The Ultimate Guide to the Best Schools in Kelowna (2025 Edition)

Across the city, you’ll find schools that blend strong academics with supportive staff, good programs, and a genuine sense of community. Whether you're comparing French immersion options, curious about high school rankings, or looking for a school with great arts or athletics, Kelowna offers no shortage of excellent choices.

This guide is your go-to resource for understanding the best schools in Kelowna. It covers everything you need to know in 2025—from public vs. private comparisons to catchment boundaries and special programs—all grounded in local data and real community insight.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Rankings and highlights of Kelowna’s top public and private schools
• A side-by-side comparison of academic scores, programs, and enrolment
• Information on French immersion, sports academies, and arts-based schools
• An honest breakdown of catchments, capacity challenges, and future schools
• A downloadable checklist to help you compare schools with confidence

You’ll also hear from local parents and educators who know the system inside and out. Because choosing the right school is about more than test scores—it’s about finding the environment where your child can thrive.

Kelowna School District Overview

Kelowna’s public schools are part of School District 23: Central Okanagan Public Schools—the fifth-largest district in British Columbia. It serves over 22,000 students across Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country, and Peachland. Within Kelowna city limits, the district operates:

• 19 elementary schools
• 5 middle schools
• 4 high schools

The structure here follows a K–5 / 6–8 / 9–12 model, which means some children switch schools at Grade 6 and again at Grade 9.

Alongside the public system, Kelowna is also home to a diverse range of private and independent schools—many of which are K–12. These include non-denominational, Christian, Catholic, and specialty schools like Montessori or arts-based programs. Most follow the BC curriculum, with some offering enriched learning paths or religious integration.

There’s also one Francophone public school, École de l’Anse-au-sable, which delivers full instruction in French for eligible French-first-language students. This is distinct from French Immersion, which is available at select English-language public schools (more on that later).

What makes Kelowna schools stand out?

• Strong academic outcomes: The district’s six-year graduation rate is consistently above the provincial average—hovering around 92–95% in recent years.
• Dedicated educators: Parents and teachers alike emphasize the high calibre of staff and leadership across both public and private schools.
• School culture matters: While rankings get attention, many families say the supportive, inclusive feel of Kelowna schools is what sets them apart.

Whether you’re considering a neighbourhood public school or looking into independent options, Kelowna offers a broad and high-quality education landscape.

Top Elementary Schools in Kelowna

Elementary school is where lifelong learning habits are built—and Kelowna has some excellent choices to start that journey.

Top Public Elementary Schools

1. Anne McClymont Elementary
📍 Lower Mission

• Fraser Institute Score (2023): 6.8
• Enrolment: 431 students (2024 / 2025)
• Notable for: Academic strength, strong PAC (Parent Advisory Council), and proximity to parks and beaches

Anne McClymont consistently ranks as the top-performing public elementary in Kelowna. Its Lower Mission location adds to the appeal, but it’s the dedicated teachers and engaged parent community that set it apart.

2. Chute Lake Elementary
📍 Upper Mission

• Fraser Institute Score: 6
• Enrolment: 399 (2024 / 2025)
• Notable for: Outdoor learning focus, newer facilities

Chute Lake benefits from a modern campus and feeds into Canyon Falls Middle and OKM—both highly regarded.

3. North Glenmore Elementary
📍 North Glenmore

• Fraser Institute Score: 6.1
• Enrolment: 651 (2024 / 2025)
• Notable for: Strong community involvement, arts and nature programs

4. Watson Road Elementary
📍 Glenmore

• Fraser Institute Score: 5.9
• Enrolment: 615 (2024 / 2025)
• Notable for: Safe, inclusive environment; close to Dr. Knox Middle and KSS

An under-the-radar school with a strong PAC and positive school culture.

5. École Glenmore (French Immersion)
📍 Glenmore

• Fraser Institute Score: 6.5
• Enrolment: 661 (2024 / 2025)
• Notable for: French Immersion program

Families seeking early bilingual education often choose this school for its strong start in French and smooth transition into Dr. Knox Middle (also FI).

Top Private Elementary Schools

Private schools in Kelowna tend to score higher in Fraser rankings, but many families choose them for smaller class sizes, specific values, or enriched programs—not just academics.

1. Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School
📍 Academy Way (near UBCO)

• Fraser Institute Score: 8.9/10 (top 5% in BC)
• Signature Programs: STEAM, leadership, outdoor ed
• Annual Tuition: ~$16,000–$22,000 depending on grade

Aberdeen Hall blends academic rigour with modern facilities on a stunning 44-acre campus. It consistently leads the region in test scores and parent satisfaction.

