The Byng Arts Program

Can a student go through the Byng Arts Program and still end up with the academic requirements for entrance to post secondary science and humanities programs?

Yes. We take academics seriously at Byng and our program does not jeopardize our students' career paths. There is room for them to get the required courses for post-secondary entrance. Byng Arts students, as all Byng students, are given opportunities to plan their programs through the Career Centre and our Counselling Department.

How do Byng Arts students compare to regular students academically?

Lord Byng, as a school, has an emphasis on academic excellence and good work habits and the students at the school, as a whole, tend to do very well academically.  We do not have statistics that compare Byng Arts students to regular students, however, a large number of Byng Arts students are on the Honour Roll (above 86% in their classes) and Principal’s List (above 90%) each term.  In addition our graduates are consistently recognized for their high level of achievement thru numerous bursaries and scholarships at the end of each year.  

How do Byng Arts students compare to other mini-schools academically?

Every mini-school has a different emphasis and a unique program making comparisons dubious at best.  Selecting a mini-school that best fits your areas of interest takes time, at Byng Arts we are looking for students who are strong academically, but also show commitment and passion for the fine arts.  We expect our students to be well rounded and committed to their academic success. 

How do you fit in the Fine Arts courses and post-secondary course requirements?

At all grade levels students have choices in electives. In Byng Arts we customize the fine art requirement and the electives to maintain room to complete the prerequisites for the post secondary program of their choosing.

Is there a cost to the program?

Yes, $80 over and above the regular school costs. This money is used for program development and enrichment in each student’s fine art specialty and academic cohort classes.  The money is used to pay for guest speakers, workshops and performances, in addition to whole-school events like our art assemblies and the Gala.

Do Byng Arts students attend separate classes?

Byng Arts has adopted a school-within-a-school model, some classes are separate while others are mixed.  English, Socials, Science, and PE make up our Byng Arts cohort and are exclusive to students in the program.  The fine art specialty classes in Art and Drama are also separate.  Music classes are combined for ensemble purposes but Byng Arts students are placed in more advanced levels.  French and Math are mixed to provide opportunities for acceleration/enrichment.

What is the schedule of classes? (start and finish times)

I think you mean the times during the school day. Like most high schools we run a Day 1 / Day 2 timetable. Each student will take 4 courses one day and another 4 courses on Day 2. Mondays to Thursdays classes start at 8:45 and end at 3:15. Classes are 80 minutes long and most teachers will break that into smaller time slots for younger students. On Fridays we have 65 minute classes with a 30 minute lunch break. We end classes at 1:45.  Some students in our advanced music courses will have morning and afternoon classes twice a week..

I am more interested in taking Spanish than French. Do opportunities exist to take it before Grade 10 instead of French?

No. In Byng Arts we would rather students wait till Grade 10 before taking Spanish and use the opportunity to take more fine arts electives to enrich their learning.

I heard that Grade 8s can take more than one fine art. Is this true?

Yes. Very strong music students rehearse in the mornings, lunch, and after schools. This leaves a spot on the timetable for selecting another fine art.  Very few students qualify for this option and some that do, opt out to give themselves some room to attend to the demands of beginning high school.

Are there other ways to take more fine arts courses?

Yes, but you need to think very seriously about taking this step. We do permit a few students to substitute another fine art for French 8. The student is then obligated to take Beginning Spanish in Grade 10 or complete an on-line program or language challenge exam in another language at the Grade 11 level. A language course at the Grade 11 level will fulfill the language requirements for university or college entrance.  This is not the recommended course of action as most students benefit from classroom programs and opportunities to speak a language orally on a regular basis.

Volunteer Opportunities for Parents

What can I do to help?

Byng Arts parents can seek out several ways to contribute:

  • The Parent Advisory Council (PAC) combines parents from the main school and parents from Byng Arts.  A strong voice for the needs of the students in the Byng Arts program is maintained by having mini-school parents join this important group.
  • Visual Arts/Gallery Art Club Group, Jon Hartley-Folz, contact: jhartley@vsb.bc.ca
  • Music Society, Scott MacLennan, contact: smaclennan@vsb.bc.ca
  • Theatre Production, Carol Mann/Tamara McKay, contact: 604.713.8171
  • Byng Arts Administration, Jon Hartley-Folz, contact: jhartley@vsb.bc.ca

Please watch for our I am interested in helping out response form in our August mail out or contact the above departments directly. We know that many of our parents have expressed interest in helping out in one way or another. Even if you could volunteer an hour or two, that would be great!

