216, rue Victoria, Baie-D'Urfé, Montreal, Quebec, H9X 2H9, Canada
671 Carter Road, Box 128, West Vancouver- Bowen Island, British Columbia, V0N 1G0, Canada
216, rue Victoria, Baie-D'Urfé, Montreal, Quebec, H9X 2H9, Canada
671 Carter Road, Box 128, West Vancouver- Bowen Island, British Columbia, V0N 1G0, Canada
1980
1995
300
72
Preschool to 12
6 to 9
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French, German
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
10 to 12
12 to 18
In-class adaptations
$9,950 to $12,350
$20,925 to $26,507
Yes
Yes
0%
15%
1 to 12
6 to 9
$5,000
$5,000
19
18
0%
0%
80%
85%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
6, 7, 8, 9
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades K - 12
Yes: grades 6 - 9
No
No
No
No
information not available
information not available
The program at Alexander von Humboldt is unique in Canada, principally because it admits students for whom either English, French, or German is the language spoken at home. Students need to use those languages not just to interact with the coursework, but also to make themselves understood to their peers, something which creates a particularly rich academic environment. Students arrive speaking different languages, with different life experiences, yet all share the experience of difference, and are faced each day with the social and linguistic challenges of making themselves understood to others. While they learn languages, they also have a more authentic experience of language than students in the more typical immersion programs found in Canada. Likewise, the atmosphere is particularly conducive to the development of social competencies, including empathy and cooperation, as well as an authentic global perspective through which the core curriculum is taught. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a challenging, diverse academic and social environment.
View full reportIsland Pacific School is unique in some key ways, the most obvious perhaps being that it is limited to the middle school years. It’s intentionally that way, of course, based in a belief that the experiences gained during that time in a child’s development are crucial to success in high school and beyond. Character, stewardship, and responsibility are emphasized, and very noticeably so in the Masterworks program, one that is emblematic of the approach of the school. It’s a research project that grade 9 students complete, and one that builds on what they’ve learned at the school in equal measure to their personal interests and growing sense of self. That program, as all the others offered at Island Pacific, require a lot of the students, not the least of which being the need to present themselves very overtly to the school community through a culminating presentation. The fact that the topic is chosen by the students is validating of their own interests and ideas, something that perhaps doesn't happen enough in the middle years. It has the potential to be a very empowering experience, and indeed, that’s exactly what the Island Pacific program has been created to offer. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge, and able to thrive within a tight-knit community of peers who are looking for the same.
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"They feel confident, challenged, and part of a community."
Bonnie Scorer - Parent (Jan 23, 2023)
We have been so pleased with Island Pacific School for our two children. They are both very happy! T...
View full review
"From pre-K through Grade 12, AvH offers multilingual (German, French and English) private, internationally recognized German general education with special focus on languages, math and sciences. AvH is the only school in Canada to offer the German International Abitur which provides students with the opportunity to fast-track straight from high school to university where they are able to study at Canadian, German or international universities."
"Island Pacific School, an International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle School offers distinctly different programs including classes in reasoning, philosophy and ethics; a self-directed research project called Masterworks, monthly community service; a musical; hiking, sailing and kayaking expeditions. Small by design, and with a mission to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity, Island Pacific School, located on Nex̱wlélex̱wm (Bowen Island), fosters critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership."
"We offer Trilingual learning environment :
We believe in opening doors for our students and pathing the way for future success – AvH-graduates leave our school trilingual (German, English & French)
We offer excellence in the STEM-subjects :
A major focus of AvH are STEM-subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths). Adhering to the German Education curriculum we build applied learning spaces and project-oriented units into our curriculum."
"The core purpose of Island Pacific School is to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity. It encompasses all the elements of our core instructional programs to help them help them become confident and caring members of society as a whole. Our middle school education program is about more than pure academic excellence (1st curriculum): it’s a balance between academics and cultivating our humanity."
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"In a safe and close-knit environment our highly qualified and dedicated teachers provide the very highest standard of education, from Preschool right up until Grade 12. Children benefit from small classes and feel nurtured in a modern and immersive learning setting."
