Why private schools encourage community service

Perhaps one of the most inaccurate misconceptions about private school students in Canada is that they exist in a bubble, walled off from the surrounding community and disconnected from social issues affecting the world at large.

Thanks to the emphasis Canadian private schools are putting on community service, reality couldn’t be further from the truth.

Community-minded approach

At private schools across Canada, students are giving their time and energy to public service, charitable causes and a wide array of outreach activities, gaining valuable experience, insights and skills in the process. “We pride ourselves on being an active member of the community,” says Anne Banitowski, secondary principal at Bond Academy in Scarborough, Ont., “providing opportunities for our staff and students to volunteer their time to numerous charitable and non-profit organizations.” Martha Perry, principal of Toronto’s St. Clement’s School, agrees. “Contributing to one’s community to make it better for anyone within it is an imperative,” she says. “This approach also enables students to understand that the best community work is sustained over time and includes building long-standing relationships and mutual learning opportunities.”

Classroom connections

Community service—be it the school community itself, the neighbourhood surrounding the campus or the broader global community—plays a pivotal role in private school life, often dovetailing with in-class learning. Sometimes called “service learning” programs, these initiatives involve a more formal framework that weaves community service into classroom instruction, allowing students to put theory into practice through real-world service. “We incorporate aspects of local and global issues for exploration and action as a part of our social sciences curriculum,” Banitowski says. “In the past, we’ve been involved with the Children’s Wish Foundation, community agencies and food banks, World Vision, Free the Children, the OSPCA (Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) and other charities.”

Unique opportunities

At Canadian private schools, “giving back” may also afford students unique opportunities to grow and contribute to society in a meaningful—and creative—way. At Lakefield College School, just north of Peterborough, Ont., an on-campus regenerative-learning farm helps literally and figuratively plant the seeds of altruism and eco-consciousness. “Students participate in planting, growing and harvesting maple syrup, honey from our apiary and produce from the farm,” says Dave Darby, Lakefield’s assistant head of enrollment, “much of which is donated to local food partners or used in our dining hall, teaching sustainability and community connection. It also fosters a deep understanding of our environment and develops a commitment to climate stewardship.”

Bountiful benefits

Whether it’s visiting with senior citizens, sorting donations at a food bank or participating in fun runs and environmental clean-up days, Canadian private school students are making an impact—and benefiting socially, psychologically and academically while doing so. In addition to building character, empathy, compassion and self-worth, Banitowski says community service helps private school students grow their leadership and team-building skills and encourages a sense of civic responsibility. “Students learn about how the whole community is involved in their lives,” she says. “It reinforces the importance and appreciation of helping others.”