About the International Program

History and Growth of the International Program

Pacific Christian School's primary function is to serve Christian families and students. For the most part, these students live in Victoria. However, since its inception, the school's contact with students from the international community has steadily increased. Not only has the school consistently had students enrolled from countries such as Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, Mexico, South Africa and Germany, but PCS has developed a relationship and exchange program with a school in Japan (Miyagi Gakuin in Sendai). In addition, over the years several groups of students have participated in mission trips to areas in Mexico and Honduras. The school foresees increased interest in our school from foreign students and welcomes the opportunity to share what God has given to us through Christian education.

Goals of the International Program

PCS believes that part of its responsibility as a Christian School is to share Christ-centred education with its students. God's call to be faithful in this regard should not be limited by nationality. A Christian perspective of the world is a knowledge worth sharing with all of God's children.

There is also a reciprocal benefit. The presence of and interaction with students from foreign countries has been and continues to be an enriching experience for the entire student body at PCS. The cultural variety to which PCS students are exposed is an invaluable insight in itself. As well, offering hospitality and being inclusive is both stretching and rewarding for our Canadian students and their families.

Finally, one cannot ignore the opportunity that God has placed before the school when he sends us students who are, perhaps, new to or unfamiliar with God's saving Word. As well, the international students attending PCS have often been an inspiration and encouragement to the Canadian students.

Format of the International Program

International students will be required to participate in the regular PCS curriculum. ESL courses will be provided by the school and, upon evaluation, may be a mandatory requirement. See ESL Instruction...

International students will be encouraged to obtain Language credits through the challenge process or by bringing in transcripts of their grade 7-9 language classes in their home country. Students who are fluent in Mandarin, Japanese, Spanish, German, Punjabi or French may also challenge the Grade 12 Provincial exam in that language.

Ordinarily, no more than two international students will be accepted per class.

English Language Proficiency

International students attending PCS will be required to take an English test to determine their language proficiency level. Results of these tests may demonstrate that the student needs more ESL instruction than is currently available at PCS. This may be particularly crucial prior to entering Grade 10. In the event that a student needs more extensive English language preparation, Pacific Christian School has partnered with several full-time ESL institutions in Victoria. Students may continue to be enrolled at PCS, and continue their language studies at the various ESL schools.

 

Graduation Requirements for International Students

There are some significant differences to the graduation requirements of international students who enter the BC system after grade 10. For more details visit the British Columbia Mininistry of Education Policy Site for International Student Graduation.