"Small by design, with a maximum of 72 students (up to 18 per grade), our students are taught by middle school experts and get to participate in a wide range of academic, artistic, and recreational pursuits designed to foster critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership. Our students are are alive and inspired, brave and accepted, and challenged daily to express the best of what it means to be human. They feel a sense of belonging and acceptance and are innovative and resilient."
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"Why German?
Germany has the biggest economy in the European Union and the fourth largest worldwide. It is home to numerous international corporations and at the forefront of technological innovation. German is the most widely spoken mother-tongue language in Europe. And just like at AvH, English, French and German are the three official working languages of the European Union."
"Students sometimes learn as much, if not more, from the middle school activities in our extracurricular program. They are part of an intentional education strategy at Island Pacific school that challenges critical thinking, inquiry and the implementation of our values: wisdom, courage and integrity."
"Multilingualism breaks down communication barriers, broadens horizons and allows us to learn about other cultures and ways of life. Numerous studies have shown that speaking multiple languages provides many advantages that go far beyond the knowledge of the languages themselves. Multilingual speakers can concentrate better, resolve conflicts easier and empathize better with others. Overall, the multilingual brain is much more flexible, even into old age."
"Our students go on two extended trips into the great outdoors during the academic calendar: a fall hiking trip and a spring kayak trip. These expeditions provide physical and critical thinking challenges intended to bring out the best in individuals and the groups in which they work and play; challenges that call on the values on which Island Pacific School is founded: wisdom, courage and integrity.
Our school sport is Ultimate with emphasis the “Spirit of the Game”."
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AvH is a member of a network of over 140 German schools abroad. In 2018, we were once again awarded the official “Excellent School Abroad” seal of approval by the German government. We are recognized by the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement supérieur du Québec. Therefore, we can offer two degrees: the internationally respected and globally recognized German International baccalauréat (Abitur), which allows a seamless transition to university studies, as well as the Quebec Secondary School Diploma, which leads to CEGEP. Our school’s academic success is clearly reflected in the fact that our graduates go on to the world’s leading universities.
Since its founding in 1980, AvH has been educating students of German, Canadian and international origin. Our graduates acquire a wide range of skills and competencies and they master three languages: German, French and English. All this prepares them especially well for the challenges of our global world.
Island Pacific School is a small, independent, IB Grade 6-9 middle school that has operated on Bowen Island for over twenty-five years. Our students come from the local community, Vancouver, and around the world.
We operate on the basis of the following principles:
The school expresses and realizes these principles by way of a number of core program elements including:
Every year, a number of our alumni students return to the school’s “Rites of Passage” graduation ceremony because they have come to realize that IPS was a defining chapter in their lives. This is precisely our aim: to make a pivotal difference in the lives of our students, so that they might go on to make a difference in the world at large.
Thank you for taking the time to investigate our school. I would welcome and encourage you to set up an interview and a student visit to get an even better sense of who we are and what we do. I think you will be impressed and intrigued by what you find.
Liberal Arts
International Baccalaureate
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
Not applicable
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
Our challenging program adheres to both German and Quebec curricular requirements. The curriculum of every German school abroad offering the "German International Abitur' (DIA) is that of the German state of Thuringia. The subjects "Geography of Quebec and Canada", "History of Quebec and Canada" and "Politics & Economics" reflect the syllabus of the Province of Quebec.
During the middle years, schools can either lose students or set them up for the rest of their lives. Put students in an environment of mediocrity and they will wither on the vine. Create a climate of challenge and expectation, and they will surprise us all. Located on Bowen Island, BC, Island Pacific School (IPS) is uniquely designed to give grade 6-9 middle school students the education they need: an education that challenges and surprises them to become the very best of who they are. Small by design, Island Pacific School is an IB Middle Years Program school with a total of 72 students, and is accredited by both ISABC and CAIS.
Equal Balance
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
Information not available
We use a multi-delivery approach that combines direct instruction and blended learning. We stress both a strong foundation in mathematics basics and the opportunity to explore mathematical extensions.
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In addition to standard math textbooks we also use IXL, an online support program.
We encourage the use of calculators as appropriate.
