Claren Academy
Secular
Updated July 2026
IB
Claren Academy is an independent school in downtown Vancouver that provides a future-focused, enriched version of the British Columbia curriculum for students from Kindergarten to Grade 7. The school emphasizes individualized learning and the development of essential social-emotional skills to prepare students for a changing world.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Claren Academy utilizes a "backwards design" approach, identifying core attributes like creativity, critical thinking, and resilience before designing purposeful learning experiences. The school prioritizes a future-focused education that emphasizes social-emotional development alongside strong academic foundations, guided by values of kindness, belonging, curiosity, responsibility, and excellence.
Programmes
The school delivers an enriched British Columbia curriculum for students in Kindergarten through Grade 7, featuring small, combined-grade classrooms. The academic program includes levelled math and literacy groups, technology integration—using iPads for K-2 and Chromebooks from Grade 3—and Mandarin instruction beginning in Grade 5. Specialist teachers lead instruction in Art, Music, and Physical Education, while the school also hosts unique events like the Claren Market Entrepreneurial Fair.
Outcomes
The school aims to prepare students for the future by fostering independence, self-reliance, and a growth mindset. Graduates are expected to possess essential skills such as collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and empathy to help them thrive in their future environments.
Student support
Learning support
The school employs a dedicated resource teacher to support students with diverse learning needs. Instruction is personalized through school-wide levelled math and literacy groups, which are determined by assessments at the beginning of the year to ensure students receive instruction at an appropriate level.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- How much is tuition at Claren Academy?
- Annual tuition at Claren Academy is CA$22.8K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Claren Academy hold?
- Claren Academy holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Claren Academy co-educational?
- Claren Academy is a co-ed school.
- Where is Claren Academy located?
- Claren Academy is an international school in Vancouver, Canada.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2024/2025| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| K to Grade 7 | 5–13 | CA$22.8K |
Admissions
Claren Academy is not accepting new applications for the 2025/2026 school year, which will be the final year of operation for the school. For registrar and pre-transition requests, interested parties may contact the admissions office via email.
Calendar
The 2025/2026 academic year will be the final year of operation for Claren Academy.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in downtown Vancouver’s Yaletown district, the 12,500-square-foot campus includes classrooms, administrative space, a kitchen, and a gymnasium. While the school does not have an on-site outdoor playground, students visit nearby parks twice daily for recess and lunch to engage in outdoor play and physical activities.
Co-curriculars
The school integrates specialist-led instruction in Art, Music, and Physical Education into its units of study. Additionally, students participate in a weekly curriculum designed by a martial arts and lacrosse coach to develop both individual and team-based athletic skills.
Tracy GatesPrincipalTracy Gates has over 25 years of experience teaching K-7 learners and student teachers. She holds a B.Ed. from the University of Saskatchewan and an M.A. from UBC in Curriculum and Instruction, with previous administration experience as a District Mentor and Vice-Principal.
Sally CarrVice Principal and Language CoordinatorSally Carr holds a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education from the University of Bedfordshire and has over 10 years of teaching experience in England and Canada. She is a lifelong learner who focuses on sparking curiosity and developing critical thinking skills in her students.
Kathryn SykesCo-founder and Executive DirectorKathryn Sykes is a Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in non-profit organizations. As a founder of Claren Academy, she serves as Admissions Director and is an active member of the administrative team and both boards.
- Danielle LovellCAS Board Chair
Danielle Lovell is a senior executive and strategic leader with experience in building and scaling organizations. She has a background in psychology and organizational development, and has led multiple entrepreneurial and growth-stage roles.
Ryan ClarkCAS Board Vice ChairRyan Clark is a serial entrepreneur and award-winning video game developer who holds a degree in Microbiology & Immunology from UBC. He is a self-taught programmer and designer who aims to ignite a love of learning in students.
- Edwin YauCAF Board Treasurer
Edwin Yau is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) practicing at Deloitte LLP since 2005, providing assurance to businesses and public sector organizations. He has volunteered as a treasurer for other educational organizations and believes in the importance of life skills in childhood education.
- Josephine KwanDirector
Josephine Kwan has over 15 years of commercial real estate expertise and is the founder of Flow 2 Freedom Apparel. Her background includes managing high-value assets and spearheading development projects, with a focus on sustainability and accessibility.