Glenlyon Norfolk School Designated as an Apple Distinguished School 

Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS) is proud to announce its recognition as an Apple Distinguished School (ADS). This prestigious designation represents the culmination of several years of strategic planning and investment aimed at expanding and strengthening GNS’s programs in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

GNS Head of School Mr. Chad Holtum calls it a very meaningful acknowledgement. “At GNS, we are focused on providing exceptional learning experiences that equip our students with the skills, knowledge and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world and to become the next generation of changemakers. The GNS classroom is fuelled by innovation and real-world tech experiences, grounded in the hands-on design thinking that is at the heart of the International Baccalaureate programme. To see this work recognized through the Apple Distinguished School designation is incredibly rewarding.” 

The recognition reflects the collective efforts of dedicated staff with a growth mindset, strong support from administration and parents, vibrant community partnerships and the passionate engagement of students.

As an Apple Distinguished School, GNS will continue to lead by example, engaging with Apple’s global network of innovative schools, sharing best practices and hosting site visits to showcase its programs and impact.

Building Innovation at GNS

Over the past four years, GNS has significantly expanded its programs to build capacity in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship (TIE), including:

• GNS CISCO Networking Academy – The first independent school on Vancouver Island to become a CISCO Certified Training Academy, offering globally recognized certifications through a partnership with the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Course options include Cybersecurity, Data Science, Internet of Things, JavaScript Essentials, Programming in Python, Networking and IT Essentials.
  
• GNS Robotics – Students from Grades 5–8 participate in the FIRST LEGO League (FLL), developing skills in engineering, coding and innovation through hands-on, collaborative challenges.
  
• GNS Launch Pad – An inquiry-based, Senior School program that encourages students to explore personal projects, take risks, learn from failure, and develop meaningful connections with community partners.
  
• CineMagic: Journey Into Digital Storytelling – An exclusive partnership with the Vancouver Film School provides students with direct access to film, animation and media arts instruction from industry professionals.
  
• GNS Esports – An inclusive co-curricular program where students compete internationally in leagues sanctioned by the British Columbia School Sports Association (BCSSA).
  
• Entrepreneurship Club – In partnership with Future Design School, Senior School students gain skills to develop and launch entrepreneurial ventures, focusing on customer needs and sustainable business models.
  
• IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Design Courses – For Grades 6–10, these courses emphasize practical application of design principles and the IB design cycle, preparing students to solve real-world problems through both digital and hands-on learning.

Our comprehensive TIE programs are designed to empower students as creators and innovators. They develop solutions to complex problems by leveraging technology to create collaborative, connected and personal learning experiences. This journey to becoming an Apple Distinguished School reflects our students’ and faculty’s shared commitment to creativity, curiosity, and innovation.

Apple Distinguished Schools are recognized worldwide as centres of leadership and educational excellence. Schools selected for this honour demonstrate a deep commitment to continuous innovation and the effective use of technology to transform teaching and learning. These schools foster creativity, collaboration, and personalized learning while connecting students to the world and documenting academic success.