A school that aids children with learning challenges is opening its doors in Surrey this September.

Eaton Arrowsmith School (EAS) focuses on the brain's ability to change and grow.

EAS was established by Howard Eaton in 2005 in Vancouver as a co-educational, nondenominational, independent day school for elementary and secondary school students with learning differences.

The Arrowsmith program used at EAS is based on the principal of neuroplasticity, which is the ability of the brain to essentially rewire itself with training.

"Each child in the program works on an individualized program of cognitive exercises based on who they are and what their difficulties are," said Sandra Heusel, communications director for the school.

At EAS, students with learning disabilities work to strengthen their learning capacities rather than accommodate for learning weaknesses.

"We don't work around the issues, we work on strengthening them," Heusel said.

She said this makes a difference because often students are accommodated when they have learning disabilities.

Heusel said the key is to enable them to learn on their own and be independent.

Sandra Heusel The school works with children ages five to 18 and typically students are in the program for three to four years.

Once students have finished at EAS they are transitioned back into a regular school setting at their age level.

Heusel said the school, which has locations in Victoria and Vancouver, saw a demand for its service in Surrey.

The school has held three information sessions in Surrey and the demand seems to come from the Cloverdale and South Surrey area, which is where they are trying to finalize a location. The next information session is on Feb. 23 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Cloverdale recreation centre.

For more information visit www.eatonarrowsmithschool.com.

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