Arts Courses
As it is critically important for us to plan ahead and ensure that there is sufficient interest and resources to offer a particular art, we ask that students always indicate their top three choices. There are rare circumstances where we cannot offer both their first and second art preferences.
Grade 9 Students
Students in Grade 9 enrol in Arts Rotation or String Ensemble and will enrol in:
- ONE arts course OR
- Rowing
Grade 10, 11 & 12 Students
Students in Grades 10, 11, and 12 must enrol in one arts course and either:
- a second arts course OR
- Rowing
Further arts courses can be taken as desired, but only if space permits, and can only be confirmed after the school year is underway in September.
Before making any selections, please take time to find out more information about the arts course offerings by referring to the courses below.
Any additional questions or requests for clarification can be directed to Ms. Edna Widenmaier.
3D Art & Sculpture
Students will be introduced to design and sculptural techniques and processes using a wide range of materials (clay, wood, plastics, cardboard, soapstone, plaster, and cement). In the fall term, the focus will be on design and fabrication using the machine shop and hand tools. Working from a design brief, students will explore the properties of materials and create sculptural and product design-orientated projects (clock design; child’s toy; architectural structure/sculptural form).
For the winter term, students will learn clay modelling techniques and how to hand-build clay forms and create more abstract structures and simple freestanding sculptures. Students will also learn some basic anatomy and create human and animal forms.
During the spring term, students will be introduced to soapstone carving and also to one-piece mould-making and casting techniques. Projects will include creating jewelry and small free-standing carvings. More advanced students will create their own design brief/project idea, and then use an exploratory approach to creating a final idea using a range of materials and processes.
3D Pottery
This course teaches wheel-thrown pottery for students who are either complete beginners or who have had some experience. We will explore the ceramic medium creatively and artistically. In addition, the technical processes of pottery are learned. This includes building pots by hand, surface decoration, glazing, and firing.
AP Music Theory 12
Music Theory is a must for any serious musician. Students wishing to further their knowledge of music theory, or those wishing to continue their studies in music post Brentwood, would benefit by taking this course. The course covers the requirements for the AP Music Theory Exam held in May.
This course includes: music fundamentals, melodic dictation, harmonic dictation, contextual listening, sight singing, stylistic composition, figured bass, melodic harmonization, and visual analysis techniques.
-
Course Prerequisites: Students who take this course should have had some background in music studies up to intermediate level of study. The equivalent of basic elementary rudiments or at least 3 years of instrumental or vocal study are a prerequisite for taking this course.
Art Foundation
This course is offered to students in Grades 10, 11, and 12.
Art Foundation is a course designed for beginners in Grades 10, 11, and 12. Students are encouraged to develop ideas and creative/critical thinking while working on assignments that address the visual language of Art and Design. You may be introduced to painting, graphic design, photography, digital imaging, and drawing. In addition, assignments will be linked to aspects of 20th-century art history to allow you to place your own work within a global perspective.
Broadcast
Students will be a part of a dynamic broadcast team that will document—through video, podcasting, and livestreaming—the many activities that take place in the Brentwood community. Several different roles will be available, including but not limited to camera operator, editor, livestream producer, host, reporter, and announcer. Students will work with the instructor to schedule coverage of events throughout the school year. Students will need to demonstrate excellent time-management skills and will be required to complete assignments outside of class time. A computer (preferably Mac) will be required; video equipment will be provided by the School.
Competitive Dance
The Dance Company is our program’s competitive division. This program is open to students of all levels and creates opportunities to perform and compete at three different competitive events across Vancouver (city) and Vancouver Island. If students are also looking to continue with dance examinations (RAD, ADAPT) or to do higher-level competition (YAGP, Nuvo) the Dance Company Program is able to facilitate. This program’s aim is to create more performance opportunities and to provide Brentwood students with a competitive dance experience. Dance Company rehearses outside of class time. Three separate guest choreographers come in, per year, to provide students diverse choreography and dance experiences. The Dance Company engages in all the styles of dance. If you were looking to do a solo, duo, trio, small group, or a large group, Brentwood Dance Company covers it all.
Creative Advocacy Leadership
In Creative Advocacy Leadership, we will develop your practice of effective leadership and your ability to make creative solutions. Once we identify and understand a problem, we will use creative media to inform, motivate, and activate the Brentwood and wider communities to take action to address issues of the environment, gender, race, and wellness. If you have a passion to improve your world, from Brentwood, to community, and the globe, this is where you should be. And it will be lots of fun!
