David Darling (he/him) is the principal of our high school. He was drawn to Pacific Spirit School by a desire to help students flourish, particularly those who would thrive in a unique educational setting. He is deeply passionate about PSS’s emphasis on a holistic approach to learning, wherein both social-emotional development and academic achievement are viewed with equal importance. He also loves the experimental learning and non-traditional methods of assessment that PSS champions for both teachers and students. All of this means that when an opportunity arose to help lead such a school, he jumped at the chance!

David studied at the University of Oxford, and earned a Bachelors and a Masters in Modern History, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. He also holds an M.A. in Canadian History from Simon Fraser University. In his professional career, David has taught students of all ages, from high school (20+ years as a senior history teacher at St George's School) to university and beyond, including senior citizens. David has taught at colleges and universities (10 years at SFU and Douglas College), was principal at St John's School, and is the recently retired head of Canada International Royal Arts School.

To David, a school should be the furthest thing possible from a thought factory, where students’ heads are stuffed with information. Education is about teaching students how to think, not what to think, and this ideal forms the basis of David’s philosophy and practice.

In his spare time, David enjoys getting out on the water as he is an avid rower. He also likes to travel and has a passion for photography. He sees these activities as core parts of his personal and educational growth.