English School in BC, Canada

Westwind English Academy:
Westwind English Academy is located on the Sunshine Coast in the small coastal community (population 13,000) of Powell River, British Columbia, Canada. The Powell River region stretches along the Pacific Ocean from Saltery Bay in the south to Lund in the north. The area, boasting myriad inlets, islands and lakes as well as the majestic Coast Mountains, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, who indulge in everything from hiking and rock climbing to kayaking, canoeing and diving. Recently, Powell River has emerged as a rock-climbing hot spot. The Eldred River Valley in particular, with cliffs rising 600 m (2,000 ft) from the valley floor, provides world-class climbing in a pristine setting.

Golfers will want to tee off at Myrtle Point, an outstanding course designed by Les Furber. Be prepared to share the greens with elk, eagles and deer.

Powell River is a thriving, international music centre. It is home to the Symphony Orchestra Academy of the Pacific and the Opera Academy of the Pacific, which bring students to the area from mid-June to early July for intensive courses.

As a coastal community, Powell River offers many boating, canoeing, kayaking, diving, fishing and swimming opportunities. The region boasts some of the world's best waters for cold-water diving, with more than 100 unique dive sites. Of particular note is the Emerald Princess, a striking 3-m (9-ft) underwater sculpture anchored off the shore of Saltery Bay.

The eight-lake, five-portage Powell Forest Canoe Route is one of BC's premier routes. The region's marine parks and shorelines also provide an incredible setting for kayaking. Anglers pilgrimage to Powell River for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Guides and charters are available.

A must day trip in the region is to Savary Island. Accessible by floatplane or water taxi from Lund, the tiny island is surrounded by white, sandy beaches and some of the warmest swimming waters north of Mexico.

Location and Facilities:

A local view from Willington Beach overlooking Harwood Island.

One of the many spectacular sunsets we enjoy nightly in Powell River. This picture was taken from the home of one of our teachers.

Summer time enjoyment at one of the many camping locations in Powell River (Haywire Bay, Powell Lake)

Homestay family fun!