It is hard to believe that today is the last day of October already. As we enter the month of November tomorrow, we are honing in on the time remaining for our Graduating Class of 2026. In eight months, our Grade 12 students will be crossing the stage at Commencement, which will mark the end of their Senior School experience at UA.
Graduation is a moment of celebration and accomplishment, but it is also a time of transition – filled with decisions, planning, and anticipation for what lies ahead. As a school, our goal is to ensure every student feels known, supported, informed, and future-ready. Before considering commencement and feeling the excitement of post-secondary, our Grade 12s are diligently working on their university applications and weighing their options.
Every year, Grade 12 students will have access to a range of events designed to recognize their efforts, build community, and provide practical guidance for life beyond UA. We wanted to share with our families what that looks like here. Students take part in:
- Canadian University Event (CUE): Earlier in September, the Gr. 12s had dinner with the Academic advising team and the Head of School, Mr. Slinger, followed by the CUE Event at Delta Hotel Burnaby Conference Centre. CUE brings together more than 50 Canadian universities, giving students the chance to meet representatives, ask questions, and explore post-secondary options.
- Grad trip to Vancouver Island: On November 6–7, the Class of 2026 will travel to Vancouver Island and be given the opportunity to tour the campuses of UVIC and VIU. Often, these are wonderful opportunities to connect with UA Alumni as well.
- Post-secondary advising: Senior School students will receive support with university and program applications, and feedback on their statement letters. They are also made aware of scholarship opportunities and supported in their applications for post-secondary scholarship.
- Grad Leadership and Legacy Opportunities: This year’s graduating class will have multiple opportunities to contribute to the school through leadership roles while building their legacy as the Class of 2026. These initiatives help students develop a sense of ownership and pride in their final year, while leaving a positive mark for future graduates.
- Buddy activities: as the older students at the school, the Gr.12s have been paired up with the Junior Kindergarten students and are involved in Buddy activities bi-weekly on Wednesdays. It has been an amazing experience for both our oldest and youngest students.
- Community and Celebration Events: From Grad Dinner to Grad Spirit Week, students will enjoy opportunities to build memories, connect with one another, and celebrate their achievements. These events are organized with care and attention to student safety and inclusion so that every graduate can participate meaningfully.
- Graduation Committee: A grad committee made up of representative students as well as parents, and supported by the school, ensures that grad events take place throughout the year.
We look forward to the year to come and all the opportunities for our Graduating Class of 2026 (and those in the years to come) to create memories, show leadership skills, act as role models, contribute to the UA community, and leave a legacy that will make them and all of UA proud.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Twaites – Associate Principal of Student Life
Mme. Dumortier – Acting Principal of the Senior School