Academics
Senior School

Grade 10 - 12

SENIOR YEARS

The Senior School (grades 10-12) offers each student a truly personalized, dynamic educational journey. Guided by experienced, caring faculty, students work both independently and collaboratively, developing the independence, skills and knowledge to dive deeply into their passions and successfully pursue their postsecondary path of choice.

Reflective of our school’s motto, Go Forth With Confidence, students graduate from WPGA with the confidence, leadership skills, and capacity for resilience to thrive in an ever-moving world.  

As a member school in Global Online Academy, and with our signature Global Studies Diploma, Outdoor Education, and Wilderness Pursuits programs, students have the opportunity to become citizens of the world and stewards of their local communities.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS  

  • Course timetables are personalized for every student, with individual course planning and annual review sessions. The Program of Studies Guide is published in January and outlines academic programs for the following year. 
  • Advanced Placement courses (20 in 2023-2024) offer exceptional university preparation, as recognized by the U.S. College Board.
  • Our fine and performing arts department offers a range of programs, including visual arts, theatre arts and music (choir, band and strings)
  • STEM and language competitions, such as DELF and DELE language exams, complement class learning
  • Our Outdoor Education program, which includes a full-year grade 10 Wilderness Pursuits program, integrates social studies curriculum in experiential, practical ways.

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  • Athletics, Service, Clubs 

    • Our competitive athletics program includes bantam, junior and senior varsity teams in cross country, swimming, volleyball, basketball, soccer, golf, tennis, and track and field.
    • The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Program includes all grade 9 students and optional participation for other grades. 
    • Our student-led service program offers volunteer opportunities at every level, from local outreach events to international service trips. 
    • Over 20 cocurricular clubs include First Responders (medical emergency training), debate, Model United Nations, public speaking, Intercultural Club, and theatre.   
    • Leadership opportunities, including school captains, prefect ambassador nominations, and school councils (arts, athletics, service, spirit) are open to all students.   

  • Family Engagement 

    • Parent partnership is valued, parent-teacher conferences, parent education workshops, grade socials, and volunteer opportunities throughout the year.  

  • Gr.10 Wilderness Pursuit

    Wilderness Pursuits (WP) is a full-year multidisciplinary program offered to grade 10 students. Developed by our social studies and outdoor education departments, the program includes in-school learning and backcountry expeditions throughout the year, integrating academic curriculum in highly experiential ways. For example, students discuss history, geography, environmental sustainability and culture with First Nations elders in Stein Valley. WP weaves desired transferrable skills, such as leadership, team-building, critical thinking and self reflection, into all trip activities, which include camping, rock climbing, snowshoeing, avalanche awareness, sea kayaking and navigation training.

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  • University and Career Counselling Centre

    Our University and Career Counselling Centre, with two full-time counsellors, hosts university fairs and numerous university information sessions throughout the year. 

    Through our Career Education Program, the Work Experience Program offers students short-term work placements in their field of choice during school holiday breaks.   

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Core Classes

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  • English

    • Literary Studies & Composition 10 – Focus on literature analysis, composition, and critical thinking. Students explore various literary genres and develop structured writing techniques.
    • Literary Studies 11 – Builds on previous studies with more advanced texts and writing. Emphasizes critical reading and analytical essay writing on fiction and non-fiction.
    • Literary Studies 11 (Honours) – A challenging course for students preparing for AP English. Requires deeper literary analysis and extensive writing assignments.
    • English Studies 12 – The final English course for graduation, emphasizing advanced literacy skills. Students develop persuasive writing and critical thinking in preparation for post-secondary studies.
    • AP English Language & Composition – Equivalent to first-year university English, focusing on rhetoric and argumentation. Includes non-fiction texts and research-based essays.
    • AP English Literature – Advanced literature analysis with a focus on classic and contemporary works. Students explore themes, structure, and style in novels, poetry, and drama.

  • Languages

    • French 10, 11, 12 – Progressive levels of French language development. Covers speaking, writing, reading, and cultural awareness.
    • French 10/11 Enriched – More intensive study for students aiming for AP French. Includes advanced grammar and literary analysis.
    • Spanish 10, 11, 12 – Basic to advanced levels of Spanish. Emphasizes conversational fluency and written proficiency.
    • Mandarin Chinese 10, 11, 12 – Builds proficiency in Mandarin, including speaking, reading, and writing. Covers Chinese history and culture.
    • Mandarin Chinese Accelerated 10/11/12 – Fast-tracked for advanced students. Includes in-depth study of Chinese literature.
    • AP French Language & Culture – University-level fluency and cultural understanding. Students engage in debates, essays, and media analysis.
    • AP Spanish Language – Advanced language study with a focus on fluency. Includes Spanish literature, current events, and essay writing.
    • AP Chinese Language & Culture – Equivalent to a university Chinese course. Covers advanced grammar, idioms, and Chinese societal issues.

