VCA Academy

Redondo Beach, California

Turn curiosity into problem-solving through small-group discussion and practical design.

School library

School introduction

Serving South Bay families since 1977, VCA maintains one classroom per grade and emphasizes sustained relationships between students and teachers. Discussion, questions and differentiated support help children build confidence in a setting where their individual learning needs are noticed.

Leadership is developed through communication, teamwork and service. Students practise responsibility in speaking activities, student leadership and community projects. A mentoring programme introduced in 2024–2025 also supports friendships, personal growth and collaboration between home and school.

Curriculum

Elementary subjects include reading and English, mathematics, science, history and Spanish. Grades 1–4 use structured reading materials, with additional grammar and composition in Grade 5. Mathematics emphasizes practical applications, and Spanish progresses through Grades 3–5 alongside PE, library and arts activities.

Grades 6–8 continue grammar, composition, literature, mathematics, science and history. Grade 7 studies life science and Grade 8 earth science; history progresses from ancient civilizations to world and US history. Honors pre-algebra, algebra and geometry are available according to readiness.

A dedicated STEAM teacher leads weekly elementary projects and rotating middle-school electives in design, mechanical engineering, coding and robotics. Computing also covers keyboarding, documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Other rotating options include personal finance, speech, arts and yearbook. Contact an advisor for short-term timetables and activities.

The regular timetable includes daily Bible classes and weekly chapel; the mentoring programme also uses Christian guidance. Contact an advisor about short-term participation.

School features

One classroom per grade
Weekly elementary STEAM projects
Rotating middle-school electives

Grades available for short-term study & entry requirements

Grades available for short-term study: Grades 3–8

School application requirements

Use the separate visiting-student application; admission review and a confirmed place are required before arrangements proceed.
Families are responsible for housing and living arrangements.

Dates, duration & fees

Duration: One- to two-week applications can be reviewed.
Dates: Enquiries are welcome year-round. Contact an advisor about attendance dates.
Fees: Contact an advisor

Accommodation & documents

Accommodation: Day School

The school does not provide accommodation or boarding; families make their own arrangements.

Documents typically needed

Usually prepare a valid passport or applicable identity document.
If applicable, prepare a valid U.S. visa or other entry and stay documents, according to the student’s status and proposed school arrangement.
Immunization records and any health documents required by the school.
Recent school reports or a learning summary; contact an advisor about grade-specific documents.