3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7J 3E8, Canada
8671 Odlin Crescent, Richmond, British Columbia, V6X 1G1, Canada
3467 Duval Road, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7J 3E8, Canada
8671 Odlin Crescent, Richmond, British Columbia, V6X 1G1, Canada
2004
2013
345
225
JK to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Traditional, Reggio Emilia
Varies
8 to 15
In-class adaptations
$27,200 to $30,600
$21,400 to $25,800
Yes
No
0%
0%
SK to 12
None
$0
$0
23
20
0%
0%
0%
0%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Feb 01, 2024
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Families rightly turn to Brockton for strong academics, and it certainly has that, undergirded by the IB program. But families turn to private school for other reasons as well, prime among them an environment in which students enter a community of peers of a like mind, and who are academically inclined, and Brockton offers that as well. Even more importantly though is an aspect of the school that perhaps parents don’t think to first, though they should, and that’s the opportunity to have authentic experience with a range of endeavor that they wouldn’t otherwise. The community of the Brockton School is close-knit, while the academic and extracurricular programs are broad. No, it’s not always easy to try new things, and the school is cognizant of the barriers to participation, anticipates them, and seeks to provide a sympathetic introduction. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a vibrant, active, supportive yet challenging academic environment.
View full reportPythagoras famously said “educate the children and it won't be necessary to punish the men.” Which sounds harsh, there on its own, but it’s true—education is the means to the liberal arts ideal of becoming active, productive, empathetic participants in all aspects of civil life. That means experiencing new things, engaging critically with new ideas, while offering our own talents in the service of others. It also means growing in to an understanding of what membership in communities offers, as well as a sense of roles and responsibilities that those communities require of us. Pythagoras thought big thoughts, and the school does too, as well it should. They offer a rich program, an extensive co-curricular offering, and cast a wide net in terms of instructional delivery. It’s an active place, full of opportunities to do all those things that Pythagoras valued: experience, interaction, values, while accessing a holistic approach to learning and life. Pythagoras also lived in a cave, though that’s a point where this school sharply departs from its namesake. The building is a chief asset of the program. Spaces are open, fluid, bright, modern, and engaging. Any way you slice it, from instruction to school community, there’s a lot to love.
View full reportinformation not available
"...the entire staff is very welcoming and is familiar with each and every family that attends the school."
Lindsay Foley-Dinh - Parent (Jun 08, 2021)
Both of my children attend Pythagoras Academy and we have no doubt in our minds that our kids love i...
View full review
"The academic program in Pythagoras is quite unique."
Jeff De Guzman - Parent (Mar 10, 2022)
We have three children currently attending Pythagoras Academy. We know that all kids enjoy attending...
View full review
"Pythagoras Academy provides the ideal preparation for children."
Mackie Mack - Parent (Mar 10, 2022)
We have 2 children attending Pythagoras Academy. Regardless of whether they are in the elementary o...
View full review
"Brockton is a co-educational IB Continuum World School located in North Vancouver with programs from JK to Grade 12. At Brockton students are offered an inclusive, holistic, and challenging learning environment where personal experience and development is paramount. The program supports students in becoming life-long learners, and offers a variety of co-curricular, leadership, and service opportunities. At Brockton every student and every family is known, welcomed, respected, and valued."
"Pythagoras Academy is a progressive JK to Gr. 8 independent school that embraces the role of the Arts and Sciences. Education can be relevant, engaging and inspiring and our teachers are dedicated to making this a reality for Pythagoras Academy students. By regularly designing learning experiences that are active and hands-on, our staff ensure that students’ whole personhood is involved in learning and growing. We teach students how to apply their interests and talents in order to solve real-word problems."
"Within a challenging IB framework, Brockton School focuses on each child and on the whole child. It is a school where every student matters, every family matters, community matters, and learning for life matters. Students work to learn from successes and challenges to explore their sense of purpose and direction. Students are given the strong foundations that inspire them on a journey as outstanding humans."
