Duncan Christian School

About

Duncan Christian School is located at 495 Beech Ave, Duncan, BC V9L 3J8, in the Cowichan Valley. The school describes itself as a “Faith, Family & Community” school and a child’s “home away from home,” where students are valued as unique individuals. DCS is a diverse, multi-denominational Christian school that aims to equip students for a life of Christian discipleship and stewardship.

At a Glance

School type: Independent School (Cowichan Valley)

Education language: Duncan Christian School describes its learning environment as all-English for instruction, including for international students. The school offers ELL (English Language Learner) classes for international students to improve and practice English, and notes that international students have an English class designed to prepare qualifying students for university. No immersion or bilingual instruction programs are described in the provided sources.

Religious affiliation: Duncan Christian School is a Christian school. It states that it confesses “Christ is Lord,” uses a Biblically faithful curriculum and worship, and includes in-school chapels and accredited Christian Perspective courses as part of its discipleship program.

Grades: K-12

Phone: 250 746-3654

Email: pterpstra@duncanchristian.com

Principal: Peter Terpstra

Education Languages

Duncan Christian School describes its learning environment as all-English for instruction, including for international students. The school offers ELL (English Language Learner) classes for international students to improve and practice English, and notes that international students have an English class designed to prepare qualifying students for university. No immersion or bilingual instruction programs are described in the provided sources.

Religious Affiliation

Duncan Christian School is a Christian school. It states that it confesses “Christ is Lord,” uses a Biblically faithful curriculum and worship, and includes in-school chapels and accredited Christian Perspective courses as part of its discipleship program.

Programs and Services

Early Learning (Preschool) The Early Learning Program is described as a play-based program focused on exploration, discovery, and creativity, in an enriched, safe, and stimulating environment. Activities mentioned include music and movement, creative art, games, field trips, stories, outdoor play, and Bible time. English Language Learning (ELL) / Academic support For international students, DCS offers an ELL class to build English skills in a small, supportive setting. The school also notes free group tutoring by subject teachers on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school to help students with assignments. Arts / Fine arts and performance DCS notes extracurricular opportunities in the arts and mentions electives and fine arts classes such as drama. The school also promotes a student musical production. Trades / Applied skills electives For international students, the school lists electives and fine arts classes such as woodworking and cooking. Student support / accessibility The school states a commitment to accessibility, aiming to support students, staff, and the broader school community, and references an Accessibility Plan (2023–26) and a feedback mechanism for reporting barriers and accomplishments. Faith formation / chapels and Christian Perspective courses All students are required to attend in-school chapels and complete accredited Christian Perspective courses as part of the Christian discipleship program.

School Culture and Expectations

The school emphasizes “Faith, Family & Community” and describes itself as a caring, friendly environment where students are valued as unique individuals. For international students, DCS states that it expects high standards of attitude and behavior, respectful and kind treatment of others, and that bullying is not tolerated. The school’s mission and vision highlight discipleship, Christ-centered social responsibility, positive choices that support health, environmental stewardship, and service-learning opportunities.

Enrollment

DCS welcomes enrollment applications from families who support the school’s mission and vision. Families are directed to begin the K–12 enrollment process by scheduling a tour (call 250-746-3654), and the school can mail a registration package. For the Early Learning Program, families can contact the school by phone or stop by the elementary school office at 495 Beech Ave, Duncan to request a registration packet. Limited tuition assistance is available for qualifying families by requesting a form from the school.