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Burnaby South Secondary

5455 Rumble St, Burnaby, BC V5J 2B7 · Burnaby

Rating

5.5

5-year avg

N/A

Rank

91/252

Quick take

School review information

Burnaby South is a 'big-city' high school experience in every sense—dynamic, diverse, and competitive. It is a powerhouse for students who want to specialize, whether in elite academics through the AP Capstone program or in varsity athletics. While its overall rating is average, its top-tier programs are world-class.

Editorial review summary

Parents and students frequently describe Burnaby South as a large, bustling, and culturally diverse hub. The school is praised for its 'Rebels' school spirit, particularly surrounding its elite basketball program. Reviews highlight the incredible variety of course options, specifically the AP Capstone program, which attracts academically driven students. However, some families note that the school can feel crowded due to its large population (approx. 1,800 students). The partnership with the BC School for the Deaf is widely seen as a unique asset that fosters inclusivity. Some students mention the 'linear' timetable (courses run year-round) can be challenging for balancing workload compared to a semester system.

Common positives

  • Offers the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma Program
  • Home to the BC Provincial School for the Deaf, fostering a unique inclusive environment
  • Championship-level athletics, especially in basketball
  • Located adjacent to the professional-grade Michael J. Fox Theatre
  • Extensive variety of electives and clubs due to large school size

Common concerns

  • Large student population can make the school feel crowded and impersonal
  • Linear timetable system may not suit all learning styles
  • Competition for spots in popular AP and Honours courses can be high
  • Facilities, while modern (1993), experience heavy wear and tear due to high traffic

Who this school may fit

Best suited for self-motivated, academically ambitious students aiming for top universities (via AP Capstone) and student-athletes looking for a high-performance sports culture. It is also the designated choice for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students seeking a fully integrated secondary education.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Burnaby South Secondary holds a Fraser Institute rating of 5.5/10 and a provincial rank of 91/252. While the raw rating suggests average academic performance compared to all schools in the province, the school's ranking places it comfortably in the top 40% of secondary schools. The rating history shows a positive upward trend, improving significantly from a low of 4.3 to the current 5.5. This trajectory indicates strengthening academic standards and student outcomes. The school is particularly notable for its academic rigor at the top end, being one of the few schools in Canada to offer the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma program.

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

AP Capstone Diploma ProgramAdvanced Placement (AP) CoursesHonours Courses (Pre-AP)BC Provincial School for the Deaf (Secondary Program)Visual & Performing Arts (Music, Drama, Visual Arts)Athletics (Rebels Sports Program)Business EducationTechnology EducationCulinary Arts

Common questions

Where is Burnaby South Secondary located?+

Burnaby South Secondary is located at 5455 Rumble St, Burnaby, BC V5J 2B7 in Burnaby.

Does Burnaby South Secondary have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 4 nearby after-school options.

Are there tutors near Burnaby South Secondary?+

InsideVan currently lists 5 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Burnaby South Secondary?+

InsideVan currently lists 11 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

4

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

5

nearby options

Nearby classes

11

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

0 explicitly serve this school, plus 4 nearby within 3km.

What this page covers

Burnaby South Secondary school information

Burnaby South Secondary is a secondary school in Burnaby. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 4 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.