A School Year in Canada.
Growing into a leader.

More Confidence. More Independence. A Brighter Future.

Imagine your child starting each day in a safe, welcoming Canadian home, attending a modern high school, learning in an international environment — and returning after one year more confident, independent, and ready for the world.

A school year in Canada is more than education.
It is a transformational journey that supports academic growth, emotional maturity, and personal development.

This Is Real Life In Canada.

Picture riding a yellow school bus to class, opening your own locker in a real North American high school, joining inspiring clubs, trying new sports like hockey or American football, and building friendships with students from Canada and around the world.

You don’t just learn English.
You learn to be independent, confident, kind, and inspired.

Canada has a unique energy — many of our students say that by the end of the year they feel stronger, happier, and truly ready for life.

Experience British Columbia Like Never Before

Your exchange takes place in British Columbia, one of the most breathtaking regions in the world — where the ocean meets rainforests and mountains.

Surf on the Pacific coast.
Relax on sandy beaches.
Hike through ancient forests.
Spot orcas, dolphins, seals, and bald eagles during boat trips.

This is more than a school exchange.
It’s a lifestyle.

Book a meeting
with our representative in Poland
for more information or registration

Program Lengths:

Academic Year

The Academic Year in British Columbia is 10 months (September to June). International Students are fully integrated into Canadian classrooms and complete a full academic program at their grade level with courses to improve their English language abilities. Over 10 months, students gain a full experience of Canadian culture, Vancouver Island lifestyle, and are provided continual social, emotional, and academic support.

Academic Semester

An Academic Semester in British Columbia is 5 months.

Semester 1: September to January

Semester 2: February to June

International Students are fully integrated into Canadian classrooms and complete a full academic program at their grade level with courses to improve their English language abilities. Over 5 months, students gain a full experience of Canadian culture, Vancouver Island lifestyle, and are provided continual social, emotional, and academic support.

Multiple Years

Students are welcome for long term educational programs. Students are able to study for several years in Nanaimo and Ladysmith, building strong school and community connections. With graduation credits, secondary school students are able to graduate with the internationally recognized B.C. graduation certificate (Dogwood Diploma).

Short Term

Periodically we accommodate short term programs ranging from 1 week to 4 months.

Summer Program

We are expanding ELL program offerings in the summer month of July. This summer program focuses on English language development in real world settings with fun and supportive activities and excursions.

Academic Program:

International students are fully integrated into Canadian classrooms, learning and studying with Canadian students at their grade level. Students are enrolled in academic and elective courses to give them a balanced and full experience of education in Canada. These courses may apply towards graduation in Canada or their home country. International students receive English or ELL classes to improve their English language fluency. We also have dedicated International Student Advisors and ELL teachers at each school that work closely with students to support them with their development and school experience. We do our best to meet course requests for each student. During their stay in Canada we also encourage students to try out for sports teams and join extra curricular activities. For more information of courses, sports, and clubs offered at each school please explore the schools below.

School and Course Offerrings:

Dover Bay Secondary School
  • Population of 1400 students
  • Enjoys a proud tradition of academic and athletic success
  • Has an outstanding Performing Arts Academy and well equipped shops to explore woodwork, metalwork, mechanics, robotics, culinary arts and textiles
  • Is well known for environmental initiatives and excellence in mathematics and computer technology.
  • School website for more details: dv.schools.sd68.bc.ca
Nanaimo District Secondary School
  • Population of 1700 students
  • A vibrant student group that embraces diversity and ensures everyone feels welcome
  • Draws students from across the district to its Sports Academies
  • Easy access to premier athletic facilities including an all season track, turf fields, Olympic sized swimming pool, and skating arenas
  • Has well established Outdoor Education – West Coast Wilderness Studies program, career trades, wide range of performing arts electives and sports team opportunities. 
  • School website for more details: nd.schools.sd68.bc.ca
John Barsby Secondary School
  • Population of 700 students
  • Known for engaging learners with experiential courses like leadership, athletic training, chef-training, digital photography, trades and robotics. 
  • Athletic excellence in American football, rugby, boys’ basketball and girls’ volleyball
  • Bulldog Theatre, fine arts and photography programs give students an opportunity to showcase their talents. 
  • School website for more details: jb.schools.sd68.bc.ca
Wellington Secondary School
  • Population of 1000 students
  • Students choose Wellington for its nationally acclaimed Jazz Academy, Musical Theatre department, language learning opportunities, enriched fine arts experiences, technology programs with a focus on 3D animation and printing, outdoor education, and its variety of athletics, clubs and activities.
  • Wellington is a newly updated building with a unique West Coast design interior and an abundance of natural light
  • School website for more details: we.schools.sd68.bc.ca
Ladysmith Secondary School
  • Population of 650 students
  • Located in the picturesque hillside town of Ladysmith that is known for its warmth and charm
  • Known for its dynamic extracurricular programs, strong athletic traditions, a vibrant Improv club and a celebrated Musical Theatre program.
  • Proud to offer opportunities to learn about local Indigenous culture and connect with Vancouver Island, including Outdoor Education – West Coast Wilderness Studies and Land and Language courses: landbased.ca/
  • School website for more details: ls.schools.sd68.bc.ca
Cedar Secondary School
  • Population of 275 students
  • A hidden gem tucked away in rural Cedar
  • Offers a unique learning experience that suits students who enjoy small classes, independent personalized learning and an educational setting where everyone knows your name
  • Students develop strong critical, creative and collaborative thinking skills that prepares them well for a future of further learning.
  • School website for more details: cs.schools.sd68.bc.ca

Student Application Process:

  1. If you would like to study in Nanaimo Ladysmith please send us an email
    to alina@polish-academy-canada.com and we will explore opportunities with you.
  2. For your application you will require: 
    • An official copy of your school report cards for the past two years, in your own language
    • A copy of your report cards translated into English
    • A passport-sized photograph
    • Proof of age (e.g. a copy of your passport)
    • Application Processing Fee