Frequently Asked Questions

What does SAIL stand for? SAIL stands for Surrey Academy of Innovative Learning, a K-12 blended learning school offering flexibility in school programming needs.

What does Blended Learning mean? A blended learning model integrates classroom face-to-face instruction with on-line learning experiences. Full time students attend school 2-4 days/week depending on their program of choice.

Why would I choose SAIL over a regular school? In a changing world, students need to be independent learners, critical thinkers, collaborators and innovators. SAIL students are taught to embrace the innovator mind-set and learn diverse skill sets that many post-secondary institutions and employers are seeking.

What sort of programs do you offer at SAIL? For K-7 we offer a full time STEAM program. For Grade 8 & 9 students we offer full time programs and for Grade 10-12 students as well as non-graduated adults, we offer both full and part time program options.

Are SAIL courses the same courses students take in mainstream high schools? Yes. All instruction is fully accredited by the BC Ministry of Education and all teachers hold BC Teaching Certificates and are Surrey School District teachers. In addition, courses meet the BC Education Core Competencies for each subject area.

What are the school fees at SAIL? SAIL is a public school that is part of the Surrey School District (SD36). There are NO tuition costs to Canadian citizens and Landed immigrants residing in the lower mainland.

Is attendance mandatory? All students are expected to maintain regular communication with their teachers. Full time STEAM and STEAMX students attend scheduled classes 4 days per week, whereas Compass students usually attend 2 days per week. Flexibility and personalization, however are key components of all of our SAIL programs.

How are courses designed? Students in our STEAM and STEM-X programs focus on inquiry and project based learning, through an interdisciplinary program. Students explore real world topics that foster independent learning and critical thinking. Courses have a online digital resource so that students can work on their assignments anytime, anywhere.

What is a Makerspace? Our Makerspace offers a place for students to create, invent and tinker through a variety of advanced technological tools. Students have access to tools such as 3-D printers, iPads and robotics to deepen their learning.

Can students be enrolled in a regular high- school and SAIL simultaneously? Students in grades 8-12 may be cross enrolled at both SAIL and a regular mainstream school (SAIL Online).