2. Kelowna Christian School (KCS)
📍 Springfield/Spall area

• Fraser Institute Score: 7.9
• Faith-based: Christian worldview integrated
• Annual Tuition: ~$6,000–$8,000 depending on grade. They also offer discounts if you have more than one child enrolled.

KCS earns praise for its balanced focus on academics, arts, and athletics. It’s also known for smaller class sizes and a supportive atmosphere.

3. Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School
📍 West Kelowna

• Fraser Institute Score: 7.3
• Faith-based: Catholic values, tight-knit community
• Annual Tuition: ~$6,300. They also offer discounts if you have more than one child enrolled.

There are also discounts for practicing catholics

While across the bridge in West Kelowna, it remains a popular choice for families seeking faith-based elementary education.

4. Studio9 School of the Arts
📍 Central Kelowna

• Fraser Institute Score: N/A
• Program Type: Arts-integrated curriculum (K–12)
  Ideal for kids with creative interests, Studio9 focuses on music, drama, and visual arts from the start.
• Annual Tuition: $7,000

5. Okanagan Montessori Elementary
📍 Pandosy Village

• Fraser Institute Score: N/A
• Approach: Montessori method (K–6)
  Small class sizes and individualized learning make this a strong fit for children who thrive with independence and hands-on activities.
• Annual Tuition: Price not found

Top High Schools in Kelowna

High school is where students start shaping their future—whether that’s university, trades, or creative paths—and Kelowna’s secondary schools offer strong options in every direction.

Public High Schools

1. Okanagan Mission Secondary (OKM)
📍 Lower Mission

• Fraser Institute Score (2023): 7.5
• Enrolment: ~1,300 students
• Strengths: Creative arts, strong academics, community involvement

OKM ranks as Kelowna’s top public high school and one of the top 50 in BC. Known for its vibrant theatre program and above-average graduation rates, it’s a popular choice for families in the Mission catchment.

2. Kelowna Secondary School (KSS)
📍 Glenmore / Central Kelowna

• Fraser Score: 7.2
• Enrolment: ~1,900 students
• Strengths: Advanced Placement (AP) courses, sports academies, strong grad outcomes

KSS is the largest school in the city and offers the widest range of electives—languages, sciences, arts, trades, and more. Its graduates consistently earn scholarships and university placements.

3. Rutland Senior Secondary (RSS)
📍 Rutland North

• Fraser Score: 6.3
• Enrolment: ~1,100 students
• Strengths: Trades and career programs, diverse student body

RSS offers unique vocational opportunities alongside strong support programs. While its Fraser rating is lower than OKM or KSS, many students benefit from its inclusive and practical approach to education.

Private & Independent High Schools

1. Kelowna Christian School (KCS)
📍 Springfield/Spall area

• Fraser Score: 7.9
• Enrolment: ~270 (Grades 9–12)
• Focus: Academic excellence, values-based learning

KCS reports some of the highest provincial exam scores in the region and a university admission rate that rivals top public schools. Students average 77.8% on BC exams—slightly above OKM.

2. Aberdeen Hall Senior School
📍 Academy Way (near UBCO)

• Fraser Score: 7.9
• Enrolment: ~260 (Grades 8–12)
• Focus: STEAM, leadership, university prep

Aberdeen’s senior program emphasizes global readiness and academic challenge. Its high Fraser scores reflect strong performance in literacy and math.

3. Immaculata Regional High School
📍 South Kelowna

• Fraser Score: 7.5
• Enrolment: ~260 students
• Focus: Catholic education, close-knit community

Known for its faith-based values and personalized approach, Immaculata blends academics with strong arts and athletics. A top pick for Catholic families.

4. Studio9 School of the Arts
📍 Central Kelowna

• Fraser Score: N/A
• Program: Arts-focused, project-based learning

Studio9 appeals to creative students looking for a school where music, theatre, and visual arts are integrated into the curriculum.

Private Schools vs. Public Schools (Pros & Cons)

Choosing between public and private education in Kelowna isn’t always straightforward. Both systems offer strong academics and supportive communities—but they differ in structure, cost, and learning environment. Here’s a clear-eyed look at the trade-offs to help you decide what matters most for your family.