Application Package and Procedure

Where may I pick up the application package?

At the information night in November which is an excellent way for you to find out more about the program, learn how to fill out the forms and ask the questions that you need answered to ensure that Byng Arts is right for you and your child.  If you miss our information evening, application packages are available from the Main Office following the information night.

Please note:  If you have a package, and you do not intend to use it, please return it to us intact so that we may re-use it. (Thank you in advance, for being ecologically-minded.)

How is the process different between those applying for Grade 8 and those applying for other grades?

The application and audition process will be the same. However, the selection process will be different.

The number of seats for Grade 8 is definite, while it is not for other grades. For Grades 9 to 12 the number of seats is determined by how many leave the program.

Therefore, we cannot offer as many seats to Grades 9 to 12 applicants.

When is the deadline?

Please check here.

Do I need to do anything else besides fill out the information in the application package?

Yes, you do. In addition to the paper application we have an on-line form that must be completed.  Please click here.  Remember that both the paper and the online form must be submitted for your application to be processed.

For the online application why do I need to enter the application package number from the envelope?

The application number is extremely important and should be recorded on all your forms and supporting documents. First, it is used to confirm that you have picked up an application package.  The paper application package contains other important information we require.

Secondly, we need to cross-reference the online data with the other documents you have submitted.

Lastly, we will be publishing information on this website and we will be using the application number to identify students.  So, please remember to record the application number.

Why do I have to register online?

We will open an electronic file for each applicant.  To reduce the clerical work load and increase the speed with which we respond to your requests we require that applicants complete an online submission. This will be part of your file so the use of appropriate capitalization, punctuation, and formatting is expected.

The online form includes several written portions which should correspond to the paper application.  Have your son or daughter complete the paper form first then transcribe the information to the online form.

Is my online registration for Byng Arts the same as the online registration for the District Placement Test?

No, these are two separate steps. Please check the web addresses and be sure to register by the deadline.

Do I need to complete the 'green' application form?

Yes. We require (in your own handwriting) a statement of your qualifications. You should then type your essay in the appropriate spot of the Byng Arts on-line application.  If your online confirmation shows missing information please resubmit the online application, we will replace past submissions with the most recent submission.

Oops! After reading all the FAQs, I would like to change the online portion of the application. Is this possible?

Yes. In their eagerness to apply for Byng Arts, early applicants overlooked some important details. You may re-apply. If we get more than one online application from you, we will process only the last one. Just make sure you submit all the requested information.

Why is it only Visual Arts students get to show their work?

Drama and music are performance based disciplines, while visual arts generally is not. That is why our drama and music teachers wait until audition day to see how well you perform 'on the spot'.

Why can't visual arts applicants submit more than three pieces of art work?

Time, or more like, lack of time. If every student sent more, we would never be able to make our deadline and students would have to wait longer for our decisions. Though the Art instructors are looking for a portfolio demonstrating breadth of imagery or material, this can be still be achieved in three (3) well-presented pieces.

Is that why you won't accept videos, CDs, and audio tapes?

Yes. Lack of time.

I’ve heard that you have a Literary Arts Option, is this true for students coming into Grade 8?

The Literary Arts option is available to students in Grades 9 and above.  We are limited to 90 students per grade and we audition students for 30 spots for each department (Drama, Music and Visual Arts).  After Grade 8 we designate one English class at each grade level as a Literary Arts class.  Students are recommended based on their achievement in English 8 and/or a writing sample provided during the school year.

The Refereee

Why can't I ask my teacher to be my referee?

Your teacher is a very busy person and he or she has already provided information by producing your November report card. Instead, we encourage you to ask a family friend, a soccer coach, a drama or art or music instructor, for instance, who may have observed or worked with you over the last few years. As you can see by the questions, we are mostly looking for a character reference, as well as an indication of your academic or artistic ability.

If referees are unable to comment on your academic or artistic abilities, they simply check the NA box.

