Eastgate Academy earns IB authorization, plans move to new Moncton location
Moncton’s Eastgate Academy is Maritimes’ first IB Primary Years Programme school
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Have you heard the awesome news?! Eastgate Academy recently reached two of its longterm goals – they’re an official IB school AND they’re moving to larger, more central location!
RELATED: Eastgate Academy brings education options to Greater Moncton
Eastgate Academy opened in Fall 2021, with a small group of students in grades 4 through 6 and a curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Interest grew quickly; this fall, there were several dozen students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 making their way to the school’s Riverview location. So many, that expansion plans were a must!
An Eastgate Academy campus was always part of future plans, and remains as such, but the school’s growth meant a move was needed sooner rather than later. In fall of 2024, students will attend Eastgate Academy at 210 Millennium Drive in Moncton.
“Having Eastgate situated in Moncton has always been part of the vision for the school,” says Jennifer Landry, the school’s Director of Community Development. “Location is important as we provide education for students from the entire Greater Moncton area. The new location is easily accessible to families and students coming from the tri-community and surrounding areas.”
Millennium Drive is near the Moncton Coliseum, with quick entry from Wheeler Boulevard and Killam Drive. The area is filled with amenities the school hopes to make use of.
“It’s nestled near Centennial Park,” explains Landry. “It’s neighbours with several recreational resources, such as the Sports Dome, soccer and baseball field, the Superior Propane Centre arena, community centre, and more.”
Eastgate Academy plans to operate as a K-9 school for 2024/2025, as they continue adding a grade level each academic year until reaching the full K-12 continuum.
“We are anticipating positive growth with the news of the move to Moncton and are eager to welcome new families to our enriching community,” shares Landry, noting that applications for September are open and information sessions are planned for the Spring.
The address isn’t the only thing that’s new, though. In March 2024, Eastgate Academy earned the distinction of becoming the first IB Primary Years Programme school in the Maritimes!
WHAT IS AN IB PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME?
International Baccalaureate (IB) is a world-renowned educational framework built on best practices from several countries. The IB programme is offered in nearly 400 Canadian schools, both private and public schools; however, in New Brunswick, the options have been limited. Until Eastgate Academy, the only accredited IB programmes in the province were at École Mathieu-Martin in Dieppe, École Sainte-Anne in Fredericton, Saint John High School, and Rothesay Netherwood School – none of which offered middle school or elementary students an IB option.
“Our programmes encourage both personal development and academic achievement challenging students to think critically, to ask the right questions and think across disciplines. An IB education also fosters diversity, curiosity and a healthy appetite for learning.” ~ www.ibo.org
Kathryn Crossman is Eastgate Academy’s Principal. She says earning this distinction showcases the school’s dedication to “top-tier education that is aligned with global standards and practices.”
“Local families now have an option for an educational experience that promotes international mindedness while fostering a deep sense of collaboration and community engagement,” she explains. “Students are able to experience an approach to learning and teaching that is rooted in the development of strong skills that will equip them for success in an interconnected world.”
Eastgate Academy students are happy about the move.
“I’m looking forward to having more space that will offer new activities and different classes,” shares Molly, a Grade 8 student.
Grade 1 student Issac is “most excited to have a new space with new materials.”
MUST READ: What you need to know about enrolling your kindergartner at Eastgate Academy
Eastgate Academy accepts admission applications year-round. There is an admissions process that involves both the prospective student and their adult(s). “[This] is a chance for students, families, and teachers to determine if Eastgate Academy is the right fit,” reads the school’s website. “It is a two-way process: we want to make sure that your child can flourish in our school with the kinds of support that we provide, but we also want to help you to understand what we offer and determine whether it aligns with what you want for your child.”
The process includes school visits, an online application that includes disclosing and discussing any behavioral or learning challenges, and an assessment with the school before an admission offer would be made. If entering or switching to Eastgate Academy, the school will assist you with completing the necessary forms for New Brunswick’s Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, which tracks both private and independent school enrollment, as well as students opting for public school and homeschooling.
Want to know more about being an Eastgate Academy family?
THE NEXT INFORMATION SESSION FOR PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES IS APRIL 4, 2024. If you are considering an Eastgate education, sign up for this event. You’ll have a chance to ask your own questions, learn about the IB program, hear about the new location, future plans, and more!
