AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology vs. Nancy Campbell Academy

one-to-one comparison:

View Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology's full report
VS.
View Nancy Campbell Academy's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    #200 - 1490 W Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 4E8, Canada

    45 Waterloo St S, Stratford, Ontario, N5A 4A8, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2022

    1994

    Enrolment

    40

    425

    Grades

    8 to 12

    7 to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Boarding, Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Science and technology

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    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."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive

    Liberal Arts

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    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).
    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.

    Academic culture

    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”.
    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”.

    Avg. Class Size

    15 to 20

    5 to 18

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    In-class adaptations

    Dedicated class; in-class adaptations

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $1 to $23,400

    $15,750

    Boarding Tuition

    $32,275 to $37,275

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    70%

    15%

    Eligible grades for FA

    8 to 12

    7 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $8,000

    $11,700

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    8

    71

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    29%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    80%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 8 - 12

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST) is a tech-heavy high school where all teachers are PhDs and UBC professors. Learning is project-based and follows the B.C. curriculum at an accelerated rate in which both the sciences and humanities are taught at a challenging pace. Currently, the school is admitting Grade 8 and 9 students, with more grades, and computer science is taught from Grade 8. Fun is deeply woven into the programming, creating an environment where students are excited to learn. and learning new things is not the only metric for success—creating a learning environment where students are excited to learn is key. The school respects students’ capabilities and time, and it clearly communicates goals to each student and for each project. VISST has a flexible tuition model that accounts for each family’s financial situation and resources. 

     

    View full report

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Founded in 1994, Nancy Campbell Academy is a preparatory school intending to provide a strong academic program, a foundation in character development, and to deliver students prepared to succeed in university. Gordon Naylor, the founder, remains as principal, giving valuable consistency to leadership. Over that time, curriculum was developed to address the overarching concepts of world citizenship, consistent with the provisions of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It can risk sounding lofty, though the school works to ground those ideals within the day to day. “If we can create an environment that is based in an ethical way of doing things,” says Naylor, “then we can demonstrate what we’re about, rather than just posting something on the wall saying this is what we’d like to be.” Certainly, reports from students, parents, and alumni vouch for the success of the approach. Students are encouraged not just to consider the concepts of ethical citizenship, but to think about what they, personally, can bring to the world. Academic achievement is a source of social capital within the setting; this is a place where it’s very much cool to be smart, engaged, and curious. The student body is diverse, and the program is designed specifically to address the needs of international learners arriving from overseas. The program, in turn, is strengthened by the breadth of and diversity of perspectives that they bring with them. The size of the student population—enrolment averages 80 students across the secondary grades—ensures that every member is known to faculty and peers, and feels part of the school community.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "The school has a unique educational sense and a commitment to the development of our children's education..."
    Walquiria Francato - Parent   (Nov 06, 2019)
    Nancy Campbell Academy for My Daughter and Family is the realization of a dream. The school has a u... View full review

    "The school staff cares deeply about the student body's well-being. There are constant consultations and actions being put into place..."
    Gabriel Quinn - Alumnus   (Nov 06, 2019)
    My experience attending Nancy Campbell spanned from age 15 to 18 and were the most formative years o... View full review

    "My child used to be shy, reluctant to talk, but changed a lot after attending NCA."
    Angela Zhang - Parent   (Nov 19, 2019)
    My child enjoyed and appreciated the warm, family-like atmosphere and a solid academic foundation at... View full review

  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    "Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST) is Vancouver's first & only dedicated STEM high school, offering the full BC curriculum with accelerated/enriched STEM taught via a mix of traditional methods and project based learning. VISST isn't just for the "math whiz" type -- you will find all sorts of students at our school, united by a shared curiosity and passion for learning. We believe science and technology fundamentals are important for any path our students might take after high school."

    • Classes start at 10:00am.
    • A progressive tuition model that accounts for each family’s circumstances.
    • Computer science starting from Grade 8.
    • An integrated curriculum where teachers forge connections between subjects.
    • Transparent and open communication between the school, students, and parents.
    • Students take responsibility for, and take care of, the facilities and each other.
    • Fun as an explicit goal of the school - learning new things is not the only metric for success.
    • Working outside the school bubble: our students will create value for the broader community.
    • A learning environment where all students want to be there and are excited to learn.
    • Transparent communication of goals: students won’t be left wondering, "Why am I learning this?"

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "NCA invests in STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, our TEACHERS & TECHNOLOGY. Experience a superior education where youth address world issues using the ARTS. State of the art MEDIA Room / Robotics & STEM / Mentorship for capacity building."