What about my principal or vice-principal? May they be my referee?

No

Why does the School Board say that principals and teachers may not write reference letters?

The VSB has answered your question in an email that we received:

With the application deadlines approaching quickly, it has come to our attention that confusion continues to exist with regard to "letters of reference" for students wishing to apply for district programs.

Please be advised that, under no circumstances, should teachers, principals and vice principals be requested to provide letters of reference for students applying to district programs. As school staffs continue to be frantically meeting deadlines and tending to the needs of school communities, there is no time for any staff member to provide these letters.

Why does the referee have to put his or her response in a sealed envelope?

We know that this time of year is very stressful for students, particularly those graduating from Grade 7. Students will often want to go to the same school as their friends. Parents will want the best for their children. However, a program such as Byng Arts is not suitable for everyone. We are asking someone who can give an objective comment about you and your chances of thriving at our school. At the same time, we do not want you to feel that your referee has ruined your chances to getting into Byng Arts.

How much weight do you put on this letter of reference?

It is just one of many tools we use. Your report cards and cognitive skills test results indicate your academic ability, the essay indicates how well you will be able to cope with the enrichment, the auditions indicate your artistic ability, and the interviews your desire to be with Byng Arts and why.

Cross-boundary stuff

What is a cross-boundary form?

This is a form that Byng uses to ask your home school for permission to enrol you at Byng if you do not live in our catchment area.

The VSB has prepared a map with high school boundaries. Check here to find your catchment area using your postal code.

Does everyone need to fill out a cross-boundary form?

No, only those who have been given an offer of acceptance and who live outside our school boundaries.  If you accept our offer of acceptance you will be asked to come in and fill out an enrolment form and if necessary a cross-boundary form..

Where can I get a cross-boundary form?

The easiest place is from your principal at your elementary school. We also keep some in the main office at Byng. Please wait until you have been given an offer of acceptance before submitting a cross boundary form (unless you are also applying to come to Lord Byng, the main school in addition to applying to Byng Arts).

Do I need to complete a cross-boundary form if I go to an independent school?

Only if you live outside our catchment area.

What if I live outside of the Vancouver School district?

You do not need to complete a cross-boundary form, but you will need to prove your residency.

Audition choices

For which field should I audition?

You may audition for Visual Arts, Drama, Band, or Strings. You have a maximum of two auditions, but many audition only in one area.  You should audition for the field(s) in which you excel.

If you are currently in Grade 8 to 11 and wish to audition for the Literary Arts program, you will need to submit five different writing samples spanning several types of creative writing. You will also need to complete a creative writing sample on audition day.

I am a music student, what do I need to do on audition day?

You should prepare to play two pieces of music and be able to sight read a selection.  The instrument you play on audition day will be part of our decision making process, only instruments that fir our ensemble needs will be considered.  If you are interested in learning another instrument, you should let the evaluator know.

I understand that there is a string/band music stream but does piano qualify?

Yes, it does. There are two levels of jazz band and four of string orchestra that require piano players. As well, we have four levels of concert band which do not have a spot for piano but many pianists may choose to become percussionists or learn another instrument. These pianists are welcome to audition but they should be prepared to consider playing another instrument.

Unfortunately, the number of graduating band pianists varies from year to year. Applicants who audition in piano (any level) will be asked which other instruments they would consider playing as an alternative.

Mr. MacLennan says that he will be asking students who have music training if they will consider learning a new instrument (to round out the ensemble). You should think about your answer before you arrive for your audition. (That's a hint for you flute and piano players out there.)

I have an interest in photography and/or film making. I was wondering if there is a program in Byng Arts to support these areas and how do I apply?

If you wish to specialize in photography or film making, you must also be able to pass the audition for visual arts or drama.  Once accepted into one of these departments, there is room to specialize in the area of your choice.

My greatest strength is piano. However, I have just joined the school band this year and am learning to play the clarinet. Which should I prepare for?

Prepare for both. The music teacher will talk to you about your music experience and will listen to both in all likelihood, but keep in mind that there are very few piano positions.

I want to be in drama. How many applicants are there for drama? Should I audition for it, even though I am stronger in music?

The numbers vary from year to year. (See the side bar.)

