Online schools and distance learning

Schools that are fully online versus schools that offer part-time online learning

An increasing number of schools are offering online learning (also known as “virtual learning”, “at-home learning,” and “cyber-learning" ). Below, find two separate lists—(1) fully online schools and (2) partly online schools—and then a comprehensive discussion of online learning in schools.

Our overview of online learning in schools covers some of the most vital topics in this area. This includes fully vs. partly online schools, forms of online learning, questions to ask schools, pros and cons of online schooling, and the evolution and controversies of online learning. Below, you can also access articles that provide even more in-depth discussions of these five issues.

Two types of online learning schools

Fully online schools

Course delivery

Fully online schools, as you might expect, offer exclusively online learning (a fully online private education). All of their courses are online and none are in person. These schools don’t have a physical campus and provide no in-person interaction, for instance, with teachers, staff, or administrators. Everything is online in these schools. Read more

List of fully online schools

These schools are completely online and have no physical campus. All of their courses and programs are online.


Fieldstone School Toronto, Ontario — As a Cambridge School, we teach a curriculum that sets the global standard for education designed to help students develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. View School Profile. As a Cambridge School, we teach a curriculum that sets the global standard for education designed to help students develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. The first school in Canada to offer a dual Cambridge-Ontario curriculum University pathways counselling and one-on-one support All students starting in Grade One learn how to play the violin, viola, or cello All students in JK to Grade Twelve learn a Shakespeare Play One of the top university preparatory private schools in Toronto Grades: JK to 12 (Coed) Type: Traditional Tuition: $19,975 to $27,860 Living: Day/eSchool Enrollment: 210 Avg. Class: 5 to 10 View School Profile Our Kids Review User Reviews (5) School Videos (2) Open House: Feb 15	Fieldstone School	19975	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day eSchool Coed
featured GlenOak Academy View Profile Mississauga, Ontario QEW/Erin Mills Parkway SK to 8 Coed $19,500 to $36,900 GlenOak Academy offers an educational experience as EXTRAORDINARY as your child! Our innovative, engaging approach to teaching and learning focuses on positive relationships, character development and academic success. eSchool/Day Progressive User Reviews (7)	GlenOak Academy	19500	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools eSchool Day Coed
Ontario eSecondary School View Profile Brampton, Ontario 9 to 12 Coed $445 to $545 /course Ontario eSecondary School (OES) offers fast, flexible and fully online courses supported by certified staff with free 24/7 tutoring. 8/10 of our students achieve over 85% in their course(s). eSchool Traditional User Reviews (3)	Ontario eSecondary School	445	HighSchools eSchool Coed
Agate Private School View Profile St Catharines, Ontario Ontario St./Welland Ave. NS to 12 Coed/Girls $350 to $5,200 Heuristic & autodidactic, inspired by Sudbury & democratic models. Students are self-directed, holistically empowered. Voluntary attendance, year-round calendar, agency, & consent inspire free learning. Day/eSchool/Boarding/Homestay Progressive	Agate Private School	350	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day eSchool Boarding eSchool Homestay Coed Girls
Braemar College View Profile Toronto, Ontario College/Spadina 9 to 12 Coed $13,800 to $30,000 Braemar College offers a warm environment in downtown Toronto for students with high academic ambitions. Flexible terms allow students to join anytime, providing fast and focused pathways into Canada’s top universities. Day/Homestay/eSchool Progressive User Reviews (3)	Braemar College	13800	HighSchools Day Homestay eSchool Coed
Fulford Academy View Profile Brockville, Ontario 6 to 12 Coed $16,600 to $57,885 Our intercultural environment offers an individualized approach to learning with STEM+A and project based learning as our key emphases. Our students enjoy a dynamic academic & residential life program. Boarding/eSchool/Day Progressive	Fulford Academy	16600	MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding eSchool Day Coed
Haven International School View Profile Brantford, Ontario Colborne/Clarence 7 to 12 Coed $7,700 to $26,500 At Haven, we equip our students with critical thinking skills, a global perspective, and a respect for core values of honesty, loyalty, perseverance, and compassion. Day/Boarding/eSchool Traditional	Haven International School	7700	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding eSchool Coed
Virtual High School View Profile Bayfield, Ontario 9 to 12 Coed $299 to $939 /course After 20 years of teaching courses online, VHS is unrivaled in experience, credibility, and expertise. Our student-centred model provides a world-class educational experience for thousands of Ontario students each year. eSchool Traditional User Reviews (5)	Virtual High School	299	HighSchools eSchool Coed
Sidney Ledson Institute View Profile Toronto, Ontario Don Mills Rd/York Mills Rd PS to 6 Coed $12,248 to $13,848 Building on internationally acclaimed preschool reading success, SLI has grown into a hub for ground-breaking student achievement in literary, STEM, and artistic achievement across Pre-K - Gr 6 (offered on site/ online) Day/eSchool Traditional User Reviews (6)	Sidney Ledson Institute	12248	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary Day eSchool Coed
Ontario Virtual School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Yonge St/Sheppard Ave 7 to 12 Coed $399 to $549 /course Ontario Virtual School is an Ontario Ministry-inspected credit-granting institution offering high school courses for Grades 9-12 in an interactive online format. Students can start anytime with 24/7 access. eSchool Traditional User Reviews (13)	Ontario Virtual School	399	MiddleSchools HighSchools eSchool Coed
Arrowsmith School View Profile Toronto, Ontario St. Clair Ave West/Avenue Road 1 to 12 Coed $6,000 to $33,000 Founded on the science of neuroplasticity, Arrowsmith Program provides students with the skills necessary to overcome their learning disabilities and transform their academic, cognitive, emotional and social lives. Day/eSchool Traditional	Arrowsmith School	6000	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day eSchool Coed
Houghton Academy View Profile Houghton, New York(USA) 6 to 12 Coed US $7,499 to US $43,000 A private Christian college prep school with students from 60 countries, providing students with a unique opportunity to learn high academics, faith education and multicultural immersion. eSchool/Boarding/Day/Homestay Traditional	Houghton Academy	7499	MiddleSchools HighSchools eSchool Boarding Day Homestay Coed
Merrick Preparatory School View Profile Merrickville, Ontario St. Lawrence Street/Elgin Street 9 to 12 Coed $16,450 to $58,200 Merrick Preparatory offers grades 9-12 and a University Qualification Year to students preparing for successful admission to degree programs in the world's top universities, in a safe and secure family environment. Day/Boarding/eSchool Traditional User Reviews (6)	Merrick Preparatory School	16450	HighSchools Day Boarding eSchool Coed
Keystone School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Yonge St/King St 7 to 12 Coed $18,700 Keystone students become internationally-minded inquirers, who ask questions and seek their own answers from both local and global perspectives. By nurturing students’ natural curiosity, we foster a love for learning. eSchool/Homestay/Day Progressive User Reviews (5)	Keystone School	18700	MiddleSchools HighSchools eSchool Homestay Day Coed
Dewey Institute View Profile Bracebridge, Ontario 7 to 12 Coed $6,400 to $28,000 Dewey’s educational goals follow the philosophies of John Dewey, preparing students through “student-centred learning" and "learning by doing", while emphasizing the cultivation of the "three New Liberal Arts". Boarding/Day/eSchool Traditional	Dewey Institute	6400	MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding Day eSchool Coed
Tapply Binet College View Profile Ancaster, Ontario Garner rd w/Panabaker dr 7 to 12 Coed $32,000 Our friendly, helpful and inclusive environment makes us unique! TBC cultivates respect. We expect our students to work hard, to think critically and creatively. A parent coined it a "Boutique School". Proud to be. eSchool/Day Traditional User Reviews (1)	Tapply Binet College	32000	MiddleSchools HighSchools eSchool Day Coed
King's College School for Bright and Gifted Children View Profile Caledon, Ontario The Gore Road/Old Church 2 to 12 Coed $19,000 to $33,000 The King's College experience develops in students responsibility, accountability, and ownership of their own learning and a passion for making a difference. Students can attend in person or synchronously online. Day/Homestay/eSchool Traditional	King's College School for Bright and Gifted Children	19000	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Homestay eSchool Coed

