Announcements

Registration is open for Virtual LIs

Registration is open for Virtual LIs

LI modules fill quickly.

Register today.

New Dates Announced: Governance Upskilling Workshops & Fireside Chats

New Dates: Governance Upskilling & Fireside Chats

New sessions have been added to our Governance Upskilling Workshops and Fireside Chats series, designed to support independent school board members.

Workshops: Oct 8, Nov 25, Feb 11, Apr 22

Fireside Chats: Sept 17, Sept 23, Nov 4, Jan 28, May 5

Free for CAIS Member Schools. Fees apply for non-members.

See details and register

Foundations for School Leadership Program: Designing a Practice

Foundations for School Leadership Program: Designing a Practice

Starting the Journey – Knowing Oneself in Order to Lead

The CAIS Foundations for School Leadership Program is the essential starting point for emerging leaders in independent schools.

🗓️ Save the Dates: July 5–8, 2026
More details coming soon. Registration opens in the new year and fills quickly — early sign-up is strongly encouraged!

🔗 Learn more

Summer LI Modules – In-Person

Summer LI Modules – In-Person

Dates: July 5–9, 2026

Location: Halifax Grammar School

More details to be announced soon!

Registration is now open – limited to 12 participants.

Join fellow Heads of School for a restorative and thought-provoking leadership retreat designed for reflection, connection, and renewal.

REGISTER HERE

July 5–8, 2026 · Parksville, BC 

Heads' Retreat

Lifelong Learning for Leadership

The annual CAIS Heads’ Retreat is an intimate gathering of a maximum of 12 heads of school. Strategically timed at the end of a busy school year, the Retreat provides colleagues time to decompress, to reflect, to ask powerful questions, to share stories and to learn from one another in an atmosphere of trust, openness, and support. This time together allows participants the opportunity to make deeper connections with colleagues from across Canada, which extends beyond the Retreat, and to grow their network of support. Participants complete the Retreat with a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and confidence to address the complex challenges that come with being the Head of School.

A scenic lakeside resort nestled among lush evergreen trees, with a tranquil body of water reflecting the warm hues of the sunset in the background.
A rustic log cabin-style building with the name %22Topsy Turvy%22 displayed prominently, surrounded by lush evergreen trees and a colorful sunset sky in the background.
The image shows a red and green building surrounded by lush green trees in a forested area.

2026 Retreat Details

Dates:

Sunday, July 5 – Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Location:

Tigh-Na-Mara, Parksville, British Columbia

Facilitator:

Peter Sturrup

Peter Sturrup
Retired Head of School, Pickering College and CAIServices Advisor

Fees:

$3,950 | Includes program, three nights’ accommodation, and meals.

Participation Details:

This Retreat is more than just time away; it’s a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and form lasting connections that will enhance your leadership journey.

Location Highlight

Centrally located on Vancouver Island, Tigh-Na-Mara features 22 acres of serene forest beside the warmest ocean waters in Canada. Participants will enjoy private log accommodations, exceptional dining, and a peaceful setting ideal for reflection and connection.

At a glance

  • 22 wooded acres on Vancouver Island
  • Warmest ocean waters in Canada
  • Private log accommodations and exceptional dining