STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Victoria Academy of Ballet strives to incorporate a holistic approach in teaching dance with a focus on both the physical and emotional well-being of each student. To achieve their potential, each dancer must understand the necessity of maintaining a healthy body, such as attending to injuries and being aware of the nutritional needs of elite athletes. Students also need to recognize the importance of emotional health. Because dancers require such intense motivation and focus in order to participate in the rigorous daily schedule of their chosen career, they must also have access to emotional support.

These topics are covered extensively in the Professional Training Program and Bridge Program curriculum. At VAB we are aware of the adjustment period for students coming from further away including from other countries. Our staff members are trained to recognize students at risk and to make appropriate referrals as necessary in consultation with student’s parents. International students are given an intensive orientation in their own language and have a designated staff administrator to assist with housing and medical insurance requirements. International students also have access to a dedicated Educational Consultant that provides personalized academic support and strategies.  All students, local or not, are advised of our adjunct professional health care providers who have special expertise and interest in the issues of elite ballet dancers.

Program Support and Learning Services
Students meet with faculty throughout the year to reflect on their goals, progression, and personal learning plans. Regular check-ins with program heads and instructors encourage self-assessment and growth. If additional support is needed, students can request meetings with the program head, faculty, or Student Services to identify challenges and create an individualized action plan to support their success.

At VAB we understand that students come with different abilities and needs. We know that close personal attention and learning support will make a difference to the student’s success. We encourage all students and parents to be proactive in asking for assistance if required.

Resources for Daily life:

• Transportation Services: BC Transit – Victoria
• Child care services
• Community Groups
  • International Students in VANCOUVER and VICTORIA
  • Mexicans & Locals in Victoria, BC.
  • BC-Japan Friendship Group
• Canadian Banking Institutions
• Start your Life in BC
• BC Newcomers Guides
• BC Daily Life
• Adapting to cultural differences in Canada as an international student

Student Safety

Victoria Academy of Ballet prioritizes providing a safe environment for all students, staff, faculty and visitors. To learn more about VAB’s policies and procedures in place for student safety, please follow the links below.

• POST-SECONDARY BRIDGE PROGRAM POLICIES
• PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM POLICIES
• CRITICAL INCIDENT AND CRISIS MANAGEMENT POLICY AND PROCEDURES