The school opened in 1973 as D. W. Poppy Junior Secondary (grades 8 to 10), with the students remaining on shift at Langley Secondary for the first year. David Watkins was the first principal, holding that position for four years.
In 1973, D. W. Poppy Junior Secondary opened for grades 8 through 10; students were enrolled at Langley Secondary on a rotating schedule during their first year. David Watkins became the school's principal and held that position for four years.