CISVA History
Over a Century of Excellence: The Inspiring Journey of Catholic Education in British Columbia
The story of Catholic education in British Columbia is one of unwavering dedication, remarkable growth, transformation, and inspiring achievements. From humble beginnings in the mid-1800s to today's thriving inclusive community of schools, our journey reflects the strength and spirit of our faith-based community.
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160+ Years
In 1858, the Sisters of St. Ann pioneered Catholic education in BC with the establishment of St. Ann's Academy in Victoria. This spark of faith-based learning quickly spread, with Father Leon Fouquet founding St. Mary's Mission School in 1861 with Convent of the Sacred Heart High School in 1912. These early institutions laid the foundation for what would become a robust and diverse educational system.
A Glimpse Into Our History
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1888
The Sisters of St. Ann established St. Ann's Academy in Vancouver, marking the beginning of Catholic education in the city.
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1872
First Common School Act passed, failing to recognize existing Catholic schools
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1914
First documented Catholic school in northern BC opened in Babine by Bishop Bunoz and various religious orders
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1930
Archbishop William Mark Duke requests recognition of Catholic schools from the provincial government
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1953
St. Patrick's School starts teaching 89 students in Vancouver. Crerating a centralized community within the heart of Vancouver.
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1953
Notre Dame Regional Secondary School opened its doors, ushering in a new era of Catholic secondary education in East Vancouver and Burnaby.
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1956
Bishop Fergus O'Grady begins building a system of Catholic schools across northern BC
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1966
The formation of the Federation of Independent Schools Associations (FISA) marked a turning point in our advocacy efforts.
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![1977: Independent Schools Support Act passed, providing financial aid to independent schools]()
1977
Independent Schools Support Act passed, providing financial aid to independent schools
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1989
The Independent Schools Act increased funding, allowing for further expansion and improvement of our educational offerings.
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2025
Catholic Independent Schools of Vancouver Archdiocese (CISVA) oversees 46 schools serving nearly 16,000 students
From the Past to the Future
Today, CISVA proudly oversees 46 schools, including 40 elementary and 6 secondary institutions, serving nearly 16,000 students across the Greater Vancouver Area and Powell River. Our schools have become beacons of academic excellence and spiritual growth, nurturing responsible citizens who live, celebrate, and proclaim their faith.Our success stories are numerous. From innovative programs that blend faith with cutting-edge technology to community outreach initiatives that embody our Catholic values, CISVA schools continue to set new standards in education.As we look back on over 160 years of Catholic education in BC, we celebrate not just our perseverance in the face of challenges, but also our continuous evolution and adaptation. Our history is a testament to the power of faith, community, and dedication to educational excellence. It's a legacy that continues to inspire and guide us as we shape the future of Catholic education in British Columbia.
The Future of
Catholic Education
Experience a Christ-centred learning environment where academic excellence and faith formation go hand in hand. Discover how CISVA’s 46 schools nurture responsible citizens, rooted in the Gospel and guided by the Holy Spirit, in partnership with home and parish.
Begin your child’s journey today—explore our admissions process and become part of a vibrant Catholic community