Dance: Advanced
Brentwood Advanced Dance has an intense focus on technique, combinations, stamina, and strength. There is also an added focus on artistry and performance. Within the advanced class, the students focus on the technical aspects of ballet, pointe prep, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and acrobatics. This class is best suited to dancers with 7+ years of dance experience.
Dance: Beginner
The beginner dance option is where dancers focus on vocabulary, proper placement, and body awareness—while learning the fundamentals of ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and acrobatics. This class is best suited to dancers with 0-4 years of dance experience.
Dance: Intermediate
Brentwood Intermediate Dance is where students begin to incorporate basic movements and steps into combinations—enabling them to develop into stronger dancers. Within the intermediate class, the dancers dive deep into the technical aspects of ballet, pointe prep, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and acrobatics. This class is best suited to dancers with 4-7 years of dance experience.
Debate & Model United Nations
Debate
With several components, including debate and mock law trials, this opportunity features a breadth of offerings—ideal for students who wish to improve their communication skills, are interested in weighing conflicting truth claims, and are eager to craft well-researched and multi-layered arguments.
Students of all experience levels receive the support and opportunities needed to achieve their best, whether in small-group settings or competing at the national level. All students participate in debate activities but can select areas of specialization, often in preparation for external higher-level competition.
Model United Nations
Enhance your formal communication skills and prepare for a range of speaking experiences. These will include: poetry recitation, interpretive reading, impromptu speaking, persuasive speaking, interview strategies, and after-dinner speaking.
All of these activities will require thoughtful consideration and implementation of speaking skills and strategies. Students will learn to deliver their ideas with increased confidence and effectiveness, as we focus on projection, enunciation, modulation, pace, and tone when speaking—in small groups and before audiences.
The Model United Nations component provides the opportunity to debate contemporary and historical issues from a range of international perspectives and delegates learn to find compromise between opposing points of view, prioritizing aspects of greatest importance. Students also have the opportunity to participate in select conferences, including BMUN and ShawMUN (Cowichan), VMUN (Vancouver), NHSMUN, and SSUNS (Montreal).
Drama
Exploring the art of acting, our ‘Introduction to Acting and Drama’ course is meticulously crafted for self-discovery and the cultivation of essential life skills. Each lesson unfolds within a vibrant and supportive environment, immersing students in expressive exercises and the exploration of the foundational elements of the art of acting.
Students embark on a journey of self-expression, discovering dynamic acting techniques that unveil their unique talents. The course enhances communication finesse, boosts confidence, and teaches the art of expressing and receiving emotions. Whether students are new to acting or seasoned performers, they will be in a welcoming space to build connections and revel in artistic expression. Students will have the chance to develop skills extending beyond the stage, encompassing confident movement and a compelling presence under the spotlight.
Drama: Film and Stage – Grades 9 and 10
Drawing & Painting
This course is designed to strengthen the student’s technical and observational skills. We will explore a variety of techniques and subject matter, and continue to build on the fundamentals of composition, light, tone, and colour. In-class demonstrations and discussions will touch on concepts integral to the artist—such as the creative process, critical thinking, and visual literacy. This course aims to enable students to explore a variety of subject matter, such as life drawing, portraiture, landscape, still life, perspective, composition, and abstraction. Using a range of materials and techniques, students will improve their painting and drawing skills, producing accomplished artwork, that will be displayed in the two major exhibitions.
Filmmaking
Students will explore the art of filmmaking from pre-production to post. They will experience the demands of a writing room with simulated pitching sessions and table reads through to shooting and editing films of their own. Several different specialization pathways will be available, including but not limited to cinematography, editing, and effects, producing, scriptwriting and directing, and performing for the screen. They will manage their film sets through a variety of skill-building activities and film projects. Students will need to demonstrate excellent time-management skills and will be required to complete assignments outside of class time.
Fine Art Photography
Grade 9 Art Rotation
For a number of our incoming Grade 9s, the breadth and depth of our Arts Program provides an exciting opportunity to experience a new art or continue enjoying one already begun in a previous school. We want them to find and celebrate their creative passions in this foundation year, and so have provided a rotation of three arts for them to enjoy. Each term will see our Grade 9 students in a new art in block one of the arts afternoons: 2-D Art Foundations, Drama, and 3-D Art. Each of these arts will engage students in projects that enable and challenge them to cultivate their creativity and self-expression. Grade 9s then have the opportunity to select another art of their choosing—OR rowing—to fill out their arts afternoon. Students who wish to play their woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments in our award-winning Wind Ensemble can opt out of the rotation to do so.
