Teaching Careers in Vancouver Island West: Small Communities, Big Opportunities
Looking to launch or grow your teaching career in a place where education, community and nature are deeply intertwined?
Vancouver Island West School District (SD84) offers a meaningful career path set against one of Canada's most stunning and rugged landscapes.
Welcome to Vancouver Island West School District (SD84)
Located on the traditional territory of the Nuu‐chah‐nulth peoples, including the Ehattesaht, Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h', Mowachaht/Muchalaht, and Nuchatlaht Nations, SD84 serves the remote communities of Gold River, Tahsis, Kyuquot, and Zeballos. The district includes five schools and about 350 students, making it a close-knit community where educators and learners build lasting connections.
Why Choose SD84?
Tight-Knit Teaching Environment
With small class sizes and multi-grade classrooms, teachers have the opportunity to provide personalized, impactful instruction and really get to know their students.
A Career with Purpose & Perks
In addition to the chance to live and work in one of B.C.'s most naturally beautiful and culturally rich regions, SD84 offers a wide range of recruitment and retention incentives, including:
- $10,000 signing bonus for enrolling in teaching positions
- Remote Recruitment & Retention Allowance: $3,035 annually
- Isolation Allowances: Up to $3,546.28 a year, depending on location
- Moving Allowance: Up to $1,114.56, depending on location
- Nine-day fortnight calendar: every second Friday off
- Professional development funding and leave
- Comprehensive benefits: including medical, dental, pension, life insurance, and family assistance programs
What Makes Vancouver Island West Unique?
Remote, Resilient & Rewarding
Three of the district's schools are in remote communities accessible only by logging roads or water taxi. Educators here enjoy a front-row seat to nature, and many participate in outdoor activities as part of their daily routine, including kayaking, fishing, hiking or simply taking in the stillness of the forest and sea.
Our School Communities: Learning with Heart
SD84 schools serve vibrant coastal communities where education is deeply connected to place, people, and culture. With approximately 50% of the student population being First Nations, cultural understanding and land-based learning are core values.
School District 84 engages in preferential hiring of self-identified First Nations applicants in all positions in accordance with Section 42 (Special Programs) of B.C.'s Human Rights Code. We strongly encourage qualified First Nations candidates to apply.
In this district, students are known, valued and empowered. Educators are encouraged to grow professionally while becoming part of a larger mission: supporting children to succeed in life, and not just in school.
Coastal Living at Its Best
Life on the west coast of Vancouver Island offers a slower, more intentional lifestyle. Picture starting your day with a paddle on the ocean or hiking through ancient forests after school. These communities provide an ideal mix of professional opportunity and personal wellness.
More than a teaching job, working in the Vancouver Island West is a lifestyle choice, and one that puts wellness, connection and nature at the forefront.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're a B.C.-certified teacher (or eligible for certification) and want to work in a setting where you'll have both autonomy and community support, Vancouver Island West may be the perfect fit.
Whether you're just starting or looking for a meaningful next step, you'll find purpose, belonging and career growth here.
Live adventurously. Teach in SD84.
Check out the latest career opportunities in Vancouver Island West.