Academics

Senior School

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  • Jason Parker Bio

    Jason Parker joined WPGA in August 2019 as Head of Senior School. He has over 30 years’ experience as a teacher and senior administrator in independent and public schools, in Canada and internationally.
     
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  • Senior School Leadership Team

    Jason Parker, Head of Senior School 
    Ralph Huygens, Assistant Head of Senior School 
    Alice Gyton, Vice Principal, Teaching & Learning
    Cathy White, Vice Principal, Student Life 
    Cameron Johnston, Vice Principal, Student Life

JASON PARKER 
Head of Senior School 

Welcome to the Senior School!
At WPGA, academic growth, personal development and a closeknit community form the trifecta of an outstanding high school experience. Our diverse programs are designed to foster intellectual curiosity, global exposure and leadership potential, with a robust curriculum comprising a range of enriched programs, AP courses and personalized electives. Our dedicated teachers challenge students while helping them to uncover their passions and strengths, preparing them for a life of learning that shared responsibility to our local and global communities.  
Our commitment to postsecondary success is a core facet of the senior school experience. From university and college counselling to work experience opportunities, we provide personalized guidance to ensure each student has a readiness for their field of interest and is equipped—academically, socially and emotionally—for higher education. Our experienced postsecondary advisors work closely with students and families, helping them navigate the college admissions process and scholarship applications, here in Canada and abroad. With a proven track record of sending graduates to leading schools worldwide, our focus is to prepare students not just for university for also for life beyond.
At WPGA, we understand that an exceptional education goes beyond academics, which is why we prioritize student wellness. Our comprehensive support system includes personal counselling services, learning support programs, clubs, councils and workshops designed to strengthen character and build resilience. With a caring community of educators and staff, we ensure that every single student in the Wolfpack feels seen, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.


   

MORE TO EXPLORE

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Explore our Advisory Program 

The Senior School Advisory program is designed to strengthen student wellbeing through strong connections with adult advocates. It provides tailored support across each grade level: grades 8-9 are in groups of 14 while grades 10-12 are in groups of 20. Each advisory is led by two faculty advisors: one focuses on academic and executive functioning skills; the other delivers PEAKS content.

 

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  • PEAKS

    PEAKS stands for Personal Growth, Empathy, Ambassador, Knowing, and Stewardship. These themes are grade-appropriate and build on the Junior School’s CARE curriculum to support social-emotional development.

    Grade 8:  Personal Growth—What do I know about myself?
    Grade 9:  Empathy—How do I interact with others?
    Grade 10:  Ambassador—Who am I as a leader?
    Grade 11:  Knowing—How do I fit into the greater world?
    Grade 12:  Stewardship—What will my contributions be to a better world?

    Why Advisory Matters
    Advisory offers a range of benefits, including:
    • Establishing a trusted adult advocate for each student.
    • Fostering a sense of belonging within the school and peer cohort.
    • Supporting social-emotional growth for better self-understanding.
    • Providing a safe space to explore and discuss relevant issues.

    Impact of Social-Emotional Learning
    Research shows that strong social-emotional skills help students navigate challenges, enhancing both academic and personal success. Key components include self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, responsible decision-making, and planning for the future. Examples of Advisory content include:
    • Managing materials, skills, and habits for academic success.
    • Conflict resolution with peers and adults.
    • Online safety and managing digital distractions.
    • Understanding mental health, stress, and anxiety.
    • Exploring human sexuality and gender identity.

  • Academics

    Executive Functioning Skills
    Building executive functioning skills empowers students to take ownership of their time and habits. Topics include:
    • Calendar planning and time management
    • Budgeting for university
    • Research skills and academic integrity
    • Understanding the school Code of Conduct and relevant procedures 
    • Accessing school resources, such as WolfNet and library databases 
    • Writing university applications
    • Practical life skills, such as car safety and maintenance

    Academic & PEAKS Blocks
    In academic blocks, students have 30 minutes to work on assignments, pre-read or study, with advisor check-ins to track progress. AP students also benefit from additional "AP Flex" blocks for focused instructional time, with four extra blocks per course per year. During PEAKS blocks, students engage in activities that promote wellness, such as games, STEM challenges, film/documentary screenings and post-discussions, and trivia.

    For questions about the Advisory program, please connect with Ms. Cathy White, Vice Principal of Student Life, or Mr. Sam Taylor, Advisory Coordinator. 


   

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Since 1996, West Point Grey Academy has gratefully resided on the Jericho Lands, the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and sə̓lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. Honoured to learn and play on these beautiful lands, we endeavour to be a leader in Indigenous education. In creating shared understanding and opportunities, we hope to help foster a more equitable society for all.

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West Point Grey Academy

4125 West 8th Avenue
Vancouver, B.C., V6R 4P9
Tel: 604-222-8750