By Surbhi Gogia,
Not every day do you see a 10-year-old cycling inside a formal classroom while learning algorithms or a group of 5-year-olds mastering fractions. Imagine stepping into a classroom where the ceiling is painted to resemble a sky or witnessing second graders delving into chemistry or learning to count in Greek. You might think you’ve stumbled upon a futuristic school. Yet, this is not a school from the future; it’s a present-day haven for gifted students.
Nestled on the border of Richmond and New Westminster, Choice School for Gifted Children has been breaking the mold of traditional education since its inception in 1985 in Vancouver. Under the leadership of Principal Sukhbir Bolina—a former chartered accountant from the UK who discovered his true calling in teaching and education—Choice School has carved a niche in education for high-ability learners. As the only non-profit, independent school in British Columbia officially designated as a Special Education School for the Gifted by the province, it is a place of innovation and nurturing for exceptional young minds.
“Originally established in Vancouver, we moved to our current location after a few years, where we own the land and buildings,” shares Bolina. “This stability allows us to meet the unique needs of gifted students.”
As Bolina describes, gifted students learn faster and think more deeply than their peers. They often display traits in four key areas: cognitive, creative, affective, and emotional behaviors.
“These children think far ahead of their peers, operate at higher academic levels, and are naturally curious,” Bolina notes. “Their preference for engaging in mature conversations is often an early hint of giftedness.”
When asked about these traits, which are usually present in many brilliant kids but are not necessarily indicative of a prodigy in any specific way, how do people recognize extraordinary talent?
“Spotting a gifted child can be challenging,” Bolina agrees. Still, he argues that failing to identify a gifted child can be damaging. “Not recognizing gifted children’s talents could lead to waste. These are the problem-solvers of tomorrow, but they need nurturing today.”
He explains that gifted students often feel frustrated in traditional classrooms, where the pace of learning doesn’t align with their abilities. “Imagine a five-year-old thinking at the level of a second or third grader,” he says. “In regular schools, they may become bored, distracted, or labeled as having behavioral issues.”
Choice School steps in when incidents like this occur. The school’s approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, from assessing students to tailoring programs that challenge and engage them daily. One guiding framework is the BC Ministry of Education’s Special Education Policy, which defines giftedness as exceptionally high capability in intellect, creativity, or specific disciplines, often coupled with outstanding abilities in multiple areas.
Choice School’s environment is intentionally intimate, with about 50 students. Class sizes are small, averaging 8 to 9 students, compared to the 25 to 30 found in regular schools. Each classroom has two educators—a teacher and an educational assistant (EA)—ensuring individualized support. While the school follows the BC curriculum, its emphasis lies in the depth and breadth of understanding and analysis.
“We go far beyond basic curriculum requirements,” says Bolina. “For instance, instead of simply stating that Ottawa is the capital of Canada, we encourage students to ask why. Why not Vancouver? What role does geography play in choosing a capital? Open-ended questions like these push students to analyze, debate, and think critically—hallmarks of gifted education.”
However, tagging along with giftedness presents a unique challenge for students and their families. “These children have boundless energy and a constant need for stimulation,” Bolina explains. “In traditional classrooms, they might be misunderstood as unfocused or disruptive, which adds emotional strain. To address this, Choice School strongly emphasizes social-emotional learning.”
The school employs occupational therapists and behavioral consultants who help students develop focus, independence, and emotional regulation. Physical activity is also integral to the curriculum, with four weekly physical education classes.
“We provide accommodations like fidget tools, wobble stools, and classroom stationary bikes. By keeping their bodies engaged, we align their energy with their intellectual pace,” Bolina adds.
The school’s offerings extend beyond academics. Music, art, and experiential learning programs enrich students’ development. For example, during Experiential Week, students dive deep into a specific theme through field trips and hands-on activities, fostering curiosity and practical skills.
Currently serving students through eighth grade, Choice School plans to expand to ninth grade next year.
“Our goal is to equip gifted learners with the skills, strategies, and confidence they need to transition successfully to other schools and society,” Bolina states. “Whether their talents lie in STEM, the arts, or other areas, we guide families in finding the right path for their child.”
The school offers a thoughtful enrollment process for parents who believe their child may be gifted. This begins with a personal tour, followed by three experience days. Choice School is a testament to the transformative power of tailored education, shaping a future where gifted children can soar to new heights.
