Compare Moderate-level SEN International Schools in Vancouver, Canada

Lowell High School

📚 Learning Moderate 🧩 Behaviour None

Instructs in English

Fees CA$20,400 - 25,900

Type Co-educational

Lowell High School sits in downtown Vancouver and offers a clear path to post-secondary study. The school delivers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Grades 11-12 alongside the British Columbia Graduation Program for Grades 10-12, enabling an internationally focused two-year curriculum while meeting local graduation requirements. Small class sizes and BC-certified, IB-trained teachers support personalized learning in a campus that includes 7,000 square feet of dedicated learning, studying, and socializing space. The Diploma Programme provides rigorous, globally connected content with a strong emphasis on inquiry and university preparation. A Pathway Program helps students earn BC graduation credits through carefully managed coursework. Lowell is accredited by the BC Ministry of Education and is an associate member of the Federation of Independent School Associations. Beyond academics, field trips, arts programs, and student-led clubs foster creativity, wellbeing, service, and real-world skills. Field trips to nature centers, museums, and local sites enhance learning experiences.

Location

Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Address: 210-750 Hamilton Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2R5.

Stages

Grades 10–12. BC Graduation Program for grades 10–12 and the Diploma Programme (DP) of the International Baccalaureate for grades 11–12.

Type

Independent high school; IB World School.

Country affiliation

Canada

Application Fee

- A one-time, non-refundable application fee of CAD 300 is required at the time of application.

Tuition fees (by student type / programme)

- IB Diploma Programme — Domestic students: Tuition CAD 15,500 per academic year. Consolidated Fees CAD 4,600 per academic year (School Supplies & Facilities fee CAD 1,900; Extracurricular & Activity Service Fee CAD 2,700). Total for domestic IB students listed as CAD 20,400.

- IB Diploma Programme — International students (example year listing): Tuition CAD 21,000 per academic year; Consolidated Fees CAD 4,600; Total program charge CAD 25,900 (this reflects the published international-student fee schedule shown for the 2025 listing). Additional international-specific charge (where shown separately) is CAD 4,000 in some fee schedules.

- Grade-level / year-group note: The school publishes tuition by programme and by domestic vs international student category rather than separate tuition amounts for Grades 10, 11, and 12; the IB Diploma Programme and BC Dogwood (high-school diploma) tuition figures above apply to the applicable senior high programme.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- An official tuition invoice is issued after acceptance. To confirm placement, school fee payments (tuition deposit or required payments on the invoice) must be submitted within ten (10) days of issuance. The tuition fee must be paid by the specified deadline in the invoice in order to secure the student's place.

- The school operates on a semester calendar (first semester and subsequent semesters); refund and withdrawal rules reference the start of the first semester. Parents/guardians are required to follow the invoice deadlines for deposits and remaining balances.

Boarding / Accommodation (Homestay) fees

- There is no on-campus boarding; a Homestay program is provided for international students through the school's homestay arrangements. Homestay fees are published as a weekly rate, starting at CAD 500 per week (full board). Custodianship and homestay placement services are available and may incur separate charges (custodian documentation fee CAD 500 where applicable). Airport pick-up is published as an additional, per-trip fee (example: CAD 150).

Other costs and fees (examples and typical items)

- Consolidated Fees (see above) typically cover school supplies, facilities and extracurricular activity services. Consolidated Fees are shown as CAD 4,600 per year in published schedules.

- IB examination fees for Grade 12 are charged by the IB Organization in addition to school tuition; approximate IB exam fees are listed at around CAD 1,300 (actual cost depends on the number of exams taken).

- Uniforms: Uniforms are required and the basic uniform package cost is shown at approximately CAD 650.

- Student support / service fees: Example item shown as CAD 2,700 (may appear in consolidated or as a separate optional/mandatory support-service fee depending on the published schedule).

- Contingency / deposit: Example refundable contingency deposit shown as CAD 200. Medical insurance examples are shown at CAD 400. Transportation (Compass Card) example fee CAD 740. These and other optional fees (tutoring, trips, workshops, optional excursions) are listed as additional costs.

Refund information

- General refund rules for tuition: 1/2 of prepaid tuition will be refunded if a student withdraws prior to the start of the first semester. If a student withdraws within one week from the start of the first semester, 1/3 of prepaid tuition will be refunded. No refund is granted for withdrawals after one week from the start of the first semester (with stated exceptions).

- International-student visa refusal: A full refund of prepaid tuition, minus a processing fee (example: CAD 600), is issued to an international student whose study-visa application is rejected, provided the original embassy rejection letter and required refund request documentation are submitted.

- No refund conditions: No refund is granted for students expelled for disciplinary reasons, for students who withdraw after the one-week period following the first semester start, for students providing false information, or for certain other specified circumstances. Refunds are issued via the original payment method and are subject to an administration fee.

Fee payment options and transaction charges

- Accepted payment methods include bank drafts addressed to LOWELL HIGH SCHOOL INC., bank transfers (international wire transfers may incur an additional bank charge, example shown as CAD 50), credit card payments (credit-card payments are accepted but are subject to a transaction fee — example shown as 3.6%), and third-party e-pay methods such as AliPay / WeChat Pay (example transaction fee shown as 1%). Bank account details for wire transfers and instructions are provided on the school's payment forms.

Notes on typical billing items and timing

- Application fee (CAD 300) is payable with the application submission. An invoice is issued on acceptance and payment within ten days confirms the spot. Consolidated fees are charged annually alongside tuition in the published schedules. Certain items (IB exam fees, homestay, airport transfer, optional excursions) are charged separately as they occur. Refunds follow the school's documented refund policy and may be subject to administrative or processing fees.

