After-school
South Arm Out of School Care
City-operated OSC serving nearby South Arm-area schools with transportation.
Childcare
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Rating
5.4
5-year avg
N/A
Rank
95/252
Quick take
School review information
Matthew McNair is a school on the rise that offers two distinct experiences: a supportive, vocationally rich environment for the general student body, and an intense, academically rigorous track for Mini School participants. It excels in hands-on learning—from the stage to the professional kitchen—making it one of the most well-rounded, if underrated, schools in Richmond.
Editorial review summary
Parent and student reviews paint a picture of a 'hidden gem' that has successfully shed a rougher reputation from decades past. The school is frequently praised for its 'Caring Community' motto and inclusive atmosphere. The Culinary Arts program is a specific point of pride, with students noting McNair has the 'best cafeteria in Richmond' due to student-prepared meals. The Mini School is highly reviewed by parents of academically gifted children for its tight-knit cohort and outdoor education trips (e.g., Strathcona). Some negative feedback lingers regarding the older facility and the perception that it is less 'prestigious' than West Richmond schools like McMath.
Common positives
- Renowned 'Mini School' enrichment program for high achievers
- Exceptional Culinary Arts program running a full-service cafeteria
- Strong Performing Arts (Theatre and Music) department
- Improving academic trend and rankings
- Diverse vocational options including Auto and Metal shops
Common concerns
- Overall academic rating is average compared to top-tier Richmond schools
- Admission to the Mini School is highly competitive and requires testing
- Historical reputation (from the 90s) sometimes unfairly shadows current reality
- Older school facilities compared to newer builds
Who this school may fit
This school is an ideal choice for two types of students: academically gifted learners seeking the challenge and camaraderie of the 'Mini School' cohort, and hands-on learners passionate about Culinary Arts, Theatre, or Trades. It is a strong alternative for families who want a diverse, real-world environment rather than a purely academic pressure cooker.
Ratings and data
Academic information
Matthew McNair Secondary has shown a notable upward trend in its academic standing. With a most recent Fraser Institute rating of 5.4/10 and a provincial ranking of 95/252, the school has improved significantly from previous years (climbing from a low of 3.7). While the overall rating suggests an average academic performance relative to the province, the specialized 'Mini School' program houses a cohort of high-achieving students who typically outperform these general statistics, engaging in rigorous enrichment and winning scholarships.
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
McNair Mini School (Enrichment Program)Culinary Arts (Cafeteria Program)Theatre & Performing ArtsMusic (Concert Band, Jazz Band, Strings)Automotive ApprenticeshipMetal & Wood ShopsIntegrated AcademicsAdvanced Placement (AP) CoursesVisual Arts
Common questions
Where is Matthew McNair Secondary located?+
Matthew McNair Secondary is located at 9500 No 4 Rd, Richmond, BC V7A 2Y9 in Richmond.
Does Matthew McNair Secondary have after-school pickup options?+
InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 1 nearby after-school options.
Are there tutors near Matthew McNair Secondary?+
InsideVan currently lists 10 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.
Are there kids classes near Matthew McNair Secondary?+
InsideVan currently lists 8 nearby kids class or activity options.
After-school programs and classes near Matthew McNair Secondary
0 after-school programs explicitly serve this school, 1 are nearby within 3km, plus 10 tutors and 8 class options.
Find pickup programs
Nearby within 3km, no pickup provided from this school
Tutors near Matthew McNair Secondary
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Nearby tutors
Classes near Matthew McNair Secondary
Shown within about 3km of the school, excluding dedicated after-school and tutoring programs.
Nearby classes and activities
After school
1
pickup or nearby
Nearby tutors
10
nearby options
Nearby classes
8
nearby options
After-school pickup
See pickup and nearby options first
0 explicitly serve this school, plus 1 nearby within 3km.
What this page covers
Matthew McNair Secondary school information
Matthew McNair Secondary is a secondary school in Richmond. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 1 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.