Vancouver’s public education system is primarily administered by a single English-language school district alongside French-language options. School placement is based on neighbourhood catchments, though families may apply to alternative programs citywide.

Key Vancouver School Boards

• Vancouver School Board (VSB – School District 39): The main English public school district serving Vancouver, operating more than 100 elementary and secondary schools with diverse academic and enrichment programs.

• Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (CSF): Province-wide French-language public school board offering francophone education for eligible families.

• Catholic Independent Schools (Archdiocese of Vancouver): Independent Catholic schools operate separately from the public system but follow provincial curriculum standards.

Additional Information

• Catchment Areas: Students are assigned a neighbourhood “catchment school” based on home address.

• School Choice: Cross-boundary applications are permitted when space is available, particularly for specialized or alternative programs.

• Programs: Vancouver schools offer French immersion, Montessori programs, fine arts academies, mini-schools, and International Baccalaureate programs.

• Governance: The Vancouver School Board is governed by elected trustees responsible for district policy and planning.