Your Guide to Education in Toronto’s West-End Communities

The Educational Landscape of Toronto’s West-End Neighbourhoods

From Bloor West Village to The Junction, each area offers its unique charm and a variety of schooling opportunities that cater to different needs and preferences.

Understanding the importance of education in shaping young minds, we explore the specifics of what each type of school offers. Whether you’re interested in the traditional approach of the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) schools, the value-added Catholic education of the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) schools, the unique curriculums of private institutions, or the innovative environments of alternative education options, this guide will help you navigate through the choices available to make an informed decision for your children.

This guide is a helpful directory of schools that can provide you with valuable information on how they integrate within their communities, support diverse learning needs, and contribute to the overall growth and development of their students.

Schooling Options in Toronto’s West-End Neighbourhoods

Public Schools

Public schools in this area fall under the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), which is known for its diverse and inclusive programs. These schools offer a wide range of educational opportunities and resources that cater to students’ varied learning needs. Key features include specialized programs like STEM, arts, and environmental science, which are designed to nurture student interests and talents from a young age.

Catholic Schools

The Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) oversees the Catholic schools in the region. These schools integrate core Catholic values with a comprehensive curriculum, aiming to develop both the academic and spiritual aspects of student life. In addition to the standard curriculum, they often offer programs in music, arts, and languages, emphasizing community involvement and moral development.

Private Schools

Private schools in the area offer varied curriculums and educational approaches, including Montessori, Waldorf, and traditional preparatory school models. These institutions typically boast smaller class sizes, dedicated resources, and specialized programs that cater to specific educational philosophies or individual learning styles.

Alternative Schools

Alternative schools provide innovative education models that differ significantly from mainstream public or private schooling. These might include project-based learning environments, schools with a focus on arts or sciences, or programs that operate under unique philosophies such as the Reggio Emilia approach or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. These schools are ideal for families seeking a less traditional educational path that aligns with their specific values or their child’s unique learning needs.

Each of these school types offers distinct advantages and environments, allowing parents to choose an educational path that best suits their child’s needs and their family’s goals.

Directory of West-End Toronto Elementary Schools

Annette Street Junior and Senior Public School (TDSB)

265 Annette St
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/annette/

About the school: Annette Street Public School is located in the Bloor West/Junction/High Park community. The original east building was constructed in 1886 and the west wing was added in 1960. The school has an enrolment of approximately 502 students and offers Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 programs. Annette shares the facilities (including the library, gym, computer lab and playground) with High Park Alternative School. It also shares space with Junction Daycare and is connected to the Annette Community Centre, which is operated by Toronto Parks and Recreation Department. At Annette Street Public School, we work to create a safe, caring and stimulating environment where students, staff and those in our community are valued as unique individuals.

Erudite School (Private Institution)

2323 Bloor St W unit 216
http://www.eruditeschool.com/

About the school: Erudite is a small school with big aspirations – and a huge heart. Our school was established in 2015 in Bloor West Village, Toronto, Ontario. The mission of ERUDITE school is to lay the foundation for a strong educational background to enrich knowledge, creativity and skill sets that will lead our children towards a successful career and personal satisfaction.

Fern Avenue Junior and Senior Public School (TDSB)

128 Fern Ave
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/fern

About the school: Fern Avenue School is located east of Roncesvalles Avenue, on Fern Avenue, north of Queen St.and south of High Park Blvd. The school was built in 1894, celebrated its centennial in 1994 and a two-storey primary wing was added to the three-storey old central building in 1954. The school serves about 700 students. The majority of the students are from English-speaking backgrounds. Approximately one-third of the students represent about 20 cultural and language groups. Fern is a composite school offering programs from Full Day Kindergarten to Grade 8 in English, Full Day Kindergarten JK to Grade 8 in French Immersion, Grade 4 to 5 Middle French Immersion and Grade 6 to 8 Extended French program.

Garden Avenue Junior Public School (TDSB)

225 Garden Ave
http://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/gardenave

About the school: Garden Avenue Public School is situated between Parkside Drive and Roncesvalles Avenue, near St. Joseph’s Health Centre. The school was founded in 1957. Garden Avenue P.S. was known as Argentina P.S. between 1961 and 1982. The school has an enrolment of approximately 205 students, a majority of whom have English as their First Language. Approximately 85% are born in Canada. Garden Avenue School offers Kindergarten to Grade 6 programs. The school shares space with Sunnyside Garden Daycare which serves children between two-and-a-half and 12 years old. This allows our students seamless transitions from daycare to school.