The advantage of auditioning in your stronger area is that you have a better chance of getting accepted. Once you are accepted in Byng Arts 8 then under certain circumstances, you may take another fine art elective (drama with the main school), or you may wait till your Grade 9 year. The Byng Arts instructors will then be able to work with you and help you develop a stronger portfolio or repertoire, for instance, and you could possibly switch areas of interest.

I would like to audition for more than one discipline. May I?

Yes. Please indicate on the outside of the application envelope your choice(s). You have a maximum of two auditions so don't get carried away and check everything.  You should be strong in the field that you audition in.

My real interest is visual arts, but my greater strength is in music. Would it be worthwhile to apply for two categories?

Yes. However, if your visual arts skills are much weaker, then you may want to audition only in music and if accepted in music use the opportunities for taking more than one fine art at the Grade 8 leve to take an introductory art class to build your skills in art.

My strongest interest is in theatre. I currently dance and perform with a theatre group. My second area of interest would probably be in music although I don't currently play an instrument. Would I be able to take an instrument in grade 8?

In this case we would suggest you audition for drama and if you get accepted into Byng Arts take Beginners Band 9 in Grade 9. If you don't get accepted, then enrol in Beginners Band 8 and re-apply for Byng Arts in Grade 9.

Literary Arts and other programs

I am very interested in pursuing writing and thought that the Byng Mini School might be an avenue to this goal, but it does not appear to be one of the areas that Byng Arts offers. Will I be able to develop my writing at Byng?

Yes, though English courses have always been a strong component of Byng Arts, we formally recognize strong English students beginning in Grade 9.

The foundation of the junior Literary Arts program is creative & analytical writing. At each grade level (Gr 9 and 10) 30 eligible students will be put into the one section of Byng Arts English designated as the Literary Arts class.

As for Senior students, those who wish to earn a major or minor in Literary Arts need to qualify for and be enrolled in Enriched English 11 and English 12 Advanced Placement. In addition to this, they must successfully complete either two other English electives for a major or one other English elective for a minor. Electives that qualify are English Literature 12 and Creative Writing 12.

I'm in Grade 7. Why didn't I get to audition for the literary arts?

The Vancouver School Board only permits us to enrol 90 Grade 7's. Byng Arts has chosen in the past to select 30 drama, 30 music, and 30 visual arts students and we will continue to do so.

Students within this group, who do well in English 8, will be recommended to Literary Arts 9.  In addition, students in Grade 8 or above can audition directly into Literary Arts by submitting a writing portfolio made up of five different writing samples spanning several types of creative writing.

I love to sing and dance. May I audition for these?

Unfortunately, we do not have a Voice or dance program yet. Your best bet is to audition for drama.

What is a short-list?

Each year we get more and more applicants wanting to be part of Byng Arts. It is physically impossible to audition so many students on Audition Day. So we need to trim the numbers down to a manageable number (about 300 auditions).

How do you select for the short-list?

We look for "above average" students in the academic subjects and good work habits.

Our first measure of an applicant's potential success in our program are the marks and work habits of students in their last two report cards. We also pay very close attention to teacher comments.

Any student with less than C+ average was not short-listed. Furthermore, students with C- or N work habits in any academics (English, Social Studies, Science, Math, and French) are often not short-listed. During the online application we do allow you (the student, not the parent!) to explain unusual circumstances and how you will improve.

We also cross-check report card marks with the District Cognitive Skills Assessment test as well as the referee's assessment to make sure that we are not making a mistake.

We know that this appears heartless and there could be many reasons why a student shows a low level of achievement, but it is better that we do not mislead you. Our academic portion of our program will be too difficult for you and you would have a miserable year. Something you wouldn't want at the start of your high school career!

For next year, we expect even more applicants with C+ or higher averages. We will have to look more closely at how your referee and teachers view your strength of character and ability to work with others.

Please review our program philosophy to see why we short-list this way.

If I get my March report card and its better, will you look at it?

Sorry, we won't have time.

Don't my "A"s in art & music count at all?

Yes and if short-listed you will get to show your artistic & creative abilities on Audition Day. At this time the Art, Music, and Drama instructors will be looking at your fine arts credentials.  However, we are looking at your whole profile and your academic marks contribute strongly to our decision to short-list a student.

