Elementary School

Edith Cavell Elementary

500 W 20th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1X7, Vancouver
Fraser Rating
6.7
out of 10
Year 2023-2024
Rank: 276/1015
-0.7 vs avg
Academic Performance

Edith Cavell Elementary holds a Fraser Institute rating of 6.7/10, placing it at rank 276 out of 1015 schools in British Columbia. This rating indicates a 'Good' academic standing, positioning the school in the top 30% of elementary schools in the province. While the current rating shows a slight dip compared to its previous 5-year average of 7.4, the school maintains a solid reputation for academic consistency and student support.

Programs & Highlights
Music Program
Strings Program
Athletics (Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field, Cross Country)
Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Indigenous Education (Seven Sacred Teachings)
Library Learning Commons
StrongStart BC
Buddy Class Program
Community Outreach
Student Leadership
Parents Reviews Summary

Parent reviews highlight a strong, close-knit community spirit, often described as 'caring' and 'supportive.' The school recently underwent a major seismic upgrade, which required students to be bused to a temporary site; families are relieved and happy to be back in the upgraded heritage building. A common point of discussion is the difficulty of admission; the school is popular and often has a waitlist for Kindergarten, even for catchment families. The Parent Advisory Council (PAC) is noted as very active in fundraising for school enrichment.

Our Verdict

Edith Cavell Elementary is a resilient, community-focused school that successfully balances solid academics with a supportive environment. Having recently returned to its seismically upgraded heritage home, it offers the best of both worlds: historic charm with modern safety. It remains a highly sought-after institution in Vancouver's West Side, making it a competitive but rewarding choice for local families.

Pros
  • Recently completed seismic upgrades ensure a safe, modernized facility
  • Strong academic history with a consistent 'Good' rating
  • Located in the desirable Douglas Park/Cambie Village neighbourhood
  • Very active and supportive parent community (PAC)
  • Diverse extracurriculars including a Strings program and various sports
Cons
  • High demand leads to waitlists and difficulty securing a spot
  • Heritage building site has limited outdoor space compared to newer schools
  • Recent disruption from construction may have temporarily impacted stability
  • Reliance on parent fundraising for some enrichment activities
Who Is This For?

This school is an excellent choice for families living in the Douglas Park and Cambie area who value a traditional, tight-knit school community. It is best suited for parents who are eager to be involved in school life and are looking for a stable, safe environment with proven academic results. Prospective families should register as early as possible due to high catchment demand.