B.C.’s first independent English-Mandarin school looking for students
Newbridge Academy embraces global perspective, encourages both English and Mandarin native speakers to apply
There are currently only 10 students taking advantage of the opportunity to attend B.C.’s first independent English-Mandarin school. But after registration is complete for the next school year, Newbridge Academy principal Natasa Sirotic is hoping that number will rise to 30 or 40.
“We are one of only two non-denominational independent schools available in South Surrey,” she says. “Our focus is on developing the whole child with an emphasis on academics, particularly languages, math and science.”
Newbridge Academy opened in the area in 2017 in response to a strong demand for Mandarin language education. All core subjects are taught in English, with 25 per cent of the additional learning time conducted in Mandarin. On any given day, that could mean singing, learning calligraphy or to use an abacus, or exercising with a kung fu master in Mandarin. Sirotic says the emphasis is on using the language naturally within the context of other activities, and on exposure early in life.
However, she says students enrolling in later grades can absolutely still thrive at Newbridge. Because class sizes are so small, each child’s development can be carefully monitored and adjusted. Tools like in-class tutoring or an intensive two-week afterschool course can be used to kickstart comprehension, whether it’s for Mandarin or math.
Even if a child doesn’t speak a word of Mandarin when he or she enrolls, the goal is to have the student fully bilingual by the end of Grade 7. French will also be introduced in Grade 3. Sirotic wants to encourage nonMandarin speaking students and families to consider enrolling.
“Having a second or third language is amazing for the brain and academic development,” the principal explains. “With the opening up of China to the world, there are huge business and employment opportunities for people who know the language.”
Having a diverse population – with both native Mandarin and English speakers – is actually highly beneficial, because it allows conversation and learning to truly be bilingual. Sirotic says they already see students switching back and forth at recess.
Newbridge Academy embraces a global perspective when it comes to nutrition, providing a meal program that visits different countries around the world. If the menu on a given week offers Malaysian or Greek food, for instance, the music, history and cultures of those countries are explored as well.
Sirotic has a PhD in math education from Simon Fraser University. After careful evaluation, Newbridge decided to use the Singapore math program because of its coherent curriculum and problem-based approach to mathematics instruction. The academic emphasis is balanced with creative art programs, yoga and physical education.
To encourage families to experience how Newbridge Academy can enrich their lives, the school is offering a 10 per cent discount on its $12,000 tuition for the first 30 new registrants for next year. It is also waiving a ‘new family fee’ normally charged by private schools.