< Langley Schools Guide 2025: Catchments, Programs & Rankings | Dylan Whitnack

langley schools guide 2025

Langley schools - the insider guide from a local realtor

Langley Secondary Schools: Programs, Catchments & Local Insights

Moving to Langley? Here’s a clear, buyer-friendly guide to secondary schools, programs (IB & French Immersion), and neighbourhood context—so you can pick a home in the right catchment with confidence.

Note: Fraser Institute school rankings and program availability can change. Always verify the latest details with the Langley School District and each school directly.

Catchments at a Glance

Each address in Langley belongs to a specific secondary school catchment. If school choice is a priority, it’s wise to choose a home inside the catchment of your preferred school.

📍 View the official catchment map: Open Langley Secondary Catchments

Quick Compare: Langley Secondary Schools

School Area Signature Programs Size / Capacity Notes General Reputation
Walnut Grove Secondary Walnut Grove French Immersion (Dual Dogwood) Stable growth; typically not overcrowded Consistently well-regarded; strong academics
R.E. Mountain Secondary Willoughby Heights IB (International Baccalaureate) Very large; recent expansion; uses portables Highly regarded; rigorous academics
Langley Secondary School Central Langley Noted athletics Extensive modernization completed Academics rank lower; diverse community
Brookswood Secondary Brookswood / Rural edge French Immersion (Dual Dogwood) Transit more limited vs urban areas Solid academics + FI option
D.W. Poppy Secondary Salmon River (Rural) Emphasis on Fine Arts & Athletics Driving is often necessary Middle-of-the-pack academics
Aldergrove Community Secondary Aldergrove (Outer suburb) Core academics; community-focused Smaller market; more affordable housing Ranks lower academically

School Profiles & Local Insight

Walnut Grove Secondary

  • Among Langley’s highest-ranked schools (Fraser Institute) and widely respected locally.
  • French Immersion available—graduates can earn the Dual Dogwood.
  • Area has seen steadier growth, so the school is typically less crowded.
  • Great fit for families prioritizing consistent academics and community stability.

R.E. Mountain Secondary (Willoughby Heights)

  • Only IB program in Langley—internationally recognized, rigorous curriculum.
  • Very large school serving rapid growth in Willoughby; recent expansion and continued use of portables.
  • Highly regarded for academics; strong option for accelerated learners.
  • Popular with families moving from nearby areas specifically for the program and reputation.

Langley Secondary School

  • Historic campus (est. 1949) with major modernization completed.
  • Serves a socioeconomically diverse catchment; academics rank lower on scorecards.
  • Locally noted for a strong athletics program.
  • Improved facilities make this a school to revisit if you’ve only seen the “old” LSS.

Brookswood Secondary

  • Offers French Immersion with a path to the Dual Dogwood.
  • Edge-of-town location; transit can be more limited than urban cores.
  • Balanced academic environment plus FI makes it a versatile choice.

D.W. Poppy Secondary (Salmon River)

  • Rural setting—farms and acreages; most families drive to school.
  • Program emphasis on Fine Arts and Athletics; academics sit mid-pack.
  • Appealing for students who thrive in a community-oriented, less urban environment.

Aldergrove Community Secondary

  • Serves an outer-suburb market ~20 minutes from Langley City.
  • Attracts buyers seeking more affordable housing options.
  • Academics rank lower; strong community feel.

Honourable Mentions (Public Choice & Specialized)

These schools are highly sought after but have selective or competitive entry.

  • Langley Fundamental — Public choice school with strong reputation; long waitlists are common.
  • Langley Fine Arts (Fort Langley) — Audition/portfolio-based focus on dance, drama, music, and visual arts; less emphasis on traditional academics; located in a premium area.

What About Elementary Schools?

Across Langley, elementary experiences can vary year to year with staff changes. In practice, many families choose an elementary that feeds into their preferred secondary school, so the transition is smoother and the child stays with peers.

FAQs: Programs, Catchments & Logistics

How do catchments affect which school my child can attend?

Your home address determines the default school. Out-of-catchment transfers may be possible but depend on space and district policy. If a specific school is a priority, aim to purchase within that catchment.

IB vs. French Immersion—what’s the difference?

IB (at R.E. Mountain) is an advanced, globally recognized academic program. French Immersion (at Walnut Grove & Brookswood) leads to the Dual Dogwood diploma with high-level French proficiency.

Are some schools overcrowded?

Willoughby’s rapid growth means R.E. Mountain remains large—even after expansion—and may use portables. Walnut Grove’s steadier growth typically means more stable capacity.

Is transit a factor?

In rural areas (e.g., Salmon River for D.W. Poppy), driving is common. Urban catchments (Walnut Grove, Willoughby) generally have better access to transit and amenities.

Need Help Choosing the Right Catchment?

I’m a local Langley & Willoughby real estate agent and long-time resident. I’ll help you align schools, budget, and lifestyle—then find the best home options inside your target catchment.

Last updated: August 19, 2025