"Pythagoras Academy stands out through its unique integration of the 5 Chairs, 5 Choices behavioral agility curriculum. Led by renowned expert Louise Evans, our approach emphasizes conscious communication and relationship mastery. Through tailored programs like the Success Centre and Excellerator, we ensure students reach their full potential. Real-life challenges, the Fine Arts, and inquiry processes enhance critical and creative thinking, preparing students academically and socially."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
"Families choose Brockton because of the authentic connections made between students, staff, and families that, when married to the program delivery, lead to thriving and confident learners. The environment is warm, welcoming, and supportive. The academic standard is high and students are inspired to learn how to learn. Inspiring and supporting students to pursue their dreams with a sense of purpose is a priority."
"Families prefer Pythagoras Academy for its supportive community and adaptive programs. Our Excellerator program offers tailored support, while enrichment activities challenge students. With a remarkable 1:5 staff-to-student ratio, we foster personalized connections, akin to a second family. Transparent school tours showcase our commitment to openness. We prioritize individualized education and relationships, making us the preferred choice for nurturing and enriching schooling."
Information not available
Information not available
"Brockton has an impressive number and diversity of programs.
Students find extraordinary success in multiple arenas.
The student leadership program is innovative and engaging of all students in one capacity or another.
The culture of the school and the associated supports attracts accomplished and outstanding staff."
"Pythagoras Academy defies expectations. Families experience a vibrant community with tailored support. Beyond typical independent school norms, we offer world-renowned curriculum, diverse before/after-school programs, fine arts showcases, and competitive robotics leagues. No matter the learning needs or family lifestyle requirements, Pythagoras Academy is a school for every child and family. Personalized learning paths and extensive volunteer options demonstrate our commitment to every child."
"Brockton walks the talk. It is not words on a website or other; Brockton lives its mission and guiding principles.
Brockton is an incredibly innovative school and works with students and families to be successful today and in the future. Brockton is not afraid to be ahead of the curve."
"Pythagoras Academy defies expectations. Families experience a vibrant community with tailored support. Beyond typical private school norms, we offer world-renowned curriculum, diverse before/after-school programs, fine arts showcases, and competitive robotics leagues. No matter the learning needs or family lifestyle requirements, Pythagoras Academy is a school for every child and family. Personalized learning paths and extensive volunteer options demonstrate our commitment to every child."
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
Imagine a school where students are excited about getting to class; where students are encouraged to be risk-takers; where every opportunity is seen as one for learning. Imagine a school where parents, teachers and students collaborate to create their best possible educational adventure. Imagine Brockton!
Brockton is a safe, caring environment where students are challenged academically through a broad and balanced curriculum which surpasses the expectations of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and British Columbia Education Ministry requirements. The academic programme is complemented by a range of co-curricular activities, from athletics and leadership, to service and our World Music Program. Students are encouraged to engage with our local and global communities as they are guided to become life-long learners.
As an IB World School we embrace the concepts of 21st century learning, providing challenging programs in a culture of inquiry, and fostering the importance of giving service to others. At Brockton we encourage all students to achieve their true potential by being active learners and global citizens.
Students at Brockton don’t simply attend school, they embark on an educational adventure where they are encouraged to take risks and inquire about the world around them. I am really proud to be the Head of Brockton School. It is an honour to lead a truly dedicated and highly trained staff and to serve the families of the Brockton Community. I would like you to be able to experience everything that is brilliant about Brockton, and I welcome you all to come and see what makes our school so special.
A Welcome Message from Our Head of School
At the heart of every child and youth is a curious person, knowing what matters and what interests them. Pythagoras Academy teachers are experts at connecting to students and engaging them deeply in their learning by taking into account the unique qualities of the students they teach. Our students understand that they belong in our community because they ‘stand out’ and not because they try to ‘fit in’.
Students need both creative and complex challenges to thrive. In this light, we have designed many specialized programs to encourage this creativity and to build on students’ problem-solving skills. We have a world-class musical theatre program and information technology/broadcasting program where students are innovative, expressive and confident. Creativity abounds in our Story Studio, our innovative writing space.
We take pride in our students’ collaboration and communication skills. We develop our students’ confidence by coaching them during collaborative, real-world problems solving activities. Learning to work together and knowing how to give and take, appreciate others and generate quality ideas together are skills our students will need in the future. Our learning process is dynamic, crosses disciplines, and often involves a Fine Arts component.
