Extended Day Programs
Arrowsmith Programs
VSIE is proud to offer two core exercises from the internationally recognized Arrowsmith Program for the 2026–2027 school year — available both in-class, online 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.
Who Can Join
Programs are open to:
- VSIE registered students
- VSIE alumni and parents
- Students who are not registered at VSIE
- Adults (see the Adult Executive Functioning Program below)
How Classes Work
Online classes run Monday to Thursday, 4:15-5:15 pm Pacific Time. Students can attend 1, 2, 3, or all 4 days each week.
Regardless of how many sessions a student attends, the expectation is 4 hours of programming per week, completed independently or with a facilitator. Students also check in with their facilitator at least once a week at one of the scheduled class times, unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
Summer Session
Our six-week summer intensive compresses the 10-month program into 6 weeks, with approximately four hours of programming per day, five days a week. Dates and tuition to be announced.
Adult Executive Functioning Program (New, Online)
Strengthen your ability to think, plan, and problem solve, and to focus and carry out tasks. Arrowsmith programming may also support interpersonal skills and quality of life.
Arrowsmith Program Tuition
This is separate from VSIE school tuition. For school tuition, see Investment & Fees.
| Who | Monthly tuition |
|---|---|
| VSIE registered students and families | $250 per participant |
| VSIE alumni and parents, non-VSIE students, and adults | $350 per participant |
Families may enrol part way through the year, with a commitment to continue through June. This secures the reduced rate and reflects our experience that the best results come with full participation and engagement. Tuition can be paid monthly or as a lump sum by e-transfer, pre-authorized payment, or cheque. Payment details are provided with the registration package.
Financial Support
Thanks to a generous donation, financial support is available for eligible families who wish to participate in the Arrowsmith Program. To apply or learn more, please contact Jason Cruickshank at jason.cruickshank@vsie.ca.
Not Sure Where to Start?
The free Arrowsmith Program Questionnaire gives you a personalized report with ratings across 19 cognitive areas. It isn't an assessment, but it may help you gather information and make decisions.
How to Enrol
To book a free consultation, request a registration package, or ask a question, contact Jason Cruickshank at jason.cruickshank@vsie.ca.