Pros of Public Schools

• No Tuition Fees: Public education is fully funded in BC. All core programs are free to residents.
• Wider Course Offerings: Larger public high schools (like KSS) offer diverse electives—languages, trades, arts, and AP courses.
• Neighbourhood-Based Community: Kids often attend with nearby friends, building social ties close to home.
• Greater Diversity: Public schools expose students to a broader range of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
• French Immersion & Academies: Options like Hockey Canada programs, outdoor education, and French streams exist within the public system.

Pros of Private Schools

• Smaller Class Sizes: Many private schools maintain 15–20 students per class, allowing more individualized attention.
• Values-Based Education: Christian and Catholic schools integrate faith into their teaching, while others (like Montessori or Waldorf) follow specialized learning philosophies.
• High Academic Scores: Schools like Aberdeen Hall and KCS consistently outperform public counterparts on provincial assessments.
• Tailored Learning Environments: Private schools often offer more flexibility to support unique learning needs.

Considerations and Challenges

For some families, private school offers the right values and class environment. For others, Kelowna’s public schools provide everything their child needs—with zero tuition. Both paths can lead to success. The key is alignment: find the school that fits your child’s personality, interests, and your family’s goals.

School Catchment Areas in Kelowna

In Kelowna, where you live plays a big role in where your child goes to school—especially in the public system. Each public elementary, middle, and high school has a designated catchment area that determines your child’s assigned school based on your home address.

How Catchments Work

• Assigned by address: Your catchment school is the one zoned for your neighbourhood.
• Catchments are enforced: Popular schools like KSS and KLO Middle are often full, so out-of-catchment requests are rarely approved.
• French Immersion differs: French Immersion programs have their own catchment zones that may not match your English one.
• Feeder pathways matter: For example, a child at Chute Lake Elementary will move on to Canyon Falls Middle and then to OKM—unless enrolled in a specialty or out-of-catchment program.

You can find your designated schools using the interactive Kelowna school-catchment map. Just enter your address, and it will show your elementary, middle, and high school catchments instantly.

Why Catchments Matter

• Planning ahead: Families often choose a neighbourhood based on school zones. Homes in catchments for Anne McClymont Elementary or OKM, for example, are in high demand.
• Limited transfers: If you want your child to attend a school outside your catchment, you’ll need to apply for a cross-boundary transfer. These are only approved if space is available—which is increasingly rare due to overcrowding.
• Continuity counts: Attending a catchment elementary typically guarantees your spot in the matching middle and high schools.

Pro Tip: Catchments Change

As Kelowna grows, school catchment boundaries can shift—especially when new schools are added. It’s a good idea to double-check boundaries when planning a move.

Best Neighbourhoods for Great Schools

Some Kelowna neighbourhoods are especially known for their school catchments—and for good reason. These areas offer a strong mix of top-ranked schools, safe streets, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you’re choosing a home or simply curious about which communities surround the best schools, here’s a look at the standouts.

1. Lower Mission

• Top schools: Anne McClymont Elementary, OKM (Okanagan Mission Secondary)
• Highlights: Beach proximity, active PACs, walkable to parks and sports facilities

Lower Mission is consistently praised for its combination of strong schools and lifestyle perks. Both Anne McClymont and OKM are among the highest-rated public schools in Kelowna.

2. Glenmore

• Top schools: Watson Road Elementary, École Glenmore (FI), Dr. Knox Middle, KSS
• Highlights: Established family neighbourhood, green spaces, quick access to downtown

Glenmore feeds into high-performing middle and high schools, making it a favourite for families looking for long-term continuity in the public system.

3. Upper Mission / Kettle Valley

• Top schools: Chute Lake Elementary, Canyon Falls Middle, OKM
• Highlights: Newer homes, panoramic views, strong sense of community

Upper Mission is home to modern school facilities and family-focused neighbourhood design. The pathway from Chute Lake to OKM is a strong academic track.

4. Springfield / Spall

• Top school: Kelowna Christian School (K–12)
• Highlights: Central location, convenient to shops and services

Families seeking private education often settle near Springfield to be close to KCS, a top-ranked Christian school with strong academic and extracurricular programming.

5. Academy Way / University District

• Top school: Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School (K–12)
• Highlights: Proximity to UBCO, modern facilities, quiet residential vibe

This northeast area appeals to families looking for top-tier independent schooling. Aberdeen Hall’s reputation and setting make it a destination in itself.