  • Mathematics

    • Foundations of Math & Pre-Calculus 10 – Covers algebra, functions, and basic trigonometry. Prepares students for more specialized math pathways in Grades 11 and 12.
    • Pre-Calculus 11 – Focuses on advanced algebra, quadratic functions, and trigonometry. Essential for students planning to take Calculus.
    • Pre-Calculus 12 – Prepares students for university-level math, including calculus concepts. Covers logarithms, trigonometric functions, and polynomial equations.
    • Calculus 12 – Covers differentiation and integration, foundational for university calculus. Students solve real-world problems in rates of change and optimization.
    • AP Calculus AB/BC – Advanced study in calculus, covering limits, derivatives, and integrals. BC includes additional topics like parametric equations and sequences.
    • AP Statistics – Introduction to data analysis, probability, and inferential statistics. Students learn to interpret data and conduct hypothesis testing.

  • Science

    • Science 10 – General science covering biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. Prepares students for specialized science courses in Grades 11 and 12.
    • Life Sciences 11 – An introduction to biology, focusing on evolution, genetics, and ecosystems. Explores classification systems, microbiology, and animal diversity.
    • Anatomy & Physiology 12 – Detailed study of the human body and biological systems. Topics include nervous, circulatory, and digestive systems.
    • Chemistry 11 & 12 – Covers atomic structure, chemical reactions, and lab work. Chemistry 12 delves into equilibrium, thermodynamics, and organic chemistry.
    • Physics 11 & 12 – Explores motion, energy, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. Physics 12 expands on mechanics with advanced problem-solving.
    • Geology 12 – Study of earth sciences, including rocks, minerals, and natural disasters. Topics include plate tectonics and environmental geology.
    • Health Science 12 – Prepares students for careers in healthcare. Covers medical ethics, anatomy, and health technologies.
    • AP Biology – University-level biology covering cell structure, genetics, and ecology. Includes in-depth lab work and research projects.
    • AP Chemistry – Advanced chemistry principles, including kinetics and thermodynamics. Designed for students interested in engineering, medicine, or research.
    • AP Environmental Science – Study of ecosystems, sustainability, and environmental issues. Includes climate change, pollution, and conservation strategies.
    • AP Physics C – Advanced study in mechanics and electricity/magnetism. Requires a strong calculus background.

  • Social Studies

    • Social Studies 10 – Covers Canadian and global history, geography, and current events. Introduces key political, economic, and social themes.
    • 20th Century World History 12 – Examines key events like World War I & II, the Cold War, and civil rights movements. Emphasizes historical analysis and research skills.
    • Comparative Cultures 12 – Explores different civilizations, including Eastern and Western cultures. Topics include religion, philosophy, and social structures.
    • Contemporary Indigenous Studies 12 – Focuses on Indigenous history, culture, and contemporary issues. Examines reconciliation and Indigenous governance.
    • Human Geography 12 – Studies human interaction with the environment and global patterns. Topics include urbanization, migration, and economic development.
    • Law Studies 12 – Covers Canadian and international law, human rights, and legal processes. Includes case studies and mock trials.
    • Political Studies 12 – Examines political ideologies, systems, and global governance. Covers democracy, authoritarianism, and global conflicts.
    • AP Comparative Government & Politics – Advanced study of different political systems worldwide. Analyzes democracy, authoritarian regimes, and policy-making.
    • AP Human Geography – Focuses on population trends, urbanization, and economic development. Examines spatial patterns and cultural influences.
    • AP World History - Modern – Covers global history from 1200 CE to present. Focuses on major civilizations, revolutions, and globalization.

Elective Classes

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  • Arts & Music

    • Art Studio 10, 11, 12 – Develops artistic techniques in various media. Students work on independent projects and explore creative expression.
    • AP Studio Art: Drawing – Advanced drawing and portfolio development. Suitable for students pursuing post-secondary fine arts.
    • Concert Band 10, 11, 12 – Advanced instrumental music performance. Covers music theory, ensemble playing, and concerts.
    • AP Music Theory – In-depth study of harmony, ear training, and composition. Prepares students for university music programs.
    • Theatre Company/Production 10, 11, 12 – Focus on acting, directing, and stage production. Includes school plays and performances.

  • Technology & Business

    • Digital Media Development 12 – Covers multimedia, digital design, and content creation. Students learn Adobe software and video editing.
    • Drafting 11/12 – Technical drawing and CAD design. Useful for engineering and architecture students.
    • Entrepreneurship 12 – Teaches business concepts, marketing, and startup strategies. Includes project-based business planning.
    • AP Computer Science A – Programming in Java, object-oriented concepts. Equivalent to a first-year university computing course.

  • Physical Education & Outdoor Education

    • Active Living 11/12 – Focuses on lifelong fitness and health. Includes activities like yoga, weight training, and team sports.
    • Wilderness Pursuits 10 – Outdoor education with camping, survival skills, and leadership training.

  • Other Unique Courses

    • Global Studies 11/12 Seminar – Interdisciplinary study of global issues. Students engage in research projects and discussions.
    • Global Online Academy – Offers online courses in various subjects. Allows students to explore niche academic interests.


   

SENIOR SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

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  • JUNIOR SCHOOL

    BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS

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  • SENIOR SCHOOL

    INSPIRING THE EXTRAORDINARY

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  • START YOUR JOURNEY

    TAKE THE NEXT STEPS 

    APPLY NOW
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