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Elementary
Compare schoolsF.W. Howay Elementary
91 Courtney Crescent, New Westminster, BC, V3L 4M1 · New Westminster
Rating
6.7
5-year avg
N/A
Rank
306/1015
2026 report · 2024-2025 school year
Quick take
School review information
F.W. Howay Elementary is a quintessential community school that leverages its small size to create a supportive, family-like atmosphere. While it lacks the specialized immersion programs of larger district schools, it compensates with strong academic fundamentals, a robust outdoor learning curriculum, and an exceptionally engaged parent community. It is a school where social-emotional growth is prioritized alongside academics.
Editorial review summary
Parents frequently describe F.W. Howay as a 'hidden gem' and the 'heart of the neighbourhood.' The school's small size (often around 100-120 students) is consistently highlighted as a major positive, fostering a tight-knit community where staff know every student by name. The Parent Advisory Council (PAC) is noted for being highly active, organizing numerous events like pancake breakfasts, cultural dances, and fundraising for enrichment activities. Reviews often praise the caring, empathetic nature of the teachers and the safe, inclusive environment.
Common positives
- Small school size ensures personalized attention for students
- Strong sense of community and active parent involvement
- Focus on outdoor education and nature-based learning
- Safe and nurturing environment ideal for younger children
- Above-average academic ranking (6.7/10)
Common concerns
- Does not offer specialized tracks like French Immersion or Montessori
- Older facility (opened in 1961) compared to newer schools
- Fewer extracurricular club options due to small student body
- Limited capacity for new out-of-catchment enrollments
Who this school may fit
This school is an excellent choice for families living in the Victory Heights neighbourhood who value a close-knit community over extensive facilities. It is particularly well-suited for students who thrive in smaller, less chaotic environments where they can receive more individual attention. Families seeking French Immersion should look elsewhere in the New Westminster district.
Ratings and data
Academic information
F.W. Howay Elementary holds a Fraser Institute rating of 6.7/10, placing it 306th out of 1,015 elementary schools in British Columbia. This rating indicates a solid academic performance, consistently scoring above the provincial average. The school's growth plans emphasize literacy and numeracy development, with specific focus on core competencies like critical thinking and personal awareness. The small student population allows for targeted interventions and personalized academic support.
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
Outdoor EducationIndigenous EducationEarly Learning (Ready, Set, Learn)English Language Learners (ELL)Inclusive EducationMusicPhysical EducationLibrary Program
Common questions
Where is F.W. Howay Elementary located?+
F.W. Howay Elementary is located at 91 Courtney Crescent, New Westminster, BC, V3L 4M1 in New Westminster.
Does F.W. Howay Elementary have after-school pickup options?+
InsideVan currently tracks 2 programs that explicitly serve this school and 3 nearby after-school options.
Are there tutors near F.W. Howay Elementary?+
InsideVan currently lists 18 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.
Are there kids classes near F.W. Howay Elementary?+
InsideVan currently lists 18 nearby kids class or activity options.
After-school programs and classes near F.W. Howay Elementary
2 after-school programs explicitly serve this school, 3 are nearby within 3km, plus 18 tutors and 18 class options.
Find pickup programs
Explicitly serves this school
Nearby within 3km, no pickup provided from this school
Tutors near F.W. Howay Elementary
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Nearby tutors
Classes near F.W. Howay Elementary
Shown within about 3km of the school, excluding dedicated after-school and tutoring programs.
Nearby classes and activities
After school
5
pickup or nearby
Nearby tutors
18
nearby options
Nearby classes
18
nearby options
After-school pickup
See pickup and nearby options first
2 explicitly serve this school, plus 3 nearby within 3km.
What this page covers
F.W. Howay Elementary school information
F.W. Howay Elementary is a elementary school in New Westminster. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 5 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.
Sources & data context
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.