For Fraser Valley parents like Candice Atwal, Dasmesh Punjabi School in Abbotsford offers an education like no other: "They teach above the curriculum and include cultural and religious teachings and celebrations for all to enjoy! On top of that, they provide excellent, one-on-one education for all diverse learners, which is so important for their learning, behaviour, skills and development,” she says.
"I love the education, the environment and the teachers...and they offer many after-school programs with various educational, cultural and recreational options."
DPS is a unique pillar of academic excellence and cultural education in Abbotsford – one that balances its position as a premier English school teaching British Columbia’s Dogwood curriculum, with values and teachings of the Sikh faith. In addition, it was the first institution in North America to teach Punjabi as an accredited course alongside the provincial curriculum.
Established in 1986 by the Dasmesh Punjabi Educational Association, today DPS is a vibrant community of more than 900 students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. With a 100 per cent graduation rate, it's a top school in both the elementary and secondary divisions, recognized for fostering academic success, cultural pride and inclusivity.
Students and staff – including teachers who've been with the school for more than 30 years – are not required to be of Punjabi origin or Sikh faith.
A vision to meet community needs
The school's roots reach back to 1983, when weekend Punjabi classes at the local Sikh temple (Gurdwara) let children connect with their heritage. Mr. Dalip Singh Gill, a retired education officer from Punjab, then led DPS's opening as a full-fledged school, with curriculum combining BC Ministry of Education courses with Punjabi language and Sikh studies, including traditional Shabad Kirtan. This unique combination has allowed DPS to nurture academic excellence while preserving and celebrating Punjabi heritage in Canada.
With programs that empower students academically and culturally, DPS opened an Intermediate Campus in 1995, then in 2005, moved to a five-acre campus in the Matsqui area, giving students the space to focus and thrive. The school logo, "Ek Oankaar" (੧), symbolizes unity and equality, a principle of oneness at the core of the school’s inclusive culture, welcoming students and staff from all religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
Multilingual instruction: A pathway to success
DPS teaches three languages: English, Punjabi and French. Punjabi is one of the fastest-growing languages in Canada, and DPS students fluent in the language gain an advantage in careers such as business, law and medicine. Knowing multiple languages also enhances critical thinking, equipping students to serve diverse communities with a broader perspective.
Continually adapting its programs to meet student needs, recent courses have included Applied Design, Skills, and Technology, Career Life Education, STEM and Business, all of which prepare students for acceptance to leading Canadian and international universities and for future careers.
"The years spent at Dasmesh Punjabi School played a major role in shaping the person I am today, professionally and personally," reflects DPS alumna Kiranpreet Khaira, a registered nurse. "I appreciate the learning environment provided by Dasmesh, which helped me gain valuable lifelong skills and directed me towards reaching my career goals."
DPS’s Athletics Department also offers a wide range of sports, and the school’s media, music and recording rooms nurture student talent in performing arts. The on-campus Darbar Hall (Gurdwara) offers a space for mindfulness and reflection, helping students connect with Sikh values. Each day begins with a morning assembly, promoting a positive and motivating school culture.
“The school allows the students to flourish, academically, linguistically, culturally, spiritually, and athletically as we offer diverse programs that are equally welcoming to all students and staff regardless of their cultural, social and religious backgrounds," notes ELL teacher Bernie Nixon, who has taught at DPS for eight years.
Looking to the future: Open house for Kindergarten registration
As DPS looks forward, it welcomes a broader community in Abbotsford. Parents interested in enroling their children for the 2025-26 school year are invited to the Kindergarten Open House on Nov. 29 to meet school leaders and tour the campus.
By providing students with a strong academic foundation, multilingual skills and deep cultural roots, DPS prepares the next generation to lead with confidence and character. Join them in building a bright future – one child at a time.
Register for the open house here.