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Semiahmoo Secondary School

1785 148 St, Surrey, BC V4A 4M6 · Surrey

Rating

7.2

5-year avg

N/A

Rank

36/252

Quick take

School review information

Semiahmoo Secondary functions less like a typical public high school and more like a competitive preparatory academy. It is defined by its two pillars of excellence: a massive, high-performing IB program and a championship-level jazz music department. While the facilities face the strain of overcrowding, the culture of achievement is palpable.

Editorial review summary

Parent and student reviews on forums like Reddit paint a picture of a 'semi-private' feeling public school. The community is described as safe, affluent, and highly motivated. Positive reviews frequently praise the world-class music program and the dedicated teachers in the IB stream. However, common complaints focus on overcrowding (a district-wide issue) and a highly competitive, sometimes high-pressure social atmosphere. Some students note that the school can feel 'cliquey,' and the intense focus on academics may be stressful for those not in the IB program.

Common positives

  • Prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program with high university acceptance rates
  • Nationally recognized Music and Jazz Band program
  • Professional Culinary Arts program with apprenticeship opportunities
  • Located in a safe, affluent South Surrey neighborhood
  • Strong school spirit with the new 'Thunderbirds' identity

Common concerns

  • Significant overcrowding leading to the use of portable classrooms
  • Highly competitive environment can be stressful for average students
  • IB program admission is selective and demanding
  • Social atmosphere can feel divided between IB and non-IB students

Who this school may fit

This school is the ideal choice for high-achieving, academically driven students who aim to attend top-tier global universities via the IB Diploma. It is also a top destination for students with serious musical talent or those interested in professional culinary training. Students who prefer a relaxed, low-pressure environment may find the culture too intense.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Semiahmoo Secondary is widely recognized as an academic powerhouse in British Columbia. With a Fraser Institute rating of 7.2/10 and a provincial rank of 36/252, it consistently performs in the top tier of public schools. The school is most famous for its long-running International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (established 1980), where students historically achieve scores well above the global average (e.g., a 37/45 average in recent years compared to the global 32). This indicates a rigorous, university-preparatory environment.

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

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma ProgramCulinary Arts Co-op (Professional Cook Training)Music Program (Award-winning Jazz & Concert Bands)Athletics (Thunderbirds)Hockey Skills AcademyBASES (Building Academic, Social and Employment Skills)Globalizers ClubModel United NationsRobotics & Innovation

Common questions

Where is Semiahmoo Secondary School located?+

Semiahmoo Secondary School is located at 1785 148 St, Surrey, BC V4A 4M6 in Surrey.

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

InsideVan is still adding after-school pickup and nearby drop-off options for this school.

Are there tutors near Semiahmoo Secondary School?+

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Are there kids classes near Semiahmoo Secondary School?+

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What this page covers

Semiahmoo Secondary School school information

Semiahmoo Secondary School is a secondary school in Surrey. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 0 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.