The approximate boundaries of a new plot of land purchased by the Nanaimo Christian School to grow and expand their campus. (Submitted Photo)

By Ian Holmes

potential expansion

Nanaimo Christian School buys adjacent property for future expansion plans

Jun 8, 2022 | 3:00 PM

NANAIMO — Additional land across the street from Nanaimo Christian School (NCS) is envisioned to help address rapidly expanding demand for the local K-12 private school.

School principal James Sijpheer said a recent private sale of a 4.1 acre lot comprising of an open field surrounded by trees represents an opportunity to help satisfy ever-growing demand.

“We just want to be proactive and not reactive in creating new spaces for more students who are seeking a Christian education,’ he told NanaimoNewsNOW.

Simply building on the site to expand the independent school is easier said than done, with Sijpheer noting the property’s agricultural zoning does not currently permit a school building.

He said discussions with the City are expected at some point in the near future to examine various possibilities.

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“By having this land it gives the ability to engage the City to see what an expansion might look like. It allows us to explore more outdoor opportunities for our students,” Sijpheer said, who noted outdoor learning has become an increased aspect of their curriculum.

He noted they have draft plans to potentially expand on their current site, but acknowledged that concept has limitations.

Sijpheer said the property was first brought to their attention about six years ago, while the reality to purchase it from a retired teacher for $1 million quickly evolved recently.

“It’s not a quick fix to any of those enrolment pressures that we’re facing, but I’ve never heard of a school that has regretted buying land when they’ve had an opportunity to do so. It felt like the right decision for us to proceed with.”

According to NCS, their population has nearly doubled over the past seven years and is at capacity. A total of 725 students are enrolled at NCS for next school year, while many grade levels have wait lists.

NCS expanded with additional classrooms and a vastly improved gym five years ago.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes