Pluralism, Discourse, and Inclusion
Your unique spark is your strength at York House School
Inclusivity at York House is a practice of pluralism—the understanding that our strength lies not just in accepting our differences, but in celebrating them. Explore social norms, advocate for your beliefs, and challenge outdated ideologies in thoughtful discourse where your perspective is valued and heard. Our community welcomes different personalities, opinions, cultures, and identities that widen our collective viewfinder and shape the world around us.
Our comprehensive Spark plan guides our vision for a transformative environment where everyone flourishes. We are prioritizing pluralism through collective learning, events prompting discourse, and not shying away from difficult conversations.
Inclusion Statement
At York House School, everyone is engaged in a journey of learning. It is a journey that has no end and offers rich opportunities for growth. We are constantly evolving and together, we are changing how we see the world and our place in it.
York House School is on a path to create a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable future. We share the belief that individuals have inherent rights and deserve to be respected for who they are; that every member of our community belongs here and feels included; and that we must treat others with dignity and expect the same in return.
We move toward improvement when we actively deepen our understanding of the things that make each of us unique. It is those differences which strengthen our community and bring the variety of viewpoints and perspectives that spark innovation.
The work of this journey begins by examining our personal, curricular, and professional development, as well as our institutional practices. We must be courageous, honest, and prepared to make the changes necessary to achieve our vision.
There will be challenges, tensions, and difficult conversations, but together we will create an environment where everyone belongs.
Our students are expanding their minds and deepening their understanding of the world. It is to them that we owe this responsibility.
Support For the Whole Student
We know that children learn best when they’re seen, heard, and known. That’s why York House teachers are committed to creating more spaces for Yorkies to show up authentically and exchange ideas outside of classes.
Homeroom teachers keep time open each day for personalized connections and social-emotional development with Little and Junior School Yorkies. Senior School Yorkies connect with teachers and peers in daily Teacher Advisory Group (TAG) sessions. These small groups strengthen belonging through meaningful conversations and one-on-one guidance from a dedicated Teacher Advisor.
Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
York House is a school for female-identifying students that honours, values, and supports the uniqueness of our students—including gender expression and sexual orientation. In accordance with the BC Human Rights Code, our Sexual Orientation and Gender Identities (SOGI) guidelines are in place to ensure you are accommodated and respected whether you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, heterosexual, or cisgender.
