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White Rock Christian Academy

Canada, Surrey

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees CA$8,253 - 15,551
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 627
Type Co-educational
Opened 1981
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum
Taught languages English, French, Mandarin
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, STEM
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, Secondary School, Senior Secondary School
Introduction

White Rock Christian Academy is located at 2265 152 Street, Surrey, British Columbia, and offers an International Baccalaureate continuum within a Christian context. The school delivers the IB Primary Years Programme for JK–G5, the Middle Years Programme for G6–G10, and the Diploma Programme for G11–G12, with a BC Grad+ option. Biblical Studies, daily devotions, chapel, and spiritual retreats are integrated into learning, grounding academics in a Christian worldview. WRCA is the first North American Continuum IB World School, authorized for PYP/MYP in 2018 and DP in 2016, serving 650 students with 65 certified teachers and staff. Campus facilities include a main building, additions (2018 and 2020), and an Outdoor Field Complex opened in 2024, plus a Library Creative Media Space with a MakerSpace. Extracurriculars include Bible Study, Drama, Math, Debate, Science Olympiad, and Destination Imagination; SALT leads student voice, while Transformative Learning Opportunities support local and international service trips globally.

2265 152 Street, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada V4A 4P1

The Essentials

White Rock Christian Academy has 627 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
2265 152 Street, Surrey, BC V4A 4P1, Canada. The campus is in Surrey, BC. The school serves Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12, with Junior School (JK–Grade 5) and Senior School (Grade 6–12).

Stages
Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12; Junior School JK–Grade 5; Senior School Grade 6–12.

Type
IB World School; Christian.

Additional learning support
ELL support (small‑group, during regular school hours); individualized education programs and academic/personal counselling are available.

Religious affiliation
Christian

School day structure
Junior Kindergarten: Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri start 8:40, Wed start 9:10; end 2:50; Early Dismissal 11:35. Kindergarten–Grade 5: start 8:30, Wed 9:00; end 3:00; Early Dismissal 11:45. Grades 6–7: start 8:10, Wed 8:35; end 3:10 (Wed 3:20); Early Dismissal 11:55. Grades 8–12: start 8:00, Wed 8:35; end 3:20; Early Dismissal 11:55.

Bus service
Transportation to/from school is arranged by host families; if the student needs to take the city or school bus, the host family arranges and pays for the bus pass; public transportation or bicycles are acceptable options.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
The school has a uniform; InSchoolwear is the official uniform vendor for White Rock Christian Academy.

Food Options
The school offers hot lunch options through a lunch program, with notes and FAQs detailing the options.

Governance and Ownership
The school is operated by the White Rock Christian Academy Board of Directors as a category one independent school.
Fees

Annual tuition at White Rock Christian Academy ranges from CAD 8,253 to CAD 15,551 for 2026/27.

Application fees and assessments

- Local (domestic) applicants: a non‑refundable application fee of USD 150 per application applies, up to a maximum of USD 300 per family. Payment for the local application fee may be completed online or by e‑transfer to accounts@wrca.ca.

- Language assessment (where required): USD 150 per student.

- International applicants (ISP): a non‑refundable application fee of USD 300 per applicant (international application form).

Tuition fees by year group (annual and monthly schedules) — local students

- Junior Kindergarten (JK): Annual tuition USD 8,930. Monthly (10‑month plan) USD 893; monthly (12‑month plan) USD 744.

- Primary Years Program (Kindergarten–Grade 5, PYP): Annual tuition USD 13,524 for first child; USD 10,532 for second child; USD 8,253 for third child. Monthly (10‑month) USD 1,352.40 (1st child) / USD 1,053.20 (2nd child) / USD 825.30 (3rd child). Monthly (12‑month) USD 1,127.00 / USD 877.67 / USD 687.75.

- Middle Years Program (Grades 6–10, MYP): Annual tuition USD 15,078 for first child; USD 11,246 for second child; USD 8,253 for third child. Monthly (10‑month) USD 1,507.80 / USD 1,124.60 / USD 825.30. Monthly (12‑month) USD 1,256.50 / USD 937.17 / USD 687.75.

- Diploma Program (Grades 11–12, DP): Annual tuition USD 15,551 for first child; USD 11,844 for second child; USD 8,915 for third child. Monthly (10‑month) USD 1,555.10 / USD 1,184.40 / USD 891.50. Monthly (12‑month) USD 1,295.92 / USD 987.00 / USD 742.92.

International student tuition and ISP‑specific fees

- International student K–Grade 12 tuition (2026–2027 ISP schedule): USD 25,000. Junior Kindergarten international tuition: USD 15,500.

