About the Program
School District 42, which serves the cities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, is no stranger to international students. Surrounded by hiking trails, ski resorts, multiplex movie theatres, libraries, and sports fields, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadow’s (MRPM) International Program welcomes international students from Elementary through Secondary School age. It strives to immerse them into Canadian culture and school life while having them interact with Canadian peers.
International students who enroll in MRPM’s International Program can participate in a wide variety of academic programs (International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), French immersion, etc.) extracurricular activities, clubs and sports. ELL support is available at all schools, and an International Liaison teacher will be present to oversee the student’s academic progress. Many graduates go on to study at prestigious Canadian post-secondary institutions such as the University of Toronto, McGill University and the University of British Columbia.
Special Programs at Schools
Garibaldi Secondary School
Garibaldi Secondary School (Grades 8 to 12) runs on a linear schedule, where students take eight courses for the full academic year. Academics are based on the BC curriculum, with Honours courses in Grades 8, 9 and 10. The school also has two unique programs:
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Diploma Programme
- Middle Years Programme
- International Baccalaureate
- Interdisciplinary Arts Academy
- Courses and learning objectives in theatre, dance, voice, film and television
Maple Ridge Secondary School
Maple Ridge Secondary School (Grades 8 to 12) also runs on a linear schedule. Academics are based on the BC curriculum, with French immersion classes, enriched honours classes and Advanced Placement (AP) programs. The school also has a special program:
- Digital Arts Academy
- Offers seven areas of focus in the use of computers and technology
- Students can earn certificates of completion in 3D Animation, Desktop Publishing, Digital Art, Multimedia, Computer Programming, Sound Engineering, Special Effects for Film and Web Design
Pitt Meadows Secondary School
Pitt Meadows Secondary School (Grades 8 to 12) also runs on a linear schedule. Academics are based on the BC curriculum, with an Honours program in mathematics. The school also has two unique programs:
- Hockey Academy
- It offers a balance between educational requirements and the development of hockey skills
- Students can earn credit for Physical Education and/or Advanced Hockey
- Microsoft IT Academy
- Teaches industry-leading technology skills
- Students receive a digital curriculum and multi-level Microsoft certifications
Samuel Robertson Secondary School
Samuel Robertson Secondary School (Grades 8 to 12) also runs on a linear schedule. Academics are based on the BC curriculum, with academically enriched junior honours classes and independent directed studies (IDS). The school offers two unique programs that are also offered at Pitt Meadows Secondary School:
- Hockey Academy
- It offers a balance between educational requirements and the development of hockey skills
- Students can earn credit for Physical Education and/or Advanced Hockey
- Microsoft IT Academy
- Teaches industry-leading technology skills
- Students receive a digital curriculum and multi-level Microsoft certifications
Thomas Haney Secondary School
Thomas Haney Secondary School (Grades 8 to 12) also runs on a linear schedule. Academics are based on the BC curriculum, with an option for self-directed learning (SDL). The school also offers a special program:
- Microsoft IT Academy
- Teaches industry-leading technology skills
- Students receive a digital curriculum and multi-level Microsoft certifications
Westview Secondary School
Westview Secondary School (Grades 8 to 12) also runs on a linear schedule. Academics are based on the BC curriculum, and the school offers three unique programs:
- Soccer Academy
- Offers unique soccer-specific courses in Grade 8 to 12 levels
- A mixture of in-class learning (fitness, nutrition, strength training, sport philosophy, etc.) and on-field learning (skill development, practices, game principles)
- Microsoft IT Academy
- Teaches industry-leading technology skills
- Students receive a digital curriculum and multi-level Microsoft certifications
- Basketball Academy
- Offers instruction in coaching, officiating, first aid, sports training and certification
- On-court sessions focus on physical literacy, movement skills and athletic skills
- Basketball instruction taught through classroom theory sessions and guest speakers
Homestays and Host Families
MRPM International Program’s host families have been hosting students for over 20 years. Each homestay family strives to do their best in welcoming and integrating their international student(s) into their lives to ensure that they feel like a member of the family. Homestay families are carefully interviewed and selected, then trained by experienced and multicultural homestay coordinators.
For students, living with a Canadian homestay family can be an eye-opening experience. In these arrangements, students can practice speaking with their new “family members” in English while developing their proficiency and skills. They can also adjust quicker to Canadian culture and academic life at school.
Student Life
To make the most of their experience in Canada, international students are always encouraged to participate in school life through extracurricular activities, sports and other school-related events. Each of the secondary schools in SD42 offers plenty of clubs, activities and sports. Essentially, there is something for everyone at all of the schools!
International students also have the option of enrolling in tour activities. These activities include visiting Victoria on Vancouver Island, the Rocky Mountains in Alberta, and Whistler Mountain. Being involved in these fun trips will help students to make connections with Canadian students and the Canadian culture and create valuable memories that will last a lifetime.
The Summer Cultural Experience
MRPM’s Summer Cultural Program is a way for international students (between the ages of 13 and 18) to practice their English-speaking skills while experiencing some of Canada’s best cultural landmarks during the summer holiday. The program’s classes include group activities, lessons, and local excursions while living with a Canadian host family.
Pre-Academic Summer Program
MRPM’s Pre-Academic Summer Program helps students prepare for their long-term studies right here in Canada, all while still being able to enjoy Canadian culture. Similar to the Summer Cultural Experience, students in this program will:
- Learn about Canadian history, culture and their local community
- Develop language skills, critical thinking skills, public speaking skills, etc.
- Participate in events and activities that focus on Canadian culture
- Live with a Canadian host family
