Banbury Crossroads School

Our Story

Located in the historic Currie Barracks, Banbury Crossroads is a Self-Directed Learning school. One of the oldest independent schools in Calgary, and unique philosophically, it offers an individualized learning environment for children aged 3 through 18. Banbury is founded on mutual respect; thus, it enables students to achieve the academic mastery appropriate to their own interests, abilities and motivation. Character development is promoted. The combination of a low-ratio, student-paced program existing within a multi-aged setting, is most conducive to not penalizing students socially for being academically behind or ahead of their peers.

Students are mentored to take responsibility for their own education through inquiry-based and kinesthetic projects, and community-focussed learning. They devise their own schedules, develop intrinsic motivation, and learn skills in time management, goal setting and self-assessment. Students receive tutorial instruction in the core curriculum, and collaborate during group lessons in unusual options such as philosophy, world religions and art history. Physical Education has an extensive outdoor component, including horseback riding, skiing, archery, golf, hiking and canoeing. International travel programs are offered.

Secondary students participate in contributive internships at community businesses. Students assess career options, develop meaningful and trusting relationships with adults, and cultivate altruism and communication skills. Academic learning within school walls has a living connection with the work that goes on in the world outside those walls. At Banbury Crossroads, students are not cut off from the world.

Students are people worthy of dignity and the liberty to make their own choices without infringing on others’ rights. Banbury’s well-balanced approach creates an enriching and inspiring school experience that promotes the development of autonomy and confidence. These two elements are necessary for students’ engagement in the academic, emotional and social aspects of post-secondary education and adult life.

www.banburycrossroads.com