April 14, 2025 | Community

The Best Private Schools in Toronto: A Guide for Families

The Best Private Schools in Toronto: A Guide for Families
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Toronto private schools are some of the finest in Canada, each with its own philosophy, culture and strengths. Whether your looking for academic excellence, arts and athletics, music or all of the above, Toronto offers top-tier options.

Kingsway College School

Located in Etobicoke, Kingsway College School (KCS) is one of Toronto’s best-kept secrets in private education. This co-educational school offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, with a progressive, student-centered approach that nurtures academic, personal, and emotional growth.

Why families love KCS:

  • Four Doors to Learning™: KCS balances Academics, Arts, Athletics, and Citizenship to develop well-rounded individuals.
  • Innovative Senior School: Their newly opened high school campus emphasizes real-world learning, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
  • Tight-knit community: With small class sizes and a highly engaged parent network, KCS fosters a warm, inclusive environment.
  • Strong character focus: Leadership, ethics, and service are part of everyday learning.

Perfect for families in the West End seeking an inspiring, modern education that nurtures both heart and mind.


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Upper Canada College

Founded in 1829, Upper Canada College (UCC) is one of the oldest and most prestigious all-boys schools in Canada. Located in Forest Hill, UCC offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and is known for its rigorous academics, vibrant extracurriculars, and influential alumni.

What makes UCC special:

  • A 40-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities
  • Full IB program from JK to Grade 12
  • Exceptional alumni network and global leadership connections
  • Extensive athletic and co-curricular programs

Havergal College

Havergal College, a leading all-girls private school in midtown Toronto, offers programs from JK to Grade 12 with a focus on empowerment, academics, and leadership.

Highlights:

  • Beautiful 22-acre campus
  • Strong STEAM programs and global initiatives
  • Opportunities in arts, athletics, and public speaking
  • Boarding available

Branksome Hall

Located in the Rosedale area, Branksome Hall is another top-tier girls’ school, known for its IB curriculum, state-of-the-art wellness and athletics facilities, and international exchange opportunities.

Why Branksome stands out:

  • IB World School (JK–Grade 12)
  • Innovation and STEAM hubs
  • Sister school in South Korea (Branksome Hall Asia)
  • Commitment to mental health and student well-being

The York School

The York School is Canada’s first school to offer the full IB program from JK to Grade 12. Located in the heart of Toronto, it combines academics with experiential learning and global perspectives.

Why choose York?

  • Modern, urban learning environment
  • Real-world programs like the Grade 9 ICE (Integrated Canadian Experience)
  • Strong technology and innovation focus
  • Inclusive and international student body

Crescent School

Crescent School is an independent boys’ school serving Grades 3–12. Its mission—“Men of Character from Boys of Promise”—is embedded in its strong focus on academics, leadership, and personal growth.

Key features:

  • 30-acre campus in North Toronto
  • Mentorship and leadership programs
  • Strong in STEM, robotics, and athletics
  • Community service and global awareness integrated into learning

Searching for the right Toronto neighbourhood to raise your family? Explore these related blogs next!


Bishop Strachan School

Founded in 1867, Bishop Strachan School (BSS) is Canada’s oldest all-girls day and boarding school. Located in Forest Hill, it offers a forward-thinking curriculum focused on STEAM, leadership, and global citizenship.

Why families love BSS:

  • Flexible, inquiry-based learning
  • Gorgeous historical campus with modern upgrades
  • Strong arts and innovation programs
  • Exceptional leadership training for girls

St. Michael’s College School

St. Michael’s College School is an all-boys Catholic school that blends faith, academics, and athletics (especially hockey). Serving Grades 7–12, it’s known for excellence in both character and classroom.

Key advantages:

  • Academic rigor paired with Catholic values
  • Championship-winning sports teams
  • Strong alumni network in professional sports and business
  • Focus on leadership and service

Greenwood College School

Located in midtown Toronto, Greenwood College School offers Grades 7–12 in a co-ed setting with an emphasis on personalized learning and character development.

What makes Greenwood unique:

  • Highly personalized academics
  • Outdoor education and global trips
  • Small school feel with big opportunities
  • Strong mentorship and community

Bayview Glen

Bayview Glen is a co-educational private school in North York offering programs from Preschool to Grade 12. It combines strong academics with a focus on whole-child development and inclusivity.

Why parents love it:

  • Strong academic performance
  • Well-rounded programs in arts, athletics, and tech
  • Emphasis on global citizenship and character
  • Modern facilities and strong university guidance

Lauremont School (formerly Toronto Montessori Schools)

For families seeking a Montessori foundation followed by a structured IB pathway, Lauremont School offers a best-of-both-worlds model.

Why consider Lauremont?

  • Montessori education from 18 months to Grade 6
  • IB program for Grades 7–12
  • Emphasis on independent thinking and emotional growth
  • Peaceful Richmond Hill campus

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right private school in Toronto means considering more than just test scores—it’s about finding a place where your child will thrive, grow, and feel a sense of belonging. Whether you’re in the west end looking for a close-knit community like Kingsway College School or seeking academic intensity in the heart of the city, Toronto has a private school that fits your family’s needs.

Pro Tip: Visit open houses, speak with current parents, and spend time in the school community to get a true feel for the culture and values of each institution.

If you are looking for a home in a top-notch neighbourhood that also offers exceptional options for private education, we can help. Call (416-884-8027) or email (team@amblerhomes.com) today for a free buyer’s consultation!

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