I am currently acting in commercials and movies and want to develop a greater stage presence. Why didn't I get an audition?

Byng Arts mini-school is first and foremost a high school and not a professional acting school. In Byng Arts we emphasize both academic and artistic excellence. If you were not short-listed, it was because of your low marks or poor or inconsistent work habits.  Though you have the potential to do well academically, if you have been missing school to pursue your goals, your absences may have compromised your academic standing. Other programs may be better suited to your career aspirations.  Byng Arts may not be the best fit.

What do you think the probability of an applicant making the short-list if they cannot demonstrate a history of art courses (therefore being unable to supply an Art instructor's reference)

As long as you have above average standing in your academics, your chances are as good as any student who has taken formal courses. We look at a lot of other stuff, too! This applies for drama applicants as well. For music, however, you should have some music training. Read on!

In the essay portion of the online registration, address the issue that you wish to be considered for Byng Arts, though you have no formal art courses. (Yes, the fine arts teachers do read every single one.) You may have had a borderline result during your audition and what you write and how you write it may determine whether or not you will be offered a seat. So make sure you put forth your best effort. And, spelling counts! (Parents: we expect the student to complete this portion. We'd like the 'heart' of it to come from the student.)

During the visual art audition you are given a mini-lesson. Pay very close attention to the instructions as you will be told what matters in your assignment. Your openness to following instructions will allow you to have a good audition. As you are working, the instructors will come around and chat with you. This is another opportunity to let the art instructors know your intentions.

As for getting a referee, any adult who is not a close relative may act as a one. Remember, in the referee's portion we are looking for strength of character (traits such as determination, persistence, and commitment to academics as well as to the fine arts). Very often a coach in sports can attest to these important qualities. Students who pursue their craft for personal enjoyment are ideal candidates for Byng Arts, even though they may not have formal training.

How will I find out if I am short-listed?

We will be granting about 300 audition spots and will post the audition times on the web using your application number as identification. (Don't forget to record it!) It is your responsibility to check the website.

If your application number does not appear on the website, then you were not given an audition time (based on weak academic results and poor work habits). We acknowledge that this is a heartless and impersonal way to deliver bad news if you have not been short-listed. Unfortunately, we do not have the people-resources to be more personable.

Audition Day

What and when is it?

A very hectic day when the Byng Arts faculty work with prospective Byng Arts students. It is usually held all day mid-February.  Please check here.

Where is it held?

Mostly in the Gallery area of the new wing, please enter through our Crown Street entrance.

Who gets to go?

Only students who have been short-listed.

Between the application deadline and one week before the audition day the Selection Committe will compile and summarize all the information received for each applicant. Please be patient with us. We want to make an equitable assessment and be fair to every student.

How will I know that I have been short-listed?

Our goal is to decide the week before audition day, but it is hard to predict how many applications we will have to process. So, it might take longer.

Once the Selection Committe has decided, we have a huge job to contact those who have made the short-list and those who have not. We will be publishing the application numbers of successful applicants and their appointments on our Website. So, it is very important that you remember your application number because that is how you will be identified on the web!

Is there more than one audition day?

No. Our teachers are very busy at this time of year preparing for mid-year exams and marking them. As it is a huge job to get ready for auditions and select the candidates for the 1st and 2nd round offers, there simply isn't the time to do it more than once.

Will you make an exception if I'm ill that day?

Sorry. No.

Audition day is like the day the finals are held in hockey, for instance. Players have worked all year to participate in the finals and they take extra special care of themselves in preparation. If a player is ill or injured and they cannot play, then they sit out. They have to work hard and play well another year and hope to make it to the finals again.

Similarly, you as a candidate for Byng Arts have knowingly (and unknowingly) been developing your work habits, academic achievement, and artistic skills over the past ten or more years! It is your responsibility to take care of yourself in preparation for this day. That shows the dedication that we require in our successful candidates!

For Drama, the Adjudicators need to ensure that each student is auditioned under identical circumstances. (Applicants are marked on how they interact with other drama applicants and with the drama coaches.) Thus, all auditions must take place on the same day. Furthermore, if we let one person audition on a different day, then we'd have to let another. This would open up the system for abuse and we wouldn't know our finalists till September! That's no way to run the 'Finals'!