High Park Alternative Junior School (Alternative TDSB)

10 Jennings Ave
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/highparkalt

About the school: High Park Alternative School, founded in 1981, is housed in the Annette Street Public School complex in the Bloor West/Junction/High Park community. The school has grown from its original 3 classrooms to its current 7 classrooms. The student population numbers 150, with the majority of children having English as their home language. The school currently offers Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 programs. It shares space and facilities with Annette Street Public School and Junction Daycare. The complex is attached to the Annette Community Centre.

Howard Junior Public School (TDSB)

30 Marmaduke St
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/howard

About the school: Howard Public School is located in the High Park/Roncesvalles community. It began as a small country school in 1874. The present building was constructed in 1970 as an “open concept” school with three “houses”: Anderson House, Maison Neuve and Clarke House. Each house has a common area surrounded by six individual classrooms. The three Kindergartens and music room are in separate classrooms. The school has approximately 370 students. Howard Public School is a dual-track school offering an English program from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and an Early French Immersion program from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. Each program enhances the other. The school shares space with a daycare centre.

Humbercrest Public School (TDSB)

14 St Marks Rd
http://www.humbercrestps.ca/

About the school: Humbercrest Public School is located in the Jane Dundas/Annette area and was established in 1915. We are a STEM-focused, dual track school offering both our regular English and French Immersion programmes from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Our students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 live in the immediate area. Students from King George and Warren Park join us for Grade 7 and 8. Presently we serve a student population of approximately 700 JK to Gr. 8 students. We believe a strong partnership between school and home is a key to providing our students with the best environment to achieve success.

Humberside Montessori School (Private Institution)

121 Kennedy Ave
https://www.humbersidemontessori.com/

About the school: The Program and philosophy of Humberside Montessori School are based on the education method discovered and developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. We are privileged to offer Montessori programs at three levels. The journey begins in the Primary level (Casa) for children 2 1/2 to 6 years of age. It then continues with the Elementary level for children 6 to 12 years of age, and then eventually proceeds to the 2-year Adolescent Program for children 12 to 14 years of age. Every environment at each level is fully equipped with AMI-approved materials and is directed by a professionally trained AMI-certified teacher, specializing in the respective level. It is worthy to note that because the Montessori philosophy is based on the natural, wholesome growth of the child during specific stages in their development, children must begin in the primary level at an age that will ensure the successful completion of the three-year cycle during their distinct stage. (This age is typically 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years old upon entry of the Casa level). It follows that each progressive level requires full completion of the level preceding it.

Indian Road Crescent Junior Public School (TDSB)

285 Indian Rd Crescent
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/indianroad

About the school: Indian Road Crescent Public School is located in “North High Park”, the Junction Area of Toronto, east of Annette and Keele Streets. Indian Road Crescent P.S. serves students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. The school population is approximately 260 students. Our population is quite diverse; over one third of our students speak languages other than English. The Parenting and Family Literacy Centre located in the school offers parenting courses and literacy support for parents. The Parenting and Family Literacy Centre at Indian Road Crescent is the most used Centre across the TDSB. The YMCA Before and After School Childcare Program is available for school-age children.

James Culnan Catholic School (TCDSB)

605 Willard Ave
https://www.tcdsb.org/o/jamesculnan

About the school: James Culnan Catholic School is a safe and caring school community. At James Culnan we seek to enrich Catholic Spirituality and Faith development, respect the individual, and embrace diversity. As a community, we meet the diverse needs of our student population and nurture the academic potential and love for learning in all our students. With our School Learning and Improvement Team, we ensure that each student in both our English and French Immersion programs is supported and challenged. Our very active Catholic School Parent Council (CSPC) continues to support our students academically, socially and in their Faith development. As a Catholic School Community, we nurture strong relationships between home, school and parish.

Keele Street Public School (TDSB)

99 Mountview Av.
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/keelestreet

About the school: Keele Street Public School is located in the High Park area near the intersection of Bloor St. and Keele St. The school has approximately 490 students. Keele Street Public School offers Kindergarten to Grade 8 programs. The school shares space with the Keelmount Daycare Centre, and the Keele Community Centre and swimming pool.

