Surrey Schools summer learning classes see increase in demand

Culinary Arts is one such summer program running this year. (Image: Doug Litke)
Surrey Schools’ summer learning programs have more than 15,000 students enrolled during summer break, an increase of about 1,300 compared to summer 2023. 

Selma Smith, Director of Instruction for Continuous Learning, said that 4,487 elementary, 10,285 secondary, and 293 international student spots have been filled for courses that are either underway or completed, and that the increase was anticipated given the district’s overall student population growth.

Courses taken include everything from review classes for students wanting to improve their grades, to full-credit courses for those looking to get a head-start on the next school year.

Smith noted that math and sciences seem to be the classes secondary students tend to gravitate towards, with subjects like chemistry, physics and biology filling up first.

At the elementary level, the summer offerings are two-week classes that are available to students who have received a referral from their teacher during the school year and in consultation with parents/ guardians they may benefit from additional assistance with subjects such as numeracy and literacy.

“Our district provides opportunities for elementary students to strengthen literacy and numeracy at all elementary grade levels,” said Smith. “We have seen increasing interest in these programs and are appreciative of teachers and principals discussing these opportunities with students and their parents.”

Programs for at promise youth are also offered in collaboration with departments such as Community Schools, Safe Schools, and Education Services Specialty Programs.

In addition to the K-12 students taking summer learning, Smith also noted that there are just over 1,000 adult learners taking courses through the Invergarry Adult Education Centre this summer. These courses are full-credit secondary subjects available to adults who may be looking to complete pre-requisites for post-secondary programs.

“While the school year ends in June, we’re happy to be able to offer students the ability to continue their education into the summer break,” said Smith.

The academic and trades summer courses are on top of many other sports, arts, outdoor and other programs Surrey Schools offers to students during the break!