851 Tecumseh, Montreal (DDO), Quebec, H9B 2L2, Canada
671 Carter Road, Box 128, West Vancouver- Bowen Island, British Columbia, V0N 1G0, Canada
1974
1995
485
72
7 to 12
6 to 9
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English, French
English
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate
10 to 24
12 to 18
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$15,400
$20,925 to $26,507
Yes
Yes
0%
15%
7 to 11
6 to 9
$5,000
$5,000
81
18
0%
0%
0%
85%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
6, 7, 8, 9
Oct 09, 2020
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 11
Yes: grades 6 - 9
No
No
No
No
information not available
information not available
West Island College (WIC), in Montreal, is effectively two schools under one roof. It offers an enriched education for Grades 7 to 11 in two streams: one for native French language speakers and a separate French immersion program. Academic excellence is the main focus at WIC. The school also has strong athletics and arts programs, and offers a wide range of extracurriculars that includes musical theatre, debate, robotics, school newspaper work, and yoga. This helps unlock kids’ passions and nurtures their interests. After enrolment, kids enter one of three houses at WIC, creating instant camaraderie and community. Small class sizes, individualized learning, and whole-person development help kids thrive academically but also socially and emotionally. Kids at WIC are encouraged to grow into well-rounded, global-minded citizens who are actively engaged with their community both inside and outside of the school gates.
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Island Pacific School is unique in some key ways, the most obvious perhaps being that it is limited to the middle school years. It’s intentionally that way, of course, based in a belief that the experiences gained during that time in a child’s development are crucial to success in high school and beyond. Character, stewardship, and responsibility are emphasized, and very noticeably so in the Masterworks program, one that is emblematic of the approach of the school. It’s a research project that grade 9 students complete, and one that builds on what they’ve learned at the school in equal measure to their personal interests and growing sense of self. That program, as all the others offered at Island Pacific, require a lot of the students, not the least of which being the need to present themselves very overtly to the school community through a culminating presentation. The fact that the topic is chosen by the students is validating of their own interests and ideas, something that perhaps doesn't happen enough in the middle years. It has the potential to be a very empowering experience, and indeed, that’s exactly what the Island Pacific program has been created to offer. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge, and able to thrive within a tight-knit community of peers who are looking for the same.
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"They feel confident, challenged, and part of a community."
Bonnie Scorer - Parent (Jan 23, 2023)
We have been so pleased with Island Pacific School for our two children. They are both very happy! T...
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"West Island College (WIC) is two schools under the same roof: an entirely French school and an English school with a French immersion program. Both offer enriched studies. WIC students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies."
"Island Pacific School, an International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle School offers distinctly different programs including classes in reasoning, philosophy and ethics; a self-directed research project called Masterworks, monthly community service; a musical; hiking, sailing and kayaking expeditions. Small by design, and with a mission to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity, Island Pacific School, located on Nex̱wlélex̱wm (Bowen Island), fosters critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership."
"The WIC Difference
The Pursuit of Personal Excellence
Our vision is to be an inclusive community that continuously defines an innovative learning experience and cultivates multilingual, well-rounded, global-minded citizens who embrace change.
By cultivating a culture of care and connecting the classroom to the curriculum of life, WIC empowers every student to have a positive impact in their communities and beyond."
"The core purpose of Island Pacific School is to equip and inspire students to cultivate their humanity. It encompasses all the elements of our core instructional programs to help them help them become confident and caring members of society as a whole. Our middle school education program is about more than pure academic excellence (1st curriculum): it’s a balance between academics and cultivating our humanity."
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"Families choose West Island College for its established reputation (almost 50 years), close-knit community, bilingual environment, wide range of extra-curricular activities, enriched curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, inclusivity, and commitment to empowering students. These qualities create an educational experience that prepares students for academic success, while also equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world."
"Small by design, with a maximum of 72 students (up to 18 per grade), our students are taught by middle school experts and get to participate in a wide range of academic, artistic, and recreational pursuits designed to foster critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership. Our students are are alive and inspired, brave and accepted, and challenged daily to express the best of what it means to be human. They feel a sense of belonging and acceptance and are innovative and resilient."
