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About John Robson Elementary School
École John Robson School was built in 1928 and is one of the oldest schools in the New Westminster School District. We are an elementary school comprised of Grades K-7. Our dual track English and Early French Immersion School has a current population of just under 400 students. The student population consists of various cultural backgrounds making our community rich and diverse; we have many different languages spoken by students (families) within the school.
Ecole John Robson School is located in the Brow of the Hill and Downtown area of New Westminster on 120-8th Street. We are adjacent to Simcoe Park allowing us access to green space and playing areas. The neighbourhood surrounding the school is comprised of mostly apartment/condo dwellings with some single detached homes and heritage buildings.
The school is named after John Robson. John Robson was born in Ontario, on March 15, 1824. After working for a time in Eastern Canada, he moved to New Westminster, which was soon to be named the capital city of British Columbia. He was the owner and editor of the "The British Columbian" newspaper from 1861 until 1868. Robson was elected to city council in 1864 and two years later he was selected to serve on the Legislative Council of BC - a position he held until 1870. As the editor of the British Columbia newspaper, John Robson was known as a vocal leader in the fight for free, non-sectarian education for all children. In 1882, he was elected as the representative for New Westminster in the Provincial Legislature. In July 1889, Robson became the eighth Premier of British Columbia. He held the Premier's post until his death in 1892. (Information from the BC Provincial Archives.)
The school goals focus on the development of literacy, numeracy and social responsibility. We have many programs that support the social, emotional and academic programming of students. There is an active choir, a band program for Grade 7 students, sports, activity-based programs, music, a Breakfast Club and a Lunch Program.
Our school is located at 120 Eighth Street, New Westminster, B.C. V3M 3P7. Our Principal is Karen Catherwood, our Vice-Principal is Jen Richter and our Secretary is Kim Smith. Please contact us at 604-517-6050 or fax us at 604-517-6051.
Our Vision Statement: At John Robson Community School we are working to instill a positive environment, a community of learning and belonging where all individuals experience success and maximize to their full potential.