Tucked away on Alexandra Street, a magnificent brick building stands proudly. This is York House School, a beacon of education for young women and a testament to Vancouver’s inspiring history. Founded in 1932 during the Great Depression, it was a collaborative effort by a group of determined women who envisioned a strong school for girls. Its founders, Lena Cotsworth Clarke, Janet Mitchell, Grace B. Faris, Virginia Moore Mackay, Marie Gerhardt-Olly, Gladys Jopling, and Gretchen Hyland, faced many challenges, but they persevered.
The first students, just 17 in number, occupied a different location at Granville Street. A few years later, York House School found its permanent home on Alexandra Street. The school, named in honor of the city of York, England, where founder Lena Cotsworth Clarke hails from, has since evolved and grown. It is now home to over 650 students and has become a cornerstone of Vancouver’s educational landscape. Today, York House is known for its academic excellence, fostering a well-rounded education for girls.
The school’s coat of arms embodies the mission and heritage of York House. The green and gold color scheme, a testament to the school’s core values, is beautifully merged with the symbolism of a white York Rose set within a Canadian Maple Leaf. This symbol signifies the school’s commitment to fostering learning, leadership, and global citizenship. The school’s motto, “Not for Ourselves Alone,” acts as a guiding principle for the students. The doe, a symbol of grace and intelligence, represents the embodiment of the school’s ideals for its girls. York House is a haven for girls who are encouraged to learn, grow, and make a difference in the world.