School History

The first school on Big Tancook opened its doors on November 1, 1820 in a private home. Thomas Gibson was the schoolmaster.

The first schoolhouse was built in 1864 on the northern side of the island. It was located across the road from the present day building and was for grades primary to eleven.

Another school was located on the southern side of the island and was for grades primary to grade five. The two schools were named Northwest Cove and Southeast Cove Schools. In 1935 the population of the two schools was 85 students.

The Northwest Cove School was torn down in 1950 and replaced by the present day one school.

In 1967, grades seven to eleven were sent by ferry to Chester for school and Southeast Cove School closed its doors forever. Northwest Cove School became Big Tancook Elementary with grades primary to 6. There were two teachers. In 1967 the enrollment was 33 students.

In 1992, the school became a facility for grades primary to five with one teacher. Big Tancook Elementary School is one of the last one room schools in Canada.