Not applicable
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Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
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We have a writing across the curriculum program that emphasizes a progression of writing skills. In addition to encouraging creativity, we pay particular attention to the development of strong grammatical skills.
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
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Our science teacher puts particular emphasis on our students learning outdoors.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physiology
Traditional
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
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We regard literature as a window into the human condition. We take it as obvious that reading should be an integral part of everyone's life.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Not applicable
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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We complement our core knowledge curriculum with individual explorations. We have a busy excursion and community service calendar to get students out experiencing new communities every second week.
Perennialism
Not applicable
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
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Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
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We use the highly effect AIM language learning approach to teach French to grade 6 - 9. It is designed to provide students with quick fluency in practical situations.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Creative
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
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At IPS, our Art program focuses on giving our students exposure to a wide variety of artistic practices and mediums. We aim to engage their curiosity and excitement for the arts, while helping them to develop skills, and expand their personal limits. When an IPS student leaves the school, we want them to have an interest in the arts, and the courage to pursue whichever aspect of the arts that appealed to them the most.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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Digital citizenship, digital legacy and digital literacy. These three competencies are the foundation of the digital technology program at IPS. It is designed to reflect, and get ahead of, how information exchange in the world is evolving: socially, in education, in the workplace, and in the way data is stored. Teachers switch gears quickly between paper and digital content reaching for technology to solve problems and model that practice for students. Along with Google Classroom and Drive, teachers are using new tools for assignment distribution and tracking (Doctopus & Remind); data collection through Google Forms; regular correspondence through email; and tracking (internal Teacher Dashboard web portal).
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
At AvH, we promote physical health through regular physical education classes. Our exceptional athletic facilities include two gyms, a soccer field, a running track and an outdoor multi-purpose court. In average 3 hours/week of sports classes are given per grade.
Emphasis in our phys ed program is on promoting healthy lifestyles for life.
Not applicable
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
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Each child goes through developmental stages at his or her own pace. We take our time, gently guiding each child through these stages while fostering individual skills.
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Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
IPS incorporates project-based learning in all grades. All students are required to prepare projects for three Open Houses per year. The Masterworks independent study project is compulsory for every Grade 9 student. Students publicly defend their Masterworks and earn 4 credits towards their high school graduation.
Supportive
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
The elementary school s small and comfortable. The school size provides ideal conditions for personal development and encouragement of the individual child. A strong sense of community imparts a sense of security and the children enjoy learning. The secondary level curriculum complies with the requirements stipulated by the German "Kultusministerkonferenz" (KMK, The Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in the Federal Republic of Germany). The individual talents and needs of students are taken into account whenever possible and where physical and staffing resources permit.
Students participate in a wide range of academic, artistic, and recreational pursuits designed to foster critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership. Guided by a highly qualified teaching staff, the middle school programs at IPS are designed to equip and inspire. They provide a foundation for Grade 6-9 students who may wish to pursue International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) programs in high school. At Island Pacific School, our middle school programs are developed to provide opportunities to experience new adventures. We are committed to delivering an exceptional middle school education – one that engages and inspires students for life.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Independent Free Thinker Multilingual Bilingual Global Citizens STEM and enriched science
Kids with good heads on their shoulders.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
1 - 12
6 - 9
0%
15%
$5,000
$5,000
80%
85%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
6, 7, 8, 9
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades K - 12
Yes: grades 6 - 9
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 6 - 9
No
No
No
No
A multilingual education (especially a trilingual education) can be challenging for both students and parents, yet the benefits of that hard work are incalculable. We look for students and parents who are want to accept this challenge and will put in the required work and effort to achieve them.
We are looking for students with parents/caregivers who are committed to supporting their children in gaining an education that is worthy of the name. In particular, we need parents who understand that students need specific opportunities to learn to take responsibility for themselves and that students want, and are capable of, acheiving great things.
Families who are interested will be invited for a tour and an interview with the principal.
Skype interviews can be arranged for all parents and students who do not live in the area.
The purpose of the interview is to give a general idea about the school and provide an opportunity to ask questions. It is also important to get to know each other and prevent false expectations.
Early admission - December 1, 2022
Regular admission - February 21 , 2023
Late admission - Always welcome http://islandpacific.org/admissions/
