St Margaret's School

English Language Instruction Academy (ELIA)

Improve your English. Enhance your future. English Language Instruction Academy (ELIA) An English study program for girls ages 12-14 (Grades 6-9) located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. *Only 16 spots available worldwide*

What is the English Language Instruction Academy (ELIA)?

Preparing English Language Learners for Success in the IB, ELIA is an intensive program designed to support English language learners in developing the confidence, fluency and academic language skills required for success in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme at St. Margaret’s School. Through targeted instruction and immersive practice, students strengthen their ability to read critically, write analytically, speak confidently, and engage thoughtfully across IB subject areas.

St. Margaret’s School is an established, independent, all-girls International Baccalaureate (IB) school providing life-changing opportunities for international students to support their transition into our full-credit BC Dogwood Certificate and IB Programmes. Proudly independent, we bring an innovative approach to education that fosters deeper human connections across cultures, language and geography, tailored to girls and how girls learn best.

Why ELIA?

  • Focused English language classroom in a small group setting.
  • Build confidence in academic and conversational English.
  • Expert, certified teachers.

Learning Engagements

  • Receive in-depth, personal instruction in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
  • Follow the British Columbia Curriculum.
  • Enhance vocabulary development and communication in all subject areas.
  • Practice public speaking in real world contexts.
  • Engage with authentic Canadian texts, content, and culture.·   Immersion into non-academic courses (PE, Art, Music etc.)

Program Features

  • Afternoon excursions – taking learning beyond the classroom.
  • Specialist Math and Science instruction.
  • Individual attention.
  • Outdoor education and recreation.
  • Participate in all school and community events.
  • Access to IELTs prep course and IELTs testing
  • Standardized English testing twice per school year (The WIDA)
  • Transition into our regular program determined by readiness.

Accommodation

  • Live and study on our beautiful and safe 22-acre campus.
  • Double occupancy bedrooms with private bathroom. Multi-lingual pairings, when available and appropriate.
  • All meals provided by SAGE dining service, the nation’s leading provider of healthy dining.
  • Full-time boarding staff and house parents that create a home away from home.
  • Full-time nurse on staff.
  • W.I.L.D. Boarding curriculum.
  • Mandatory and optional activities.
  1. Live and study on our beautiful and safe 22-acre campus.
  2. Double occupancy bedrooms. Multi-lingual pairings; when available and appropriate.
  3. All meals provided by SAGE dining service, the nation’s leading provider of healthy dining.

“When I started at SMS in Grade 8, I didn’t speak any English. It all went too fast, and I was always confused. I was the only Japanese student in my classes, so it was a great opportunity for me to practice. Now, I can understand everything that is going on in my classes, and I am able to clearly explain myself. Being in English classes all day really helped my language skills.”

– Seika Mori, Grade 11 student from Japan

We want to Hear From You!

Please connect with our Enrolment team to find out more information about how to apply. admissions@stmarg.ca