New Secondary School to Enhance Education in North Langford

A significant investment in education is set to transform the landscape of Langford, British Columbia, with plans for a new secondary school that will accommodate 2,000 students. The announcement was made on October 1, 2023, by the provincial government, highlighting the urgent need for educational infrastructure in one of British Columbia’s fastest-growing communities.

Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of providing safe and innovative learning environments for all students. “Every student in B.C. deserves a school that’s safe, welcoming and equipped for innovation,” he stated. The establishment of this new school demonstrates the government’s commitment to meeting the demands of expanding populations in regions like Langford.

Investment and Environmental Standards

The province is investing nearly $220 million in this project, with construction slated to commence in 2027. The school is designed to adhere to high environmental standards, aiming to produce approximately 91 percent fewer carbon emissions than a typical building that meets LEED gold standards. This approach not only enhances the learning environment but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainability.

Facilities planned for the school include state-of-the-art science and computer labs, a gymnasium, a theatre, and a parking lot equipped with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Furthermore, the design will support a diverse array of electives, covering areas such as arts, trades, business, and technology, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.

Bowinn Ma, the Minister of Infrastructure, remarked on the necessity of adapting to the growing population: “As more families choose to put down roots in Langford, we need to make sure students have the schools they need to grow and thrive.” This sentiment reflects the provincial government’s awareness of the changing demographic landscape.

A Historic Commitment to Education

Local representatives have expressed strong support for this initiative. Ravi Parmar, the MLA for Langford-Highlands, characterized the investment as “the largest investment in education our community has ever seen.” This sentiment was echoed by Amanda Dowhy, chair of the Sooke School District Board of Education, who noted that the future facility will be the largest secondary school on Vancouver Island.

The provincial government has demonstrated its commitment to education over recent years, having allocated nearly $515 million to the Sooke School District since 2017. This funding has resulted in the creation of 4,660 new spaces, with 2,600 of those already operational. The development of the new secondary school in Langford is a continuation of this trend, addressing both current and future educational needs.

As the community anticipates the start of construction in a few years, the focus remains on creating an environment conducive to learning and growth, ensuring that students in Langford can thrive in their educational pursuits.