21 St. Clements Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4R 1G8(MAP)
Our Perspective
How we see St. Clement's School
Our Kids Feature Review
There’s a commitment to academic success in partnership with emotional and social well-being.
Community, across generations and grades, provides a cornerstone for the culture of the school.
Leadership is adept, responsive, and progressive.
The 50-page review of St. Clement's School is part of our series of in-depth accounts of Canada's leading private schools. It provides a unique and objective perspective on the school's academics, programs, culture, and community.
There’s a true sense of community and fun and engagement. There’s always laughter in the halls, while at the same time really being focused on learning.… The girls’ experience really affords the opportunity for authenticity—being themselves, getting to know their authentic selves and then diving into whatever they’re passionate about. —From Interview with St. Clement's School Principal: Martha Perry.
Being at university now … I realise now how unique that opportunity was, to have like five-person classes where I really got to form a relationship with my classmates and the teachers and be able to ask questions without worrying what other students might think. We were all very different, but we were all passionate about things, and we helped each other. —From 2020 roundtable discussion about St. Clement's School. (The quote comes specifically from Emma Coster, an alum).
One of the things that they really value at St. Clement’s is the ability for students to be outspoken and talk about the things that are important to them.… The flexibility allows a student who is more curious about this subject to grow that curiosity, instead of the standard institutional education. —From Interview with St. Clement's School alum: Julie Midroni.
Perry enjoys watching the students at St. Clement’s discover their voices, and she aims to foster an environment where their voices can not only be nurtured but where students understand that their voices and convictions are important.
School's Perspective
Compare with:
How St. Clement's School sees itself
The school administration answered our questions
Who are you, as a school?
"It's different here at SCS. There's something special going on, a kind of energy filled with curiosity and courage. It's the way our students approach things, from learning to discovery to play. It's the way we teach - the ability to think deeply, critically, creatively, and become more self-aware. Come in. Talk to us. See it. Feel it for yourself.
Visit scs.on.ca/open-house for our upcoming Open House dates."
Girls' school, founded in 1901
Enriched and balanced academics at all grade levels
Unrivaled Advanced Placement course offerings
100% university acceptance
Extensive athletic, arts, and co-curricular programs
Global and experiential learning opportunities
Integrated leadership program
Scholarships and financial aid
What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Our approach to learning sets us apart, featuring innovative programming and a more intentional approach to teaching, sets us apart. We are evolving and redefining what it means to really learn and thrive in a world where the only certainty is change. We don’t just want our students to thrive, we want them prepared to be bold – to see disruption as opportunity and possibility, to seize change with agility and imagination, to tackle the complex world of tomorrow with confidence and character."
To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Our small school community enables us to stand behind our belief that each student is unique, and should be known and valued as such. Students become truly known and valued members of our close-knit community. Your child will be challenged while being encouraged to be herself. She will be supported and known, and will grow in ways you have yet to imagine. After working hard, cheering, laughing, participating, and feeling supported along the way, she'll be ready to tackle whatever happens next."
What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"The benefits of being a small school community, with all 460 students learning in one building, comes with many significant benefits. Grade 12s model confidence for Grade 1s, by virtue of being together every day in the same building. Grade 6 Reading Buddies partner with primary students to develop reading skills. Grades 7 to 12 students collaborate together on co-curricular clubs and teams. Middle and Senior School Prefects model leadership skills to Junior School students."
What might families find surprising about your school?
"SCS may be a small school, but in no way does that limit our offering. The courses available align with our approach to learning and often feature collaborations between disciplines and areas of study. We offer a huge variety of co-curricular activities.
There is also a new Experiential Education Framework in place; experiential learning at SCS immerses students in authentic and dynamic experiences, which encourage students to be curious, creative, and to use problem-solving skills."
Watch our St. Clement's School Q&A discussion with Claudia (Parent), Simona (Alum), Neil (Parent) to gain fresh insight into the school’s culture, values, and strengths.
Welcome! I am thrilled that you are interested in learning more about St. Clement’s School. Beyond the strong tradition of academic excellence, there is a tangible sense of community spirit and pride at SCS that you can feel the moment you walk into our building.
Our mission is to develop outstanding women who are intellectually curious, courageous, and compassionate, and we believe that this is done by equipping our students to be courageous and adaptable learners and empowering them to make impactful contributions in local, national, and global communities.
Choosing a school for your child is a very important decision. It is my hope that as you read more about us, you will get a little sense of who we are as a school and will be inspired to come and see SCS for yourself. We welcome you to visit us to get a better sense of our spirited community – one that reflects relentless passion, courage, and curiosity in learning.
We look forward to meeting you and sharing more about St. Clement’s School.
