Where culture, care, and learning come together.
Not all Indigenous youth thrive in traditional school settings. That’s why UNYA offers two Alternative Education Schools:
Aries (ages 13–16)
Cedar Walk (ages 16–19)
Both provide safe, supportive, and culturally grounded spaces where learning is flexible and youth are recognized for their strengths, interests, and goals.
Who We Are
Aries and Cedar Walk are alternative education programs for Indigenous youth whose needs aren’t being met in mainstream schools.
Together, we’ll create an Individual Education Plan that reflects your path forward and honours your unique strengths and history.
Indigenous teachings and perspectives are part of everyday learning. Students have the opportunity to experience traditional practices, share cultural knowledge, and connect education with identity.
How We Support You
Our team includes a full-time Vancouver School Board teacher, Program Manager, and two Youth Care Counsellors. We also work closely with families, guardians, and other supports to make sure your needs are met at school, at home, and in the community.
We use a trauma-informed, harm-reduction approach to create a safe and respectful space where you can learn, grow, and succeed.
Program Activities
- Self-paced core courses leading to high school graduation
- Adult and regular BC Dogwood Diplomas (graduation certificates)
- Course credit for work and volunteer experience
- One-on-one tutoring and individualized education plans
- Recreational activities like skating, weightlifting, hiking, and sports
- Exploring personal, educational, and post-graduation goals (school, training, or work)
- Daily healthy hot lunches
- Education on health, wellness, and life skills
- Support with housing, food security, relationships, physical/mental health, and addictions
- Connection to counsellors, Elders, and outside resources
- Collaboration with family, guardians, and support workers, with advocacy as needed
How to Become a Student
How to Become a Student at Aries (ages 13–16 )
Aries is a drop-in program. Indigenous youth can come by during open hours to meet staff, check out the space, and access resources.
Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 4:00 – 8:00 pm
- Friday: 1:00 – 5:00 pm
(Hours may shift during workshops and training — check the program calendar for updates.)
How to Become a Student at Aries Cedar Walk (ages 16–19)
Cedar Walk accepts up to 20 students per school year, with half attending in the morning and half in the afternoon.
Referrals must come through the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or the Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society (VACFSS).
- If you have an open MCFD file, speak with your ministry worker.
- If you don’t, contact the Intake Worker at 550 Cambie or the MCFD Screening Committee.
Connect with Us
Want to learn more about Aries or Cedar Walk?
- Phone: XXXX – still to come
- Text: XXX
- Email:
“I was a troubled teen, and my teachers recommended UNYA’s Alternative Education and Aries programs. Aries helped me reconnect with the community and culture I never had before — and that made all the difference in my journey.”
