British Columbia Plans New 465-Seat Francophone School in Saanich

The government of British Columbia has announced plans to construct a new 465-seat francophone school in Saanich, set to accommodate students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. This new facility will replace the existing École Beausoleil, which currently operates out of a temporary location on the Braefoot Elementary site and has a student capacity of only 170.

The new school will be built adjacent to Lansdowne Middle School and is designed to significantly increase educational opportunities for the francophone community in the region. The planned school will feature 20 classrooms and areas designated for child care and community programs. Notably, it will incorporate a “low-carbon building design,” reflecting a commitment to sustainable development.

Construction is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2027, with the provincial government committing $73 million in funding for the project. “This new school will ensure francophone students can learn in a safe, modern environment that reflects their culture and community,” said Bowinn Ma, B.C. Minister of Infrastructure.

Once completed, the new École Beausoleil will become the second K-12 francophone school in Greater Victoria, joining École Victor-Brodeur in Esquimalt. The introduction of this second option is expected to greatly enhance educational choices for families in the region.

Marie-Pierre Lavoie, board chair of the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique, expressed enthusiasm about the development. “For our community, this new school is much more than a building: It is a collective dream we’ve had for a long time and it’s finally coming true,” she stated. Lavoie emphasized that the school embodies the resilience and pride of generations of families and educational staff committed to francophone education in Victoria.

The B.C. government has made significant investments in francophone education infrastructure, having allocated nearly $300 million since 2017 for various projects, including the acquisition of 12 new sites. This latest initiative reflects the ongoing commitment to support and strengthen the French-speaking community in British Columbia.

The establishment of the new school is poised to foster a vibrant learning environment that not only meets the educational needs of students but also reinforces the cultural identity of the francophone community in the province.