L'Ecole Braemar Elementary School
L’Ecole Braemar Elementary, situated in a quiet residential community of central North Vancouver, enjoys a strong sense of community spirit and parental support. Unique in character, it offers three distinct programs – English K to Grade 7, French Immersion K to Grade 7, and Late French Immersion Grade 6-7. The approximately 500 students who attend L’Ecole Braemar Elementary come from both the immediate neighbourhood and beyond the school’s regular catchment boundaries. As such, our school is a dynamic centre of learning where students, staff and parents work in concert with one another to promote a diverse and active, community of learners. Activities promoting individual and social responsibility, academic success, aesthetic development and physical well-being are ongoing and highly valued across the grades. We are proud of our school and the many ways in which it encourages all students to achieve their fullest potential as lifelong learners.
What’s in a Name?
Tucked in the rolling hills of Scotland near the head of the Royal Deeside stands Braemar Castle built in 1628. Originally constructed as a hunting lodge, Braemar castle with its castellated turrets and star shaped enclosing wall might be described as a ‘fair imitation in stone of an ambitious sand castle’. Home to successive clan chiefs throughout the years, the castle became the home of the Farquharson clan in 1807 and frequently hosted Queen Victoria during her regular visits to Braemar gatherings. Today, this ancient fortress remains the seat of the Clan Farquharson and is being restored to echo its former character.
As with many place names in British Columbia and beyond, ‘Braemar’ reflects historical images of another land – one that is rich in natural beauty, culture and the strength of its people.
Source: Scots Heritage Magazine, Autumn 2011, Number 53
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