8671 Odlin Crescent, Richmond, British Columbia, V6X 1G1, Canada
1900-56th Street, Delta, British Columbia, V4L 2B1, Canada
2013
2000
225
663
JK to 8
K to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional, Reggio Emilia
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
8 to 15
18 to 24
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$21,400 to $25,800
$21,600 to $42,825
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
20
51
0%
0%
0%
30%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 01, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
No
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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 reportSouthpointe Academy is a relatively young school, having been founded in 2000, and just as there are benefits with age, there are also benefits with youth. Unlike older schools that need to evolve their programs and infrastructure to meet the changing needs of students, Southpointe was formed around those needs, i.e., the skills, values, and behaviours students will need to succeed in university and professional life. Starting with a primary and elementary program, the school quickly grew to include the high school years. A sparkling new facility, opened in 2012, was purpose built to house the programs, with spaces conducive to project-oriented learning and creative collaboration. The curricular offerings, including the International Baccalaureate and a nice compliment of AP courses, are rightly a draw for the families that enrol here. So too is the attention to growing an awareness of global citizenship, as perhaps best exemplified in partnerships with schools in China, France, Spain, and the US. The ideal student is one who will thrive in a challenging, student-driven, and intellectually diverse learning environment
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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."
"Southpointe Academy is the only (IB) Continuum World School south of the Fraser River, offering the full spectrum of IB programs from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Our mission is to ignite curiosity and inspire students to explore the world through hands-on experiences that foster global thinking and student agency. Our core values of kindness, integrity, perseverance, respect and responsibility provide the foundation to create a place of belonging where the spirit of community is alive."
"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."
"Southpointe distinguishes itself through a tailored approach. Our multifaceted programs nurture confidence, communication, leadership, mentoring, service, and vocational skills. We're dedicated to unlocking each student's unique potential and shaping well-rounded individuals who will positively impact the world."
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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."
"Southpointe Academy stands out in the eyes of families for its commitment to IB Continuum Education, its convenient location in Tsawwassen, the world-class facilities, and the welcoming atmosphere that defines our school community. These factors collectively make us the preferred choice among families looking for an exceptional educational experience for their children."
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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."
"We host various engaging community events that bring everyone together, celebrating our diversity and shared experiences.
Families will find a unique feeling of connection between all three school divisions – PYP, MYP, and DP. This seamless transition supports student growth and development.
Beyond academics, our extensive extra-curricular programs, including sports, clubs, and co-curricular activities, provide students with opportunities for personal growth and exploration."
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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
Welcome to the Southpointe community. On behalf of everyone at our school, I would like to thank you for considering our community during your search for an independent school.
Southpointe Academy cultivates engaged, well-rounded citizens poised to thrive in their pursuit of post-secondary education and primed to achieve their full potential. Our comprehensive program blends a rigorous academic curriculum with extensive extra-curricular opportunities in the arts, athletics, and community service. Our educational travel programs promote global awareness, inspiring our students to make a difference in the world. We challenge our students to pursue their passions, to dream, and to plan for their future. Our students depart armed with the preparation necessary to succeed at university and beyond.
Southpointe is much more than a school; it is a dynamic community of sharp, young minds, impassioned educators and dedicated parents. As instructors, mentors, coaches and role models, our faculty is committed to high quality learning for all students. As active participants in their educational journey, students are given the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents. We remain committed to nurturing strength of character in keeping with our core values – respect, responsibility, integrity and perseverance – to help our young people learn, lead and succeed.
The following pages will impart some sense of what a Southpointe education entails, but they cannot replace a visit. If you are interested in gleaning a greater understanding of our educational vision, please take the next step and contact our Director of Admissions to arrange a tour of our school.
Progressive
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
We offer the Primary Years Programme from Kindergarten to Grade 5, Middle Years Programme from Grade 6 to Grade 10 and Diploma Programme from Grade 11 to 12, making us one of the few schools in Canada and the only school in Delta to be authorized to deliver the IB Continuum Programme from K-12.
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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
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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
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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
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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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Academic
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.
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
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.
At Southpointe Academy, our Kindergarten students enjoy a wonderful year of learning and laughter within a dynamic, nurturing K-12 school community. As Southpointe is an authorized International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme school, all Kindergarten students engage in a rigorous, concept driven, inquiry based curriculum that aims to equip learners with the skills, attitudes, and attributes needed to succeed and lead in an increasingly interconnected, rapidly-evolving global community. A highlight of the year is the Kindergarten/Grade 12 Buddy programme, which provides opportunities for the youngest and oldest Southpointe students to interact and form special bonds.
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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Rigorous
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”.
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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."
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RecreationalRec. |
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RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
0%
30%
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Dec 01, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 8
Yes: grades 6 - 12
No
No
No
Yes: grades 6 - 12
Yes: grades K - 8
Yes: grades K - 10
No
No
No
No
Pythagoras Academy looks for students who are curious, open-minded, and care about others.
We enrol students who are developmentally ready for the grade they are entering, as it is important that each student demonstrates age-appropriate skillsets for their learning environment. Students who are curious about the world around them and parallel the mission of the IB to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world.
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
We are thrilled that you are considering Southpointe Academy for your child’s education. Offering a world-leading education, we equip our students with the skills and competencies to succeed in university, career and citizenship.
Our Admissions Team is happy to help you throughout the admissions process. If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] or 604-948-8826.
STEP 1 – Complete our Online Application form
When submitting an online application, please be prepared to provide the following documents electronically.
STEP 2 – Plan a Visit
STEP 3 – Schedule an Entrance Assessment
After completing an application to Southpointe, applicants for all grade levels will be invited to attend our Prospective Student Assessments in January. Students applying to Kindergarten to Grade 10 will take part in teacher-prepared activities and assessments.
Applicants in Grades 6-10 who are unable to attend an in-person assessment, must submit the appropriate Middle or Upper Level SSAT assessment to Southpointe's Admissions Department by the end of January for consideration.
STEP 4 – Student & Family Interview
STEP 5 – Admission Decisions