    • Academic Excellence - NCA students are often awarded substantial university scholarships.
    • Small Classes - many classes have 5-11 students for plenty of individual attention.
    • 100% University Placement - all grads (past 2 yrs) were accepted at their first-choice university.
    • Reasonable Tuition for a Superior Education - NCA is a not-for-profit school.
    • Leadership is developed through 19 moral capabilities.
    • Youth can move the world - NCA is a social justice school that creates change.
    • Unique Education Model - NCA students learn to choose happiness.
    • International and Local Service Opportunities
    • ESL Program - ask us about our guaranteed university pathway programs.
    • Focus on S.T.E.M. & The Arts - state-of-the-art media facility and active S.T.E.M. clubs.

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    "VISST is a reimagining of high school and differs from other schools in several ways. We ar a STEM school with enriched and accelerated STEM offerings, delivered by experts in our respective fields. VISST deeply values student buy-in and ownership. We include students in important decisions such as which teachers to hire. VISST staff are open and transparent with students, and avoid reinforcing power dynamics. Teachers and students are all just people, on a journey of self-improvement together."

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "By focusing on helping students find purpose and happiness in their lives, NCA is creating an educational experience that goes beyond just academics.
    Research has shown that having a sense of purpose and happiness can have a positive impact on academic achievement, as well as overall well-being. By teaching students how to choose happiness as a lifestyle, NCA is equipping students with important life skills that can serve them well both in and outside of the classroom."

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    "Families are drawn to VISST for different reasons: the STEM curriculum, the way students are treated and respected, the project-based learning, the like-minded peers. One of VISST's key competitive advantages is our teachers. In BC, it is not required that a teacher have a degree in a subject in order to teach it. In contrast, VISST teachers are highly trained experts who buy into VISST's philosophy and values. We give our teachers the time and resources to shine and do their life's best work."

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "NCA values the whole student and is committed to promoting their personal growth and development, as well as their academic success. By providing an education that supports students' happiness and purpose, NCA may be helping to create a learning environment that is positive, engaging, and inspiring."

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    "VISST's culture is sometimes underrated. In a word, we are a STEM school -- this features in our school's name, even. But in sentence, we are a STEM school with an utterly different school culture. At VISST students are first class citizens. Students call teachers by their first names, share social spaces with teachers, interview teacher candidates during hiring, and participate in school governance. Students truly feel a part of VISST, and in doing so they build justified self-confidence."

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "Having a high IQ is no longer sufficient for success in today's world. In addition to cognitive abilities, social and emotional intelligence are becoming increasingly important for leadership and success in many fields. This is why Nancy Campbell Academy's emphasis on developing well-rounded leaders with high EQ is so relevant and valuable by teaching students how to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships."

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    "Some families think of VISST as a school for "math genius" types. While we do provide an excellent environment for students who excel in STEM subjects, VISST was created for a broader audience. We measure success by how much a student grows in 5 years, not by where they start or end up. All students at VISST enjoy STEM, are curious about it, and are capable of succeeding, but math doesn't have to be your strongest suit for you to attend and thrive at VISST. We also welcome "artsy" types!"

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    "By investing in state-of-the-art technology and providing opportunities for hands-on learning, NCA is creating an educational experience that is both relevant and exciting for students.

    The use of technology like VR learning and robotics not only helps to keep students engaged in their learning, but it also provides them with valuable skills that they can use in their future careers. By partnering with leading robotic firms in Canada, NCA is also giving students access to real-world experiences"

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Welcome to the Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST)! Before founding VISST, I was a computer science professor at UBC where I taught over 25 courses to thousands of students. At UBC I made two key observations. One, that university students are much more comfortable with well-defined short-term tasks than with ambiguity and long-term planning; this, I concluded, is likely a product of our current high school system. And two, I observed firsthand the insatiable demand for computer science at UBC and all universities around the world, which is well beyond our capacity to provide it. This is unfortunate, I felt, because kids are more than capable of learning computer science. Combining these observations with my teaching experience, I decided to create VISST along with a fantastic team. VISST is a non-profit high school in Vancouver that aims to address the struggles I observed in university students and the lack of computer science in high schools. 

    Our pedagogical approach is to combine project-based learning with rigorous fundamentals. The former builds teamwork skills, long-term planning, and comfort with ambiguity. The latter is an essential component to STEM excellence. An overarching theme of our educational philosophy is to have students interface with the real world as much as possible. Whether it is publishing an article, interpreting data from the news, or partnering with a community organization during a project, real-world experiences are motivating and educational. We would consider it a failure on our part if our students are left wondering, "Why am I learning this?"

    We look forward to having you explore VISST. Welcome to the VISST community.

