St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake
Updated July 2026
IB MYP
St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake is an independent IB World School for students in Grades 4–12, offering a rigorous academic program in a supportive, globally-minded community. Located on Vancouver Island, it serves both local day students and international boarders.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is guided by the principles of being 'Curious by Nature, Empowered to Act, and Stronger Together.' It emphasizes a balanced, active, and connected approach to education, where students are encouraged to think for themselves, care for others, and take responsibility for their community. The school values integrity, caring, and curiosity, aiming to help students develop independence, confidence, and a sense of global citizenship.
Programmes
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The curriculum is complemented by the WILD Program, which focuses on outdoor and experiential education. All teachers are certified with the BC Ministry of Education, and the academic offering includes subjects such as Mathematics, Sciences, English Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, French, Art, Design, and Music.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides English Language Learning (ELL) for students in Grades 7–10, which is integrated into the school day in place of French. For students in Grades 11 and 12, or those requiring enhanced development, the English Intensive (EI) program offers focused instruction outside of regular school hours. Additionally, a guidance counsellor is available to support student well-being.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake offer?
- St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake offers IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- How much is tuition at St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake?
- Annual tuition at St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake is CA$14K–CA$67.3K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake a day or boarding school?
- St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake hold?
- St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake holds accreditations including IB.
- Where is St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake located?
- St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake is an international school in Duncan, Canada.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 4-5 (Local Day) | 9–10 | CA$14K |
| Grade 6-8 (Local Day) | 11–13 | CA$15K |
| Grade 9-10 (Local Day) | 14–15 | CA$15.5K |
| Grade 11-12 (Local Day) | 16–17 | CA$18.5K |
| Grade 6-10 (International Boarding) | 11–15 | CA$63.9K |
| Grade 11-12 (International Boarding) | 16–17 | CA$67.3K |
Other fees(7)
| Application fee· Application fee (Local Day & International Boarding) | CA$300 |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· New student registration fee (one-time registration fee applied in the first year for students who are offered and accept enrollment) | CA$500 |
| Bus / transport· Bussing: Shawnigan route | CA$1.7K |
| Bus / transport· Bussing: Duncan route or Langford route | CA$2.2K |
| Uniform· Uniforms: Local Day students (first year, variable after) | CA$1K |
| Uniform· Uniforms: International Boarding students (first year, variable after) | CA$1.5K |
| EAL· English Language Learning (ELL) / English Intensive (EI) | CA$4.7K |
Admissions
The school accepts applications from local and international students. The admissions process requires an application fee and a one-time registration fee upon acceptance, with families asked to provide documentation to confirm residency and status for tuition eligibility. Prospective families are encouraged to book a tour to experience the campus.
Calendar
The school operates on a 2025-26 academic schedule. A live calendar and a year-at-a-glance document are available for families to track important dates and term schedules.
Facilities
About the campus
Located on the shores of Shawnigan Lake, the campus is surrounded by forest and the natural beauty of Mt. Baldy. The school grounds include boarding dormitories, a library learning commons, and science labs. The facilities support a range of activities, including athletics, music, and outdoor education.
Co-curriculars
Co-curricular activities are included in the annual tuition and encompass athletics, field trips, and an annual ski/snowboarding trip for boarding students. The school also features the WILD Program and an overnight E.C.O. Camp as part of its experiential learning offerings. Students participate in a variety of activities designed to foster engagement and personal growth beyond the classroom.
Josh HartHead of SchoolJosh Hart serves as the Head of School at St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake. He emphasizes a community-focused approach where students are known, challenged, and supported to shape their own futures.
- Burkie BurgessDirector of Student Life
Burkie Burgess is the Director of Student Life at the school.
- Bradley MyrholmDirector of Teaching & Learning, Middle School/MYP Coordinator
Bradley Myrholm serves as the Director of Teaching & Learning and is the MYP Coordinator.
- Eric VenablesDirector of Teaching & Learning, Senior School/DP Coordinator
Eric Venables is the Director of Teaching & Learning for the Senior School and serves as the DP Coordinator. He is also listed as a Math teacher.
Rachel QuesnelHR & Operations ManagerRachel Quesnel is the HR & Operations Manager at St. John's Academy Shawnigan Lake.
Serena MyrholmGuidance CounsellorSerena Myrholm serves as a Guidance Counsellor at the school.