King George Junior Public School (TDSB)

25 Rexford Rd
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/kinggeorge

About the school: King George Junior Public School is located in the Runnymede area, southeast of Jane and Dundas Streets. Opened in 1911, the year of King George V’s coronation, it replaced Elizabeth Street School, built in 1882. The present building opened in 1964. With 227 students, a family atmosphere exists in which students, teachers and parents know one another well. Our motto is “”Small in Size – Large in Accomplishments””. This motto is borne out in our many successes in academic, artistic, and athletic endeavours.

Mountview Alternative Junior School (Alternative TDSB)

569 Jane St
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/mountviewalternative

About the school: Mountview Alternative is a K-8 school who shares space with Runnymede Collegiate Institute and Humbercrest Nursery School. The school has approximately 100 students. Mountview is a community of five classrooms. The small community fosters deep, meaningful relationships. Here, the aim is for each student to share their unique abilities and perspectives with one another. For our collaborative staff, this close setting allows us to gain multiple perspectives on the strengths and needs of each student. We are committed to fostering a true joy of learning through creative, responsive and ongoing collaboration with all students, staff, parents and wider community members.

Runnymede Junior and Senior Public School (TDSB)

357 Runnymede Rd
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/runnymede

About the school: Runnymede Jr. & Sr. Public School is located in Bloor West Village, north of Bloor Street, west of High Park. The school was first founded in 1913 as a one-room schoolhouse and presently has approximately 1000 students. Runnymede is a dual-track school offering both regular English and French Immersion programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. We are known for academic excellence and rigour. In addition, we have very strong Performing Arts programs including Band, Drama, and Strings.

Saint Cecilia Catholic Elementary School (TCDSB)

355 Annette St
https://www.tcdsb.org/o/stcecilia

About the school: St Cecilia Catholic School is growing by leaps and bounds! We are located in the Junction on the edge of Bloor West Village. We pride ourselves in being a neighborhood school where parents have a choice between two dynamic programs: English and French Immersion. We have two big playgrounds, one known as the “castle” where families gather after school. The original 1914 part of the school has big classrooms, high ceilings, original wood wainscoting and brand new windows! Our newly painted gym and front stairway mural are indicative of the pride and care we take in the school and each other. Our Eco school work focuses on taking care of our environment and has achieved Gold status for the past three years! Staff and students are working in four key areas to achieve this status: energy conservation, waste minimization, ecological literacy and school ground greening.

Saint Pius X Catholic School (TCDSB)

71 Jane St
https://www.tcdsb.org/o/stpiusx

About the school: St. Pius X Catholic School has already more than surpassed its 100th anniversary and is looking none the worse for its age. The original brick building was erected in 1922 and remained as it was until 1969 when the kindergarten classes, gymnasium and library were built, but not attached, to the older building. With tremendous help from the parent community, the most recent renovations to the school were continued in 1988 and finally all parts of the school (old and new) were joined together. The school community was very pleased that the old brick structure was kept intact, particularly the 12-foot high ceilings in all the classrooms.

St. James Catholic School (TCDSB)

230 Humbercredt Blvd
https://www.tcdsb.org/o/stjames

About the school: As a Catholic community, one of our foremost tasks is to provide an environment in which we strive to base our actions, words and beliefs on the examples that Jesus modelled. In our diverse population, we work to meet each student’s spiritual, academic, social and emotional needs. We realize that all our students learn at different rates and in different ways, and we strive to ensure that all our students achieve success. To help our students achieve success, certain lessons may be modified, accommodated or enriched to suit their learning needs. These programmes are discussed and implemented via our on site staff through our School-Based Support Team (SBST) and our readily available special services team via Joint Team Meetings (JTM).

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School (TCDSB)

116 Fermanagh Ave
https://www.tcdsb.org/o/stvincentdepaul

About the school: St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School is a friendly, challenging, and exciting school. We have a rich tradition as a spirited, forward-looking educational community that is a vital member of the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB). We offer programs for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 that are consistent with the expectations of The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1 to 8. We strive to provide an exceptional education that will foster a passion for learning, creativity, and independent thinking. Participation in a variety of activities in class and beyond will help students to develop the desire to use their gifts in service to the community, and the confidence to pursue their goals and dreams.

