About SȾÁ,SEN TŦE SENĆOŦEN Department

The SȾÁ,SEN Department leads the W̱SÁNEĆ School Board’s work in SENĆOŦEN language revitalization and cultural education. Overseeing the SENĆOŦEN Survival School and language programs such as www.sencoten.org, it advances the school’s vision of lifelong learning rooted in W̱SÁNEĆ values, homelands, and self-determination.

HISTORY OF THE SENĆOŦEN LANGUAGE

The SENĆOŦEN alphabet was created in 1978 by the late Dave Elliott of Tsartlip, who recognized the urgent need to preserve the Saanich language amid the impacts of colonial policies and residential schools. Drawing on his knowledge of linguistics but simplifying the symbols to make the system accessible, Elliott devised a writing system where each sound had its own letter. Adopted by the Saanich Indian School Board in 1984, his alphabet has become a cornerstone of language revitalization. Today, the Dave Elliott SENĆOŦEN Alphabet continues to be taught in schools and supported by modern technology, ensuring that the language and culture are carried forward for future generations.

OUR PROGRAMS

SENĆOŦEN LENOṈET SCUL¸ÁUTW̱

SENĆOŦEN SURVIVAL SCHOOL

The SENĆOŦEN Survival School provides students with an immersive language and cultural education rooted in SENĆOŦEN language and W̱SÁNEĆ traditions. Beginning with full SENĆOŦEN immersion for preschoolers – Grade 3, the program continues through Grades 4–12, blending provincial curriculum requirements with daily land-based learning in forests, beaches, and culturally significant places.

By combining academics with SENĆOŦEN language and outdoor teachings, the school nurtures both cultural identity and academic success.

SENĆOŦEN.ORG

SENĆOŦEN.org is dedicated to revitalizing the SENĆOŦEN language through immersive learning, community engagement, and culturally grounded teachings. Their programs serve all ages — from young children just beginning to discover the language to adults deepening their fluency — combining experiential learning, traditional knowledge, and modern technology.

With resources like cultural storytelling, tutorials and land-based experiences, SENĆOŦEN.org supports individuals and families in reclaiming their linguistic heritage and strengthening connections to place, community, and identity.