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Elementary
St Mary's School
5239 Joyce St, Vancouver, BC, V5R 4G8 · Vancouver
Rating
9.2
5-year avg
9.1
Rank
58/1015
Parent reports
0
email verified
After school
4
pickup or nearby
Nearby tutors
4
nearby options
Nearby classes
8
nearby options
What this page covers
St Mary's School school information
St Mary's School is a elementary school in Vancouver. This page brings together school ratings and rankings, parent-submitted reports, school programs, 4 after-school options, nearby tutors, and kids classes so families can compare the school and after-school fit in one place.
Quick take
School summary
St. Mary's Elementary is a hidden gem in East Vancouver that punches well above its weight, combining elite academic results with a humble, faith-centered atmosphere. It offers a rigorous, music-rich education that rivals expensive prep schools, provided you are willing to commit to the religious ethos and community service requirements.
Common questions
Where is St Mary's School located?+
St Mary's School is located at 5239 Joyce St, Vancouver, BC, V5R 4G8 in Vancouver.
Does St Mary's School have after-school pickup options?+
InsideVan currently tracks 0 programs that explicitly serve this school and 4 nearby after-school options.
Are there tutors near St Mary's School?+
InsideVan currently lists 4 nearby tutor or academic enrichment options that may work for families around this school.
Are there kids classes near St Mary's School?+
InsideVan currently lists 8 nearby kids class or activity options.
How are parent reports for St Mary's School collected?+
Parent reports are submitted through InsideVan with email verification. Public comments are reviewed before publishing.
Parent-submitted
Parent reports
These scores come from email-verified parent reports. Public comments are reviewed first to reduce spam and promotional content.
0
parent responses
No parent scores yet
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Ratings and data
Academic information
St. Mary's Elementary is a top-tier academic institution, achieving an exceptional Overall Rating of 9.2/10 and ranking 58th out of 1,015 elementary schools in British Columbia (2023-2024 data). This score places it in the top 6% of all schools in the province, indicating superior performance in Foundation Skills Assessments (FSA) for literacy and numeracy. The school has maintained a high standard over time, with a 5-year average rating of 9.1, demonstrating consistent academic excellence and stability.
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
BC CurriculumReligious EducationFrench LanguageFine ArtsMusic Program (Orff & Instrumental)Band (Grades 5-7)Choir (Primary & Intermediate)Athletics (Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Track & Field, Cross Country)STEM / ADST (Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies)Learning Resource SupportELL (English Language Learning)SAINTS Before & After School Care
Editorial review summary
Parents describe St. Mary's as a warm, tight-knit community that feels like a 'family.' Reviews highlight the dedicated staff and the strong emphasis on character development alongside academics. The music and band programs are frequently praised as standout features not often found in elementary schools. However, some parents note that admission is competitive, with strict priority given to active parishioners. The mandatory parent participation hours (volunteering) are seen as a way to build community but can be a time commitment challenge for working families.
Common positives
- Exceptional academic ranking (Top 6% in BC)
- Comprehensive Music and Band program for intermediate grades
- Affordable tuition rates for active parishioners compared to secular private schools
- On-site 'SAINTS' Before and After School Care program
- Strong sense of community and moral development
Common concerns
- Admissions heavily prioritize Catholic families; difficult for non-Catholics to enter
- Mandatory parent volunteer hours (participation program) required
- Older facilities compared to newer private schools (seismic upgrades have been a focus)
- Strict uniform policy and religious curriculum may not suit everyone
Who this school may fit
This school is an ideal choice for practicing Catholic families in Vancouver who value high academic standards and traditional discipline without the high price tag of secular private academies. It is best suited for parents who are eager to be actively involved in the school community and want their children to have strong musical and spiritual foundations.
After-school programs serving St Mary's School
0 programs explicitly serve this school, 4 nearby programs within 3km.
Nearby within 3km, no pickup provided from this school
Tutors near St Mary's School
Find math, reading, language, and academic enrichment tutors around this school.
Nearby tutors
Classes near St Mary's School
Shown within about 3km of the school, excluding dedicated after-school and tutoring programs.