Herbert Spencer Elementary

About

École Herbert Spencer Elementary School is located at 605 Second St, New Westminster, BC V3L 5R9, in the historic Queen’s Park neighbourhood. It is a K–5 dual-track school offering both English and Early French Immersion. The school emphasizes student achievement and supporting all learners in a caring learning environment, with a goal of infusing Respect, Responsibility, and Relationships into school culture. The school also notes a culturally diverse community of more than 450 students and a long history in New Westminster (originally opened in 1911).

At a Glance

School type: Public School (New Westminster)

Education language: École Herbert Spencer is a dual-track English and Early French Immersion school. The school also offers support for English Language Learners (ELL) to help students develop the language skills and knowledge needed for success in Canadian schools and society.

Religious affiliation: None / Secular

Grades: K-5

Phone: 604 517-6030

Email: pmanville@sd40.bc.ca

Principal: Paul Manville

Education Languages

École Herbert Spencer is a dual-track English and Early French Immersion school. The school also offers support for English Language Learners (ELL) to help students develop the language skills and knowledge needed for success in Canadian schools and society.

Programs and Services

French Immersion (Program of Choice) The school is a dual-track English and Early French Immersion school. Indigenous/Aboriginal Education The Aboriginal Education program supports the academic and social success of Aboriginal students and provides cultural experiences for students. The school has an Aboriginal Support Worker who supports Aboriginal learners and shares Aboriginal culture within the school. Early Learning / Kindergarten readiness The school offers two early learning programs: Ready, Set, Learn (introducing four-year-olds to school) and Welcome to Kindergarten (suggestions to help parents prepare children for school). Inclusive Education / learning support The school states it strives to be inclusive, with a continuum of supports offered through school-based and district-based staff. English Language Learners (ELL) The ELL program supports students in developing English language skills and knowledge necessary for success in Canadian schools and society. Settlement support (SWIS) Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) supports immigrants, refugees, and other eligible clients with immediate settlement or ongoing needs after arrival in Canada. Family and community partnerships The school emphasizes nurturing community partnerships that promote the well-being of students and families.

School Culture and Expectations

The school highlights Respect, Responsibility, and Relationships as its core values and school goal. It states it strives to be an inclusive school where all students are engaged and diversity is celebrated. The school also references following Ministry of Education guidelines for “Safe, Caring, and Orderly Schools,” with clear expectations for acceptable behaviour and a focus on belonging. A school Code of Conduct is published on the website.

Transportation, Parking, and Getting Here

The school shares traffic safety expectations for families during drop-off and pick-up, including respecting designated handicapped parking spots on Second Street and on Princess and obeying lower speed zones and crossing guards. Crossing guards are provided at Sixth Avenue & Second Street, and Eighth Avenue & Second Street. The website also links to a street map and a “Best Walking Route” to the school. Visitors (including parents) are asked to check in with the office for safety.

Enrollment

The school provides online “Registration Information and Forms” for Kindergarten and new students. It posts a registration window for the 2026–27 school year and directs families to the registration page for details and forms.