Graphic Art & Design
This course is offered to students who are interested in expanding their means of creative expression via digital art and design. By learning and working with Adobe’s Creative Suite, such as Illustrator and Photoshop, students will explore image development, graphic design, advertising, digital photography, book arts, and more through both collaborative and individual projects. Students will learn about digital artists of our time and graphic designers of the past and present. They will have the opportunity to build a digital art portfolio over the course of the year.
Hand Built Pottery
In this exploratory course, students will learn a wide range of techniques including the pinching method, coil building, slab construction, sculpture, decorative surface techniques, and glazing. Students will be expected to assimilate art foundations so all students will review or be introduced to the elements and principles of design, historical and contemporary developments, and classroom art critiques. Personal growth will be encouraged through the development of original and individual projects. Learning about ceramics is essentially experiential and, as such, students are encouraged to experiment and take risks with materials while developing personal flair in their work.
Jazz Band
The Brentwood Jazz Band welcomes all students who are at an intermediate to advanced level of musicianship. Students will play moderately challenging jazz band arrangements. Rhythm section, brass, and reeds musicians, and vocalists are all welcome. Ear training and sight-reading skills become a high priority for this group, as students practice the art of improvisation. The band will play on and off campus—including music festivals such as the Whistler Mountain Festival and MusicFest Canada during the year. In 2024, the Brentwood Jazz Band was awarded Gold at the Con Brio Whistler Mountain Music Festival, Silver at the West Coast Jazz Festival, and an invitation to Nationals in 2025.
Media Production
Model United Nations & Public Speaking
Musical Theatre
This dynamic performance course is for actors, singers, and dancers who want to challenge all their skills in a full-length musical supported by professional live musicians on the outstanding George Killy Theatre stage. Class time is used for rehearsals, as are Sunday afternoons in the winter term. Principal roles will be decided by audition and those selected will also be required to rehearse on sports afternoons in the winter term. This is an opportunity for both the inexperienced and experienced to work together, creatively supporting each other as we move through rehearsals to performance week.
Photography: Advanced Traditional Film
This course is offered to students in Grades 11 and 12.
A prerequisite for entering this program is the successful completion of the Beginner Traditional Photography course. This course explores advanced techniques of traditional photography including a deeper exploration of the camera’s creative tools, the use of specialized films and camera accessories, studio lighting, and advanced darkroom skills—while working in a professional-level darkroom. Challenging assignments will provide an introduction to such diverse techniques as multiple exposures, negative sandwiches, contrast control with filters, motion in a still image, and hand-colouring and toning. A deeper discussion of black & white photography and its role in social change will be discussed throughout the program. Students will need to bring their own 35mm SLR traditional (film) camera to the course or consider renting one of our beginner traditional (film) rental cameras—$150 for the course duration. There are additional costs for film and printing paper, which are available from the School Store.
Photography: Beginner Traditional Film
This course is an opportunity for both experienced photographers and new photographers to learn the art of traditional (analog) photography. Through hands-on assignments, beginners learn about the camera’s controls, camera accessories, photo design techniques and basic darkroom skills including film processing and paper printing. Challenging but fun assignments, using traditional equipment and techniques, will lead students through a number of exercises to create great hand-made photographs. Students will need to bring their own 35mm SLR traditional (film) camera to the course or consider renting one of our beginner traditional (film) cameras—$150 for the course duration. There are additional costs for film and printing paper, which are available from the School Store.
Photography: Digital
The successful completion of the Beginner Traditional Film Photography course is the gateway to this course, transitioning the photographer to digital equipment and photo editing using Photoshop and Lightroom. The program will also provide the student with more advanced experiences including a deeper exploration of the camera’s creative tools, the use of specialized camera accessories, and an introduction to studio lighting. Challenging assignments will introduce students to the role and potential of digital photography in their future educational and occupational activities. Students will require a digital SLR camera, a laptop computer that can accommodate the needs of digital photo processing, and a minimum 1-terabyte hard drive to back up image files. There will be additional costs for printing paper, available from the School Store. The School will provide Photoshop and Lightroom for editing purposes and has a small selection of digital SLR cameras for rent.
Photojournalism
Photojournalism is offered to students who are interested in chronicling a Brentwood school year in print and photos. Photojournalists publish fortnightly news stories about school events for the Brentwood website. Students interested in this course must be able to work independently to deadlines and to cover assignments outside of regular class time. Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate a superior level of written English and a proven record of meeting deadlines. Experience with publishing and an SLR digital camera are assets.