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"Students sometimes learn as much, if not more, from the middle school activities in our extracurricular program. They are part of an intentional education strategy at Island Pacific school that challenges critical thinking, inquiry and the implementation of our values: wisdom, courage and integrity."
"WIC houses two schools in one building, allowing students to mingle together in all activities (meals are included in the fees at WIC). This integrated approach fosters unity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange among the student body. By going beyond language barriers, students develop strong communication skills, cultural competence, and a global perspective. It creates a unique and enriching environment where students can build lasting friendships and connections that extend beyond classrooms."
"Our students go on two extended trips into the great outdoors during the academic calendar: a fall hiking trip and a spring kayak trip. These expeditions provide physical and critical thinking challenges intended to bring out the best in individuals and the groups in which they work and play; challenges that call on the values on which Island Pacific School is founded: wisdom, courage and integrity.
Our school sport is Ultimate with emphasis the “Spirit of the Game”."
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It is a great pleasure and privilege to welcome you to West Island College Montréal!
We are immensely proud of the reputation our school has established since its founding in 1974. WIC is an independent, non-denominational co-ed day school with more than 470 students from Grades 7 to 11 and 65 staff, all united by the joy of learning, personal excellence in achievement, and shared values. Our progressive attitude and technology-infused approach shape our unique bilingual learning environment.
As you get to know us, you will see that WIC’s vision and mission are impactful, bringing together academic excellence and an inclusive learning community for all. The WIC difference builds on the school’s fantastic 46-year tradition to innovate and create meaningful opportunities for today’s young people, whether in the classroom, enriching experiential excursions or vibrant array of extracurriculars.
Our bilingual learning community embraces change and engages with the curriculum of life beyond the school gates. We positively challenge students of all backgrounds and ignite every student’s innate love of learning. A focus on personalized learning and whole-person development enables WIC students to thrive and achieve excellent results – we have a proven track record of successful progression into post-secondary education in Québec and beyond.
At the centre of every great school is an outstanding staff, and WIC is no exception. Whether inside the classroom or out, students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Together, our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies. Our students acquire the mindset and competencies to make a difference and succeed in the world of the future, actively contributing as well-rounded, global-minded citizens and deeply connected Montrealers.
The best way to get to know our community is to visit and discover why WIC truly is an extraordinary school where ideas live and breathe. Please contact our Admissions team and join one of our virtual tours. We very much look forward to welcoming you!
Island Pacific School is a small, independent, IB Grade 6-9 middle school that has operated on Bowen Island for over twenty-five years. Our students come from the local community, Vancouver, and around the world.
We operate on the basis of the following principles:
The school expresses and realizes these principles by way of a number of core program elements including:
Every year, a number of our alumni students return to the school’s “Rites of Passage” graduation ceremony because they have come to realize that IPS was a defining chapter in their lives. This is precisely our aim: to make a pivotal difference in the lives of our students, so that they might go on to make a difference in the world at large.
Thank you for taking the time to investigate our school. I would welcome and encourage you to set up an interview and a student visit to get an even better sense of who we are and what we do. I think you will be impressed and intrigued by what you find.
Liberal Arts
International Baccalaureate
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Liberal Arts curricula share with traditional programs their emphasis on core knowledge-acquisition, but tend to borrow more best practices from the progressive approach. A Liberal Arts program might still feature group work and projects, for example, contrary to the more singular emphasis on tests and essays at a Traditional program.
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.
MISSION To provide an innovative learning culture in a coed bilingual environment, in which each student develops the skills necessary to excel in post-secondary education and in life. VISION We are a lead school redefining the educational experience through innovative teaching and learning. The school, established in 1974, offers a rich tradition of achievement and a reputation as being progressive, innovative, and committed to excellence. At WIC, we provide a stimulating learning environment that is both nurturing and challenging in all areas. Our excellent academic, sports and cultural offerings afford every individual the opportunity to shape their development as well-balanced, happy, and contributing members of the community. Our school combines excellence in teaching, creativity in the curriculum, and a highly personal experience in a technology-enriched learning environment. At WIC, extraordinary opportunities such as international travel, extracurricular activities, arts, and athletics are accessible to all students, and within our small school environment, they are able to participate and excel in a variety of fields.