Boarding Arrangements

The Lowell Homestay Program offers international students the opportunity to live with local families while they are studying at Lowell High School. Host families provide a safe, nurturing, English-speaking environment at a relatively affordable price. Host parents look out for the students' best interests and help them stay safe and healthy and encourage them in their schoolwork. Students have their own room with a study area, and meals are provided as part of the homestay.

Food Options

Three meals per day are provided through the homestay program.

Governance and Ownership

Lowell High School operates as an independent school in British Columbia. It complies with the Independent School Act Bonding Regulations and is bonded by the BC Ministry of Education. It is a member of the CBCIS international schools network.

Curriculum

Lowell High School offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11–12 and the British Columbia Graduation Program for Grades 10–12. The DP provides a two-year, internationally focused curriculum with six subject groups and core components. The BC Dogwood Graduation Program requires at least 80 credits, including 52 required and 28 elective credits, with at least 16 credits at Grade 12. The Pathway Program assists students in earning BC graduation credits, with specific credit limits. Small class sizes and BC-certified, IB-trained teachers support learning.

Student Teacher Ratio

Approx. 10:1

Exam Results

University/College Admission Rate: 100%

Higher Education Progression

Graduates receive offers from universities around the world.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Lowell High School supports social and emotional learning through its character-driven culture, which emphasizes empathy and integrity in daily conduct. The Vision describes graduates who are engaged, innovative, and compassionate, guiding interactions with others. The Values reinforce belonging and community spirit, with a focus on balancing academics, athletics, arts, and social life to support well-being. The school emphasizes global awareness, inquiry, and collaboration as part of student development. The environment is intentionally balanced to foster healthy social engagement and personal growth. These elements underpin everyday interactions, student life, and programs that nurture students' social-emotional development.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Lowell High School provides inclusive education with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for students identified with special needs. Inclusion means equitable access to learning and meaningful participation, with supports determined on an individual basis. An IEP is developed—typically in fall—with goals that reflect each student's strengths and growth areas and with parental and student involvement; in some cases the plan may involve external specialists. Adaptations occur through differentiated instruction, assistive technology, and alternative assessment approaches as outlined in the IEP. The policy emphasizes ongoing collaboration among home, school staff, and the student advisor, and requires progress reporting and annual reviews.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Lowell High School requires an adequate level of English proficiency to participate and succeed in the learning process. The Admissions Policy states that applicants must demonstrate an adequate level of English to participate in the learning process. This standard applies to both internal and external candidates applying to Lowell High School programmes.

Mental Wellbeing

Lowell High School offers a safe, nurturing English-speaking homestay environment for international students. Host families support students' safety, health, and academic success. The homestay environment helps students improve their English through daily interaction with host families. Lowell High School has an excellent team of advisors who communicate with students to monitor their academic and personal success. The program provides information on health and safety resources, including the BC Helpline for Children, Kids Help Phone, and the Kelty Mental Health Resource Center.

Safeguarding

ERASE Report It Tool provides a secure online service that allows students to send an anonymous and confidential message about worrisome or concerning issues. The tool lists a range of reportable concerns, including Bullying/Cyberbullying, Harassment, Mental Health Concern, Suicide, and other safety issues. The service guides users through a series of questions to share information and to request assistance. Lowell High School uses ERASE to support a safe, inclusive, and caring school community.

Facilities Overview

The school has 7,000 square feet of learning, studying, and socializing space.

Academic Facilities

The school offers the Diploma Programme (DP) for grades 11-12 and the British Columbia Graduation Program for grades 10-12. The IB provides an internationally standardized, enriched curriculum that includes first-year university concepts and materials. Lowell High School is accredited by the BC Ministry of Education and is an associate member of the Federation of Independent School Associations.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Field trips enhance coursework with trips to nature centers, museums and other local sites around the Lower Mainland. Clubs and outdoor activities include student-led clubs and outdoor events designed to develop life skills and well-being. Community engagement activities involve students in empathetic, innovative service within and beyond the classroom. Arts programs encourage creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking through student art.

Academic & Intellectual

Field trips enhance courses by connecting classroom learning with real-world settings around the Lower Mainland. Field trip sites may include nature centers, local businesses, museums, and amusement parks. These experiences allow students to apply classroom concepts and reflect on their learning. Field trips support experiential learning as part of Lowell High School's approach to education.

Arts & Creative

Arts at Lowell High School encourages students to create art to nurture creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking. This work helps students develop technical skills and a deeper understanding of the world. It also aims to build confidence and foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Social & Hobbies

Clubs and Outdoor Activities provide essential life skills. They give students opportunities to unplug from daily routines and engage in experiences that support well-being. Students identify, apply, and reflect on strategies that enhance and maintain their well-being. These activities also promote teamwork and social connections outside the classroom.

Community & Service

Community Engagement emphasizes empathy and integrity in actions. Students participate in activities that are engaged, innovative, and compassionate within and beyond the classroom. The program encourages community-minded service, collaboration, and social responsibility.

Leadership & Professional

Activities are designed to develop leadership, communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills. The goal is for students to utilize their talents and exercise their leadership abilities in real-life situations. Students gain leadership experience through participating in clubs, student activities, and community projects. Lowell High School prepares students for post-secondary education and professional settings.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Clubs and Outdoor Activities support students' well-being by providing opportunities for physical activity and reflective practice. Field trips broaden horizons and provide context beyond the classroom, contributing to balanced well-being. These experiences encourage balance between academics and personal growth. Lowell High School fosters a safe, inclusive environment that supports students' social and emotional well-being.

