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Lord Nelson Elementary

1355 Garden Dr, Vancouver, BC, V5L 4R1 · Vancouver

Rating

5.1

5-year avg

5.8

Rank

710/1032

2026 report · 2024-2025 school year

Quick take

School review information

Lord Nelson Elementary is a vibrant, community-focused school housed in a state-of-the-art, seismically safe building. While its Fraser Institute academic ratings are below average, the school compensates with exceptional facilities, strong on-site childcare, and a highly engaged parent community.

Editorial review summary

Public parent reviews for Lord Nelson Elementary are limited, but available signals point to a highly engaged and appreciative community. Parents frequently praise the brand-new, seismically safe building (completed in 2019) and its modern amenities. A major highlight for families is the unique two-storey outdoor slides that descend from the second floor to the playground, which were funded in part by the active Parent Advisory Council (PAC). Families also highly value the on-site childcare options, including 'The Village' daycare on the third floor, which makes drop-offs and pick-ups highly convenient for working parents.

Common positives

  • Brand-new, seismically safe facility completed in 2019 with modern, open learning spaces.
  • Unique and fun playground features, including two-storey outdoor slides.
  • Excellent on-site childcare options, including a 69-space daycare on the third floor and various after-school programs.
  • Highly active Parent Advisory Council (PAC) that contributes significantly to school improvements.
  • Diverse and inclusive community with a strong focus on equity and environmental stewardship.

Common concerns

  • Academic performance ratings from the Fraser Institute are below the provincial average (5.1/10).
  • High demand for the on-site childcare and after-school programs can lead to waitlists.
  • Located near busy arterial roads (Nanaimo Street and East 1st Avenue), which may cause traffic congestion during drop-off and pick-up times.

Who this school may fit

This school is highly recommended for families who prioritize modern, safe facilities, strong community involvement, and convenient on-site childcare over top-tier academic rankings. The unique playground and diverse after-school programs make it an engaging environment for young learners.

Ratings and data

Academic information

According to the Fraser Institute, Lord Nelson Elementary has an overall rating of 5.1/10, placing it at a provincial rank of 710 out of 1032 schools in British Columbia. The school's rating history over recent years shows some fluctuation, moving from 5.7 to 5.4, peaking at 6.5, dropping to 6.2, and most recently settling at 5.1. The previous 5-year average rating is 5.8. The school serves a diverse student population of approximately 480 students, with 8% being English Language Learners (ELL), and focuses heavily on inclusive and equitable education practices.

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

StrongStart BC early learning programNeighbourhood Learning Centre"The Village" at Nelson Childcare Program (by Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House)Saplings Outdoor Program (nature-based after-school care)Lights Up Musical Theatre (after-school program)Vancouver Eagles Youth Basketball (development program)

Common questions

Where is Lord Nelson Elementary located?+

Lord Nelson Elementary is located at 1355 Garden Dr, Vancouver, BC, V5L 4R1 in Vancouver.

Does Lord Nelson 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 Lord Nelson Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 3 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.

Are there kids classes near Lord Nelson Elementary?+

InsideVan currently lists 5 nearby kids class or activity options.

After school

0

pickup or nearby

Nearby tutors

3

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

Lord Nelson Elementary school information

Lord Nelson 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.

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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.