    From Shanghai to Paris, from the Canadian Arctic to Argentina, Nancy

    Campbell Academy has welcomed students from all over the world to

    experience authentic happiness. As they pursue their academic studies they are

    morally strengthened by our capacity-building programme. By strengthening

    their ethical capability they are well prepared to make a difference to their

    families, their communities and the world!

    It is through the experience of learning to be of service to others as an integral

    centre of our curriculum that they build on their strengths. Giving creates

    happiness and joy. On our foundation of ‘Nineteen Moral Capabilities’, students

    develop positive qualities, attitudes and skills while gaining insight thus motivating them to

    build their inner moral architecture, so necessary to be successful.

    We have demonstrated our capacity to inspire leaders of the future. Our students do their

    best to contribute meaningfully, while achieving excellence in their academics! In the spirit of

    the pursuit of happiness through service to humankind we are confident students will be

    inspired to learn, to grow and achieve their true potential!

    Warm Regards

    Gordon Naylor

    Principal

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Information not available

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      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.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Not applicable

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Our curriculum philosophy involves a mix of rigorous fundamentals with project-based learning. Projects provide an incredible opportunity for students to pursue their interests, practice teamwork, grapple with ambiguity, and go deeper when their curiosity tugs. On the other hand, we also believe in the value of structured learning to build up fundamental knowledge and skills through practice, continually pushing the boundaries of our students’ capabilities. Our courses, STEM and otherwise, will be delivered through this combination of techniques. We have found that, often, progressive education models come at the expense of rigor. However, there is no need for this tradeoff: a curriculum can be both progressive — incorporating methods like project-based learning, inquiry-based learning, emphasis on self-reflection and mindfulness, etc. — and also highly rigorous. We are aware that an entirely project-based approach may leave gaps in students' knowledge; thus we combine projects with methodical and structured learning to achieve the best of both worlds.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      By using the Ontario Ministry Curriculum, NCA is ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that is recognized and valued by universities and employers. Emphasizing academic integrity and the importance of studying the arts and sciences for the benefit of society can also help students develop a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. The emphasis on happiness and well-being is also important for fostering academic success. When students are happy and feel supported, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their learning, which can lead to better academic outcomes.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      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).

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      VISST heavily incorporates project-based learning into the curriculum. During projects, students work at their own pace and can dive as deeply into a topic as their curiosity takes them. Outside of projects, VISST provides individualized instruction through small class sizes, expert teachers, and community mentors.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Students are given the opportunity to take courses online, pursue co-ops, and engage in internships in keeping with their unique interests, schedules, and goals. Those pursuing independent learning are paired with mentor teachers who are experienced in the subject matter and oversee the successful completion of the course.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      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”.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      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”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Students attend VISST because they are looking to challenge themselves. That said, a core value at VISST is balance. VISST students are not expected to sacrifice a good night's sleep due to homework. We want to make the most of students' high school experience, using time effectively, but we recognize the boundaries. We want our students to have both a great education and a happy childhood.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      At NCA it is expected that all students strive for academic excellence, cultivate discipline, and achieve high standards. In today's overly competitive environments that consider discouragement and criticism to be the norm, we stand apart by fostering encouragement combined with high standards. NCA students achieve distinction because they are motivated and happy. They seek out opportunities to support one another, realizing that the fulfillment of the unique potential of their friends and class-mates is important too. Our school prides itself in fostering a supportive and distinct learning environment, which promotes academic excellence within a framework of happiness and moral leadership.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Information not available

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      Secondary

      Secondary

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Intellectual
      The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

      Balance is a key value at VISST. We view the purpose of school as beyond academics. The primary purpose of school is intellectual development, but school should also help students understand their passions and learn about career options; it should be a time of character development and personal growth; it should be a place where lifelong friendships are forged; and it should be fun! We keep all these purposes in mind when making decisions at VISST.

      NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

      Our unique educational model and school environment transform students. We consider intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development as synergistic and inter-related. The discipline required for athletic sports, artistic pursuits, and moral leadership enable students to build capacity in multiple areas of their lives including academics. Every NCA student has the right to be one of tomorrow's leaders, and our program helps shape them into thoughtful, empowered, and high achieving young people.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    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


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    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

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    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

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    8 - 12

    7 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    70%

    15%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $8,000

    $11,700

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    80%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Rolling

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 8 - 12

    Yes: grades 7 - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    Yes: grades 8 - 12

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    We are looking for students who want to be challenged and who demonstrate the potential to meet those challenges. A strong applicant will also demonstrate that they understand what VISST is about and that they would really like to be a part of this unique school and community. As a STEM school, we are looking for students with an interest in STEM, but this does not have to be your only interest! On the contrary, we welcome students with a broad range of interests; a diverse student body will enrich the experience for everyone. You will find that VISST innovates, and employs amazing teachers, in all subject areas.

