Fuelling curiosity, shaping futures – your journey begins here!
Committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative environment, we inspire the intellectual and personal growth of every student. As a pioneer in bilingual education, we proudly align with the standards of the French Ministry of Education and the BC Ministry of Education, providing a rich and diverse learning experience for our students.
Fundamental learnings
Elementary school includes five levels, from Grade 1 to Grade 5, enabling students to progressively develop their mastery of the fundamental tools which are French, English and Mathematics. The students structure and deepen their knowledge of the world through subjects such as history, geography and science, and they develop their artistic and physical knowledge and skills, as well as their ability to situate themselves within a group.
Cycle 2 – Grades 1 to 3
Developing language skills in French and English is a key priority, through reading, writing (in cursive), language study (grammar, spelling, vocabulary) and oral expression. Mathematics is also a major focus of the cycle 2. Students learn to question the world through an initial scientific and reflective approach, developing their curiosity and critical thinking skills. Art education develops their creative expression and fosters access to an artistic culture. Physical education enables students to develop their motor skills and learn about the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Moral and civic education and socio-emotional learning aim to shape responsible citizens, capable of living together and achieving personal fulfillment.
Cycle 3 – Grades 4 and 5
The goals of Cycle 3 are to consolidate the acquisition of fundamental learnings started in Cycle 2, and to introduce students to history, geography, literature, history of art, experimental science and technology. In Grade 4, students begin studying a third language, Spanish. Artistic, cultural and physical activities continue to play an important part. Personal and civic development is a key objective.
Our pedagogy encourages active learning, the development of autonomy, and organization. Students work on both individual and group projects, which encourages collaborative learning. The ability to articulate one’s reasoning is emphasized in every subject and at every grade level. Students develop work habits, and assessment is continuous.
At Cousteau School, we promote overall development of our students.
Nurturing essential skills is a primary focus at Cousteau School. Our students acquire vital abilities that not only contribute to academic success but also empower them to navigate real-world challenges.
Critical Thinking
Our students are encouraged to think critically, question, analyze, and evaluate information, fostering a mindset that is essential for problem-solving and decision-making throughout life.
Social Development
Our students learn to collaborate and interact, developing respect, empathy, and interpersonal skills, while fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation in an inclusive and supportive school environment.
Engaged Students
Students actively engage in school life by taking on responsibilities such as class delegates, thus developing a sense of initiative and collaboration, which are essential for their academic success and future role as citizens.
Open-mindedness
Our students are exposed to a variety of ideas, cultures, and histories, promoting openness to others and awareness of cultural diversity. They are encouraged to consider different perspectives. Learning is focused on curiosity, tolerance, and an appreciation of the world.
Physical Education
Physical education fosters the growth of each student by providing opportunities for socialization and solidarity. It promotes an active lifestyle, contributing to the general well-being and development of both physical and mental health. PE instills core values such as perseverance, leadership, team spirit, respect for rules and others, and helps build concentration and self-confidence.
STEM
Elementary students develop fundamental technological skills in computing, robotics, and coding. Our progressive curriculum allows exploration across various environments, starting without screens for the younger students – Blue-Bot, Matatalab, and then Thymio. This approach fosters creativity, problem-solving, and design skills.
Experience Cousteau’s academic excellence and bilingual education
Cousteau offers a unique academic experience through the teaching of rigorous bilingual education from Pre-K to Grade 9.
Our students nurture a sense of curiosity and become lifelong learners while developing their personality, an international and multicultural mindset, and a willingness to protect our planet and to respect differences.