Admissions

Step 1: Complete and Submit an Application Form. The Application Form must be filled out by a parent or legal guardian if the student is under 19. Submit the Application form along with the non-refundable application fee of $300 to admissions@lowellhighschool.ca. Step 2: Submit supporting documentation. Provide a passport, official transcript or report card for at least the last two years, a one-page personal statement describing the student's qualities and goals, a digital passport-size photo, medical insurance policy if applicable, a custodian declaration form if applicable, and a study permit if applicable. Step 3: Attend an admission interview. After reviewing the application, the Admissions Office will reach out to schedule a student interview. Step 4: Welcome Package. Accepted students will receive a welcome package and their fee schedule for the school year. Step 5: Tuition Fee Payment. The tuition fee must be paid prior to the specified deadline in order to secure a spot in the accepted grade. Step 6: Letter of Acceptance. For international students, a Letter of Acceptance will be issued for the Study Permit application. Dates and Deadlines: Applications and enrolment are accepted on a rolling basis, subject to space availability. For international students, it is recommended to apply 2–3 months before the intended start date, or earlier depending on visa processing times. See also Scholarships for details on financial awards.

Scholarships

Diversity scholarships offer up to $2,000 CAD, available to admitted international students. Merit-based scholarships offer up to $6,000 CAD, awarded for achievement in academics, the arts, or sports. See the Scholarship Flyer for additional details.

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Vancouver Talmud Torah

📚 Learning Moderate 🧩 Behaviour None

Fees CA$7,944 - 17,190

Vancouver Talmud Torah is an inclusive Jewish community day school in Canada that blends General and Judaic studies with an ISTEAM approach. From Early Childhood through Grade 7, students engage in critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity while developing a strong Jewish identity woven throughout the curriculum. ISTEAM is integrated throughout, with Early Childhood programs including ISTEAM concepts and licensed by Vancouver Coastal Health, and a 1:8 staff–student ratio. The school's Centre Stage program provides outlets in the arts, with daily art exploration, chorus, Israeli dance, and a professional spring musical. The 42,000-square-foot campus supports flexible iSTEAM spaces, two full-sized gyms, a rooftop sport field, secure learning environments, and kosher kitchens offering hot lunches. After school, Bayit provides extended-day care, and about 25 programs run Monday to Thursday. The school fosters leadership, service, and community through Chesed initiatives and a broad extracurricular program, including athletics and arts.

Location

998 West 26th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2G1, Canada

Stages

Early Childhood Education (Rishonim age 3; Junior Kindergarten age 4; Senior Kindergarten to Grade 7)

Type

The school is an inclusive Jewish community day school

Additional learning support

Inclusive education with learning support services; differentiated instruction; universal design for learning; executive functioning coaching; social-emotional support; counselling; support for differing abilities

Country affiliation

Canada

Religious affiliation

Judaism

School day structure

Rishonim and Junior Kindergarten begin at 8:15 a.m.; Senior Kindergarten to Grade 7 begin at 8:30 a.m.; Dismissal at 3:20 p.m. (2:20 p.m. on early dismissal Fridays); aftercare available until 5:00 p.m.

Bus service

VTT bus to the JCC after school; cost $2.00 per ride; departs VTT at 3:35 p.m.; seats allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis; bus service starts September 4

Application / Enrollment Fees and Deposits

- An annual, non‑refundable commitment deposit is charged as part of VTT's continuous enrollment process; this deposit is automatically withdrawn or charged after the continuous‑enrollment anniversary date if a family does not opt out by the deadline.
- Historical enrollment‑deposit amounts (for reference to typical practice) have included tiered non‑refundable deposits by program (for example: Preschool CAD 500; Kindergarten CAD 750; Grades 1–7 CAD 1,000 under an earlier enrollment contract). These deposits are applied against the annual tuition balance.

Tuition fees by programme / year group (published figures and recent listings)

- Early childhood / Rishonim and Junior Kindergarten:
- Published historical fee examples show half‑day and extended‑day options (example figures previously published: Half‑day program around CAD 7,944; Extended‑day program around CAD 12,072). These program formats and prices have been used as the basis for early childhood fee structures.

- Senior Kindergarten to Grade 7:
- Publicly available school payment forms from prior years listed Senior Kindergarten through Grade 7 tuition in the range of approximately CAD 17,000 (example: CAD 17,190 in a previously published payment form). Third‑party school listings show typical annual tuition for Grades 1–7 around CAD 16,990. These figures illustrate the established tuition band for the primary/intermediate program.

- Notes on year grouping and siblings:
- Multi‑student discounts and affordability adjustments are applied under the school's affordability program and the tuition assistance program; discounts of up to 30% for eligible multi‑student families are part of the published affordability program structure.

Per‑term / payment schedule detail

- Tuition may be paid in full or by instalments. Instalment schedules in prior payment forms allowed monthly installments (with post‑dated cheques or automatic withdrawals) running across the academic year; instalments are typically scheduled to start no later than April/September depending on the year and to conclude the following spring. Payment schedules are set at re‑enrollment and reflected on the family's tuition assessment. Example administrative practice included installment withdrawals on the 1st or 15th of the month.

- The school has implemented a continuous enrollment model; families who do not opt out by the published anniversary date will have the annual commitment deposit charged automatically.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Families receive a tuition assessment at re‑enrollment that specifies the total tuition and payment schedule for the year. Outstanding balances historically have been subject to interest charges if unpaid; prior contracts set interest on unpaid balances and required either full payment by an early spring date or post‑dated cheques for instalments. Failure to pay may result in account holds and enforcement actions as set out in the enrollment contract.

Boarding fees

- Vancouver Talmud Torah is a day school; boarding is not offered and there are no boarding fees.

