Which Schools in North Vancouver Offer French Immersion?
If you’re a parent in North Vancouver exploring French Immersion, you’re not alone.
French Immersion remains a popular education choice on the North Shore, and families often ask the same key question:
“Which schools in North Vancouver offer French Immersion?”
This guide provides a clear, up-to-date overview of all North Vancouver French Immersion elementary and secondary schools, along with how the programs work, who they’re designed for, and how students move through the system from K–12.
Whether you're just entering Kindergarten, considering Late French Immersion, or planning ahead for high school, this resource covers everything you need to know.
French Immersion in North Vancouver: How the Program Works
The North Vancouver School District (NVSD) offers two French Immersion options:
1. Early French Immersion (EFI)
- Entry at Kindergarten or sometimes Grade 1
- Full French instruction from K–Grade 2
- English gradually increases starting in Grade 3 (about 20% of instructional time)
- Continues through Grade 12
2. Late French Immersion (LFI)
- Entry typically begins in Grade 6
- Offers an accelerated French program for students who didn’t start in EFI
Both programs are designed for non-French-speaking students and aim to develop:
- High proficiency in both English and French
- Strong communication skills
- A deep understanding of language structure
- Academic achievement equal to students in the English track
Key note:
French Immersion in NVSD is a district program with no catchment zones — meaning students can attend Immersion schools outside their neighbourhood boundaries depending on space availability.
North Vancouver French Immersion Schools (Full List)
Below is the official list of all French Immersion schools in North Vancouver, grouped by elementary feeders and the secondary schools they lead into.
This structure helps families understand the full K–12 pathway.
French Immersion Elementary Schools in North Vancouver
- Larson Elementary (North Vancouver – Central Lonsdale Area)
- Ross Road Elementary (Lynn Valley / Westlynn)
> Both of these feed into: Argyle Secondary
- Braemar Elementary (Upper Lonsdale)
- Cleveland Elementary (Edgemont Village / Capilano Area)
> Both of these feed into: Handsworth Secondary
- Dorothy Lynas Elementary (Raven Woods / Seymour Area)
- Sherwood Park Elementary (Deep Cove / Northlands)
> Both of these feed into: Windsor Secondary
French Immersion Secondary Schools in North Vancouver
Students from the above elementary schools progress into one of the following high schools in the NVSD French Immersion pathway:
- Argyle Secondary (serving Larson & Ross Road)
- Handsworth Secondary (serving Braemar & Cleveland)
- Windsor Secondary (serving Dorothy Lynas & Sherwood Park)
All three schools offer the full Grade 8–12 French Immersion program, culminating in a Double Dogwood Diploma (BC Graduation Program certificate + BC Certificate of French Immersion Studies).
FAQ: French Immersion in North Vancouver
Is there a catchment area for French Immersion?
No. French Immersion is a district program, so placement is based on space availability, not home address.
Do students need to speak French to enroll?
No. French Immersion is designed for families who do not speak French at home.
What’s the demand like?
Some schools fill quickly — especially in Central Lonsdale, Lynn Valley, and Edgemont Village — so early registration is recommended.
Can students switch from English to French Immersion later?
Yes — but only at specific entry points, usually:
- Kindergarten (EFI start)
- Grade 1 (space permitting)
- Grade 6 (Late French Immersion)
- Rarely: entry by assessment if moving from another district
Moving to North Vancouver and Want French Immersion?
If French Immersion is a priority for your family while house-hunting, it helps to understand which neighbourhoods feed into which programs — even though the program is non-catchment, many families prefer to live near their chosen school.
We can help you understand:
- Which neighbourhoods offer quick access to French Immersion
- What homes are available near each school
- How school choice can shape your home search
Reach out anytime for neighbourhood insights and personalized guidance.