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    It sounds like NCA values community, encouragement, and finding purpose in one's pursuits. NCA is looking for students who are interested in academic excellence, promoting good citizenship, and social justice. NCA also values creativity and innovation in the arts, sciences, and technology. Students who are interested in being part of a supportive and collaborative community of learners, and who are eager to make a positive impact on the world around them, may be a good fit for NCA.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    VANCOUVER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

    See https://www.visst.ca/admissions for admissions information.

    NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY

    Admission Requirements

    Student admission is based on a three part process.

    1. Assessment of documents that include transcripts or report cards, I.E.P. (if applicable), psychological assessments (if applicable), the student’s letter of intent (stating why they might like to attend Nancy Campbell Academy and what they might contribute to our student body), certificates and proof of accomplishments and letters of reference. 

    2. Interview between student and vice principal or head of school. Approximately 30 minutes (can be done in person, by telephone or on Zoom). This is not a pass or fail situation - it is set up to get to know the student and to see how we can best meet the student’s needs and determine if it is a good school-student match. Students willing to learn is paramount. 

    3. The information gleaned about the student from parents or agents and any other professionals involved in the student’s life (health professionals, psychologists, etc.).

    Students that are accepted receive an acceptance letter and students that are not accepted receive a denial letter with steps outlining what they could do better to reapply in the future.

    Admission Process

    Step 1: Complete the application and return it to the school with a copy of the applicant’s most

    recent transcript or report cards from the previous school (previous 2 years) and a photocopy of

    passport (photo page only) and immunization record.

    Step 2: Documents are reviewed and the interview is scheduled for the student.

    Step 3: An Invoice for the deposit is issued to the student with instructions on how to pay.

    Step 4: Applicant is interviewed by the Principal or Vice-Principal (personal, telephone or skype).

    Step 5: A Letter Of Invitation is issued to the successful candidate with the final invoice.

    Unsuccessful candidates will receive a letter outlining the reasons and the deposit will be refunded.    

    Step 6: Upon acceptance of the invitation and receipt of the payment in full, a Letter of Acceptance, Custodianship, and an account

    statement is e-mailed to the International students. The Letter of Acceptance and Custodianship

    declaration can be used as evidence to support an application for a Canadian study visa. 

    Step 7: International students arrive at the school with an original copy of the following documents: Study

    Permit and Visa; School records of the previous study; Immunization Record.

    *If documents are not in English, they must have an official notarized translation.

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Dr. Munir Squires (2000)
    Assistant Professor at the Vancouver School of Economics, University of British Columbia. Dr. Squires has his PhD. in Economics from the London School of Economics.
    Hoda Paripoush (2000)
    Hoda Paripoush, owner of Sloane Tea, is one of the first certified tea sommeliers in North America and the first to receive accreditation from both Canadian and US tea associations.
    Jordan Kotras (2001)
    Jordan Kotras is an award winning assistant director based out of the United Kingdom. Some TV shows he's worked on include Netflix Exclusive Sex Education, Casual+y and Flying Tiger, among others.
    Dr. Amgad Squires (2001)
    Dr. Squires is a published biomedical physicist that has been featured in various academic journals including Nature, European Heart Journal and others.
    Lua Shayenne (2001)
    Lua Shayenne is a dance instructor at Ryerson University and an internationally acclaimed performance artist.
    Allister Foster (2001)
    Allister Foster, a Bahama native, is a cinema photographer. You've seen his work in Netflix shows Lost in Space, Lucifer and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, as well as Fear The Walking Dead and more.
    Dr. Lita Cameron (2001)
    Dr. Lita Cameron is a medical physician based in Hamilton, Ontario. She is a graduate of Simon Fraser University, The University of Oxford and received her M.D. from McMaster University.
    Yoland Senik (2005)
    Yoland Senik is an award-winning architect that focuses on environmentally-friendly designs. She attended OCAD University and OTIS College of Art & Design in California, USA.
    Dr. Alexander Miloff (2004)
    Dr. Miloff lectures at Stockholm University. He has attended Queen's University, Brag University in Bangladesh, University of Ottawa and received a PhD. in Psychology from Stockholm University.
    Tahirih Thimm (2002)
    Tahirih Thimm received her LLD. in International and Comparative Law from Osgood Hall Law School. She has worked for the United Nations as a climate activist and currently teaches at Brescia College.
    View all

Compare:

NANCY CAMPBELL ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




x

By logging in or creating an account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Information presented on this page may be paid advertising provided by the advertisers [schools/camps/programs] and is not warranted or guaranteed by OurKids.net or its associated websites. By using this website, creating or logging into an Our Kids account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Please also see our Privacy Policy. Our Kids ™ © 2023 All right reserved.