Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Victoria

Victoria, is a vibrant city with a diverse international community, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. While Victoria is not as large as some major global cities, it does offer a selection of international and bilingual schools to cater to the needs of expat children. Among the most popular are St. Michaels University School, which offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and the Maria Montessori Academy, known for its bilingual and Montessori-based education. Here is a list of recommended international or bilingual schools within a short drive from Victoria, Canada.

St. Michaels University School (SMUS)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Victoria
Website: www.smus.ca

St. Michaels University School is one of the most prestigious independent schools in Victoria, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program alongside a robust curriculum. With a strong emphasis on academics, athletics, and the arts, SMUS provides a well-rounded education. The school boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, sports fields, and theaters, and has a diverse student body representing over 30 countries.

Maria Montessori Academy

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Victoria
Website: mariamontessoriacademy.net

Maria Montessori Academy offers a bilingual English and French program with a focus on the Montessori method of education. The school provides a nurturing environment that encourages independence and a love for learning. With a range of extracurricular activities and a commitment to fostering a global perspective, the academy is an excellent choice for expat families seeking a bilingual education for their children.

Glenlyon Norfolk School

Grades: Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Victoria
Website: www.mygns.ca

Glenlyon Norfolk School is an IB World School that offers the Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programmes. With a waterfront campus and a focus on outdoor education, GNS integrates experiential learning into its curriculum. The school is known for its strong academic record, supportive community, and commitment to developing responsible global citizens.

Pacific Christian School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Victoria
Website: pacificchristian.ca

Pacific Christian School provides a Christian-based education with a focus on academic excellence and character development. While not a bilingual school, PCS offers a welcoming environment for students from various cultural backgrounds and includes a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports programs.

L'École Victor-Brodeur

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Victoria
Website: brodeur.csf.bc.ca

L'École Victor-Brodeur is part of British Columbia's Francophone school system, offering a French-language education from preschool through to secondary school. The school is ideal for expat families from French-speaking countries or those seeking a fully immersive French educational experience. Victor-Brodeur prides itself on its strong sense of community and its commitment to promoting Francophone culture and language.

West-Mont Montessori School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 8
Location(s): Metchosin (within 40 minutes drive from Victoria)
Website: west-mont.ca

West-Mont Montessori School offers a Montessori education that emphasizes independence, respect, and a love of learning. Located in a peaceful rural setting close to Victoria, the school provides a unique learning environment with a focus on environmental education and outdoor learning opportunities.