Other costs and levies

- Universal lunch levy (2026–27): An annual universal lunch levy of CAD 950 per child (CAD 95/month) has been established for the 2026–27 school year to cover a subsidized daily kosher lunch program; the program's approximate cost per day is CAD 5.35 and the levy is embedded in tuition for Rishonim through Grade 7.

- Additional typical one‑time or program fees (examples from past payment forms and program listings):
- Graduation or Grade 7 program levies (where applicable) and yearbook or trip levies have appeared as separate line‑item fees in prior years.
- After‑school program fees, Bayit and early‑childhood aftercare fees are billed separately and have their own published refund and cancellation rules.

- Administrative or service fees: Credit‑card processing surcharges (historically 3%) have been applied to card payments for tuition or other fees in earlier published payment forms and third‑party listings.

Refund and withdrawal policy

- The school's enrollment contract states that deposits, tuition or other fees paid or owing will not be refunded or waived in the event of non‑attendance, absence, withdrawal or expulsion. The continuous‑enrollment policy treats the annual commitment deposit as non‑refundable and non‑transferable when charged after the anniversary date if families did not opt out in time. Refund terms for after‑school or extra‑curricular program fees vary by program and are published with those program policies.

Fee payment options and how payments are processed

- Accepted payment methods have included: pre‑authorized debit/automatic bank withdrawals, post‑dated cheques, cash (in person), e‑transfer for specific program payments, and credit card (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX) for some payment types. Credit card payments have historically incurred a processing fee when used for tuition or other charges. Specific payee addresses and e‑transfer destination addresses have been provided for particular programs and offices.

Tuition assistance and affordability adjustments

- The school operates two financial support mechanisms: a Means‑tested Tuition Assistance Committee (TAC) process and an Affordability Program (AP) that offers documented multi‑student discounts (up to 30%) and income/wealth thresholds for eligibility. VTT publishes application timelines and certification requirements for these programs and applies substantial tuition subsidies community‑wide.

Summary (key actionable points for a parent entering these figures in a database)

- Program tuition bands historically: Early childhood programs (half‑day/extended‑day) and Senior Kindergarten–Grade 7 programs; typical annual tuition examples have ranged from roughly CAD 7,900 (half‑day early years) through CAD ~17,000 (Senior K–Grade 7) in past published forms and third‑party listings.
- 2026–27 specific additions and policy items confirmed: 2026–27 universal lunch levy CAD 950 per child (CAD 95/month) embedded in tuition; the school implemented Affordability Program updates with multi‑student discounts up to 30% and a reported ~3% tuition increase for 2026–27.
- Deposit, payment methods, credit card surcharge (historically 3%), non‑refundable deposit and non‑refund of tuition on withdrawal are active parts of the school's fee and enrollment terms.

(End of fees overview.)

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are required for Senior Kindergarten through Grade 7 during school hours. InSchoolwear is the uniform supplier. Parents are responsible for sending the student to school in a clean, well-maintained uniform clearly labelled with the student's name.

Food Options

Kosher hot lunch program is offered. A universal lunch program has been introduced.

House System

Competitive athletic teams and house leagues are part of VTT's athletics program.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a board of directors.

Curriculum

The school offers a rigorous general and Judaic studies curriculum that integrates ISTEAM (Israel Innovation, Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) and fosters a Start Up Nation mindset. Centre Stage provides an expressive and creative outlet within the arts program. In Early Childhood, ISTEAM is included and students participate in music, movement and art; the EC program is fully licensed by Vancouver Coastal Health and has a 1:8 staff-student ratio. From early childhood through Grade 7, students learn to think critically, collaborate effectively and develop creativity, confidence, and a strong moral foundation, with Jewish identity woven throughout. The curriculum includes plant-based learning and a broad range of extra-curricular activities, including athletics and enrichment in the arts.

Student Teacher Ratio

The Early Childhood program has a 1:8 staff-student ratio.

Gifted and Talented

For advanced or gifted learners, differentiated classroom extensions, advanced inquiry-based projects and opportunities to dive deeper into subject matter keep them deeply engaged.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Counselling services at VTT include two full-time counsellors providing short-term counselling and educational programs. They work with the educational leadership team, teachers, parents and community agencies to support the development and well-being of students. Annual goals include supporting individual students in focus sessions, visiting classrooms to teach SEL, coaching teachers in SEL and creating a shared SEL vocabulary. They participate in professional development and growth through ISABC's personal counsellor meeting group, mental health and wellbeing groups, FISA's school counsellor support group, and Prizmah's school counsellor meeting group, and attend student IEP meetings when appropriate. SEL tools include Zones of Regulation, Open Parachute, MindUp, Erase Bullying BC, Safer Schools Together and Social Media Education with Mediated Reality. VTT supports students with differing abilities through a Coordinator of Learning Support Services who helps teachers develop executive functioning and organizational skills.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

VTT supports students with a range of learning needs. The Coordinator of Learning Support Services works with teachers to help students develop executive functioning and organizational skills. Two full-time counsellors provide short-term counselling and educational programs aligned with the learning support approach. The school participates in professional development networks including ISABC, FISA and Prizmah for counsellor support. IEP meetings are attended when appropriate to support individual education planning.

