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Capilano Elementary

1230 20th St W, North Vancouver, BC, V7P 2B9 · North Vancouver

Rating

7.4

5-year avg

7.7

Rank

186/1032

2026 report · 2024-2025 school year

Quick take

School review information

Capilano Elementary is a standout public school in North Vancouver, distinguished by its IB PYP curriculum and idyllic neighborhood setting. It offers a well-rounded education supported by strong community ties and excellent extracurricular options. Families should be prepared for potential enrollment competition and act early for after-school care registration, but those who secure a spot will find a vibrant and academically enriching environment.

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Editorial review summary

Parent feedback for Capilano Elementary is largely positive, with many praising the tight-knit, 'village' atmosphere of the Pemberton Heights neighborhood and the school's strong community spirit. Parents highly value the IB PYP curriculum and the abundance of extracurricular and after-school programs, including nature schools, art classes, and musical theatre. However, the school's popularity has led to capacity and catchment issues; some local families have reported uncertainty about securing a spot due to the high influx of out-of-catchment students drawn to the IB program. While most reviews highlight a supportive environment, there are isolated mentions of concerns regarding how peer conflicts are handled.

Common positives

  • Offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP).
  • Located in the highly desirable, safe, and quiet Pemberton Heights neighborhood.
  • Strong sense of community with active parent involvement and local events.
  • Excellent variety of affiliated before/after-school care and enrichment programs (nature school, arts, theatre).
  • Consistent and solid academic performance (Fraser Institute 5-year average of 7.7).

Common concerns

  • High demand for the IB program can lead to capacity issues and waitlists, even for in-catchment families.
  • Traffic and parking congestion during drop-off and pick-up times due to out-of-catchment enrollment.
  • Limited spots in popular after-school enrichment programs, which often sell out quickly.
  • Isolated parent reports of unaddressed peer conflicts.

Who this school may fit

Highly recommended for families seeking an internationally recognized curriculum within a public school setting. It is especially ideal for those living in or moving to the Pemberton Heights area who value a close-knit community and nature-integrated learning. Prospective parents should verify catchment guarantees with the North Vancouver School District and register for childcare and enrichment programs well in advance.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Capilano Elementary is highly regarded academically, primarily due to its status as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP). This inquiry-based curriculum encourages critical thinking and global citizenship. According to the Fraser Institute, the school holds a solid overall rating of 7.4/10, ranking 186 out of 1032 schools in British Columbia. Its rating history over the past few years shows consistent performance (7.2, 7.7, 8.3, 7.7, 7.4), with a previous 5-year average of 7.7. The IB framework combined with strong foundational instruction makes it a top choice for families in North Vancouver seeking rigorous and globally-minded public education.

Sources include Fraser Institute data and InsideVan School Guide summaries. Ratings do not represent the full quality of a school.

School-run details

Special programs

International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP)Band and Strings ProgramGrade 7/8 Transition ProgramExtensive Before and After-School Care (NSNH Capilano Kids' Club)Saplings Nature-Based Outdoor Program (affiliated/nearby)After-School Enrichment (Art, Musical Theatre, Youth Academy)

Common questions

Where is Capilano Elementary located?+

Capilano Elementary is located at 1230 20th St W, North Vancouver, BC, V7P 2B9 in North Vancouver.

Does Capilano Elementary have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 3 nearby after-school options.

Are there tutors near Capilano Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 12 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Capilano Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 22 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

3

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

12

nearby options

Nearby classes

22

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

0 explicitly serve this school, plus 3 nearby within 3km.

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What this page covers

Capilano Elementary school information

Capilano Elementary is a elementary school in North Vancouver. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 3 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.

Sources & data context

AI research sources

Researched: 2026-09-28

The AI summary uses public sources. Public parent commentary is separate from parent reports submitted to InsideVan. Ratings and history are supplied by our database.

Search website
Check programs, admission requirements, and day-to-day arrangements with the school.

Fraser Institute · 2026 report
The rating dataset used here covers 2024-2025. The five-year average belongs to that historical report, not the five years ending today.

Academic ratings do not capture the whole school experience, including belonging, support, or fit for your child. A nearby care provider does not necessarily offer school pickup; confirm with the provider.