As Metro Vancouver families consider high school options amid growing concerns about lack of space, Urban Academy in New Westminster positions itself as a space of opportunity.

Located on the border of Burnaby and Coquitlam, Urban Academy provides students with a physical and academic space to reach their full potential.

Recognizing regional challenges related to space in schools, Urban Academy offers a limited number of entry scholarships for grades 9-12. These scholarships are aimed at students who share the values ​​of Urban Academy, looking for an enriched academic and educational experience in a future-oriented setting. While this opportunity may not solve capacity issues in neighboring districts for everyone, it could have a pretty significant impact on the lives of a few senior students.

The high school years are a crucial time for students as they plan for their future. During this time, students discover their interests, develop strong work habits, and gain a better understanding of themselves. At Urban Academy, these years are enriched with opportunities that help students plan for their futures with confidence.

Personal and academic advisors are available to guide students every step of the way, helping each create a useful and well-planned path forward.

Academic support and leadership development

As young people prepare to take on adult responsibilities, the school recognizes that they still need the support and guidance of trusted adults. Urban Academy’s qualified staff and high school curriculum meet these needs, providing academic opportunities, leadership development and encouragement to explore passions in a future-focused curriculum.

One of the features of Urban Academy is its Advanced Placement Program (AP). The AP program provides flexibility, allowing students to select courses based on their interests and postsecondary aspirations. At Urban Academy, students can tailor their academic path, choosing from a range of subjects like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Macroeconomics, among others, while meeting BC graduation requirements. The flexibility of the AP program is especially beneficial for students engaged in high-level extracurricular activities, such as competitive sports or the performing arts.

At Urban Academy, however, the goal extends far beyond academic success. The school is dedicated to holistic development, providing unique experiences that promote self-discovery and build self-confidence. “The changes that occur for students during these crucial years are truly remarkable. Emotional, physical and psychological transformations are happening at an incredible pace and having the support of a trusted adult is crucial,” says Emily Marsh, Senior School Facilitator at Urban Academy.

Small classes and various opportunities

Urban Academy’s smaller class sizes allow teachers to develop strong connections with students, recognizing their individual strengths, goals, and areas for growth. It is also the ideal environment to foster and encourage student leadership skills in a variety of different fields: — athletics, business, performing arts, robotics, internal teams, as well as competitions science, mathematics and MUN. Students are constantly encouraged to take risks and seize opportunities presented to them.

The supportive atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students to participate in initiatives and launch their own new initiatives. Marsh says this approach helps students develop independence and resilience, skills that will serve them long after high school.

Families interested in learning more about the school’s high school program are encouraged to connect with the admissions team for more information. Visit www.urbanacademy.ca to find out more.