Mental Wellbeing

Two full-time counsellors provide short-term counselling and educational programs to support student well-being. They work with the educational leadership team, teachers, parents and community agencies to support development and well-being. Annual goals include supporting individual students in focus sessions, visiting classrooms to teach SEL, coaching teachers in SEL and creating a shared SEL vocabulary. SEL curricula used include Zones of Regulation, MindUp, Open Parachute, Erase Bullying BC, Safer Schools Together and Social Media Education with Mediated Reality. VTT participates in professional groups for mental health and well-being and attends student IEP meetings when appropriate.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding and child protection are addressed through policies including the Child Abuse Policy, Harassment & Bullying Prevention Policy, Anti-Bullying Policy, Personal Information Privacy Policy, Lost/Damaged Book Policy and Field Trips Policy. Policies and forms are listed on the Handbooks, Policies & Forms page. Accessibility at VTT is addressed through an Accessibility document and Barrier Reporting Form. Field Trips Policy governs safeguarding during school excursions.

History

Vancouver Talmud Torah has a 100-year history. VTT Onward: The 100 Year History is a documentary about this history. It was written and directed by VTT alumnus Adam Bogoch. The film features archival material from VTT's archives and interviews with generations of community leaders, faculty, leadership, students and alumni.

Community

The VTT community is diverse in geographic, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. It embraces all Jewish families—observant, traditional, secular or interfaith. As a community school, Centre Stage and buddy programs build cross-grade connections and friendships. The Parent Action Chavurah (PAC) supports the school and parent body.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent Action Chavurah (PAC) is the parent association that supports the school and parent body. Parent volunteers organize family dances, family Shabbat picnics, ice skating gatherings, sports outings and after-school movie screenings to build community.

Facilities Overview

Vancouver Talmud Torah operates a state-of-the-art 42,000-square-foot campus built for learning. FLEX SPACE supports iSTEAM learning (Israel Innovation, Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). The campus includes two full-sized gyms and large multi-purpose rooms, with fantastic outdoor spaces and a dedicated early childhood playground. Indoor spaces receive abundant natural light and are equipped with a security infrastructure for a safe environment. The revitalized campus features an early years wing with a licensed extended day program and kosher kitchens offering hot lunches and catering for school and community events, as well as the largest rooftop sport field in Vancouver.

Sports Facilities

Two fully purposed gyms and large multi-purpose rooms provide space for physical education and sports programs. The campus includes the largest rooftop sport field in Vancouver for outdoor practices and activities. Outdoor spaces support a wide range of athletic activities and events. These facilities enable PE classes, team practices and school-wide athletic events.

Academic Facilities

FLEX SPACE supports iSTEAM learning, including Israel Innovation, Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Flexible learning environments support new programs for iSTEAM learning. The campus features collaborative workspaces and lots of natural light to support student inquiry. The revitalized spaces are designed to adapt to evolving programs and to foster collaborative, hands-on learning.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Athletic teams include soccer, volleyball, basketball, ultimate frisbee, track and climbing, and the school operates junior and senior bands. Students participate in lunchtime activities such as choir, Israeli dance, chesed club, magazine club, debate club and D&D club, as well as intramural athletics. After dismissal, the Bayit after-care program runs until 5:00 p.m., and about 25 after-school programs run Monday to Thursday. A bus to the JCC supports Club J and additional activities. The PAC coordinates family dances, Shabbat picnics, ice skating gatherings, sports outings and movie screenings to build community.

Academic & Intellectual

The school offers a rigorous general and Judaic studies curriculum that integrates ISTEAM (Israel Innovation, Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) and fosters a Start Up Nation mindset. Critical thinking and communication are honed as students collaborate on multidisciplinary projects within an inquiry‑based model that teaches them to creatively solve problems and learn how to learn. A typical day includes riveting guest speakers, curriculum-connected field trips, theme‑oriented assemblies and Jewish holiday celebrations, with hands‑on learning opportunities before, during and after school.

Arts & Creative

At VTT, daily art exploration and creation activities promote creativity. Our art, music and band faculty contribute to the development of the whole child, and intermediate students participate in professional spring musical productions through the Centre Stage performing arts program. Lunch-time activities include choir and Israeli dance, and the school offers co-curricular arts programs such as magazine club and debate club.

Cultural & Language

Hebrew language instruction is part of the Judaic studies program. The Judaic studies program also facilitates the study of Jewish rituals, holidays, the weekly Torah portion and, in upper grades, Jewish texts. The school maintains a vibrant link to the State of Israel through ShinShin, which brings young Israeli emissaries to spend a year interacting with students.

Social & Hobbies

Lunch-time activities include choir, Israeli dance, Chesed Club, magazine club, debate club, D&D club and intramural athletics. Spirit days and non-uniform days support charitable activities and strengthen school spirit. Chesed Club fosters teamwork and social involvement through service projects.

Community & Service

Chesed Club and the Chesed Leadership Program engage students in charitable initiatives and community service, reflecting a commitment to Tikkun Olam. The Chesed Leadership Program (Grades 6–7) trains student leaders who monitor at lunch, support athletic and intramural programs, participate in assemblies, and drive school‑wide initiatives and charity drives.

Leadership & Professional

Students assume leadership roles to benefit the school community. Chesed Leadership Program provides ongoing leadership training, monitors during lunch, and helps create and sustain school initiatives, assemblies and charity drives. Leaders act as ambassadors for school events and organize monthly drives to support causes they care about.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school offers a broad range of athletic opportunities, including intramurals, house teams and Tornadoes teams in volleyball, basketball, soccer, climbing, ultimate frisbee, track and field and cross country. Two full-sized gyms and a rooftop sport field support a vibrant physical education program. A host of after-school programs lengthen the day to 5 PM.

