Elementary

Highlands Elementary

3150 Colwood Dr, North Vancouver, BC, V7R 2R6 · North Vancouver

Rating

8.4

5-year avg

8.1

Rank

91/1032

2026 report · 2024-2025 school year

Quick take

School review information

Highlands Elementary is a top-tier public school offering an enriched, well-rounded educational experience in one of North Vancouver's most prestigious neighborhoods. With excellent academic metrics, a highly engaged parent community, and a wide array of inclusive programs, it provides a private-school-like atmosphere within the public system. The main drawback is the steep cost of real estate required to live in its catchment.

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Editorial review summary

Public parent discussions frequently highlight Highlands Elementary as a 'gold standard' for families moving to the North Shore. Parents praise the highly involved Parent Advisory Council (PAC), which is well-funded and actively supports extra programs, equipment, and school events. The school's location in the affluent, walkable Edgemont Village neighborhood is a major draw, fostering a strong, community-oriented vibe. Because public reviews are somewhat limited, it can be reasonably inferred from real estate and community discussions that the primary barrier to entry is the high cost of housing in the catchment area. Parents also appreciate the on-site Highlands Kids Club for before- and after-school care, as well as the inclusive 'no try-out' policy for school sports.

Common positives

Consistently high academic performance (Fraser Institute rating of 8.4/10).
Located in the highly desirable, safe, and walkable Edgemont Village neighborhood.
Strong, well-funded Parent Advisory Council (PAC) that enhances school resources.
Inclusive sports programs with a 'no try-out' policy, encouraging all students to participate.
Offers a Gifted Program and extensive extracurriculars, including band, strings, and musical theatre.
Convenient on-site before- and after-school care through Highlands Kids Club.

Common concerns

Housing in the school's catchment area (Edgemont) is extremely expensive, creating a high financial barrier to entry.
Does not offer a French Immersion track, which some families may prefer.
Traffic and parking congestion during peak drop-off and pick-up times (though the district is working on mitigation strategies).

Who this school may fit

Highly recommended for families who prioritize strong academic performance, community involvement, and a safe, walkable neighborhood. If your budget allows for housing in the Edgemont Village catchment, Highlands Elementary is an exceptional choice. Families specifically seeking French Immersion may need to look at nearby alternatives like Ross Road Elementary.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Highlands Elementary is recognized as one of the top-performing public schools in North Vancouver. According to the Fraser Institute, the school holds an impressive overall rating of 8.4/10 and ranks 91 out of 1032 schools in British Columbia. Its academic consistency is evident in its rating history (7.5, 8.4, 7.8, 8.4, 8.4) and a strong 5-year average of 8.1. The school places a strong emphasis on foundational academics while integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and self-regulation strategies into the curriculum. It also offers a Gifted Program for students demonstrating exceptional cognitive abilities, ensuring that high-achieving learners are adequately challenged.

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

Band and Strings (Grades 4-7)Gifted ProgramOutdoor School (Cheakamus)Inclusive Athletics (Basketball, Volleyball, Track & Field, Cross-Country)Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)After-School Programs (Musical Theatre, Art, Basketball)

Common questions

Where is Highlands Elementary located?+

Highlands Elementary is located at 3150 Colwood Dr, North Vancouver, BC, V7R 2R6 in North Vancouver.

Does Highlands Elementary have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 2 nearby after-school options.

Are there tutors near Highlands Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 8 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Highlands Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 17 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

nearby options

Nearby classes

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

0 explicitly serve this school, plus 2 nearby within 3km.

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What this page covers

Highlands Elementary school information

Highlands Elementary is a elementary school in North Vancouver. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, school programs, 2 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.

Schools in North Vancouver After-school and pickup Nearby tutors Nearby classes Read school review School review summary

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.

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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.