Extended Day Programs

Arrowsmith After-School / Online Program

VSIE is proud to offer two core exercises from the internationally recognized Arrowsmith Program for the 2026–2027 school year — available both in-class and as an after-school program running four days a week.

The Arrowsmith Program uses the brain's natural ability to change (neuroplasticity) to strengthen specific cognitive functions that support learning. Rather than teaching workarounds, it targets the root cause of learning difficulties by building the brain's capacity directly.

Exercises

Symbol Relations (Clocks)

This exercise strengthens the brain's ability to connect ideas, understand complex relationships, and make sense of what we read, hear, and experience.

Students who participate may see improvements in:

  • Reading and listening comprehension

  • Mathematical reasoning and logic

  • Cause-and-effect thinking

  • Processing speed and insight

  • Understanding other perspectives

This program supports students with learning difficulties or neurodevelopmental differences, and is also beneficial for adults looking to process information more efficiently.

Motor Symbol Sequencing (MSS)

This exercise targets the brain functions responsible for writing, reading, and speaking automatically — skills that many learners find exhausting or inconsistent.

Students who participate may see improvements in:

  • Written expression and handwriting legibility

  • Reading fluency and accuracy

  • Spelling consistency

  • Speed and confidence in typing

  • Verbal communication and speech fluency

This program is particularly beneficial for students with dysgraphia or dyslexia, or anyone who finds writing laborious, slow, or tiring.

How to Enrol

For more information or to request an application form, please contact Jason Cruickshank at jason.cruickshank@vsie.ca .