If you are looking for a private elementary school in downtown Vancouver, you likely want:
At Columbia Academy, our Kindergarten to Grade 7 program builds confident learners, strong study habits, and responsible young leaders in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Located in Yaletown beside BC Place, our elementary school is convenient for families living or working in downtown Vancouver and nearby communities such as Burnaby, Richmond, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Coquitlam.
Columbia Academy is a BC Ministry of Education certified independent school offering Kindergarten through Grade 12 education.
Our elementary program is guided by five core pillars:
We believe strong habits begin early — and those habits shape long-term success.
Our classrooms are filled with discussion, music, creativity, and curiosity. Students ask big questions. They explore ideas. They build confidence step by step. In this supportive environment, enthusiastic young learners grow into independent and reflective thinkers.
Learn more about why Columbia Academy is different.
Using the academic framework from the BC Ministry of Education, our elementary program combines:
Some schools shy away from regular homework and reading assignments. At Columbia Academy, we believe they play an essential role in 21st-century education. All students from K–7 complete structured homework and daily reading.
Practice builds confidence.
Routine builds independence.
Our elementary program also values the arts. Students learn three musical instruments starting in Kindergarten, and French and Mandarin are introduced early.
Our commitment to keeping classes at a maximum of 15 students ensures focused learning and meaningful teacher support.
Our elementary school in Yaletown offers a structured, safe, and professional learning environment.
Facilities support:
Explore our Elementary School Facilities.
Our campus is located at:
📍 792 Beatty Street, Vancouver
Beside BC Place
As an elementary school in Yaletown, we are within walking distance of major transit hubs, including:
This makes commuting convenient for working families.
Parents who work 9–5 in downtown Vancouver can:
Location matters. Being a private school near BC Place in downtown Vancouver reduces daily stress and creates a smoother routine for families.
Upon submitting your application, you will receive an invitation for a tour of the school and a brief interview with the Principal. This interview assesses early academic and executive function skills.
Elementary applicants who are likely to be the most ready will be conversationally fluent in English and will demonstrate core values and the ability to self-regulate. For Kindergarteners, most students will have letter and number awareness, curiosity to learn and explore, appropriate listening skills and emotional stability.
Decisions are made by the Admissions Department and will be communicated with families as soon as reasonably possible.
View our Elementary School Tuition Information.
The habits built in elementary school continue into high school.
Columbia Academy graduates achieve:
Our high school program builds directly on the foundation developed in K–7.
Explore our High School (Grades 8–12) Program.
Most private elementary schools require:
At Columbia Academy, our admissions process is designed to ensure the right academic fit and a strong school-family partnership. We recommend applying several months in advance, as elementary spaces in Downtown Vancouver are limited.
You can begin your application on our Apply page.
Many private schools operate on a rolling admissions basis. Applications are reviewed as they are received, and enrollment closes once classes reach capacity.
Columbia Academy follows a similar process, and early application is encouraged due to small class sizes.
Admission requirements vary by school. Some may conduct assessments, while others review academic records and hold interviews.
At Columbia Academy, we review report cards and meet with families to determine appropriate placement. Our goal is to understand each child’s learning background and ensure a positive transition.
Tuition varies depending on the school and grade level. Families are encouraged to contact the admissions office directly to request the most current fee schedule.
At Columbia Academy, detailed tuition information is available on our Fee Schedule page, and our admissions team is happy to answer any questions.
Many independent schools offer smaller class sizes compared to public schools.
At Columbia Academy, elementary classes are capped at 15 students, allowing teachers to provide personalized support, build strong relationships, and address academic needs early
Most private elementary schools offer enrichment programs beyond regular classroom hours.
Columbia Academy provides structured academic support and enrichment opportunities designed to reinforce learning and support working families in Downtown Vancouver.
Location is a key factor for many parents.
Columbia Academy’s elementary school is located at 792 Beatty Street in Yaletown, within walking distance of BC Place and close to major SkyTrain connections. This makes commuting convenient for families living or working in Downtown Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Coquitlam.
Yes. Many private schools welcome international students.
Columbia Academy accepts international applicants to our elementary program and provides the necessary documentation, including a Letter of Acceptance for study permit applications. Families are encouraged to begin the immigration process several months in advance.
Most schools follow the BC Ministry of Education curriculum.
Columbia Academy follows the provincial curriculum while enhancing it with structured homework routines, daily reading, language development, and leadership-building activities to prepare students for long-term academic success through high school and university.
Choosing the right private elementary school in downtown Vancouver is an important decision.
If you are looking for:
We invite you to visit Columbia Academy.
📍 792 Beatty Street, Vancouver
📞 778-379-6811
📧 Info@ColumbiaAcademy.ca
Book a tour today and experience our downtown Vancouver independent school firsthand.
Columbia Academy offers Kindergarten to Grade 12 programming, proudly accredited by the BC Ministry of Education. Our mission is to prepare students for acceptance into the world’s top universities while fostering the development of well-rounded individuals equipped to become tomorrow’s leaders
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