School is back in session and the students of Jamieson Elementary are busy composing music and honing a second language. Yes, you read correctly! In addition to the regular BC curriculum, the students at Jamieson Elementary have the opportunity to take part in a variety of specialty programs, which are unique to the neighbourhood school.

Located in the Oakridge area and backing onto the scenic Tisdall Park, Jamieson Elementary is just a 10 minute walk from our Oak townhomes. The school offers the Strings Program, as well as the Mandarin Bilingual Program, to students looking to add some culture to their educational experience.

Music to Our Ears
The Jamieson Strings Program is Canada’s largest school string orchestra program. The impressive 260-student orchestra is made up of students learning to play the violin, cello, or bass over the course of their intermediate years. Strings students take part in orchestras, small ensembles and soloist performances, all while learning valuable techniques and skills. The musicians also get a taste of composing, as each Strings student is required to write and perform at least two of their own compositions during their four years in the program.

The music classes are offered twice a week during the regular school schedule and are a requirement for students in the Mandarin Bilingual Program. For musicians looking for more practice, the String Programs also boasts extra-curricular groups such as the award-winning Grade 6 and 7 Advanced Orchestras, who regularly compete at the Fraser Valley International Kiwanis Festival.

A Leg Up with Languages
The Mandarin Bilingual Program is unique to Jamieson Elementary School and allows intermediate students to delve into the Chinese culture. While the core school curriculum is taught in English, Mandarin skills are practiced through Mandarin Language Arts. Mandarin oral communication skills, as well as reading and writing using Chinese characters, are explored.

Paired with the Strings Program, the Mandarin Bilingual Program provides students with a well-rounded educational experience, as well as an increasingly necessary edge in the workforce. Bonus: The program continues at the neighbouring Eric Hamber Secondary School (See our post here).

For more information on Dr. Annie B. Jamieson Elementary and their specialty programs, visit Jamieson’s VSB website and be sure to follow @VSB39 to keep up to date with local school district news.