My husband and I could not be more thrilled with our 10 year old daughter Maddy’s experience at the BASC.
Having been in one of Charlotte's more traditional independent schools from Kindergarten through third grade, Maddy had become increasingly stressed with the quantity of work and with the repetition with which it was being taught. She was feeling overwhelmed, bored and frustrated. And even after the school's own recommended independent tutor suggested that she was bored with the pace of the work, the school's solution was to give “extra credit work” to provide more challenge.
The BASC’s approach to educating students is refreshingly different. Simply stated, the school has successfully created an environment of high challenge but low stress for its students.
First, the school hires excellent teachers and support staff who are consistent in their methods in and out of the classroom. Lessons are presented in an engaging and enthusiastic manner. Positive reinforcement and incentives are frequently used to motivate students to do their best work and to function on their best behavior. Mutual respect is emphasized and demonstrated in all areas of the school.
Second, the British teachers are able to efficiently manage workgroups by ability and by subject that ensures each child is being challenged at the appropriate level in each of the core subjects. For example, last year Maddy was able to work with the more advanced group in Math but was assigned to the middle table in spelling which is an area that is not as strong for her. This flexibility in the British system has served her well in all of her core subjects.
Third, quality not quantity is the focus. Once the student demonstrates competency in a skill they are able to move on. Maddy loves the fact that she does not have to keep doing the same thing over and over again. The amount of homework is also very manageable and reasonable.
Fourth – the school provides many opportunities for after school enrichment activities that involve the expertise of most all the school's teachers and support staff. For example, the school's Headmaster teaches the Chess Club which is one of Maddy’s favorites. The clubs are a wonderful way for teachers, support staff and students to interact outside of the classroom. (Last year it was reported by Miss Ross that there was quite a bit of gossip being exchanged by the female students in the cross stitch club!!!)
Lastly and most importantly, my daughter loves the BASC and the school has brought out the very best in her as a student and as a person. She is a happy 10 year-old that is excited about learning and for this our family is very appreciative. It is my sincere privilege to recommend the BASC.
Kirk and Lisa S