VSB secondary schools offer a diverse range of academic and elective courses designed to support students’ interests, strengths, and future goals. Students can create a personalized learning pathway while meeting British Columbia graduation requirements.

Core academic subjects include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, as well as Career Education and Physical and Health Education. Students can also choose from a wide variety of elective courses and specialized learning opportunities, including:

• Performing Arts: band, strings, orchestra, choir, drama, dance, and musical theatre 
• Languages: French, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese 
• Technology & Applied Skills: information technology, business education, CAD design, robotics, and other hands-on learning opportunities 
• Fine Arts: visual arts, photography, film studies, and fashion design 
• Advanced Placement (AP) courses available at many secondary schools

Many schools also offer unique academies, leadership opportunities, extracurricular activities, and specialty programs that help students develop their talents both inside and outside the classroom. 

Designated and specialty programs are available to qualified students, subject to program requirements and space availability. Priority is given to qualified local students, with international students considered where space permits.

VSB secondary schools follow a semester system, with students taking four courses per semester. Semester 1 runs from September to January, and Semester 2 runs from February to June.