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Carnarvon Community Elementary

3400 Balaclava St, Vancouver, BC V6L 2S6 · Vancouver

Rating

7.1

5-year avg

7.1

Rank

235/1032

2026 report · 2024-2025 school year

Quick take

School review information

Carnarvon Community Elementary is a well-rounded, highly inclusive public school situated in a desirable Westside Vancouver neighborhood. With a solid Fraser Institute rating of 7.1/10, it offers a reliable academic foundation complemented by strong community values. The school stands out for its commitment to accessibility, environmental education, and Indigenous learning. The active parent community and dedicated staff create a nurturing environment, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a balanced and supportive educational setting for their children.

Editorial review summary

Publicly available parent reviews and community discussions highlight Carnarvon Community Elementary as a highly nurturing and inclusive environment. Parents frequently praise the school's strong sense of community and the active involvement of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC). A major point of pride for the community is the universally accessible playground, which was championed by parents and the Rick Hansen Foundation to accommodate children with mobility challenges. Families also appreciate the school's environmental initiatives, such as the outdoor school garden, and the safe, family-friendly neighborhood in Arbutus Ridge. Some minor concerns mentioned in community planning documents revolve around traffic safety and speeding on nearby West 16th Avenue during drop-off and pick-up times, though the school has partnered with the City of Vancouver's Active Travel program to improve walking and cycling routes.

Common positives

  • Strong academic standing with a consistent 7.1/10 Fraser Institute rating.
  • Highly inclusive environment featuring a universally accessible playground and wheelchair-friendly facilities.
  • Active Parent Advisory Council (PAC) that fosters a tight-knit community.
  • Engaging outdoor and environmental education through the School Gardens Program.
  • Offers comprehensive before and after-school care, as well as preschool programs.
  • Located in the safe, family-oriented Arbutus Ridge neighborhood.

Common concerns

  • Traffic congestion and safety concerns along West 16th Avenue during peak drop-off and pick-up times.
  • As an older building (opened in 1955), it may lack some of the modern architectural amenities of newer schools, despite accessibility upgrades.
  • High demand for out-of-school care programs can lead to waitlists.

Who this school may fit

Highly recommended for families living in or moving to the Arbutus Ridge area who value inclusivity, outdoor learning, and a strong sense of community. Parents looking for a school with active PAC involvement and excellent accessibility features will find Carnarvon to be a perfect fit. Families should be prepared for busy traffic during school runs and are encouraged to utilize the school's active travel routes.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Carnarvon Community Elementary demonstrates solid and consistent academic performance. According to the Fraser Institute database, the school holds an overall rating of 7.1 out of 10, placing it at a provincial rank of 235 out of 1032 schools in British Columbia. Its historical performance shows a positive long-term trajectory, with ratings progressing from 6.4 and 6.0 up to 7.7 and 8.2 in recent years, before settling at the current 7.1. The school maintains a strong 5-year average rating of 7.1/10. In addition to standard academics, the school emphasizes a holistic curriculum that integrates Indigenous perspectives and environmental education through its hands-on School Gardens Program.

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

Music ProgramSchool Gardens Program (in partnership with SPEC)School Active Travel Planning (SATP) ProgramBefore and After School Care (including Kindercare and Preschool)Indigenous Education Integration (First Peoples Principles of Learning)

Common questions

Where is Carnarvon Community Elementary located?+

Carnarvon Community Elementary is located at 3400 Balaclava St, Vancouver, BC V6L 2S6 in Vancouver.

Does Carnarvon Community Elementary have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan is still adding after-school pickup and nearby drop-off options for this school.

Are there tutors near Carnarvon Community Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 9 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Carnarvon Community Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 5 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

0

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

9

nearby options

Nearby classes

5

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

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

What this page covers

Carnarvon Community Elementary school information

Carnarvon Community Elementary is a elementary school in Vancouver. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 0 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.

Official 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.