On a kinder note: For music and visual arts we do compare your application with those who will be made offers. We will do this to determine a possible place for you, though it is very difficult to get into Byng Arts 8 as there are so many Grade 7's who apply.

How should I prepare for Audition Day?

After packing snacks/light lunch and arriving 30 minutes before your audition time, there's really not much you can do to prepare. For those who will be using Translink, here is their site for trip planning. (Music students have to prepare, of course.)

It is more of a frame of mind. As one of our teachers has said, 'Be positive. Be open. Be confident.'

What will the audition involve?

Students will be interviewed by the fine arts teacher(s) during their audition.

Music students are asked to bring their instrument and two contrasting pieces of music that will showcase their talent. (A keyboard is available, but please let Byng Arts know if you need a drum set.) Then they will be asked to sight read a piece selected by the teacher. Students play one at a time in front of a group of 20 or so students.

Drama students will be given a scenario to create and perform with a group of students. As well, there will be an improvisation component to the audition. The teachers are looking for confident, cooperative yet assertive, flexible students who will do their best to highlight their personal talents in a group situation. All students practice and perform in the presence of other auditioning students. Group leaders are members of the Senior classes.

Visual Arts students will use watercolours and pastels to produce a still life painting. The visual arts teachers encourage students to use the technique of resist within their work. All auditioning students work in a classroom atmosphere.

Literary Arts students (for current Grades 8 to 11) will be asked to provide a 45 minute writing sample on Audition Day. They will have already submitted writing portfolios with their applications.

Does the music piece have to be of a certain length?

Choose whatever length you want because you won't get to play all of it anyway. Our music instructors can tell what calibre of musician you are after a few minutes of playing.

The instructors listen to the applicants play their own piece and then asks them to play a selection of chosen by the instructors. Senior band students circulate amongst the waiting applicants to keep them calm, yet warmed up.

So, select a piece that will showcase your ability.

How do you choose?

How many do you take?

This year we are looking to fill 30 seats in drama, 15 in band, 15 in strings, and 30 in visual arts. These numbers are approximate and may vary.

Are there quotas or consideration for in-catchment applicants, relative to non-catchment applicants?

Not at this time.

Are there quotas for gender?

Not at the moment. Again, we'd like to emphasize that this is not one of our selection criteria.

I am not a strong artist and will probably not be seeking a career in art, however I feel that I am very creative and imaginative individual who would like to develop this area. Would this hinder my chances of acceptance?

Byng Arts is not necessarily about getting ready for a career in the fine arts. Byng Arts is a way to bring people together who want to make fine arts a part of their lives in leisure, lifestyle or in work.

If you are not strong in the visual arts, but have the desire to improve, then we would suggest that this be said at some point in the essay. You should also let your referee know this so that he or she can give us a frank assessment of your ability to pursue personal development in this area.

Here's what one of our art teachers, says: "I do encourage [you] to apply [anyway] - curiosity, innovation and discipline are characteristics that we look for!"

OK. I've done all my auditions. Then what happens?

Each fine art department reviews the audition results very carefully and puts together a wish-list in order of priority. Some of you may even appear on all department lists while others will appear on none.

Then a representative from each department will meet with the coordinators to discuss where students should be placed. If you appear on several lists, then we put you in your preferred discipline, unless you rank much higher in a different discipline. Students in Grade 8 or above, indicating a secondary interest in the Literary Arts are considered at this time.

If you appear on no department's list then you were not put on the first round offers list nor on the wait-list.

How will I find out which list I am on?

The VSB does not allow any mini-school to notify their successful candidates until the notification date. On that day

  • the list of successful and wait-listed candidates will be posted on our website using their Application #,
  • emails will be sent out to successful and wait-listed candidates who supplied emails addresses.
  • beginning at 8:00 AM a recorded phone message will be sent to successful and wait-listed candidates.
  • in the afternoon, specific information will be mailed out to all applicants.

What do I do if I am offered a seat in Byng Arts?

Think about whether Byng Arts is your first choice. You have about week to think about this, so wait to see if you have other offers before you commit to our program. Remember that we are objective about how we choose.