Rhythm & Blues Band
Our Rhythm & Blues Band will appeal to talented instrumentalists and vocalists who will learn R&B arrangements, including rock, gospel, and blues influences. The band includes a rhythm section, brass, and reeds, in addition to vocalists. For vocalists, microphone technique will be a part of the mix and the learning process. The band performs throughout the year on and off campus, including at the Whistler Mountain Festival and at national festivals such as MusicFest Canada.
Robotics
Using VEX Robotics technology, students in this course will consider the design, construction, and programming of both actively controlled mobile robots, as well as autonomous machines incorporating sensor feedback systems. Students will work primarily in small design teams, with the ultimate goal of challenging each other, as well as teams from other schools and jurisdictions, in a variety of competitions and games. Students select the Robotics appropriate option—Beginner or Experienced— to receive instruction according to their skill and experience levels, which may range from those joining us for the first time with no experience to returning students ready to represent the School in regional, provincial, and international competitions.
While no previous experience with the VEX system or programming skills is required, a high degree of internal motivation and good problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively within a supportive team environment.
Rock Band
Beginner Rock Band
Beginner Rock Band is designed to encourage and nurture beginner musicians. It will be divided into practical, audio, composition, and performance—and will have an emphasis on the history of popular music from the 60s to the present day. A fundamental understanding of basic reading skills and chord charts will be studied. A variety of styles will be explored and performed from blues, rock, pop, Motown, reggae, country, and rap. The course will explore and understand the audio/visual equipment used by rock bands for performance and recording such as PA systems, amps, and recording equipment. Further instruction will be given in band etiquette, instrument role, microphone technique, balance, blend, mixing, lead singing, harmony singing, dynamics, and showmanship. The band will perform throughout the year at various venues including festivals and the annual Brentwood International Regatta.
Advanced Rock Band
Advanced Rock Band is designed for students who can show by audition proficiency on their instrument, and meet the standards of the Advanced Rock Band. The course will be divided into analysis, practical, audio, composition, and performance, but will have an emphasis on the current-day music scene. Members will do an advanced exploration and understand the audio/visual equipment used by rock bands for performance and recording such as PA systems, amps, and recording equipment. Further instruction will be given in band etiquette, instrument role, microphone technique, balance, blend, mixing, lead singing, harmony singing, dynamics, and showmanship. The band will perform throughout the year at various venues including festivals and the annual Brentwood International Regatta. The grand finale for the band is the Concert for a Summer’s Eve in the George Killy Theatre in spring term.
Composition Rock Band
Composition Rock Band is designed for students who have completed at least one year of Advanced Rock Band or can show by audition proficiency on their instrument and meet the standards of the “Composition” Rock Band. Students of this advanced class will learn the craft of composing, arranging, and recording—along with the use of computers and music-scoring software. A variety of styles will be explored, composed, and performed, from blues, rock, pop, Motown, reggae, country, and rap. The band will perform throughout the year at various venues including festivals and the annual Brentwood International Regatta.
Scientific Illustration
This illustration course offers an innovative interdisciplinary approach, integrating science as a theme and the subject of artistic study—while encouraging visual, literary, and critical thinking. It will offer a structured approach to scientific and observational illustration, bridging the gap for students who are both artistically inclined and also interested in biological and environmental subjects. Students will:
-
develop technical illustration skills and artistic expression;
-
create original artworks based on scientific observation and inquiry;
-
build visual communication skills using both traditional and digital media;
-
analyze and interpret historical and contemporary scientific illustrations;
-
reflect critically on the creative process through sketchbooks and critiques.
Senior Play
Sport Dance
The Sport Dance Program is open to students of all ages. No matter if you have never stepped foot in a dance studio, or you have danced since before you learned to walk—Brentwood Sport Dance has a place for you. The program’s aim is to promote a life-long love of dance and of being physically active. The program is available in all three terms, with options in competitive or non-competitive dance. Students in this program will learn ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and tap—in addition to strength and flexibility classes. Interested dancers will have opportunities to compete at local events, to take auditions, prepare and take dance examinations, and to work with dance professionals within the community. All dance students can perform at Brentwood’s annual showcase—the Evening of Dance—and take trips to watch professional dancers at work.
String Ensemble
String Ensemble is open to students with intermediate to advanced proficiency on string instruments such as the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. This ensemble may also occasionally feature guest performances from vocalists or students who play instruments like the harp, piano, or percussion.
The String Ensemble has a diverse repertoire, encompassing from classical, modern, and folk to popular music. This broad range of musical styles suggests that students participating in the ensemble will have the opportunity to explore and perform a variety of genres.
Overall, such a course provides a rich musical experience for students, allowing them to collaborate with others, showcase their skills, and appreciate the versatility of string instruments across different musical traditions. The ensemble has been participating in music festivals across British Columbia and across Canada for MusicFest Nationals.