Our parent community works in harmony with our school leadership and warm-hearted, talented staff. Together we create an enriched environment where students feel safe, cared for and supported to invest all of themselves into their learning opportunities.
If you are beginning to get to know Pythagoras Academy, you are welcome to explore our website, book a tour, or speak with me directly about any questions you may have. We welcome all parent inquiries and encourage parents to connect with us on our life-long journey of building a healthy, compassionate, and innovative learning community.
Warmest regards,
Michael Bouchard
Interim Head of School
Traditional
Reggio Emilia
Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
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.
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.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
Brockton is an IB World Continuum School hosting the Primary Years Programme (JK-Gr.5), Middle Years Programme (Gr.6-Gr.10), and Diploma Programme, with a choice of pathways at Grade 11&12. At Brockton, student learning and personal experience are paramount. Students are acknowledged as individuals and are supported according to their respective gifts and areas for growth. Brockton’s small class sizes and close knit community allow for the outstanding faculty and staff to guide students in a journey of inspired learning. The Brockton program is challenging, innovative, and holistic and integrates an array of co-curricular, leadership, service, and character-development opportunities. From the students entering as early as JK through to our Brockton Graduates (and Alumni), Brockton aims to nurture (among other things) self-awareness, resiliency, ingenuity, open-mindedness, international-mindedness, principled behaviours, social responsibility, effective communication, and a sense of purpose. Brockton students are guided on a journey of learning that provides them opportunities to chart a course for success during their school years, at their choice of post-secondary, and in life beyond.
We use the curriculum that promotes critical thinking and problem-solving. As well our curriculum strongly supports the development of our students' imaginations and creativity. This is accomplished through cross-curriculum Fine Arts programming and challenges.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
At Pythagoras Academy we teach consistent, easy to learn algorithms emphasized in traditional math programs and we ask our students to apply these algorithms in complex, real world situations. In addition, we “throw situations at students” and ask them to use their critical thinking to apply possible solutions to these situations. Our students enjoy mathematics and see math as a way to express themselves and work collaboratively with others.
Information not available
Information not available
Balanced Literacy
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
We have a reading program that focuses on deep and accurate comprehension of fiction and non-fiction texts. We acknowledge and promote excellent reading subskills (including direct phonics instruction). Our work is informed by the master teacher, Adrianne Gear, as well as by Fountas & Pinnell and a wealth of Canadian & International Educators/Thinkers in the field of Literacy.
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.
Our students learn to write by having plenty of time to write during writer’s workshops. Their writing is analyzed and this forms the basis for personalized “mini-lessons”, which are highly effective in supporting our students to improve and mature their written expression.
Inquiry
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
Our Inquiry-Based science program is cutting-edge, hands on and encourages both wonder and critical thinking. Our science program is orientated so that students will make their own discoveries and have the “aha” moments that make science so engaging and thought-provoking.
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
Zoology
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
Our students study historical texts and learn how these texts are still relevant to modern day social issues. In addition, they study contemporary texts and are engaged in critical thinking and creative thinking about how these works may suggest solutions and lines of thinking to address current-day challenges.
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
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).
Students learn to “see the big picture” when looking at historical events. The program is structured to help students gain enduring understandings about big patterns that exist across civilizations and times.
Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Information not available
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
Information not available
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
Information not available
Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Information not available
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Information not available
Information not available
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Information not available
Information not available
Reggio Emilia
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.
Reggio Emilia programs aim to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of “projects”, (as opposed to “activities” or “lessons”). Teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. Projects can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. A high degree of parent involvement is also encouraged, particularly when forming curriculums and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia education, check out our comprehensive guide.
Early Years Education at Brockton School emphasizes the facilitation of intentional and experiential learning opportunities through a play-based inquiry model. Our unique approach builds upon the framework and curricular requirements of both the BC Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate's Primary Years Programme. While play-based in nature, there is a strong academic framework that sets a foundation for early elementary school success. At Brockton, we believe that children learn through doing, and therefore our students are provided with opportunities to explore their interests and passions in a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment.
By paying attention to individual and group interests, we create inquiries of studies that are engaging to students and result in enduring understandings. In practical terms, this means we listen to student's own questions and desire learning experiences that satisfied students' curiosity and sense of wonder.
