8671 Odlin Crescent, Richmond, British Columbia, V6X 1G1, Canada
7700 Brimley Road, Markham, Ontario, L3R 0E5, Canada
2013
1990
225
Varies
JK to 8
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English, French, Mandarin
Academic
Academic
Traditional, Reggio Emilia
Traditional
8 to 15
13 to 18
In-class adaptations
$21,400 to $25,800
$14,300
No
Yes
0%
5%
None
1 to 8
$0
$0
20
0
0%
0%
0%
95%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 1 - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Pythagoras 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 reportSomerset has established its reputation in offering a challenging, supportive academic program to prepare students for success in high school and beyond. The school is small, something that is a primary draw for families looking for a more personal approach to instruction. The core curriculum is augmented by an overt attention to fostering communication and interpersonal engagement. The offering of French and Mandarin language instruction is also a notable draw. The ideal student is one operating toward the top of his or her peer group, who will thrive in a very close-knit, community oriented educational environment, and is able to work effectively through an accelerated curriculum.
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"...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...
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"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...
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"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...
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"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."
"Established in 1974, Somerset Academy is an independent, not-for-profit private school providing education to students from JK to Grade 8. Our school provides an enriched, accelerated curriculum; a variety of extra-curricular activities; enhances your child's self-esteem; and encourages team building skills. We offer classes in French and Mandarin, as well as the Reach Ahead program, which enables our Grade Eight students the opportunity to gain high school credits. Somerset is a certified STEM school."
"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."
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"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."
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"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."
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"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."
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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
"Success comes from working together"
When people ask what makes Somerset special, I always say that we are members of a "family" that help guide each other to be the best. Somerset education sets the foundation for a successful future. Our students atrive for excellence and our educators do a remarkable job in preparing them.
Traditional
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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.
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.
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).
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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.
At Somerset Academy, we promote intellectual curiosity. We encourage students from Grade 1 to 8 to interpret, evaluate and communicate ideas in a knowledgeable and confident manner within a framework of high academic, artistic and athletic standards. Working one year ahead of their chronological grade level, our students experience an enriched academic program with a balance of Visual Arts, Physical Education, Music, and Computer Study, as well as many diverse extra curricular activities. Somerset Academy in conjunction with Yips Collegiate, offer a number of credits towards your child’s high school Diploma. The Reach Ahead programme is designed to allow your child to participate in one (if not all) of the following high school courses: English – ENG1D, Mathematics – MPM1D, Chinese (Mandarin) – LKAAD. Somerset Academy also offers a Gifted Programme for students in the Grades Three to Seven. This programme will be designed to challenge the students who meet the criteria in the following areas: Language, Mathematics and Science and History.
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These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Not applicable
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These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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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.
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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
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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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.
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These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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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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These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Not applicable
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Montessori
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.
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
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.
In Pursuit of excellence in Academic, Language and Performing Arts Education
Standard-enriched
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).
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.
Every student has a different learning style. Our teachers are nimble and responsive to students' learning needs and regularly differentiate instruction.
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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.
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"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Physical
The goal is to cultivate "strong, ?exible - bodied and active individuals, in tune with the joys of movement, sport and wellness."
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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 - 8
0%
5%
$0
$0
0%
95%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 1 - 8
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades K - 8
Yes: grades 2 - 8
No
No
No
Yes
Pythagoras Academy looks for students who are curious, open-minded, and care about others.
Students are welcome to apply for entry to any level from JK to Grade 8.
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
Acceptance into Somerset is determined by means of an academic screening, and the completion of the following preliminary steps:
• Parent and Student interview
• Submission of a deposit
• A completed and original application form
• Birth certificate/passport (photocopy)
• Health insurance card (photocopy)
• Immunization record (photocopy)
• Medic alert card, if applicable (photocopy)
• Custody agreements, if applicable (photocopy)
• 3 Copies of the June report card from the previous year and all report cards from the current year (if applicable)
• A completed and original transportation permission form
• A completed and original media release form
• A completed and original release of information form/OSR request (if applicable)
Completion of these steps does not necessarily guarantee acceptance into Somerset Academy.
For further information, please call the school at (905) 940-8990.