Small by Vancouver state school size, academic, sporty, aspirational and friendly. A school where solid friendships are made, academic and sporting achievements achieved. And a strong parent body on hand to help fill and gaps.
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- Student numbers
- 850 boys and girls
- Curricula
- Other curriculum
- International
- American
- Religion
- Non-denominational
- Fees
- C$ 17,250
- Ownership
- Public (BC Ministry of Education, West Vancouver School District #45
Head of school
Principal
Trevor Kolkea
Since 2022, Trevor Kolkea BA (McMaster University). Stepped into the shoes of the much loved and well respected former principal. Already making waves (in a good way) and whipping the school back into touch following a drop in international student
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Learn what pupils and parents really think of this school, along with our expert opinion on the headteacher’s leadership style, the school’s academic results and facilities, the focus on pastoral care, and the range of extra-curricular activities.
Entrance
Non-selective - no entrance exams before grade 11. Thereafter students must show they are competent in English for graduation purposes. Those living within catchment will be accepted into the first round of places.
Exit
As with all state schools in Vancouver, the school doesn’t publish formal university acceptance rates, however numerous framed photos proudly showcase students’ achievements. Students also post their acceptances via the school's graduating Instagram
Latest results
School does not publish its AP results.
Teaching & learning
The smallest and youngest of three state secondary schools in West Vancouver, Rockridge School fights hard (and succeeds) to get the attention it justly deserves. With just over 900 students from grade 8 to 12, it’s a buzzing, busy, friendly,
- Curricula & qualifications
- Other curriculum - British Columbia Certificate of Graduation (Dogwood Diploma)
- International - International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- American - Advanced Placement (AP)
- Other curriculum - British Columbia Curriculum
Learning support & SEN
While SEN support is centralised across all schools in West Vancouver, Rockridge has its own large classroom dedicated to those needing extra help. As an inclusive school, its aim is for all students to graduate, even those not academically minded.
Language support
English language support is on offer however students must be fluent when enrolling into grade 11.
Arts & extracurricular
A grand piano (located in the west wing) sets the stage for music. With numerous bands (some needing auditions, others inclusive) and an amazing array of annual concerts hosted in the players’ hall, there is something for everyone here: line band for
Sport
Sport is taken very seriously - after all the Ravens have a reputation to uphold. With over 18 sports on offer, a rugby pitch, two basketball courts, a baseball triangle and sports gymnasium with a mezzanine weights room, there is certainly plenty on
Ethos & heritage
The school is set in a chalet-style building that was originally built in 1996 as a community hall. On realising there was an urgent need for a school for middle years students, the West Vancouver Council quickly established Rockridge in its place.
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
Rockridge is a fun social school. Counsellors are supportive and well-known to students. Parents, many having known each other for years, are very welcoming to newcomers. The majority of students live within a 10-minute drive to the school making
Classroom & community
Parents are described as, ‘passionate, supportive, energetic and driven’. They are a formidable bunch and a close-knit community - many having known each other for years. Known for rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck in, supporting the school
- School year
- September – July, with three terms
- School hours
- 8:45am – 3:05pm
- Uniform requirements
- No
Money matters
Rockridge is state funded so no fees for Canadian students. International students pay a registration fee and international student tuition fees. Fundraising activities are constant (whether for a rugby tour or for a new outside classroom) so be
- Annual fee range
- C$ 17,250
- Fee information
- Application fee: C$ 300
Monthly homestay fee C$ 1,400;
Student activity fee of C$ 75 per year
The last word
Small by Vancouver state school size, academic, sporty, aspirational and friendly. A school where solid friendships are made, academic and sporting achievements achieved. And a strong parent body on hand to help fill and gaps.
Accreditations, inspections & memberships
- Accreditations/Inspections
- Authorised by International Baccalaureate Organization (not to be confused as an inspection or accreditation agency)