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Sir Charles Tupper Secondary

419 24th Ave E, Vancouver, BC V5V 2A2 · Vancouver

Rating

5.4

5-year avg

N/A

Rank

95/252

Quick take

School review information

Sir Charles Tupper is a school of dualities: it serves as a supportive, inclusive neighborhood hub for a diverse local population while simultaneously hosting one of the district's most respected academic enrichment programs. It is not a 'test-score factory,' but rather a community-focused institution that excels at lifting students up—whether they are gifted scholars in the Mini School, trades-focused learners in Tupper Tech, or newcomers learning English. It punches above its weight in heart and student support.

Editorial review summary

Parent and student reviews frequently describe Tupper as a 'hidden gem' in East Vancouver with a surprisingly strong sense of community. Historically, the school had a rougher reputation, but recent feedback (from the last 5-10 years) emphasizes a safe, welcoming, and diverse environment. The 'Tupper Mini' program is highly praised for its academic rigor and tight-knit cohort, often cited as a great alternative for students who want enrichment without the pressure of a private school. The 'Tupper Tech' program is also lauded for providing tangible career skills. Some negative reviews mention the older facilities and the fact that it is not a 'prestige' school like those on the West Side, but many parents feel the supportive teachers and 'real-world' diversity outweigh these factors.

Common positives

  • Tupper Mini School offers an accelerated, enriched curriculum for gifted students.
  • Tupper Tech provides exceptional hands-on trades training for Grade 12s.
  • Strong, inclusive community culture centered around the 'ROARS' code of conduct.
  • Diverse student body with over 30 languages spoken, fostering cultural awareness.
  • Central location in Midtown Vancouver with good transit access.

Common concerns

  • Overall academic ranking is average, which may deter families focused solely on statistics.
  • School building is older compared to some newly renovated Vancouver schools.
  • Admission to the Mini School is competitive and requires an application process.
  • Historical reputation still biases some parents, despite significant improvements.

Who this school may fit

This school is an excellent choice for two distinct groups: high-achieving students seeking a challenging but grounded environment via the 'Mini School' program, and students interested in skilled trades through 'Tupper Tech'. It is also a strong option for families valuing diversity and a supportive, non-elitist school culture. It may be less suitable for those seeking a high-ranking 'prestige' school experience based strictly on provincial league tables.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Sir Charles Tupper Secondary holds a Fraser Institute rating of 5.4/10, ranking 95/252 provincially. The school's rating has remained relatively stable over recent years (5.3 → 6.1 → 4.3 → 5.4 → 5.4). While the overall score suggests an average academic performance compared to all BC schools, this aggregate data masks the high achievement found within its specialized cohorts. The 'Tupper Mini School' is a district-wide enrichment program that attracts high-achieving, motivated students, offering an accelerated curriculum that rivals top-tier schools. Conversely, the school also supports a large population of English Language Learners and students with diverse needs, which can impact standardized testing averages but reflects a strong commitment to inclusive education rather than just elite metrics.

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

Tupper Mini School (Academic Enrichment)Tupper Tech (Trades Transition)Youth Train in Trades (Professional Cook)Life Skills ProgramLearning Support Program (LSP)ELL (English Language Learner)iLEAD (Intensive English Enrichment)Fine Arts (Band, Drama, Dance, Visual Arts)Athletics (Tigers)Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies (ADST)ROARS (Social Responsibility Program)

Common questions

Where is Sir Charles Tupper Secondary located?+

Sir Charles Tupper Secondary is located at 419 24th Ave E, Vancouver, BC V5V 2A2 in Vancouver.

Does Sir Charles Tupper Secondary 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 Sir Charles Tupper Secondary?+

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

Are there kids classes near Sir Charles Tupper Secondary?+

InsideVan currently lists 13 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

2

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

5

nearby options

Nearby classes

13

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

Sir Charles Tupper Secondary school information

Sir Charles Tupper Secondary is a secondary school in Vancouver. 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.