to those who have been dissatisfied with standard classroom settings and those looking for a community environment that supports the individual.

Can students combine Windsor House with homelearning?

Yes, students may opt to have "choice days" each week, during which they can pursue homelearning or other forms of enrichment. A number of Windsor House students and staff have a homelearning background.

Can students come from out of district?

Yes, about half of the Windsor House's student body lives on the North Shore and the rest come from out of district -- the majority from Vancouver's Commercial Drive neighbhourhood, and some from Champlain Heights, the West End, Kitsilano, North Burnaby, the Sunshine Coast, and elsewhere. There is a strong carpool network at Windsor House, making the commute easier for all. There will also be a free bus service from East Vancouver for the 2009/2010 school year.

Does the school charge tuition?

Windsor House is a public school so students attend free. Upon enrollment, families may become members of SANE (the Society for the Advancement of Non-coercive Education), a non-profit society comprising Windsor House families, alumni, and other interested people. Membership is on a sliding scale of $5 to $25 a year and SANE also collects a monthly donation of $10 to $60 per family in order to fund expenses arising out of the Resolution process at School Council.

How does a student become enrolled at Windsor House?

All young people wishing to attend Windsor House must spend three days at the school with a parent or guardian. At the end of the three days, they must have an Intake Meeting with staff and students to ensure that they fully understand the program. Then School Council and staff will vote on whether or not the school can accommodate the student at the present time.

What kind of parent participation is required?

Each family is asked to contribute time to the school, either during school hours or on weekends or evenings. Families contribute in a variety of ways, such as offering activities that reflect their own skills and experiences, assisting teachers and staff, helping with the maintenance and care of the school, attending evening committee meetings, and doing support work from home.