6. Wilden & North Glenmore

• Top schools: North Glenmore Elementary, École Glenmore
• Highlights: Newer developments, trails, strong parent involvement

These growing areas are ideal for families who want newer homes without sacrificing access to well-regarded public schools.

7. West Kelowna (across the bridge)

• Top schools: Our Lady of Lourdes (private Catholic), Mar Jok Elementary
• Highlights: Affordable options, expanding infrastructure

While technically outside Kelowna, West Kelowna schools serve many families who value access to faith-based education or want a quieter pace.

French Immersion & Special Programs

From early bilingual education to arts academies and hands-on trades training, families have access to a wide range of programs designed to meet different learning styles and interests.

French Immersion in Kelowna

French Immersion (FI) is a popular choice for families who want their children to become fluent in both of Canada’s official languages. In Kelowna, the immersion path is well-structured and available from Kindergarten through Grade 12.

Elementary FI Schools:

• École Glenmore Elementary
• École Belgo Elementary
• École Casorso Elementary
• École Dorothea Walker Elementary

Middle FI Schools:

• École Dr. Knox Middle (Glenmore)
• École KLO Middle (Lower Mission)

High School FI:

• Kelowna Secondary School (KSS)

This pathway allows a child to begin immersion in Kindergarten or Grade 1 and continue through to graduation, earning a Dual Dogwood Diploma (English and French).

Note: French Immersion catchments differ from regular English catchments. Students may need to commute farther or take a district bus to their assigned FI school.

Special Programs & Academies

Kelowna’s schools also offer a variety of specialized programs that cater to different talents and career goals:

Sports Academies

• KLO Middle School: Hockey Canada Skills Academy
• Dr. Knox Middle: Soccer & Outdoor Education
• KSS & RSS: Trial academies in baseball, soccer, and basketball

Arts & Performance

• OKM: Renowned musical theatre and performing arts program
• Studio9 School of the Arts: Private K–12 with an arts-integrated curriculum
• KSS: Strong music program including jazz, band, and choir

Advanced Academics

• KSS: Offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like Calculus and Biology
• OKM: Honours streams in select subjects
• District-wide: Gateway and Dual Credit programs allow high school students to earn college credits through partnerships with Okanagan College and BCIT

Trades & Technical Training

• RSS & Central School: Career pathways in trades, culinary arts, and hands-on skills
• Partnerships with BCIT & OC: Dual credit and work experience options

Alternative & Supportive Education

• Central Programs & Services: For students needing flexible or alternate learning
• Indigenous Programs: Cultural support and Indigenous language opportunities are integrated throughout the public system

Academic Performance & Rankings (What the Data Means)

When parents compare schools, Fraser Institute scores often come up first. These 1–10 ratings are based on standardized test results in reading, writing, and numeracy—but what do they really tell you?

How Kelowna Schools Rank

Kelowna schools consistently perform above the provincial average in both elementary and secondary categories. In 2023:

• Anne McClymont Elementary scored 6.8/10—placing it in the top 20% of BC public elementaries.
• Aberdeen Hall earned an 8.9/10—one of the highest private elementary scores in the province.
• Okanagan Mission Secondary (OKM) scored 7.5/10—ranking 45th out of 252 BC high schools.
• Kelowna Christian School (KCS) had a Fraser score of 7.9/10—outperforming many Greater Vancouver schools.

Kelowna vs. BC: Fraser Score Comparison

Kelowna’s average public school score: ~6.0
BC average: ~5.5

What Rankings Don’t Show

Fraser scores are helpful—but they don’t tell the full story.

• They don’t account for school culture: A school with a lower score may offer outstanding support, community feel, or hands-on learning.
• Small class sizes skew data: A single test score can dramatically affect the rating at a smaller school.
• English as a Second Language (ESL) and special needs populations may lower a school's score despite excellent teaching.
• No measure of arts, sports, or enrichment: Rankings miss things like drama programs, mentorship, or strong PAC involvement.

A Better Way to Use Rankings

Use Fraser scores as one of several tools. They’re useful for spotting general trends and identifying academic standouts, but they shouldn’t replace firsthand research, school visits, or conversations with other parents.

Look for:

• A trend of improving scores over time (growth matters)
• Consistent results across multiple grades
• Fit with your child’s learning style, interests, and personality

New Developments & Future Schools

Kelowna’s population has been growing fast—and that means more students than ever are enrolling in local schools. While the quality of education remains strong, overcrowding is now a major concern, especially at the middle and high school levels.

