Vancouver Island & Sunshine Coast
Regional Overview
The Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Region of British Columbia offer stunning waterfront settings in a lush rainforest. Notable education employers in the area include the Greater Victoria School District and the Catholic Independent Schools of the Diocese of Victoria.
The island is about 460 km long and 100 km wide at its widest point, making it the largest island on the west coast of North America. It's known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Just across the Georgia Strait lies the Sunshine Coast, a picturesque, peaceful region northwest of Vancouver. Accessible only by ferry or floatplane, the Sunshine Coast is known for its tight-knit communities, creative culture and oceanfront charm.
These regions offer rewarding lifestyle and careers for educators looking to live and work in one of B.C.'s most scenic areas.
Featured Employers
Catholic Independent Schools of the Diocese of Victoria
5 Schools | 1,390 Students
Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District 68
36 Schools | 14,700 Students | 2,250 Employees
Vancouver Island West 84
5 Schools | 381 Students | 90 Employees
Independent schools
- ArtsCalibre Academy
- Catholic Independent Schools of the Diocese of Victoria
- Christ Church Cathedral School
- Discovery School
- Glenlyon Norfolk School
- Living and Learning School
- Oak and Orca Bioregional School
- Queen Margaret’s School
- Salt Spring Centre School
- St. Margaret’s School
- Sunrise Waldorf School
- Traditional Learning Academy Online
- Westmont Montessori School
Culture
From the historic charm of Victoria to the remote beauty of Cape Scott, Vancouver Island is a destination rich in cultural experiences and coastal scenery. Visitors can stroll through the stunning Butchart Gardens, tour the illuminated Provincial Legislature grounds, or discover local art at vibrant festivals and craft fairs throughout the island. Communities along the Sunshine Coast and beyond offer a welcoming blend of heritage, creativity and West Coast charm.
For those seeking adventure, the legendary West Coast Trail delivers an unforgettable journey. Originally used by shipwreck survivors and rescuers, this 77-kilometre hike winds through rugged forests, remote beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs. It’s one of the island’s most iconic outdoor experiences and a bucket-list destination for hikers from around the world.
Lifestyle
From lush forests and scenic hiking trails to sweeping ocean vistas, the Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast regions offer a nature-rich lifestyle. The area’s economy is rooted in fishing and forestry, reflecting its deep connection to the land and sea.
On Vancouver Island, adventure and city culture go hand in hand. Spend a day wandering through one of North America’s oldest rainforests, or enjoy dining, shopping, and entertainment in vibrant urban centres. In winter, head to Mount Washington Alpine Resort for skiing and snowboarding with stunning ocean-to-alpine views.
Life on the Sunshine Coast offers the ideal conditions for mountain biking, beachcombing and world-class sailing. Whether you’re exploring coastal communities or taking in the surrounding beauty, life here moves at a relaxed, outdoor-oriented pace.