- ELL and ISP program fees (if required): ELL Program Fee USD 4,500; ISP Transitional Program USD 4,500. Custodian and homestay service fees apply where appropriate. A minimum suggested family donation USD 2,000 is listed for ISP applications. Language assessment fee USD 150 (where applicable).

Billing schedule and payment terms

- A USD 2,000 non‑refundable tuition deposit for new families is withdrawn via the Pre‑Authorized Debit (PAD) arrangement immediately upon acceptance; this deposit is deducted from overall tuition owing.

- Tuition due dates and payment methods:
- Annual payment: full tuition payment due September 15 via cheque or PAD. Monthly payments: PAD payments may be spread over either 10 or 12 months beginning September 15. A completed PAD form and void cheque are required for all families even when tuition is paid in full.

- Acceptable payment methods: Pre‑Authorized Debit (PAD) and cheque are standard. Credit card payments are accepted only with CFO approval and are subject to a 5% processing fee. Application payments and some school payments may be accepted by e‑transfer (accounts@wrca.ca), cash at the office, or card payment via the school payment portal where indicated for specific forms.

- Returned/failed payment and processing fees: a returned/NSF payment may incur a USD 50 charge in addition to outstanding payment.

- PAD usage: PAD authorization covers tuition, miscellaneous program fees, and any volunteer‑hour forfeits; parents are notified by email before PAD withdrawals occur and PAD arrangements may be cancelled in writing for the following school year.

- Withdrawal and notice requirements for local families:
- Prior to March 1: a full calendar month's written notice is required or one month's tuition will be charged. After March 1: the balance of the current school year's fees will be withdrawn via PAD prior to the student's last day. Families who commit to re‑enroll and later withdraw are subject to a USD 2,000 withdrawal fee. New families who accept a seat and subsequently withdraw forfeit the initial tuition deposit.

Boarding / accommodation

- On‑campus boarding is not operated. A Homestay Program is run for international students in Grade 8 and above; custodian and homestay service fees apply to international placements.

Other costs and incidental fees

- Volunteer requirement: each family is asked to complete a minimum of 20 volunteer hours per academic year. Families who do not meet the 20‑hour requirement will be charged a USD 400 volunteer‑opt‑out fee. The PAD agreement may authorize deduction of this fee (USD 400) on June 30 if volunteer hours are not completed.

- Uniforms: all official uniform items are purchased through the designated uniform vendor (InSchoolwear, WRCA code: wrca). Certain items are available for purchase at the onsite uniform store; ties are listed at USD 30 while supplies last. Parents are expected to supply non‑vendor items (for example, plain black shoes) where permitted.

- Athletics and extracurriculars: team participation fees typically range from USD 35 to USD 250 depending on sport and grade level; additional costs may apply for travel, playoffs, or special events.

- Music, art and program‑specific costs: Grades 6–7 program costs for Art and Band are included in tuition but instrument rental fees are not included. Grades 8–12 Art and Band program costs (including trips, festivals, tours, instrument rentals) are not included in tuition and are the family's responsibility. Some program fees (Outdoor Education, Mandarin, Drama, Fine Arts trips, TLO trips for Grades 9–12) are classified as additional tuition for donation‑receipt calculations. Basic IB exam fees and certain mandatory fees (retreats, some field trips, Grade 5 music rentals, basic graduation fees) are included in the total mandatory fees; other optional trips and rentals are not.

- Parking fob deposit: a USD 50 deposit is charged for a parking fob; the deposit is returned when the fob is returned. Loss of a fob requires a new USD 50 deposit.

- Miscellaneous program charges: PAD authorization covers debiting for miscellaneous program fees such as sports dues, music/band dues, library dues, Mission & Service‑learning dues, and similar charges; families will be notified prior to such withdrawals.

Refund information

- Local/domestic families (general rules): see withdrawal and notice requirements above — a full calendar month's notice is required prior to March 1 or one month's tuition will be charged; after March 1 the balance of the year will be charged; families who commit to re‑enroll and then withdraw are liable for a USD 2,000 withdrawal fee; new families forfeit the USD 2,000 admission deposit if they withdraw.

- International students (ISP refund schedule as stated on the ISP application): if an application is withdrawn because Immigration Canada denies the student authorization and WRCA is notified by April 15, a 90% refund of tuition and 100% refund of ELL & family donation is available (official rejection letter required). If withdrawn for any other reason by April 15, 50% of tuition, ELL & family donation are refundable. If withdrawn on or after April 15, tuition, ELL & family donation are non‑refundable. No refund is granted if a student is withdrawn for violation of school regulations.

