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Frequently Asked Questions

The Questions We Hear Most Often

We get lots of questions, and we are happy to help people find the answers they need to make decisions about upgrading courses, completing high school, or continuing their education (whether for college or university program prerequisites or interest).

Click on the questions below to learn more. If you have a question that is not in the list, please feel free to contact us

1. How do I start at South Hill or Gathering Place Education Centres? What do I need?

Please read over the information on new students on our New Student page. Eligible students are at least sixteen years old on July 1, 2024 for the 2024-2025 school year, and are ordinarily resident in BC and living in BC for a settled purpose. Fill in the Intake Form and provide a copy of ID showing status in Canada (showing Canadian citizenship, Permanent Resident status, Refugee status or Refugee Claimant status, gov't issued photo ID). Email these to: adulteducationadvisors@vsb.bc.ca. For more information, visit the new student registration page.

2. Should I see an Academic Advisor?

Yes:

  • If you are a student, are new to the education system, and require an individual Student Learning Plan (SLP). These plans are reviewed, signed and updated every school year by the student.
  • If you are a returning student and wish to alter or update your individual Student Learning Plan.
  • If you are unsure if you should follow the Adult Graduation or the regular 2023 Graduation program.
  • If you are a day school student and have a letter of permission from your school.

No:

  • If you are a current student and have a Student Learning Plan for this school year, and are successfully completing your courses.
3. What do I need to graduate?

Call the office to make an appointment to meet with an academic advisor to review what you need to graduate. Missing requirements will also be noted on your Transcript. If you have taken courses in British Columbia, you can access your transcript at: Transcript Services

Find out more about your graduation options here.

4. How long will it take to complete my graduation program?

The length of time you need to graduate will depend on:

  • how many courses you have to complete
  • which graduation program you are pursuing (Adult Graduation or 2023 Graduation Program)
  • how much time you have in your schedule to attend classes or work on courses.
  • what other commitments you have (family, work, etc.)

Your Student Learning Plan includes an anticipated completion date if you are on a graduation plan.

5. What is the difference between regular and adult grad? Is adult grad as highly recognized as regular grad? Is adult grad accepted at universities?

Students who complete the 2023 Graduation Program or the Adult Graduation program are eligible to receive high school graduation Dogwood diplomas. They are accepted equally by employers, colleges, universities, and other post-secondary institutions. It is your responsibility to ensure that your course choices and marks meet the requirements of your chosen institution. Find out more about your graduation options here.

6. Who is eligible to attend Continuing / Adult Education classes at South Hill or Gathering Place Education Centres tuition free?

Eligible students will be at least 16 years old on July 1 of the school year, be an ordinarily resident in BC, and currently living in the lower mainland for a settled purpose. Funding for most courses is provided by the Ministry of Education and Child Care and is tuition free for Canadian citizens or permanent residents, or convention refugees, or refugee claimants. People holding Work Permits are asked to review their eligibility by reading the Student Eligibility Guide found on the New Students page. Graduated adults who meet the eligibility requirements described above and are over 19 years old may be eligible to take English, Math and Science courses tuition free.

Find out more information about courses for Graduated Adults here.

7. Am I able to register online?

Current students have the option of registering online for their next term by following the instructions on our current or new student pages. New students should follow the steps on the New Student page.

8. Are secondary day school students able to attend?

Yes, secondary school students present an original Letter of Permission from their school Principal, and a copy of their current day school timetable to register for adult education. Students should speak with their high school counselor and parents/guardians before making an appointment to see an Academic Advisor in Adult Education.

9. Are courses recognized in the same way as high school courses?

All our senior academic (Gr. 11 and 12) courses follow prescribed BC Ministry curriculum and carry the same credit as high school courses.

10. Will I get a certificate proving I completed a course?

Marks are sent to the Ministry of Education. If you would like a report card, please request one from the office during our regular office hours. In many cases, an official transcript ordered through the Ministry of Education and Child Care will be the preferred document for application to post-secondary and for employment purposes.

11. How do I get a transcript of my marks?

Transcripts may be ordered through Student Transcript Services on the Ministry of Education website. Order transcripts and certificates - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

12. Are parents able to check student progress?

Students over 18 are adults and are protected by Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy legislation. Information regarding student progress will not generally be released to parents without prior conversation, consent and documentation.

13. What are the guidelines for attending a continuing/Adult Education Centre?

The guidelines for attending a continuing/Adult Education Centre include adhering to the Code of Conduct, attending classes regularly, and completing assignments on time. Detailed guidelines can be found on our website or by contacting our office directly.

Contact Us

Contact us today for more information or assistance.

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