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Cariboo Hill Secondary

8580 16th Ave, Burnaby, BC V3N 1S6 · Burnaby

Rating

8.1

5-year avg

N/A

Rank

20/252

Quick take

School review information

Cariboo Hill is a boutique powerhouse that defies the 'bigger is better' stereotype. It combines the intimacy of a private school with elite, industry-standard technology programs found nowhere else in the district. Its recent skyrocketing academic ranking proves that its specialized focus on STEM and personalized learning is paying massive dividends.

Editorial review summary

Parents and students frequently describe Cariboo Hill as a 'hidden gem' with a distinct 'small-town feel' within the city. Being the smallest high school in Burnaby (approx. 600-700 students), reviews often highlight the tight-knit, family-like community where teachers know students by name. The unique technology academies (DigiPen and Cyber Security) receive high praise for providing industry-level skills. However, some online discussions note that the smaller population can mean a quieter social scene compared to larger schools like Burnaby North. While generally positive about support for neurodivergent students, there are isolated anecdotal complaints about the social environment being 'cliquey' or intense for some.

Common positives

  • Exclusive Technology Academies (DigiPen Gaming, Palo Alto Cyber Security)
  • Small school size creates a personalized, supportive family atmosphere
  • Elite Sports Academies for Volleyball and Lacrosse
  • Strong academic surge reaching top-tier provincial rankings
  • High participation in AP courses relative to school size

Common concerns

  • Smaller student body offers fewer general elective choices than mega-schools
  • Older facility compared to newly built schools in the district
  • Quieter social scene may not suit students seeking a bustling large-campus experience
  • Limited cafeteria options due to smaller population

Who this school may fit

Ideal for tech-enthusiasts (specifically gamers and coders) and high-performance athletes (volleyball/lacrosse) who will thrive in a smaller, focused environment. It is the perfect choice for students who find large campuses overwhelming and want a school where they are a name, not a number, while still accessing top-tier academic and career preparation.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Cariboo Hill Secondary has demonstrated a remarkable and sudden surge in academic excellence. Currently holding a stellar Overall Rating of 8.1/10 and ranking 20th out of 252 secondary schools in British Columbia, it sits comfortably in the top tier of the province. This represents a dramatic improvement from previous years, where ratings hovered between 5.2 and 5.9. Such a significant leap suggests a transformative shift in academic rigor, grading standards, or student success rates, positioning the school now as a high-performing institution that rivals the province's most prestigious public and private schools.

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

French ImmersionAdvanced Placement (AP) CapstoneDigiPen Gaming AcademyPalo Alto Cyber Security AcademyMicrosoft Office Specialist (MOS) CertificationVolleyball Academy (Volleyball Canada)Field Lacrosse Academy (SFU Partnership)Pre-Engineering Diploma ProgramVisual & Performing Arts (Dance, Photography, Music, Theatre)Youth Train in Trades (Auto Collision, Carpentry)Industry ConnectSummit Engineering Program

Common questions

Where is Cariboo Hill Secondary located?+

Cariboo Hill Secondary is located at 8580 16th Ave, Burnaby, BC V3N 1S6 in Burnaby.

Does Cariboo Hill 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 Cariboo Hill Secondary?+

InsideVan currently lists 11 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Cariboo Hill Secondary?+

InsideVan currently lists 15 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

4

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

11

nearby options

Nearby classes

15

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

Cariboo Hill Secondary school information

Cariboo Hill 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

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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.