The Science Department seeks to offer its students an excellent grounding in biology, chemistry and physics through first-class teaching in well-appointed instructional facilities and laboratories. It is the belief of the department that this can be best achieved through an appropriate blend of traditional methods, amply supported by modern technology and equipment, and by applying theoretical principles to the natural environment of southern Vancouver Island in particular and to society in general. It is expected that students will develop a thorough understanding of and respect for issues of safety in these endeavours, while remaining aware of our position and relationship to the natural environment as a whole. The Science Department offers students the opportunity to excel in the Provincial and Advanced Placement Examinations and to achieve success in university.

The Junior Science Program provides students in Grades 8 and 9 with the opportunity to explore and experience a wide variety of science disciplines. Astronomy and space science, changes in matter, changes in the environment, ecology and resource management, energy and life functions constitute the six major components in the students’ junior science experience. Our unique natural setting and our salmon hatchery support an expanded environmental studies program. Partnerships with local industry, the federal government’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and British Columbia’s Ministry of the Environment afford us the opportunity to collaborate with external agencies. The more traditional aspects of biology, physics and chemistry retain a crucial place in the curriculum, as they represent the three main options available to students in their Grade 11 and 12 years. Stimulating interest and providing prerequisite background knowledge in each of these areas of study are primary goals of the Junior Science Program.

Regular and enriched classes of science are offered at each grade level. Every class covers all the core material prescribed by the Ministry of Education, while the enriched classes complete extension exercises and additional material designed to broaden students’ interest and exposure to sciences.