West Island College was founded in 1974 by Terry D. Davies, in response to the need for an academic programme dedicated to preparing students for post secondary studies and for the reality of contemporary Canadian society. The College was first established in Pointe Claire, Quebec.

It has since moved to Dollard des Ormeaux, Quebec, which is situated in the West Island region of Montreal. Throughout the College's history, it has met with outstanding success in each of its pursuits. This fact is easily substantiated by the College's rapid growth. The original campus, from a modest genesis of 40 students, now accommodates 450 students in a custom built school.

With a continuing commitment to the balanced academic and social growth of young Canadians, West Island College embarked on an ambitious programme of expansion. In 1982, West Island College of Alberta opened in Calgary.

Class Afloat, founded in 1985, is a co-educational sailing programme, combining accredited academic classes for Senior High School students, with one semester or two of world travel aboard a tall ship. It is the ultimate experiential educational trip and, therefore, a further manifestation of the West Island College philosophy.