Thank you for your interest in Stratford Hall. In our short history we have risen to the ranks of the top schools in Canada.
We are in many ways similar to other schools you may be investigating. We have an outstanding teaching staff and a commitment to quality in everything we do.
We have a strong co-curricular program and we have developed our own traditions. Our students graduate with many post-secondary options available to them.
However, we are unique in many ways. Our commitment to the International Baccalaureate places us amongst the world’s top schools. We were the first school in Western Canada authorized to deliver the IB Primary Years Program. We are the only school in Canada fully authorized to offer the 3 International Baccalaureate programs exclusively from kindergarten to grade 12: all grade 11 and 12 students are registered in the full IB Diploma Program and one of only 5 schools in North America. This total commitment allows us to support a school culture that focuses on international-mindedness and prepare students for a complex world.
Our location and real connection to Vancouver also set us apart. Situated on Commercial Drive, one of the city’s most interesting streets, Stratford Hall is minutes from many Vancouver amenities. For older students, access to public transit, including the nearby SkyTrain station, gives them significant freedom. Our central location and direct connection with our neighbourhood make us an urban school, like other prestigious schools in the world’s major cities.
We have carefully created a balance between academic and experiential courses. Stratford Hall’s academics are geared towards the highest standards of university admission. Our experiential courses have been designed to provide appropriate balance, exposing students to outdoor education, physical education, planning and performing arts.
Stratford Hall takes second language instruction very seriously. We offer Spanish from kindergarten, with French added at grade 7. A second language is required through to graduation. Mandarin is also available.
Independent schools are characterized by strong co-curricular programming, and Stratford Hall is no exception. Our athletics program is strong and our teams compete in school leagues. There is a variety of special interest clubs to engage students.
Our program is unique and our location special. However, what may characterize the Stratford Hall experience most is the strong sense of community you will feel. This begins with a highly collaborative and supportive teaching staff, and extends to the students and their parents.
We invite you to explore this website, and to spend some time on the International Baccalaureate website. But nothing replaces an actual visit to our school. We welcome you at any time.
Dr. James McConnell
Head of School