Overcapacity by the Numbers

• 130+ portable classrooms are currently in use across the district
• Kelowna Secondary School (KSS) is operating at 125% capacity (~1,900 students in a school built for 1,500)
• Dr. Knox and KLO Middle are both near or over capacity, with waitlists for some programs
• Catchment rules are being enforced more strictly than ever to manage demand

What’s Being Done

The good news: major investments and planning are already underway to address the pressure.

New West Kelowna High School

• Location: Rose Valley area
• Opening: Expected by 2027
• Capacity: 1,200 students
• This school will reduce strain on Mount Boucherie and may ease KSS enrolment indirectly.

Planned Middle School in Central Kelowna

• Location: Burtch Road site
• A business case has been submitted to the province. If funded, this would serve central and downtown families and help absorb growth in Glenmore and the North End.

Proposed High School in Glenmore

• Still in the planning stage
• Would relieve pressure from KSS and give Glenmore a true secondary catchment
• Supported by parents, city planners, and the district

What It Means for You

If you’re enrolling a child in the next few years:

• Register early: Especially for middle and high school spots
• Expect portables or staggered schedules in some schools until new buildings are complete
• Stay informed about catchment changes—boundaries may shift as new schools open

Relief is coming, but until then, flexibility and early planning are key.

Choosing the Right School

Here’s a practical checklist to help you compare options—and feel confident in your decision.

What to Consider

1. School Environment

• Does the school feel welcoming and inclusive?
• How do teachers and students interact?
• What’s the general atmosphere—academic, creative, relaxed?

2. Class Sizes & Support

• What is the average class size?
• Are there dedicated support teachers, counsellors, or enrichment programs?

3. Location & Logistics

• How far is the commute?
• Is it walkable, or will you need to drive or bus?
• Are before/after school care options available?

4. Academic Focus

• Does the school offer the courses or programs your child needs (e.g. AP, French Immersion, trades)?
• Are students generally meeting or exceeding provincial standards?

5. Extracurricular Opportunities

• Are there clubs, sports, or arts programs that match your child’s interests?
• What kind of events or enrichment activities happen outside class?

6. School Values & Philosophy

• For private schools: do the values align with your family’s?
• For public schools: is there a good cultural and social fit?

7. Community Feedback

• What are other parents saying?
• Have you visited the school or attended an open house?
• Is the Parent Advisory Council active and accessible?

FAQ: Kelowna Schools

How do I find my catchment school in Kelowna?

Use the interactive Kelowna school-catchment map. Enter your home address to see your designated elementary, middle, and high schools based on your location.

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Are there Catholic schools in Kelowna?

Yes. The main Catholic options are Immaculata Regional High School (Grades 8–12) and Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary (K–7 in West Kelowna). Both follow BC curriculum with Catholic values integrated.

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Do Kelowna schools offer French Immersion?

Yes. French Immersion starts in Kindergarten or Grade 1 at select elementary schools and continues through middle school to Grade 12 at KSS. Immersion catchments are different from English zones.

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Is there an International Baccalaureate (IB) program in Kelowna?

No. As of 2025, no Kelowna school offers the IB program. The nearest IB schools are in Vernon or Penticton. However, AP courses and honours programs are offered at several high schools like KSS and OKM.

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Are public schools in Kelowna good?

Yes. Many public schools in Kelowna score above the BC average in provincial assessments. Schools like OKM, KSS, and Anne McClymont are top performers in the public system.

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How much do private schools cost in Kelowna?

Private school tuition ranges from $5,000 to $22,000 per year, depending on the school and grade. For example, Aberdeen Hall is at the higher end; Kelowna Christian and Immaculata offer more moderate rates.

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Can I switch schools if I'm outside the catchment?

Possibly, but space is limited. You can apply for a cross-boundary transfer, but priority is given to students living in the catchment. Popular schools like KSS and KLO often deny out-of-zone requests due to capacity.

Conclusion & Next Steps

With high-performing public schools, top-tier private options, strong French Immersion programs, and a school district committed to innovation, Kelowna offers more choice than most BC cities its size. Whether your child thrives in a big, bustling high school like KSS or a tight-knit arts school like Studio9, you’ll find a path that fits.

Take your time. Visit schools. Talk to parents. Check catchments. And trust your gut—it’s often the best guide.

Need help finding a home in your preferred school catchment?
Reach out anytime—I'm happy to help you explore Kelowna’s communities through the lens of education.