The International High School Experience, a Podcast by Phoenix Magnet Academy

Student's Well-Being and Outdoor Activities

Welcome to The International High School Experience, a podcast by Phoenix Magnet Academy, where we dive into the unique and inspiring world of international education and experiential learning. In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to introduce Jesse, someone you’ll want to know if your children are joining our school. Not only does he oversee their well-being, but he’s also an experienced outdoor recreation instructor. Jesse shares his insights on what makes this experience so special, both for the students and for the community. Let’s get started!

Teaching at PMA/ Building Relationships and Guiding Growth

In this episode, Mr. Webber talks about teaching experience at PMA, where building
relationships with students is key. Over three years, Mr. Webber has seen the impact of
understanding each student's unique strengths and helping them thrive academically and
personally. Mr. Webber discusses classroom strategies, Independent Growth Plan,
fostering a focused and supportive environment. He shares how PMA approaches,
English and Calculus classes with interactive discussions, analyze literature, and
integrate career skills for real-world readiness. Discover how experiential learning, like
hiking trips at Elfin Lakes connected to English lesson, pushes students beyond their
comfort zones, encouraging self-discovery, reflection and resilience.
Listen to this podcast to learn about the importance of setting a positive tone with students
from day one, connecting with parents on growth plans, and supporting students with
academic goals and life skills.

The amazing journey of a PMA Graduate/ Mark

In this episode, Mark, a grade 12 student now at the University of Toronto reflects on his transformative time at the boarding school in Canada - Phoenix Magnet Academy. From outdoor adventures like rock climbing, mountain biking and kayaking to supportive teachers and staff, Mark shares how PMA pushed him beyond his comfort zone. He talks about balancing academics and social activities, building lifelong friendships, and finding passion in subjects like robotics.
Mark offers valuable advice for future students: embrace different cultures, be kind to yourself and others, and let everything flow naturally, like water.
Tune in to hear about his journey, the unique international culture at PMA.

Life on Campus for a first-year student/ Mateo

In this episode, we meet Mateo, a 14-year-old international student from Mexico in his first year at Phoenix Magnet Academy. He shares his journey of leaving his comfort zone to study in Canada, building independence, and navigating language challenges. Mateo discusses his typical day filled with academics, sports, and outdoor adventures like canyoning, camping, rock climbing and mountain biking. He reflects on the supportive environment at PMA, the strong friendships he’s made, and how boarding school life has shaped his sense of responsibility.
Tune in to hear about his experience in the boarding school and advice for new students and his thoughts on the future.

Programs and Faculty/ Geoff Taylor Head of School

In this episode, Geoff Taylor, Head of School, speaks about the unique programs at Phoenix Magnet Academy, where experiential education is integrated with the British Columbia curriculum. PMA goes beyond university prep with its Individual Growth Plan (IGP), a personalized roadmap guiding students from grade 8 to 12. Geoff highlights the school's commitment to global citizenship, with students from diverse backgrounds, and the importance of ELL support. He also discusses Advanced Placement courses, coding, robotics, and the connection to Squamish Indigenous culture through hands-on projects with Indigenous people like drum and paddle making.
Listen on how PMA fosters student success with creative, supportive staff and a vibrant dorm life international community.