Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Vancouver
Summary: If you're moving to Vancouver with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Vancouver
Vancouver, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of educational options for expat families and digital nomads. While not as large as cities like London or New York, Vancouver still boasts a selection of international and bilingual schools to cater to its multicultural population. Among the most popular are the West Point Grey Academy and the Vancouver International School (Vancouver Montessori School), known for their excellent curricula and supportive learning environments.
West Point Grey Academy
Grades: Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Vancouver, BC
Website: www.wpga.ca
West Point Grey Academy is an independent, co-educational day school that offers a rigorous academic program. The school provides the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students in the senior years and incorporates experiential learning and outdoor education into its curriculum. With state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities, West Point Grey Academy aims to develop well-rounded students.
Vancouver International School (Vancouver Montessori School)
Grades: Preschool through Grade 7
Location(s): Vancouver, BC
Website: www.vancouverinternationalschool.com
The Vancouver International School, also known as Vancouver Montessori School, offers a bilingual education with a focus on the Montessori method. The school provides a nurturing environment that encourages independence and a love for learning. With a strong emphasis on cultural diversity and language development, it is an excellent choice for expat children.
Collingwood School
Grades: Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): West Vancouver, BC
Website: www.collingwood.org
Collingwood School is known for its strong academic program and commitment to excellence. Offering the IB Diploma Programme, the school focuses on developing critical thinking and leadership skills. With impressive facilities and a wide array of sports and arts programs, Collingwood School provides a balanced education for its students.
St. John's School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Vancouver, BC
Website: www.stjohns.bc.ca
St. John's School is an independent, international school that offers the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. With a focus on small class sizes and a supportive community, the school is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment. St. John's School is well-equipped with modern facilities and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Mulgrave School
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): West Vancouver, BC
Website: www.mulgrave.com
Mulgrave School is an independent, non-denominational school offering the full IB continuum. The school prides itself on its international-mindedness and commitment to service as part of the curriculum. With excellent facilities and a strong arts and athletics program, Mulgrave School aims to develop students who are reflective, critical thinkers.
Fraser Academy
Grades: Grade 1 through Grade 12
Location(s): Vancouver, BC
Website: www.fraseracademy.ca
Fraser Academy is a day school that specializes in educating students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Offering a structured program that is tailored to individual student needs, the school provides a supportive learning environment. Fraser Academy also offers an Orton-Gillingham tutor training program for educators.
North Star Montessori Elementary School
Grades: Infant through Grade 7
Location(s): North Vancouver, BC
Website: www.northstarmontessori.ca
North Star Montessori Elementary School provides a Montessori education that fosters independence and a lifelong love of learning. With a focus on the whole child, the school offers a nurturing environment and a curriculum that encourages children to explore and grow at their own pace. The school's facilities are designed to support the Montessori philosophy.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.