We are situated on the central east coast of Vancouver Island, 47 km north of Nanaimo.  At present, we enroll approximately 200 students (K-5).  Although we are a relatively small elementary school, we believe that our role, involvement, and place in our community are significant.  QBES continues to be a vital part of the spirit and heart of our community, and continues to be committed to building positive and symbiotic relationships within our community.  We are receptive to ways our school and students can interact with, and support community ventures.  While embracing that which the greater community can share with us, sharing our community of learners allows us to see that community is not just the sum of its individuals, young or old, but it is much more.  Our sharing, acceptance and belief that learners and teachers have many faces is that which mutually enriches, enhances, and deepens each of our experiences, to build our connection with our community.  We are proud of the role we continue to take in providing our learners with positive opportunities and interactions within our community to shape them as they learn. 

In 2009-2010 (in collaboration with community members) we celebrated the Olympics, a Labyrinth Walk for Earth Day, hosted three sets of cross-grade blocks focused on Shape and Space, Canadian artists and physical activity.  We accessed a variety of resources such as the public library, the Ravensong pool, the Qualicum Beach Museum, Qualicum Manor assisted living facility, the skating rink and the town hall.  In conjunction with Building Learning Together (a coalition of community partners who support early learning for young children), a Storybook Village, as well as an Alphabet Garden were constructed on our grounds.  This project is supported by local businesses, community partners, District Operations and Maintenance staff, and community volunteers.