Admissions

1) Inquiry and campus visit. Vancouver Talmud Torah accepts applications for the 2027–2028 school year for children born in 2022, 2023, and 2024. A tour can be booked by submitting an inquiry or emailing the Associate Director of Admissions to start the admissions process. 2) Acceptance criteria and wait list. The Admission Committee evaluates students based on school records, teacher recommendations, and school visits. If openings are filled, qualified applicants may enter a wait pool. Acceptance cannot be guaranteed. 3) Enrollment timeline. Applications for Grades One to Seven should be submitted by mid-February; outside deadlines may be possible depending on space. All applications are reviewed by the admissions committee. Ongoing personalized tours are available. January onwards includes NEW APPLICANT DEADLINES for Rishonim, Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten; Early Years offers begin in January, with Offers of Enrollment emailed to current and new Early Years families. The Early Years Enrollment deadline is one week after the Offer. From February onwards, Grade 1–7 offers of enrollment are issued; The Tuition Assistance Deadline occurs at the end of February. 4) Questions and contact. For questions regarding the admissions process, call 604.736.7307 or email the Associate Director of Admissions. The deadline to submit AP Certification is one week after receiving the Offer of Enrollment. The school provides an Affordability Program (multi-student discounts up to 30%) and a Tuition Assistance Program (TAC) with an online FAST application (USD 63 fee). AP is offered from Senior Kindergarten onwards, as is the case with TAC. The TAC fund relies on donor support and includes annual auditing of random TAC applicants; families are encouraged to notify the finance office if their financial situation changes.

Scholarships

VTT offers a Tuition Assistance Program (TAC) for families requiring more than 30% of total tuition; Applications are completed online via FAST with a USD 63 fee and are reviewed after all required documents are submitted. An award is determined if circumstances merit and a minimum tuition is paid by all families; TAC funds are supported by donors and subject to annual audits. AP (Affordability Program) offers discounts up to 30% for eligible families and is offered from Senior Kindergarten onwards; AP requires modest financial disclosure to verify income. In cases of financial need beyond TAC/AP, the Hebrew Free Loan Association of Greater Vancouver is a resource, and Emergency Financial Assistance (EFA) is available for exceptional circumstances.

Waitlist

The Admission Committee may place qualified applicants into a wait pool when openings are filled. The wait pool serves to match families with openings as they arise. Acceptance from the wait pool is not guaranteed.

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York House School

📚 Learning Moderate 🧩 Behaviour None

Instructs in English

Ages 4 - null years

Fees CA$31,225 - 31,900

Pupils 700

Type Girls School

York House School is an independent JK to grade 12 day school for girls located at 4176 Alexandra Street in Vancouver. The BC Curriculum forms the core framework from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12, with a Reggio Emilia inspired approach to inquiry and project based learning. Advanced Placement courses are offered, and students complete Capstone projects to demonstrate integrated knowledge. Electives are available through the Global Online Academy, allowing Grades 11 and 12 to supplement the core program with mostly asynchronous online studies. The school has a history dating to 1932 and a longstanding bilingual and bicultural tradition, including English and French programs and international exchanges. Facilities include a STEAM lab, a concert band, and a Wellness Hub, with athletic teams called the York House Tigers. York House educates 700 female-identifying students and emphasizes community involvement, leadership, and global awareness through service, exchanges, and a rich cocurricular program for learners.

Location

York House School is located at 4176 Alexandra Street, Vancouver, BC V6J 2V6, Canada. It is an inclusive independent JK-12 school for girls in Vancouver, BC. The campus comprises the Little School, Junior School and Senior School.

Stages

JK-12; Little School (early years), Junior School (elementary), Senior School (secondary).

Type

Independent JK-12 day school for girls.

Additional learning support

Learning Strategies is offered to support students' learning.

Country affiliation

Canada

Application fees

- Application fee (non-refundable): CAD 350.
- Re-application fee (non-refundable): CAD 250.
- New Student Entrance Fee (non-refundable): CAD 5,000.

Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts)

- Junior Kindergarten – Grade 7 (annual tuition): CAD 31,225.
- Grade 8 – Grade 12 (annual tuition): CAD 31,900.

Note: tuition is presented by the school as annual amounts for the 2025–26 academic year. The school does not publish a per-term breakdown on the public tuition page.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- A separate New Student Entrance Fee of CAD 5,000 is required and is non-refundable; application and re-application fees are non-refundable as stated above.
- The school indicates that families receive complete information about their financial obligations before enrollment; specific invoice dates, payment deadlines, and installment schedules are not published on the public tuition or admissions pages.

Boarding fees

- Not applicable. York House does not offer boarding or homestay; there are no boarding fees.

Other costs and compulsory/typical additional fees

- Parents' Association Membership Fee: CAD 25.
- Parents' Association Raffle Fee: CAD 100.
- Chronicle Yearbook Fee: CAD 90.
- Emergency Preparedness Fee (one-time; does not apply to JK): CAD 50.
- Textbook fee: Senior Kindergarten – Grade 7: CAD 125; Grade 8 – 12: CAD 250.
- Outdoor Education fees (per program/trip): CAD 325 – CAD 625 (range).
- Junior School After School Program (2025–26, subject to change): CAD 4,800.
- Little School After School Program (2025–26, subject to change): CAD 4,800.
- Alum Association one-time membership fee (does not apply to JK): CAD 100.

Refund information

- Application fees (CAD 350) and the re-application fee (CAD 250) are non-refundable. The New Student Entrance Fee (CAD 5,000) is non-refundable. No general tuition refund schedule or detailed refund policy is published on the public tuition or admissions pages.

Fee payment options

- Specific accepted payment methods (for example: credit card, debit card, bank transfer, cheque) are not listed on the public tuition or admissions pages. Families are told they will receive complete information about financial obligations prior to enrollment; for payment method details, families should use the school's published enrollment contacts.