Fee payment options (summary)

- Required: Pre‑Authorized Debit (PAD) with a void cheque for all families; PAD is the standard vehicle for monthly installments and for collection of incidental or forfeited fees. Annual payments may be made by cheque or PAD. Credit card payment is possible only with finance approval and carries a 5% processing fee; e‑transfer and card payments are used for specific application or ISP transactions where indicated. Returned payment NSF fees apply.
Academics

White Rock Christian Academy teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum.

Curriculum
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. The IB programmes include the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for JK–G5, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for G6–G10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for G11–G12. The IB Programme is taught within a Christian context, with Biblical Studies classes, daily devotions, chapel and spiritual retreats as part of learning. The school offers all three IB Programmes to all students as a comprehensive, inclusive educational model and is an IB World School. Rooted in faith and guided by the global IB curriculum. WRCA is the first North American Christian Continuum IB World School.

Higher Education Progression
An IB education is a university preparatory program. More than 1,000 North American universities have recognition policies for DP graduates in admissions. Universities may grant first-year credit for DP courses and offer benefits such as early registration, on-campus housing placement, and entrance scholarships.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
WRCA supports social and emotional development through individualized education programs, personalized support, and parent partnerships. The Senior School provides personal and academic counselling to help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
WRCA provides educational support through an Educational Support Services Coordinator, and an Individual Education Plan (IEP) may be used to tailor instruction. An IEP is listed as a required document in admissions, and class placement considers educational support needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
WRCA offers an English Language Learning (ELL) program. Enrollment in the ELL program may be mandatory after assessment if the student's English language ability does not approach grade level, with the ELL teacher, classroom teachers, and administration determining progression. An ELL program fee may apply, and language assessment fees may apply when enrolling in ISP.

Mental Wellbeing
WRCA provides counselling and mental health support for students; those experiencing mental health difficulties are encouraged to seek help from the school's counsellors, with external resources such as the BC Helpline for Children, Kids Help Phone, and Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre available as needed.

Safeguarding
WRCA maintains safeguarding policies including a Privacy Policy, Bullying, Harassment and Intimidation policy, and Health and Safety resources to support student safety and well-being.
Parent Experience

History
White Rock Christian Academy began in 1981 as a small church-based school on the Semiahmoo Peninsula. It grew into a Ministry of Education-certified institution offering Christ-centered education from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. WRCA was founded by Pastor Verne Wilson and the elders of White Rock Christian Fellowship and initially used the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) curriculum. In 1990 it transitioned to a B.C.-approved curriculum with a Christian perspective, serving 184 students. Since becoming an IB World School in 2018, WRCA provides the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP); as of September 2024 it serves approximately 650 students with more than 65 certified teachers and staff.

Community
The WRCA community includes representation from more than 30 churches. Students participate in chapel leadership and through the student council. The school has a robust arts program and an athletics department known as the WRCA Warriors. The International Student Program (ISP) brings international students into WRCA to develop their intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills in the WRCA community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Class Parent Representatives (CPRs) are appointed for each grade or class to support our classes and liaise with administration. CPRs welcome new families and disseminate information about programs and initiatives. Parents volunteer extensively to support clubs, fundraising, and day-to-day activities. A 20-hour volunteer expectation per family applies, with a $400 deduction for unfulfilled hours and a Volunteer Hours Form to track participation. Weekly communications include the Friday parent newsletter and the Parent Newsletter, which share reminders, deadlines, and opportunities. Annual Drive is part of Getting Involved and supports WRCA programs.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
WRCA's campus includes a main building and two state-of-the-art facilities completed in 2018 and 2020. An Outdoor Field Complex opened in 2024. The Library Creative Media Space (LCMS) provides a library and a MakerSpace to support in-class research and STEAM learning. Expansion plans include gymnasiums, a theatre, a cafeteria, and administration offices.

Sports Facilities
WRCA offers Senior Athletics for Grades 8-12 and Junior Athletics for Grades 4-7. Sports include basketball, cross country, track and field, volleyball (Tripleball for younger students), ball hockey, and coed soccer, depending on participation. An Outdoor Field Complex supports outdoor sports. Athletic teams have earned banners and provincial titles in recent years. Athletics emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and Christ-centered character.

Academic Facilities
WRCA delivers the International Baccalaureate Programme across the Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP), and Diploma (DP) programs. The school is the first North American Christian Continuum IB World School, with PYP and MYP authorized in 2018 and DP authorized in 2016. Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5 forms the Junior School, while Grade 6 to 12 forms the Senior School. Biblical Studies, daily devotions, chapel, and spiritual retreats provide a Biblical Christian worldview in learning. A Library Creative Media Space (LCMS) with a MakerSpace supports in-class research, media creation, and STEAM activities.