During the middle years, schools can either lose students or set them up for the rest of their lives. Put students in an environment of mediocrity and they will wither on the vine. Create a climate of challenge and expectation, and they will surprise us all. Located on Bowen Island, BC, Island Pacific School (IPS) is uniquely designed to give grade 6-9 middle school students the education they need: an education that challenges and surprises them to become the very best of who they are. Small by design, Island Pacific School is an IB Middle Years Program school with a total of 72 students, and is accredited by both ISABC and CAIS.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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We use a multi-delivery approach that combines direct instruction and blended learning. We stress both a strong foundation in mathematics basics and the opportunity to explore mathematical extensions.
In addition to standard math textbooks we also use IXL, an online support program.
We encourage the use of calculators as appropriate.
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Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
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We have a writing across the curriculum program that emphasizes a progression of writing skills. In addition to encouraging creativity, we pay particular attention to the development of strong grammatical skills.
Equal Balance
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.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
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Our science teacher puts particular emphasis on our students learning outdoors.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physiology
Traditional
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
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We regard literature as a window into the human condition. We take it as obvious that reading should be an integral part of everyone's life.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Core Knowledge
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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We complement our core knowledge curriculum with individual explorations. We have a busy excursion and community service calendar to get students out experiencing new communities every second week.
Perennialism
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
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Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
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We use the highly effect AIM language learning approach to teach French to grade 6 - 9. It is designed to provide students with quick fluency in practical situations.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Creative
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
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At IPS, our Art program focuses on giving our students exposure to a wide variety of artistic practices and mediums. We aim to engage their curiosity and excitement for the arts, while helping them to develop skills, and expand their personal limits. When an IPS student leaves the school, we want them to have an interest in the arts, and the courage to pursue whichever aspect of the arts that appealed to them the most.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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Digital citizenship, digital legacy and digital literacy. These three competencies are the foundation of the digital technology program at IPS. It is designed to reflect, and get ahead of, how information exchange in the world is evolving: socially, in education, in the workplace, and in the way data is stored. Teachers switch gears quickly between paper and digital content reaching for technology to solve problems and model that practice for students. Along with Google Classroom and Drive, teachers are using new tools for assignment distribution and tracking (Doctopus & Remind); data collection through Google Forms; regular correspondence through email; and tracking (internal Teacher Dashboard web portal).
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Emphasis in our phys ed program is on promoting healthy lifestyles for life.
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Standard-enriched
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
IPS incorporates project-based learning in all grades. All students are required to prepare projects for three Open Houses per year. The Masterworks independent study project is compulsory for every Grade 9 student. Students publicly defend their Masterworks and earn 4 credits towards their high school graduation.
Supportive
A school with a “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”.
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.
Students participate in a wide range of academic, artistic, and recreational pursuits designed to foster critical inquiry, community engagement and leadership. Guided by a highly qualified teaching staff, the middle school programs at IPS are designed to equip and inspire. They provide a foundation for Grade 6-9 students who may wish to pursue International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) programs in high school. At Island Pacific School, our middle school programs are developed to provide opportunities to experience new adventures. We are committed to delivering an exceptional middle school education – one that engages and inspires students for life.
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Kids with good heads on their shoulders.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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RecreationalRec. |
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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
7 - 11
6 - 9
0%
15%
$5,000
$5,000
0%
85%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
6, 7, 8, 9
Oct 09, 2020
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 7 - 11
Yes: grades 6 - 9
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 7 - 11
Yes: grades 6 - 9
No
No
No
No
We are looking for students with parents/caregivers who are committed to supporting their children in gaining an education that is worthy of the name. In particular, we need parents who understand that students need specific opportunities to learn to take responsibility for themselves and that students want, and are capable of, acheiving great things.
Evaluation for French School on Sunday, October 4, 2020
Evaluation for English School on Sunday, October 25, 2020
Early admission - December 1, 2022
Regular admission - February 21 , 2023
Late admission - Always welcome http://islandpacific.org/admissions/