Why We're Here

On Thursday, the faculty, in small groups, were asked to discuss two questions: “Why did we come to Brentwood? Why do we keep coming back?”

Below is the response from Mr Steve Cowie, Brentonian of 46 years, and his group.

Our group identified many of the same elements, reported by other groups, which played a role in attracting us to teach at Brentwood. These included opportunity, curbside appeal, and the inspiration of our own teachers or those we had met in the interview process. Paul Collis had a teacher who was entertaining and humorous and always made learning fun. It is notable that my two sons both had Mr Collis for English and said he was their favorite teacher at Brentwood. Since they had both been in my History class, I asked them why Collis was such a great teacher. My son Dave replied, “Because he tricks you into learning.”

My story of coming to Brentwood was a result of a rugby connection. After a game against Cowichan, their captain asked me about my plans. When I said either journalism at Carleton or a PhD at UVic, he said, “Why don’t you get a job?”  

Eventually, I had a choice between Brentwood or Glen Lyon. I asked my Castaways rugby coach, Allan Rees, who had taught at both schools, what I should do. He said that, as much as he hoped I could continue to play for the Castaways club, I should go to Brentwood because “It’s a better school”. 

When I first arrived at Brentwood, it was only a ramshackle collection of buildings along the ocean - what remained of the old Queen Alexandra Solarium. It was different from any school I had ever seen and still is - for different reasons. 

I remember feeling apprehensive, as all of our new students and staff must feel, in wondering whether I would fit in and whether I was good enough. My girlfriend at the time questioned my decision, suggesting that I was “settling” when I had had dreams of becoming a writer or a university professor. She reminded me of that old saying that those who can, do, and those who can’t, teach. I fondly reminded her that she was, at that time, a flight attendant, which was not her long term goal. 

Interesting that she, too, later became a teacher. 

So I came to Brentwood - I thought it would be for only one year and now I am entering my 46th. 

What is it that makes teachers stay at Brentwood for so long? Our group identified the collegial environment which supports us and allows for a great deal of academic freedom and the opportunity to innovate. Also, we talked about the amazing students from all over the world who really want to learn and who often show their gratitude in thanking us for teaching them. 

Of course, we now have facilities and resources that are second to none and we appreciate the tripartite program. We have embraced the mission statement of being innovators in education and creating leaders for the future. 

The school has certainly provided validation of my choice of vocation. I believe that educators are among the most important and influential people in our society. Many of us continue at this remarkable school because this is a fun, rewarding environment to work in. For us the classroom is our happy place. 

I am so grateful to be a part of the story of this wonderful school that is now embarking on its centenary. 

Mr Steve Cowie