When his teenage daughters entered second grade, Daniel Wilson could tell something wasn’t clicking. “We recognized they had high IQs, but felt they weren’t learning effectively in the regular school environment,” Daniel explains. “I began asking myself, how do we find a place that nurtures their talents, builds their confidence and helps them succeed?”
Daniel and his family, who live on the North Shore, discovered Fraser Academy, a school in Kitsilano, Vancouver specializing in students with learning differences, including dyslexia. “Finding Fraser Academy was a relief,” he shares. “It was like stress had been lifted. There’s nothing that compares to seeing your child on the right path.”
Turning dyslexia into an asset
Like many parents, Daniel initially faced misconceptions about dyslexia, which affects up to one in five of the population. “At first, you think it’s something that’ll hold your child back,” he says. “But through Fraser Academy, we realized dyslexia can actually be a superpower. It allows kids to approach problems creatively in ways others might not consider.”
Dr. Vanessa Lapointe, parent educator, author and former psychologist, echoes this. “Kids with dyslexia have these incredibly interesting brains with wonderful ways of seeing and understanding the world,” she says. “When taught and supported in a manner that honours who they are, they not only grow like other kids but excel in extraordinary ways.”
Fraser Academy, established in 1982, is the only fully accredited independent day school in the Lower Mainland currently serving students in Grades 2 to 12, whose primary challenges are language-based learning differences such as dyslexia. It also eases the commute for North Shore-based families like Daniel’s—by offering a daily school bus service from the Westview Shopping Centre.
“We wanted a school that saw our daughters for who they truly are,” explains Daniel. “Bright and curious. Fraser isn’t just about academics; it’s about helping kids find their voice and build skills for success in all areas of life.”
Personalized and transformative learning
The foundation of Fraser Academy’s success lies in the evidence-based Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach, a structured, multi-sensory way of teaching literacy to students with dyslexia. “It’s about why, what and how we teach,” says Colleen Chow, Fraser Academy’s executive director of Training & Learning. Every student works with certified OG specialists who help break down complex language concepts into manageable steps.
She further explains that Fraser Academy meets students where they are. “We reinforce foundational skills while ensuring they meet their curricular requirements,” she notes. “This balance helps them build confidence in their abilities.”
Fraser Academy also stands out for its class sizes of up to 12 students. “Smaller groups taught by specialized teachers allow for personalized attention and our students feel empowered,” adds Colleen.
Tailored instruction goes hand in hand with creative and collaborative opportunities that span academics, fine and applied arts and athletics. “At Fraser, it’s about learning through critical thinking and advocating for your ideas,” adds Daniel.
Developing leaders and innovators
Fraser Academy emphasizes leadership and experiential learning. Outdoor education program, Odyssey, offers Grade 11 students 50 days of group fieldwork and challenging multi-day expeditions, taking in sea-kayaking and backpacking. It also includes hands-on research at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre on Vancouver Island. “These unique programs give kids a connection and the sense that they can accomplish anything,” says Daniel.
The school also encourages students to pursue their personal passions. “Fraser works with our daughters to support their interests, even outside of the curriculum,” Daniel adds. “It’s inspiring to watch them create opportunities for themselves and it’s a huge confidence booster, especially for girls at this age.”
A positive environment
Head of School Alison Wall highlights how the school’s positive environment helps students overcome early setbacks. “We see students arrive having experienced academic failure from watching their peers progress while they’re left behind,” she says. “By the time they graduate, they’re confident, capable and thriving.”
Key to this is cultivating a supportive peer community. “There’s power in being surrounded by others who also learn differently,” says Colleen. “Our students see each other’s strengths and it inspires them.”
Financial accessibility is another priority for Fraser Academy, with the school offering several options, including bursaries funded by generous donors, sibling discounts and guidance on obtaining grants and applicable tax credits. “With tuition relief of up to 70%, what we provide is accessible to all,” says Alison.
The school also serves the broader community through FAx, an outreach program offering in-person and online learner support, consulting services, Summer Boost Camp and free early literacy screening.
Opening doors to a bright future
Fraser Academy’s transformational impact shines through its results. With a 95% post-secondary attendance rate, graduates earn placements at leading universities and programs. From there, they forge successful careers across diverse fields such as entrepreneurship, creative arts, engineering and healthcare, demonstrating the school’s ability to unlock potential.
For Daniel’s family, the school embodies more than just educational success; it changes lives. “A thriving child uplifts the entire family,” he reflects. “When your kids are in an environment that encourages their capabilities, it gives everyone a sense of joy and hope.”
Discover how Fraser Academy can transform your child’s learning journey. Learn more online at fraseracademy.ca, call 604-736-5575 or email [email protected] to schedule a personalized tour today. Let’s unlock their potential together.
