British Columbia offers a wide variety of highly regarded private high schools. Because private schools offer numerous distinct advantages, such as smaller class sizes, they will prepare your child for the world beyond high school.
Enrichment Programs
Many British Columbia private high schools offer enrichment programs including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB). AP refers to courses administered by the College Board. If your child scores a 4/5 or a 5/5 on an AP exam, he or she may receive a university course credit that applies to their university transcript. IB is a comprehensive program that is more challenging than the regular high school curriculum. IB requires students to take courses in six subject areas and complete more community service than the province mandates. The schools seek to foster citizens of the world, rather than mere students.
Many private schools exceed the requirements of the provincial curriculum, as they try to make high school as much like university as they possibly can. Many BC private high school listed below have superb track records in university placement.
Extra-curricular Activities and Extra Help
Extra-curricular activities are an important part of learning outside of the classroom. Many universities and employees look for well-rounded students. British Columbia’s private secondary schools offer diverse extra-curricular options.
High school is a big jump from middle and elementary school. To avoid falling behind, your child might need assistance outside of the classroom. Private schools in British Columbia are known to have dedicated teachers who will spend extra time with your child to ensure that he or she understands the material.
Provincial Funding for Private High Schools in B.C.
If British Columbia’s government determines that a private school has substantially contributed to the province, it will receive a provincial grant. Schools collect grants according to the number of enrolled students. The province pays full grants for students who are "enrolled for a minimum of 600 hours from July 1 to May 15 of the school year." Schools qualify for partial grants for students who "receive less than 600 hours of instruction."
B.C. also offers special education grants to aid schools in "meeting the expenses associated with adapting or modifying the educational programs for students who qualify for special education grants." B.C. Education has additional information about independent school funding classifications.
Independent School Regulation
In British Columbia, the Office of the Inspector of Independent schools enforces all aspects of the province’s School Act, which establishes every school’s duties. Even if a private school is not funded, it is still subject to strict regulations and inspections. However, the more a school is funded, the more requirements it must meet. While independent schools have freedom in their teaching styles, educational philosophies, and curricula, they are still required to meet provincial standards, such as educating students in English language, math, science, social studies, and French. Of course, private schools are very likely to greatly exceed standards set by the province.
List of BC Private High Schools
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