Extended Learning and Extracurriculars

AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT

The WIS Extended Learning (WISEL) program offers a rich array of after school activities at the Primary School, as well as more limited offerings at the Tregaron Campus.

The After School classes program is designed to give students in Preschool to Grade 5 the opportunity to explore varied activities. The program includes weekly classes in art, science, technology, languages, sports, instrumental music, dance, chess, and more. Music lessons also are available for Grades 6-12 students, and a Math Olympiad program for Grades 6 and 7.

There are three terms each year. Parents sign their children up for classes about six weeks before a term begins; a brochure with prices and class details is distributed in advance of sign up in order to allow families to discuss selections together.

WISEL runs Primary School (before and after school) Extended Day programs, a Middle School After Care program, and Primary School vacation camps during Winter and Spring Break. Families can enroll in extended day for an entire term or participate on a drop-in basis. The early arrival program starts at 7:00 AM and the after school program extends to 6:00 PM. Extended Day does not operate on days when WIS has pre-planned closures or shuts down due to inclement weather.

Vacation camp goals are to provide a safe, fun, and relaxed environment where children can enjoy themselves in a group setting and explore interests through play. Camp activities include field trips, arts and crafts, sports, cooking, and more. Children typically bring their own lunches and are provided with morning and afternoon snacks.

The WISEL Summer Camp program was launched as a limited pilot in summer 2024. Results and feedback will inform creation of a more extensive summer program planned for summer 2025.

Aside from the programs offered through WISEL, Primary School students can participate in Band (Grades 4 & 5) and Choir (Grades 3 to 5) after school, at no extra charge. There is also a student government (International Students United or ISU) composed of representatives elected from Grades 4 and 5. ISU representatives work with the administration to organize spirit and service activities for their peers.

GRADES 6-12 EXTRACURRICULARS

Extracurricular activities at WIS offer an important balance to academic work and a welcome chance for students to explore and cultivate personal interests. They are separate from WISEL programs and are available at no extra charge for Grades 6 to 12 students.

Middle and Upper School students maintain a rich extracurricular life, with opportunities for acting, singing, and dancing in dramatic and musical productions or chorus; playing instruments as part of the band or jazz ensembles; and/or becoming a member of one or more sports teams. Both the Middle and Upper Schools have student governments — known as International Students United or ISU — and these organizations plan activities throughout the year, such as service programs, fundraisers, spirit days, and dances.

Club Fairs at the beginning of each year give students the opportunity to explore interests outside of those offered through the academic or formal extracurricular program. In a typical year there are about ten clubs offered in the Middle School, focused on culture, making, journalism, music, games, the environment, and more. In the Upper School clubs can vary significantly from year to year, based on student interest and leadership. Clubs that have been active at WIS for several years include Model UN, Amnesty International, Black Student Union, Debate, It’s Academic, Mock Trial and the Pride Alliance.