Learning English
Beginning a new school in a new language takes courage.
Our English language programs are designed to meet every student where they are, providing the support, confidence, and skills they need to thrive academically and socially at St. John’s Academy. For our international boarding students, language learning does not stop at the classroom door but continues at the dinner table, in the dorms, and in shared moments with peers from across Canada and around the world. Every student is part of our community from the moment they arrive, and we are committed to helping them find their voice within it.
English Language Acquisition
Our school has two programming options for international students acquiring English language skills. International students in grades 6–10 who speak English are supported through our English Language Learning (ELL) program as they hone their academic English skills alongside regular coursework. Students who are new to English and would benefit from an intensive, immersive foundation before joining the mainstream program are welcomed into our International Student Language Academy (ISLA), a small, specialized learning environment with only 15 spaces available worldwide each year. Our admissions team is happy to help families determine which option is the right fit.
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A Dedicated Pathway Built for International Learners
The International Student Language Academy (ISLA) is a dedicated English language program designed for students between the ages of 12 and 14, entering Grades 7, 8, or 9. With only 15 spaces available worldwide each year, ISLA offers an intimate, highly personalized learning experience for students who are ready to immerse themselves in English-language education and build the academic fluency they need to succeed in the BC Dogwood Diploma or IB programs.
ISLA students learn in a small, multi-grade environment led by two specialist educators: one focused on humanities and inquiry, and one on science and mathematics. Lessons are designed to help students develop the ability to read carefully, write clearly, speak with confidence, and think critically in English. ISLA Students take part in outdoor education, ecological field studies, and experiential activities on and around Shawnigan Lake, building conversational fluency that comes from immersion in English-speaking life. In the afternoons and evenings, ISLA students share boarding life with St. John’s Academy students from Canada and around the world, taking part in conversation clubs, and shared activities that accelerate language learning.
ISLA is a clear and structured pathway into the full St. John’s Academy academic program, with students moving into the main academic program when they are prepared to thrive there.
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Finding Your Voice in the Classroom
Our English Language Learning (ELL) program supports international students in grades 6–10 who are honing their English skills alongside their regular studies at St. John’s Academy. Students enrolled in ELL are already English speakers, but benefit from dedicated language support to help apply their skills in an academic setting. ELL support takes place within their timetable, replacing French as a second language since students are already bilingual. Class sizes are small, ensuring that every student receives personalized attention and support. Lessons are built around themes that connect to the wider curriculum, helping students develop the vocabulary, reading, writing, and communication skills they need to engage confidently with their studies.
Which program is the right fit?
ELL supports students in Grades 6–10 who are developing their academic English skills alongside their regular studies at St. John’s. It is designed for students who are ready to engage with mainstream classes in English with additional language support in place.
ISLA is a dedicated English language program for students who are new to English and would benefit from a structured, immersive foundation before transitioning into the full academic program with their grade cohort. With only 15 spaces available globally each year, ISLA offers an exceptionally personalized learning experience in a small, supportive environment.