Summary of findings and gaps

- Published, definitive items available on the school's public pages include: application and re-application fees; the CAD 5,000 new student entrance fee (all non-refundable); annual tuition amounts for Junior Kindergarten–Grade 7 and Grades 8–12 for 2025–26; and a list of common additional fees (textbooks, yearbook, outdoor education, after-school program fees, parents' association items, alumni fee).
- The public information does not include: a per-term tuition breakdown, a published billing calendar with invoice or due dates, a detailed refund schedule for tuition after enrollment, or explicit lists of accepted payment methods. These items are not available on the tuition, apply, or admissions policy pages.

If you need these missing operational details incorporated into your database (billing schedule, per-term amounts, accepted payment methods, or refund schedule), the school's enrollment/finance contacts can provide them directly.

Boarding Arrangements

The school does not offer boarding or homestays.

Uniform Requirement

The school has a uniform; trousers are an option.

Food Options

The school has a cafeteria.

House System

Arbutus (Blue), Cypress (Yellow), Maple (Red), Pine (Green). Every student from Grade 3 to Grade 12 belongs to a House and earns points for academics, athletics, and Community Learning; the House with the most points receives the House Shield in Junior School and the House Trophy in Senior School.

Governance and Ownership

York House School is an inclusive independent JK-12 school for girls. It is governed by a Board of Governors comprising 12 elected members plus three advisors, and the Board appoints and delegates authority to the Head of School.

Curriculum

York House uses the BC Curriculum as its core framework from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12. The learning approach is Reggio Emilia–inspired. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered, and students complete Capstone projects. Electives are available through the Global Online Academy, providing online courses beyond the core York House curriculum. GOA courses are designed to align with BC curriculum and are available to Grades 11 and 12 as add-ons to the timetable, with mostly asynchronous learning and some synchronous components.

Student Teacher Ratio

Junior Kindergarten: 16 students with two teachers; Senior Kindergarten: 20 students with two teachers. Junior School classes typically have 20–22 students, while Senior School classes range from 6 to 22 students depending on the subject.

Exam Results

100% of York House graduates receive offers of admission to post-secondary institutions in Canada and around the world. Graduates pursue studies in fields including architecture, law, engineering, and fashion. They have earned major entrance scholarships such as the Loran Award, the Schulich Leader Scholarship, and the TD Scholarship for Community Leadership.

Higher Education Progression

Graduates pursue post-secondary education in Canada and around the world. The admissions advisory program provides one-on-one guidance, a resource centre, and post-secondary liaisons to help with course selection, applications, and scholarships. In Grade 11, students participate in Work Integrated Learning and complete a self-directed Capstone project, guided by mentors. York House graduates have received offers of admission to post-secondary institutions and have earned major scholarships, including the Loran Award, Schulich Leader Scholarship, and TD Scholarship for Community Leadership.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Well-being is prioritized alongside learning at York House. Personal counsellors provide a safe, confidential space for students to share thoughts, feelings, and experiences with trusted support. Counselling supports personal, mental health, social, academic, and health challenges and transitions or losses in life. Counsellors listen attentively and help students understand their emotions, develop new strategies for navigating experiences and relationships, and build coping skills and resilience. They also run wellness workshops for students on decision-making, problem-solving, emotional well-being, mental health, and stress management.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

York House offers a Learning Strategies program that recognizes each student's unique learning profile, with personalized guidance and support to develop learning toolkits and foster independence, confidence, and resilience. Learning Strategies teams at both the Junior and Senior Schools tailor needs-based and strengths-based support, working with students, families, and teachers to create inclusive environments where every neurotype is valued. Teachers partner with students to explore individual profiles and identify effective strategies to optimize learning, relationships, and well-being, with approaches ranging from small-group work in the Junior School to one-on-one or small-group support in the Senior School. The Admissions Policy notes that the school welcomes pupils with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) and that the Learning Support Department provides the necessary support; families may be asked to provide reports to assist adjustments. The school welcomes pupils with physical disabilities provided the site can accommodate their needs; families should discuss requirements before entry, including EHCPs and related documentation; the school also welcomes pupils with EHCP plans where the required level of support can be provided as stated.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school welcomes pupils who have English as an additional language and discusses thoroughly with families any adjustments that can reasonably be made for the child when they join York House.

Mental Wellbeing

York House provides Wellness and Personal Counselling to support mental wellbeing. Counsellors offer a safe, confidential space and short-term counselling for personal, mental health, social, academic, and health concerns, and transitions. They also run wellness workshops on emotional well-being, mental health, decision-making, problem-solving, and stress management. Counsellors help students develop coping skills and resilience and support families with resources and referrals when appropriate.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding, Welfare of Children and Child Protection Policy applies to all sections of York House School, including EYFS. The school designates a safeguarding lead (DSL) and deputies; staff receive regular safeguarding training and induction, and the policy outlines procedures for recognizing and reporting concerns, dealing with disclosures, and multi-agency working. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and the school's child protection arrangements are reviewed annually, with clear pathways for referrals to local authorities and police as required. The school's aims include partnerships with families, robust policies, accessible child protection arrangements, and secure site, health and safety practices.

History

York House School is an inclusive independent JK-12 school for girls in Vancouver, BC. It was founded in 1932 by seven fearless women who opened a small school in Shaughnessy Heights with 17 students and the motto Not for Ourselves Alone. In 1939 the school moved to 4176 Alexandra Street, where it remains today. A bilingual and bicultural program began in 1963, later evolving to the Accelerative Integrated Method for English and French, and Les Jeunes Voyageurs Canadiens formed in 1968 to support travel and global programs. In 1974 the school began enrolling boys in grades 1-6, but by 1990 the last male students graduated and York House returned to being all girls; today it educates nearly 700 female-identifying students.