The Selection Committee decided whether or not to offer you a seat in Byng Arts based on your report cards, test results, audition day results, reference letters, and your expression of interest in Byng Arts. This information is not always accurate or complete. You must ask yourself some very important questions and it all boils down to commitment.

What do you mean by commitment?

You could say that commitment is measured by how determined you are to succeed in Byng Arts. For instance, if you live far from the school how willing are you to get up early every day to commute? If you have difficulty in a course, how hard are you willing to work to get your marks up? Why do you really want to be in Byng Arts? To be with your friends? Or, are you truly passionate about the Fine Arts?

Remember that our selection process is objective -- based on potential success in the academics as well as the Fine Arts. We did not consider whether you were in or out of boundary, boy or girl, or even whether Byng Arts was your first choice or not.

What problems have Byng Arts students encountered?

A common problem has been poor academic performance. A student who is just above average in Grade 7 may have difficulty in a Grade 8 subject. Deteriorating work habits may also cause problems in Grade 8.

We would monitor the student's progress very carefully and encourage him/her to work hard and improve. If the student does not, we will put the student on academic probation.

If the student is still doing poorly, we will ask the student to withdraw from Byng Arts. If the students is cross-boundary, then he or she is required to return to the home school.

It has been our experience that students with excellent work ethics will be successful. That is why we rely heavily on your past work habits as part of our selection process.

What else?

We have had students leave because they could not handle the long commute. Yet we have had others who live even further manage.

What makes the difference? Commitment and sometimes being patient and opening up yourself to making new friends. That is, when you are a cross-boundary student, your friends are not likely to attend Byng. We are a friendly bunch and hope that our new batch of Grade 8s will make new friends in this environment.

These contributing factors to success don't always surface in an interview, or an audition. So, you have to be the judge.

How can I determine whether I have the right stuff?

Well, take a good look at the confidential referee form before you give it to your referee. Take the time to give yourself a frank, honest opinion of yourself to yourself. That's how you can tell!

You make it sound so bad. Is it really?

Of course not! We're trying to make sure for you and for us. The Selection Committee offered you a position for Byng Arts because we thought you would fit into our program.

And now it's your turn to think hard about whether you should accept or not. We don't want you to make the wrong decision and disrupt your Grade 8 year. Our students have a wonderful time and the Byng Arts faculty want to share their love for the Fine Arts and enriched academics with equally minded students!

It won't be fun for you or for us if you miss your friends, you cannot handle the commute, or you find the course load too heavy!

Having said all of the above, keep in mind that one of the many characteristics of creative people is the willingness to take risks. (Safe ones! like going to a new school, not knowing anyone.)

In which discipline was I accepted?

It's on the web page.

I qualified in two areas. How did you decide on which one to put me in?

We put you in your first choice, unless you ranked much higher in your second.

If I qualified in two, may I take both?

Only in very unusual circumstances. The music teachers have notified the Selection Committee who are sufficiently talented to play at the Senior level. If you are one of the very few students who qualify, you will be given the option of taking a 9th course.

The only other option you have is to drop French 8 and take Spanish in Grade 10. Or, wait till Grade 9. This is the best option.

Do you have a wait-list?

Yes, we do. If one or more of the 'first offers' accept seats at other mini-schools, then we will offer these openings to applicants on our wait-list.

In the past we have indicated in a general way how high you were on the list. This year we have been asked not to do this.

Suppose Byng Arts is my first choice and I was not offered a 1st round position. Suppose, too, that I have another confirmed offer from my second choice. Isn't it possible that I could end up with no choice if I wait for a Byng Arts offer, decline the confirmed offer elsewhere and not be offered a confirmed seat in Byng Arts?

This is a distinct possibility. We have been told that even if you phone us, we are not permitted to indicate how high up our wait-list you are. Let's hope that this will not happen to you.

What if I'm not accepted in Byng Arts?

If I am not successful in getting in to the Fine Arts Program, may I apply for the regular high school and what are the prerequisites for getting in?

Yes, you may, but this application must be made independent of your application to Byng Arts and has a deadline of the end of January. Please contact the Main Office for the proper procedure. Just a warning: not all of the cross-boundary applications will be approved. Every year the Office receives more cross-boundary applications than there are available openings.