Summit Micro School (Alternative Private)

291A Jane St
http://summitmicroschool.ca/

About the school: Summit Micro School is a private school in west Toronto with students from many corners of the city; including Etobicoke, north Toronto, downtown and around our area of Bloor West Village and Baby Point. At Summit Micro School we believe that all students have the potential to be active, independent thinkers and learners. Confidence and motivation are the seeds of life-long learning and with these, education can be an exploration of ideas and values. Student engagement is critical to inspire students to pursue their own interests and push their personal limits of achievement. An effective education must prepare students with the skills needed for success in an ever-changing world.

Swansea Junior and Senior Public School (TDSB)

207 Windermere Ave
http://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/swansea/

About the school: Swansea School is located south of Bloor Street and west of High Park. It has a history of over a hundred years. The school has an enrolment of approximately 950 students. Their ethnic backgrounds are highly diverse and the school takes every opportunity to celebrate its diversity. Swansea Public School is a community of staff, students and parents who work collaboratively to promote a safe and respectful learning environment, where all students have the opportunity to achieve their potential. We are dedicated to fostering a welcoming, safe and respectful community where all individuals strive for academic excellence and participate co-operatively in all aspects of school life.

The Clover School – High Park Clendenan Campus (Private Institution)

411 Clendenan Ave
https://www.cloverschool.com/our-campuses/high-park

About the school: Situated on quiet, tree-lined residential streets in the High Park neighbourhood, The Clover School’s newest campuses occupy two historic brick-clad buildings. Located on a sprawling park-like oasis, the school features a fenced-in playground, complete with Urban Garden and open-air classroom space. Indoors, rooms are spacious, bright and light-filled, creating a warm and happy ambiance. Hand washing stations in every classroom encourage good hygiene. These campuses serve children 18 months to 12 years and have been designed to facilitate Montessori learning in a caring and loving environment.

Warren Park Junior Public School (TDSB)

135 Varsity Rd
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/warrenpark

About the school: Warren Park Junior Public School was built in 1930. It was named after John “”Josh”” Warren who served as a Trustee for the York Township Board of Education starting in 1926. The original school consisted of 4 rooms and the first principal was Mr. W. A. Wragg. In September 1971, two rooms in the old section of the school were taken over for the newly created Warren Park Outdoor Education Centre. In the summer of 2009, Macaulay Child Development Centres opened a school age daycare in the building. The strong support of our families, through their participation and assistance at all of our school events, makes Warren Park JPS a great place to learn and grow. Smaller schools provide the opportunity for building strong relationships.

Westminster Classical Christian Academy (Private Institution)

9 Hewitt Ave
http://westminsterclassical.ca/

About the school: Westminster Classical Christian Academy seeks to provide students with a time-honoured, comprehensive, and exemplary education through the Classical method’s approach of a truly integrated, profound, and engaging curriculum that is applicable in all spheres of life and thought. We strive to create a culture of service in the name of Christ to each other and our community. WCCA offers part-time and full-time Junior Kindergarten and full-time school for Senior Kindergarten to Grade 8.

Practical Information for Parents

Admissions and Enrollment

• Public and Catholic Schools: Enrollment in these schools typically requires proof of residence within the school’s catchment area. Parents should contact the school directly or visit the school board’s website for specific enrollment periods and documentation requirements. TDSB and TCDSB schools have designated registration times, usually in the early spring for the following school year.
• Private and Alternative Schools: These schools often have their own admissions processes, which may include entrance exams, interviews, and tours. Prospective students may need to apply well in advance, and there may be waiting lists, especially for popular programs.

Transportation

• School Buses: Many schools offer school bus services for students living beyond a certain distance from the school. Details about eligibility and bus routes can be found on the school or school board’s website.
• Public Transit: Information on public transit routes can be accessed via the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) website, which provides comprehensive maps and schedules that help parents plan the commute to various schools.
• Active Transportation: Encouraging walking or cycling, several schools participate in active transportation programs like Walking School Bus or Bike to School, promoting health and reducing traffic congestion.

Support Services

• Special Education: Both public and Catholic schools provide special education services, tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities. These services include individualized education plans, in-class supports, and specialized programs.
• Language Support: For families whose first language is not English, many schools offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to help students succeed academically.
• Counseling and Psychological Services: Schools typically have counselors or psychologists available to support students’ mental and emotional health. These professionals work with students to manage stress, social issues, and more.

Health and Nutrition

• Nutritional Programs: Many schools offer breakfast or lunch programs to ensure that all students have access to healthy meals during the school day.
• Health Services: Some schools have a nurse or a health practitioner on-site to address immediate health concerns and provide ongoing health education.

