Elementary Department at Westside Preparatory School

Welcome to the elementary department, where students build their skills, broaden their knowledge and open their minds to new learning opportunities.  Elementary school is a time of rapid development for children.   Our elementary department was established to nurture and encourage intellectual and personal growth in all our students.

Our elementary program is unique.

Our close-knit school community offers small class sizes where students can increase their confidence, learn new skills and take on challenges in a safe, supportive environment.  Dedicated and experienced teachers use a blend of Canadian and European methodologies to enable each student to reach his or her full potential.  We often find that our students are able to exceed expectations for their grade level as set out by the BC Ministry of Education.  Our location in the heart of downtown Vancouver provides excellent opportunities for learning beyond the classroom – visits to libraries, sports centres, historical, cultural and natural sites extend and enhance student learning.  A graduate from our elementary program is well-equipped with the core knowledge, critical thinking skills, and creative ability needed to thrive in the high school program.   

Curriculum

The elementary program provides a progressive curriculum with high standards.  Elementary classes are interactive, challenging and stimulating.  Students in our elementary program enjoy school and have frequent opportunities to develop their skills of enquiry and research. 
As an independent school, we use our freedom to extend and enhance the BC Ministry of Education Curriculum to suit our students.  In addition to meeting the learning outcomes set out by the ministry, students are able to gain an appreciation of each subject in further depth.  Highly-qualified specialist teachers for French, PE and music enable students to fully explore their potential in each area.   
Students in the elementary program learn through a wide range of subjects, including English Language Arts, math, French, sciences, fine arts, physical education, and social studies.  We also offer language support for children who are learning English.  Throughout our school, students also learn essential study, organization and communication skills which will prepare them well for high school, further education and lifelong learning.  Personal and social skills are integrated into every subject area.  Students in the elementary program learn to be confident, creative and caring and are able to apply their skills to life beyond the classroom. 
At Westside Preparatory School we understand that all students learn in different ways.  Our teachers use a wide range of engaging hands-on, academic and investigative activities to teach classes.  Small class sizes ensure that every student has the support they need to succeed. 
For more information about our curriculum at elementary level, please contact the school to arrange a visit and meet some of our students and staff.