If you are looking for a school with deep community roots, a legendary athletic department, and a commitment to bilingualism, the Earl Marriott Secondary (EMS) catchment is your ideal destination. Located in the southern heart of the Semiahmoo Peninsula, Earl Marriott is more than just a school—it is a community hub known for its "Mariner Pride."
What Makes Earl Marriott Unique?
Earl Marriott has been a staple of South Surrey education since 1972. It is particularly famous for its specialized programs that cater to diverse student interests:
One of BC’s Largest French Immersion Programs: EMS is a leading "dual-track" school, where roughly 30% of the student population is enrolled in French Immersion. Graduates earn a full bilingual Dogwood Diploma.
Athletic Excellence: Home of the "Mariners," the school is a consistent contender for provincial titles in Football, Rugby, and Basketball. It features three gymnasiums and a recently renovated turf field.
Unique Trade & Science Co-ops: Students can get ahead with hands-on learning through specialized co-ops in Mechanical Trades and Liberal Arts, bridging the gap between high school and career.
Indigenous Roots: The school maintains a proud and meaningful partnership with the Semiahmoo First Nation, hosting an annual Pow Wow and integrating Indigenous perspectives into the core curriculum.
Neighborhood Profile: Where Traditional Meets Coastal
The Earl Marriott catchment is expansive, offering a variety of lifestyle options for homebuyers:
South Meridian: A quiet, upscale neighborhood known for its larger family homes and manicured cul-de-sacs.
Peace Arch & White Rock East: This area offers stunning views, proximity to the US border, and easy access to the vibrant White Rock waterfront.
Pacific Douglas: A fast-growing area that combines rural charm with brand-new detached homes and townhomes.
Elementary Feeder Schools
Families in this zone typically start their journey at one of these excellent elementary schools:
Peace Arch Elementary (French Immersion & English)
South Meridian Elementary
Jessie Lee Elementary
Douglas Elementary
Xw’epiteng (Hall’s Prairie) Elementary (Outdoor Learning)
Real Estate in the Earl Marriott Catchment
Homes in this area range from classic 1980s ranchers with large backyards to modern ocean-view luxury estates. Because Earl Marriott serves such a wide geographic area, it remains one of the most stable and diverse real estate markets in South Surrey.
Expert Insight: Earl Marriott is the go-to choice for parents wanting a "traditional" high school experience—complete with Friday night lights at the football game and a wide array of extracurricular clubs.
School catchments change from time to time. For accuracy, check the exact address with the Surrey School Locator.