Tuition and Financial Considerations

• Public and Catholic Schools: In Ontario, both public and Catholic schools are publicly funded and do not charge tuition fees for residents of Ontario. However, there might be fees for extracurricular activities, special programs, or field trips.
• Private Schools: Tuition for private schools can vary widely depending on the institution’s facilities, programs, and educational approach. Fees can range from a few thousand dollars to over $30,000 per year for the most prestigious schools. Many private schools offer scholarships and bursary programs to assist with tuition, making private education more accessible to a diverse student body.
• Alternative Schools: While most alternative schools under the public school boards do not charge tuition, independently operated alternative schools might have tuition fees that align closely with those of private schools. These fees can cover costs associated with unique curriculums and specialized programs not typically found in public schooling.

Parents should consider these financial aspects when choosing a school, as tuition and associated costs can significantly impact family budgets. It’s important to contact schools directly for the most accurate and up-to-date tuition information and to inquire about any available financial aid options.

Community and Parent Involvement in Education

Community and parent involvement in schools is essential for fostering educational excellence and nurturing a supportive environment for students.

Building a Supportive Educational Environment

Parental Involvement: Research consistently shows that when parents are actively involved in their children’s education, students are more likely to succeed academically and socially. Schools in the area encourage parents to participate in homework activities, attend parent-teacher meetings, and be part of decision-making processes through school councils. This involvement helps parents stay informed about their children’s progress and the school’s educational strategies.

Community Partnerships: Many schools collaborate with local businesses, non-profits, and cultural institutions to enrich their educational programs. These partnerships can provide students with access to extra resources, such as internships, equipment, workshops, and field trips, which extend learning opportunities beyond the classroom and into the local community.

Enhancing Learning Through Volunteer Programs

Volunteer Contributions: Volunteers play a vital role in schools by supporting classroom activities, organizing events, and running extracurricular clubs. These contributions are invaluable, especially in schools with limited resources, as they help maintain a wide range of programs and activities that enhance student learning and engagement.

Skill-Based Volunteering: Parents and community members often bring diverse skills and expertise that can benefit schools. Whether it’s a parent who offers to lead a coding workshop or a local artist who teaches a series of painting classes, these skills can significantly enhance the educational offerings and provide students with unique learning experiences.

Cultural Enrichment and Diversity

Cultural Events: Schools may host cultural days, festivals, and art shows that celebrate the diverse backgrounds of their student body. These events encourage students and parents to share their heritage and learn about different cultures, fostering an inclusive and respectful school community.

Language and Cultural Programs: In areas with diverse populations, schools often offer programs that support language retention and cultural identity. These programs not only support bilingualism but also help maintain cultural connections, contributing to a richer, more diverse educational experience.

The Role of Technology in Community Engagement

Digital Communication Tools: Schools use websites, social media, and digital newsletters to keep the community informed and engaged. These tools make it easier for parents and community members who might not be able to attend school meetings or events in person to stay connected and informed about school activities and initiatives.

Choosing the right school is a significant decision that can impact a child’s future.

As we’ve explored the diverse educational opportunities within Toronto’s West-end neighbourhoods, it’s clear that the area offers many choices to meet families’ needs. From public and Catholic schools to private and alternative education options, each institution is committed to fostering an enriching environment that nurtures students’ intellectual and personal growth.

Review of Key Points

• Diverse Educational Systems: Families can choose from public, Catholic, private, and alternative schools, each offering unique programs and environments that cater to different educational philosophies and student needs.
• Community Engagement: The strong emphasis on community and parental involvement enriches the educational experience, creating supportive student networks and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Access to Resources: Through community partnerships, volunteer initiatives, and technology integration, schools in these neighbourhoods can provide a wealth of resources that enhance learning and prepare students for future challenges.

It is crucial for parents to consider their child’s individual needs, interests, and the family’s overall educational values when selecting an institution. Engaging with school communities, attending open houses, and speaking with other parents can provide valuable insights that help in making an informed choice.

We encourage potential residents and families currently living in the area to explore these educational opportunities firsthand. Contact the Smith Proulx Real Estate Team to discover properties within your preferred school catchments and learn more about what these neighbourhoods have to offer. Your ideal home is not just a place to live; it’s where your children will learn, grow, and thrive.