Studio Arts Rotation
Not sure which of the visual arts to take? Are you eager to try different opportunities? The Studio Arts Rotation might be just right for you! Just as the Grade 9s have the opportunity to rotate through different arts offerings at Brentwood during their year, we want Grade 10s to experience something similar. Especially when there are so many new students who come in Grade 10, the Studio Arts Rotation is the perfect option to learn more about the experiences students have in 3D Pottery, Drawing & Painting, and Graphic Art & Design. You will spend one term each and rotate between those three programs over the course of the year. The experience will give you enough foundational skill to continue on any of those subject areas in Grade 11 and 12.
Theatre Company
You’ve got the basics already or you’re a quick study and want to join the fun of being on stage. Students in this class should have either completed the junior course or have prior experience/be a quick study with working on stage.
This is a more advanced class of experienced actors. Take a deep dive into characterization and role development, study and perform scene work from theatre and film great works, and fine-tune your physical presence through movement and voice.
Theatre Production
Students interested in supporting Brentwood’s vibrant performing arts program should sign up for this course. Creative opportunities for students include stage management, lighting console operation, sound editing and design, projections, special effects, and theatrical design. Students also gain valuable event planning and production experience and interpersonal skills through front-of-house and box office management. Theatre Production is responsible for technical support of all live productions in the George Killy Theatre and throughout campus.
This course is open to Grades 10, 11, and 12—and Grade 9 with the instructor’s permission. Students who have completed this program have continued to such post-secondary programs as a Master’s in Theatre Design, Audio Engineering, Theatre Production, and Design and Directing.
Vocal Ensemble
For new and experienced singers, our vocal ensemble explores the repertoire of many genres and styles of singing as voices are blended together to create harmony in a class for mixed voices. You will learn ensemble musicianship and vocal technique both with accompaniment and a cappella. You have the opportunity to participate in concerts in school and at festivals. Students eager to sing do not need sightreading experience to participate in this program.
Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble course is tailored for instrumental musicians with intermediate to advanced levels of performance ability. This ensemble includes woodwinds, brass, and percussion instruments, creating a comprehensive group that covers a broad spectrum of musical sounds.
The repertoire for the Wind Ensemble is diverse, spanning from orchestral transcriptions and traditional concert band pieces to world music and selections from popular genres such as pop, rock, jazz, and show tunes. This variety indicates that students in the ensemble will have the opportunity to explore and perform music from different cultural backgrounds and musical styles.
The Wind Ensemble actively engages in both on-campus and off-campus events, including local music festivals, provincial competitions, and Nationals. Through these opportunities, students not only showcase their talents but also benefit from valuable performance experiences, fostering mutual learning and growth within the ensemble.
Woodworking
Woodworking is a hands-on, skill-building course designed for students interested in learning the fundamentals of woodworking, furniture making, and craftsmanship. This course emphasizes safe and effective use of hand tools, power tools, and woodworking machinery while developing students’ creativity, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail. Students will explore various woodworking techniques, including measuring and layout, joinery, sanding, finishing, and project assembly. Through practical, project-based learning, they will design and construct functional and decorative wooden projects, applying precision and craftsmanship to their work. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of wood properties, sustainability, and industry best practices.
Our spacious woodworking shop has all the equipment students could expect to find in a professional shop including a table saw, lathe, planer, jointer, bandsaw, drill press, and belt sander. Safety is at the forefront of the Brentwood Woodworking Program. Students will receive thorough training in shop safety procedures and tool handling to ensure a responsible and productive learning environment. This course is ideal for students considering careers in carpentry, construction, design, or related trades, as well as those who enjoy working with their hands and creating unique, high-quality projects.
Yearbook
This course is offered to students who are interested in capturing and chronicling a Brentwood school year in pictures and print. The Yearbook team photographs academics, athletics, fine arts, and other school activities. Students interested in this course must be able to work independently to deadlines. Experience with an SLR digital camera is an asset.
Start Arts Course Selection
Arts Course selections are collected using Google Forms. Please log in with your Brentwood Google Account (user.name@brentwood.ca) to being your Arts Course Selection.
Start Arts Course Selection
Course selections are collected using Google Forms. Please log in with your Brentwood Google Account (user.name@brentwood.ca) to being Arts Course Selection.
Where Students Choose To Be
+1 (250) 743-5521
admissions@brentwood.ca
info@brentwood.ca
2735 Mount Baker Road
Mill Bay, BC, Canada V8H 1K8