Accelerated
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.
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Brockton is an innovative school where creative opportunities for learning are optimized. Personalized approaches to teaching/learning, a well-resourced Student Services team, and multiple pathways of grade 11/12 programming are among the aspects that support diverse learning needs.
Every student has a different learning style. Our teachers are nimble and responsive to students' learning needs and regularly differentiate instruction.
Not applicable
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Not applicable
Please note: we would like to be listed in both rigorous and supportive categories. To define us in one and not the other would be misleading. Brockton provides a unique combination of a rigorous academic program within a supportive academic culture. Students are inspired to want to learn and to engage a life-long curiosity. This inspiration is nurtured within the challenging IB academic curricular program, a program that is process based while preparing students for optimal post-secondary and future success. Brockton works with each student (and family) to establish goals for each student relative to their particular potential.
Information not available
Information not available
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Not applicable
Not applicable
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Not applicable
Not applicable
Brockton attends to the whole child development. While there is a focus on intellectual growth, this is achieved through a balanced approach with attention paid to the multiple aspects that lead to a student's overall development. Brockton exists within a compassionate community where students are encouraged to explore their own growth in multiple dimensions.
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
Badminton |
||||
Baseball |
||||
Basketball |
||||
Canoeing/Kayaking |
||||
Cricket |
||||
Cross-country skiing |
||||
Cycling |
||||
Downhill skiing |
||||
Equestrian |
||||
Fencing |
||||
Field Hockey |
||||
Figure Skating |
||||
Football |
||||
Golf |
||||
Gymnastics |
||||
Ice Hockey |
||||
Ice Skating |
||||
Lacrosse |
||||
Martial Arts |
||||
Mountain biking |
||||
Racquet Ball |
||||
Rowing |
||||
Rugby |
||||
Running |
||||
Sailing |
||||
Skateboarding |
||||
Snowboarding |
||||
Soccer |
||||
Softball |
||||
Squash |
||||
Swimming |
||||
Tennis |
||||
Track & Field |
||||
Volleyball |
||||
Weightlifting |
||||
Wrestling |
||||
Archery |
||||
Curling |
||||
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
SK - 12
0%
0%
$0
$0
0%
0%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Feb 01, 2024
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 8
No
No
No
No
Student selection is based on both academic and non-academic considerations. These include but are not limited to: The ‘fit’ of the child and family with the school. The availability of space and class composition at the particular grade level. Character traits such as curiosity, independence, responsibility, self-discipline, and creativity.
Pythagoras Academy looks for students who are curious, open-minded, and care about others.
STEP 1: DISCOVER BROCKTON
Start by exploring our website for information about the school, our programming, fees, deadlines for admissions, and culture.
Dive deeper into our unique programming by downloading our Admissions Information Package or registering for an Open House.
Once you know that Brockton is the right fit for your family, click the apply button. You will be prompted to create an account and fill out an online application.
Please note that applications are not considered complete until we receive all supporting documentation, and the non-refundable $300 application fee has been paid.
For more detailed information on the application process, download our application guide and required documentation checklist.
STEP 3: SCHEDULE ASSESSMENTS
Student applicants are required to participate in an entrance assessment to determine ‘fit’ and evidence of the applicant’s potential for success within our program. Parents will also be invited to meet with a member of our admissions/leadership team for a personal interview.
These can be booked in your admissions checklist.
Parents are required to fill out the application form and prepare the required documents. We accept payment for the application fee by cash, cheque, WeChat, Alipay, wire transfer, and bank draft. Please call 604-370-0199 to get more information regarding our payment options.
Once the admissions office receives the application and the application fee, we will schedule the assessment for students. After the assessment, the enrollment process will be carried out, which includes filling out the enrollment-related forms and making the tuition payment.
The required documents for the application are as follows:
- Student's head photo
- A copy of parents' PR card or Canadian Passport
- A copy of parents' visa (work permit, visitor visa, etc.) if applicable
- A copy of a BC hydro bill (or any proof of residence in BC)
-Two years of report cards for grade 1 and above applicants.
- Application fee of $300 for local student and $500 for international student