Community

Our community is small, but that's part of the magic. The Alum Association, the Parents' Association, and the YHS Foundation form the core of Our Community. The Parents' Association promotes a sense of community among students, parents, and guardians through volunteering and fundraising for student scholarships. Annual fundraising events like Bid Night, the Tiger Party, and the PA Raffle raise funds for the YHS Tiger Scholarship Fund.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

York House School's Parents' Association promotes a sense of community among students, parents, and guardians through volunteering and fundraising for student scholarships. Every parent and guardian at YHS is a member of the Parents' Association and volunteers through various events and initiatives. Upholding the school motto Not for Ourselves Alone is an inspiration to the community. Annual fundraising events such as Bid Night, the Tiger Party, and the PA Raffle raise funds for the Tiger Scholarship Fund to provide opportunities for talented students. As a non-profit society, every dollar raised flows directly back into creating student opportunities. The Parents' Association maintains an executive team, including President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Deputy Treasurer, Communications, Volunteer Coordinator, and Past President.

Facilities Overview

York House School is an inclusive JK-12 school for girls in Vancouver, BC. The Little School for Junior Kindergarten and Senior Kindergarten is minutes from the main campus. Junior School serves Grades 1–7 and includes nature field trips, after-school clubs, and Tigers athletics. Senior School serves Grades 8–12 and features a STEAM lab, a concert band, and a Wellness Hub. AP courses, Global Online Academy, and Career-Life Connections complement senior learning.

Sports Facilities

York House supports athletics through Junior School and Senior School teams, known as the York House Tigers. The program emphasizes hard work, teamwork, and personal growth. Junior School offers cross-country, volleyball, swimming, basketball, and track and field. Senior School offers cross-country, volleyball, track, field hockey, swimming, basketball, alpine skiing, snowboarding, tennis, and golf. The Athletics program is dedicated to maintaining and improving athletic facilities and equipment. Facilities include a gym and swimming spaces used in Physical and Health Education.

Academic Facilities

STEAM lab enables design challenges. AP courses include English Language & Composition, English Literature & Composition, French, Studio Art, Biology, Chemistry, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics, Physics 1 and 2, Human Geography, Macroeconomics, and Comparative Government & Politics. Global Online Academy provides online courses for Grades 11 and 12. Career-Life Connections (CLC) courses connect learning to life after high school and include Work-Integrated Learning. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - Canada is part of the program.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Clubs include First Responders and Green Club, and there is an Incubator for Social Innovation. Outdoor Education activities and community learning extend beyond the classroom, including field trips and international exchanges. The Arts programs include Visual Arts, Drama, Media Arts, Textiles, and Music with performances and international travel. York Rose Players is the theatre troupe that presents a major production each year. Senior School ensembles such as Concert Choir and Chamber Choir have won gold rankings at Musicfest Canada.

Academic & Intellectual

York House offers a wide range of clubs and programs that extend learning beyond the classroom. Senior School clubs include Debate and Speech, Model United Nations, Research and Science Fair Program, Biology Competition Club, and Science Club, while Junior School engages students with Mindfulness, Robotics, Choir, Drama, Improv, Board Games, and Puppetry & Storytelling. These activities develop critical thinking, collaboration, and research skills through hands-on inquiry.

Arts & Creative

Arts programs span Visual Arts, Drama, Media Arts, Film & Television, Textiles, and Music across all grades. The York Rose Players stage major productions each year; the Senior School Concert Choir and Chamber Choir earned gold rankings at Musicfest Canada in 2023. Grade 8 rotates through four Arts and innovation-based programs including Visual Art, Drama, Clothing and Textiles and ADST, and Grades 9–12 can choose from year-long electives, with AP courses available for 11–12.

Cultural & Language

Global awareness and cultural engagement are supported through Model United Nations and international exchanges to destinations such as Australia and the United Kingdom. The school also hosts cultural and identity clubs such as Gender and Sexuality Alliance and Let's Talk WOC: Unity and Change Collective. These opportunities connect students with diverse perspectives and global communities.

Social & Hobbies

A broad array of clubs supports social and hobby interests, including Mindfulness, Choir, Drama, Improv, Dance Club, Debate and Speech, Model United Nations, Food4U, Yearbook, and Wellness Club. Junior School clubs also include Robotics, Board Games, Puppetry & Storytelling, and more. Clubs run at lunch or after school, with student leadership guiding select programs such as Grade 7 Model UN.

Community & Service

Community Learning emphasizes Not for Ourselves Alone, with local partnerships including Vancouver Food Runners, Canuck Place Children's Hospice, The Terry Fox Foundation, Seniors for Seniors, The Reading Bear, and the Downtown Eastside community. Students organize initiatives such as Ramadan food drives and other drives for local shelters and nonprofits; The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - Canada is offered, and Outdoor Education includes off-site adventures and international excursions.

Leadership & Professional

Junior School Leadership Roles include Co-Head Students, Head Student, Vice-Head Student, House Leaders, and Playground Pals, plus grade-specific leadership duties. Senior School has a Student Executive Council with Head Student, Vice-Head Student, Community Service Captains, House Captains, Grade 12 Class Presidents, and Student Heads; Student Ambassadors welcome new families and support campus events. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and Outdoor Education provide further opportunities to develop leadership, resilience, and collaboration.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Mindfulness is offered as part of Junior School clubs, and Outdoor Education is a regular feature in Senior School for physical activity and resilience. The program emphasizes wellness through community engagement, service learning, and leadership experiences, aligned with the Not for Ourselves Alone ethos.

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