I was very disappointed when I didn't get a 2nd round offer. I want to apply again next year. What can I do during the next year to improve my chances?

Yes, we do have to deal with disappointments and, for us, having to deliver news like this to students who are so hopeful also ranks high in the 'tough to take' category.

While we in Byng Arts like to think we are doing a good job, there are a lot of other schools doing a good job, too! Furthermore, you are in control of how well you do in school. You're the one in control of your attitude, time management and organizational skills and work habits.

As you made it to the audition phase, the most obvious areas to improve is to take fine arts courses next year at your school and apply yourself to developing your skills. Pay very close attention to what is being taught by your instructor. Learn all you can.

Furthermore, it helps a lot if you can pull your marks up and show us a string of G work habits! (One teacher tells her student that as you progress to post-secondary institutions success depends on 10% intelligence, 90% hard work and time management.)

One of our guest speakers, a motivational consultant and former gymnastics coach, said that he has coached athletes with modest talent and lots of heart who could easily beat out very talented athletes with poor work ethics.

But why are you putting so much emphasis on good marks in the academics? Aren't you looking for creative people in the fine arts?

There are some misconceptions we'd like to clear up.

Firstly, having great artistic potential means nothing if it is not backed up with action. Take that to mean good work habits to realize potential. We are looking for good work habits, too! The energy you put into your artistic endeavours is the same energy we want you to put into your academics. (That is, when people enjoy doing something, they call it 'play'. When people don't want to do something, they call it 'work'.) We'd like you to shift your attitude to call it all 'play'.

Secondly, everyone is creative and creativity can be expressed in art, music, drama, or in areas such as writing, science, mathematics, and so on.

Thirdly, if you wish to be the world's great artist, entertainer, or whatever, you've got to have the drive to reach your goals.

So, to answer your questions, we want both good work habits and creative potential.

I didn't get short-listed because of my mathematics mark, even though my teachers think I am a good artist and creative writer. If I register at Byng as a regular student, what can I do to improve my chances next year?

We encourage you to work hard to bring that math mark up, but more importantly to develop a 'can do' attitude to succeed.

Here are some options for you to consider if you are attending Byng as a regular student:

  • Request a skills block instead of French 8.
  • Introduce yourself to the sponsor of the Creative Writing Club. Through the club you may wish to develop your creative writing.
  • Join Mr Kosman and his Peer Tutors for early morning Homework Club (8 AM, any subject).
  • Sign up for Art 8 and let your art teacher know that you would like to be considered for Byng Arts in Grade 9.

    Similar strategies are available at other high schools, too!

Do you accept students for Byng Arts at other grade levels?

Yes. We will get occasional openings because students move away, or cannot handle the academic portion, for instance.

If you really have your heart set for Byng Arts you should apply as a regular Grade 8 student, if possible. The Byng Arts instructors teach fine arts to the main school as well. They are passionate about their craft and nurture all students. A regular Grade 8 student, after working with both teachers and students, can develop a stronger portfolio. The student would, then apply for the following year.

It is possible also to apply at other Grade levels. In these instances we encourage you to develop in the fine arts wherever you are! Then reapply the following year.

Other Administrative details

What other stuff must be done before September?

The most important thing to remember is commitment - to your studies and to the fine arts. We expect you to maintain good work habits and above average marks at your current school.

Students who qualify for Byng Arts are required to bring copies of their latest report cards to Byng the first week of July to show that that have done just that. Students who do not maintain our standards will still retain their seat, but we will likely look at getting support for you right away in September.

Even if you ended your Grade 7 year meeting our academic standards, but find yourself struggling in Grade 8, be proactive and get help right away. Make an appointment with the Byng Arts Coordinator, or ask your English teacher to on your behalf.

What information is required on the Enrolment form?

When we get our final list of Byng Arts students we will be sending out enrolment forms. We ask for demographics, emergency contact information, medical information, previous schools, home language spoken, and so on.

But more importantly for incoming Grade 8's, we need to know if you plan to write the placement exams for Mathematics 9, and/or French 9 or higher placement. This form alerts the scheduling people to make sure you get the courses you need in September.

Similarly, for other grades, we need to do course planning with you.

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