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Hollyburn Elementary

1329 Duchess Ave, West Vancouver, BC, V7T 1H5 · West Vancouver

Rating

7.2

5-year avg

7.7

Rank

212/1032

2026 report · 2024-2025 school year

Quick take

School review information

Hollyburn Elementary is a well-rounded, community-focused school in West Vancouver that successfully blends historical charm with modern educational practices. With a solid 5-year average Fraser rating of 7.7, strong math initiatives, and excellent arts and music programs, it offers a balanced education. The robust childcare and early learning programs make it a highly convenient and supportive choice for families.

Editorial review summary

Publicly available parent reviews for Hollyburn Elementary are limited, so signals are drawn from community discussions and district feedback. Parents generally appreciate the school's picturesque Ambleside location and the unique blend of its 1913 heritage architecture with modern amenities. The availability of on-site before and after-school care, as well as the StrongStart early learning program, are highly valued by working families. The community also speaks positively about the dedicated staff, the school's commitment to social-emotional learning, and the robust extracurricular offerings like band, choir, and art programs.

Common positives

  • Strong academic foundation with a dedicated focus on math and numeracy skills.
  • Excellent extracurricular offerings, including a dynamic Band and Choir program and specialized art classes.
  • Comprehensive on-site childcare options, including StrongStart for early learning and before/after-school care.
  • Beautiful campus in the Ambleside community, featuring a blend of heritage charm and modern facilities like an adventure playground and inner garden.
  • Robust ELL support system for non-native English speakers.

Common concerns

  • Fraser Institute ratings have shown some fluctuation in recent years, dropping from a high of 8.5 to 7.2.
  • The original school building dates back to 1913, which, despite updates, may lack the ultra-modern feel of newly constructed schools.
  • Limited public parent reviews make it difficult to independently gauge everyday classroom experiences.

Who this school may fit

Highly recommended for families living in or moving to the Ambleside area who value a balanced education with strong arts, music, and social-emotional support. It is especially suitable for working parents needing reliable on-site childcare and for families whose children might benefit from structured ELL programs.

Ratings and data

Academic information

Hollyburn Elementary maintains a solid academic standing, reflected in its Fraser Institute rating of 7.2/10 and a provincial rank of 212 out of 1032 schools. The school's previous 5-year average rating is a strong 7.7, though its recent history shows some fluctuation (7.8 -> 7 -> 8.5 -> 8 -> 7.2). Academically, the school places a significant emphasis on numeracy through its Framework for Enhancing Student Learning (FESL), which focuses on building number sense and ownership in math from Kindergarten to Grade 7. The school also provides robust English Language Learners (ELL) support to assist students with vocabulary, grammar, and Canadian customs, ensuring diverse learners are well-supported in their academic journey.

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 Choir Program (Beginning and Intermediate levels for Grades 6-7)English Language Learners (ELL) Support (Small group and push-in models)StrongStart Centre (Free early learning program for ages 0-5)Before and After School Care (Hollyburn Kids Club / PJ Kids Club)Framework for Enhancing Student Learning (FESL) focusing on Math and Number SenseExtracurricular Art Programs (via Artmania)Active Play Programs (via Red Fox Healthy Living Society)

Common questions

Where is Hollyburn Elementary located?+

Hollyburn Elementary is located at 1329 Duchess Ave, West Vancouver, BC, V7T 1H5 in West Vancouver.

Does Hollyburn Elementary have after-school pickup options?+

InsideVan currently tracks 2 programs that explicitly serve this school and 1 nearby after-school options.

Are there tutors near Hollyburn Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 20 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Hollyburn Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 18 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

3

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

20

nearby options

Nearby classes

18

nearby options

After-school pickup

See pickup and nearby options first

2 explicitly serve this school, plus 1 nearby within 3km.

What this page covers

Hollyburn Elementary school information

Hollyburn Elementary is a elementary school in West 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.

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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.