Extra Curricular Facilities
WRCA supports extensive co-curricular activities beyond the classroom. Senior School Clubs include Bible Study, Drama, Math, Business, Chess, Film, Yearbook, Board Game, Debate, Economics, Science Olympiad, and Destination Imagination. The Senior School Drama Department produces performances and drama-related events. Student Council (SALT) meets weekly to promote school unity, spirit, and student leadership. The Arts program features ensembles across music and performing arts, including 21 ensembles such as six concert bands, three concert choirs, two worship ensembles, two jazz bands, two hand bell choirs, String Orchestra, Full Orchestra, Jazz Combo, and ensembles for Japanese students, with frequent public performances.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Senior School follows the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10, a five-year framework that develops critical and reflective thinkers. For Grades 11–12, students can pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) or the BC Grad+ program. The MYP core includes math, science, social studies, and language arts, with a required course in design, a foreign language, physical education, and an elective in art or music. Graduates receive offers of acceptance from top post-secondary institutions around the world.

Arts & Creative
The Fine Arts Program develops students through visual art, band, choir, and musical theatre. Students receive choral and instrumental instruction and can participate in concert band, concert choir, and jazz performances, with major performances throughout the year. Visual arts instruction covers multiple mediums, and students are encouraged to display their work in school and community venues. The program supports worship and creative expression as part of student life.

Cultural & Language
English is the language of instruction, and a foreign language is part of the MYP. The language program is designed to integrate language study with core academics. The school offers international experiences through Transformative Learning Opportunities, exposing students to diverse cultures and communities.

Social & Hobbies
Senior School students are encouraged to initiate clubs, such as Chess Club and Photography Club. The school supports a student leadership body known as SALT, which represents peers from each grade and promotes school unity, spirit, and student voice.

Community & Service
Transformative Learning Opportunities (TLO) send WRCA students on local and international service trips to serve communities and act as Christ's ambassadors. These experiences foster personal growth, gratitude, and a clear sense of purpose. Students reflect on their experiences and apply what they learn to their daily lives.

Leadership & Professional
SALT (Servant and Leadership Team) is WRCA's student council, with elected representatives from each grade starting in Grade 6. SALT promotes school unity, fosters school spirit, and advocates for student voice and needs. It meets weekly and coordinates a range of student-led events, providing leadership opportunities for peers.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The Athletics Program, Warrior Nation, offers basketball, volleyball, cross country, track and field, badminton, and floor hockey to develop discipline and teamwork. Fine Arts provide opportunities to explore music and visual arts through choir, band, and musical theatre, with performances throughout the year. Spiritual life supports wellbeing through weekly chapel services, Student Spiritual Retreats in September/October, and CREW for personal development.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Inquire to begin: The first step is to complete an Application Inquiry Form. It takes about 15–30 minutes and must be completed in one session, as progress cannot be saved. This is not a full application; it serves as a preliminary review to determine whether the family aligns with current enrollment priorities. Successful applicants receive an email with a link to the full application process. 2. Secure the full application link and document requirements: If the inquiry aligns with enrollment priorities, an invitation to apply is sent with a secure link to the full application. The full application requires more detailed information and supporting documents for a thorough eligibility review. There is a non‑refundable application fee of $150 per application, up to $300 per family, payable online or by alternative methods. A language assessment may be arranged if required, at $150 per student. 3. Documents you will need: Mandatory documents include the student's Canadian birth certificate showing parents' names (or non‑Canadian birth certificate and passport if not born in Canada), and supporting documentation for parental residency in BC. The student's most recent report card (Grade 1–11) or progress report from preschool or kindergarten, and a pastoral reference form are also required. If applicable, provide any relevant court orders, doctor's notes and emergency procedures for life‑threatening conditions, a current IEP, and any specialist or medical reports relevant to the student's education. 4. Interview process: After the full application is submitted, a family interview is scheduled and attended by both parents and the student. Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten applicants also meet with a teacher as part of the process. After the interview, the outcome is provided in writing. Decisions for the following school year are typically communicated in February/March; applications received after February 1 are processed as quickly as possible. 5. Deposit and enrollment: Upon acceptance, a $2,000 non‑refundable tuition deposit is required, withdrawn via Pre‑Authorized Debit immediately upon acceptance, and reserves the seat for the student. The deposit is deducted from the overall tuition for the upcoming year. 6. Orientation and transition: Age‑appropriate orientations and buddy connections are in place to help new students feel connected before the first day of school. 7. Preview Days and visits: Preview Days offer an opportunity to experience WRCA firsthand, including campus tours and information sessions led by students and staff.

Waitlist
WRCA maintains a wait pool for several grades due to high demand. The admissions process focuses on finding the best‑fit families rather than simply admitting the next applicant in the wait pool.
School Events
The school has not added events
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