Our History
A SCHOOL · A COMMUNITY
A HOUSE FOR THE ARTS
The Old School House has been part of Qualicum Beach for more than a century. Built as a school and opened in 1914, the building served generations of students before eventually becoming School District offices. By the mid-1980s, its future was uncertain and the building itself was in serious need of repair.
But the community saw something worth saving.
SAVED BY COMMUNITY
Artists, volunteers, local businesses, community leaders and residents came together around an ambitious idea: save the old school and give it a new life as a place for art, learning and community.
Money was raised. Materials and services were donated. People rolled up their sleeves and contributed thousands of hours of labour to restore the building.
On February 27, 1988, The Old School House officially opened as an arts centre. The school house had become an art house.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE HOUSE
From the very beginning, TOSH has been shaped by people.
For nearly four decades, artists, volunteers, members, donors, staff, board members, instructors, students, businesses have continued to make this place what it is. Some have been part of TOSH for decades. Others for an exhibition, a class, an event or an afternoon. Every contribution is part of our story.
To everyone who has given their time, talent, generosity and care to this house over the years: thank you.
A HOUSE FOR EVERYONE
Much has changed since 1988, but the idea at the heart of TOSH remains.
This is a place to experience art, make art, learn, connect and belong.
A house filled with artists and ideas.
A house shaped by its community.
A house with its doors open.
Our house is your house.
WATCH & EXPLORE OUR HISTORY
There is much more to the story of The Old School House.
Watch how an old school became a home for art — and discover the community effort that made it possible.
In 1998, Brad Wylie documented the remarkable story of The Old School House, from its early years and the campaign to save the building to its restoration, opening and first decade as an arts centre.
OUR STORY, PRESERVED
In 2024, TOSH received support through the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program to help preserve and celebrate our history.
With the dedication of volunteers and countless hours of work, the TOSH Archives bring together historical records, photographs and stories so they can be explored today and preserved for generations to come.