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Alpha Secondary School

4600 Parker St, Burnaby, BC V5C 3E2 · Burnaby

Rating

5.2

5-year avg

N/A

Rank

105/252

Quick take

School review information

Alpha Secondary is a resilient, community-focused school that punches above its weight in STEM. While its general academic numbers are average, its specialized Robotics and Beta Mini School programs are elite, making it a top destination for specific types of learners despite its physical facility constraints.

Editorial review summary

Parents and students frequently describe Alpha as a 'smaller, tight-knit community' compared to the massive nearby Burnaby North Secondary. The school's Robotics and Mechatronics program is widely praised as world-class and a major draw. However, a common complaint is overcrowding; despite a 2019 renovation and seismic upgrade, families note that the school is already operating at or above capacity, leading to cramped classrooms. International students often report a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

Common positives

  • Beta Mini School for gifted/high-potential learners
  • District-leading Robotics & Mechatronics program
  • French Immersion program available
  • Strong sense of community and inclusion
  • Recent seismic upgrades and facility renovations (2019)

Common concerns

  • School is currently over capacity and crowded
  • General academic ranking is average (5.2/10)
  • Fewer elective course options than larger mega-schools
  • Competitive entry for Mini School and Robotics

Who this school may fit

This school is best suited for students passionate about Engineering and Robotics, or high-achieving 'gifted' learners seeking the Beta Mini School cohort. It is also a great choice for families wanting a smaller, more inclusive high school experience in North Burnaby, provided they can secure a spot.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Alpha Secondary holds a Fraser Institute rating of 5.2/10 and ranks 105/252 provincially. While the school experienced a significant statistical dip to 3.6 a few years ago, it has stabilized in the 5.2-5.5 range recently. This indicates an average academic performance relative to the province. However, this general rating masks the high performance of students in the selective Beta Mini School and AP tracks, who often achieve well above the school's average.

Sources include Fraser Institute data and InsideVan School Guide summaries. Ratings do not represent the full quality of a school.

School-run details

Special programs

Beta Mini School (Enrichment)French ImmersionAdvanced Placement (AP)Robotics & Mechatronics (District Program)Visual & Performing Arts (Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts)Athletics (Rugby, Netball, Unified Sports)Indigenous EducationCareer Education & Work Experience

Common questions

Where is Alpha Secondary School located?+

Alpha Secondary School is located at 4600 Parker St, Burnaby, BC V5C 3E2 in Burnaby.

Does Alpha Secondary School have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 2 nearby after-school options.

Are there tutors near Alpha Secondary School?+

InsideVan currently lists 4 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Alpha Secondary School?+

InsideVan currently lists 6 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

2

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

4

nearby options

Nearby classes

6

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

0 explicitly serve this school, plus 2 nearby within 3km.

What this page covers

Alpha Secondary School school information

Alpha Secondary School is a secondary school in Burnaby. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 2 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.

Sources & data context

Search website
Check programs, admission requirements, and day-to-day arrangements with the school.

Fraser Institute · 2020 report
The rating dataset used here covers 2018-2019. The five-year average belongs to that historical report, not the five years ending today.

Academic ratings do not capture the whole school experience, including belonging, support, or fit for your child. A nearby care provider does not necessarily offer school pickup; confirm with the provider.