List of partly online schools

These schools offer some online courses to supplement their in-person courses.


Bond Academy Toronto, Ontario — Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12. Our educational process is Beyond the Books! Education as it should be. View School Profile. Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12. Our educational process is Beyond the Books! Education as it should be. Character Education Free Before/After School Program Weekly Swimming Lessons Early start French Classes Art & Music & Drama Grades: PS to 12 (Coed) Type: Liberal Arts Tuition: $7,000 to $16,000 Living: Day Enrollment: 350 Avg. Class: 10 to 15 View School Profile Our Kids Review School Videos (1)	Bond Academy	7000	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Cambridge International Academy Ajax, Ontario — Cambridge International Academy offers an enriched curriculum from grades 1 to 12 in Ajax. Central to the school’s philosophy is the belief that students learn best both inside and outside the classroom. View School Profile. Cambridge International Academy offers an enriched curriculum from grades 1 to 12 in Ajax. Central to the school’s philosophy is the belief that students learn best both inside and outside the classroom. Customized Educational Pathways Small Class Sizes Individual Needs and Academic Learning Homework club Visual Art, Drama, Music, Gym Programs Grades: 1 to 12 (Coed) Type: Progressive Tuition: $10,650 to $38,000 Living: Day Enrollment: 0 Avg. Class: 6 to 12 View School Profile User Reviews (4) School Videos (2) Open House: Mar 04	Cambridge International Academy	10650	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Prestige School - Toronto Campus Toronto, Ontario — Prestige School offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Toronto. Its average class size is 10 to 18 students. View School Profile. Prestige School offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Toronto. Its average class size is 10 to 18 students. Our curriculum exceeds Ontario guidelines as a result of our individualized, accelerated learning. We are ministry inspected and a proud member of the Ontario Federation of Independent Schools. 100% university placement rate. French instruction beginning in junior kindergarten. Dedicated faculty that draw upon best practices. Grades: PS to 12 (Coed) Type: Traditional Tuition: $14,500 to $18,000 Living: Day Enrollment: 290 Avg. Class: 12 to 18 View School Profile Our Kids Review School Videos (2)	Prestige School - Toronto Campus	14500	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
St. John's-Kilmarnock School Waterloo Region (Breslau), Ontario — SJK offers an enriched environment of exploration and experiential learning. Through its IB curriculum, SJK provides exciting experiences and guides students to discover their talents and passions. Go beyond at SJK. View School Profile. SJK offers an enriched environment of exploration and experiential learning. Through its IB curriculum, SJK provides exciting experiences and guides students to discover their talents and passions. Go beyond at SJK. Accredited IB World Continuum School Experienced, passionate, professional teachers Project-based, design-thinking experiential learning Extensive co-curricular programmes in athletics, arts, leadership and community service Outdoor experiential learning Grades: JK to 12 (Coed) Type: Progressive, International Baccalaureate Tuition: $19,720 to $73,700 Living: Boarding/Day Enrollment: 470 Avg. Class: 10 to 17 View School Profile Our Kids Review School Videos (2)	St. John's-Kilmarnock School	19720	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding Day Coed
The Bishop Strachan School Toronto, Ontario — The Bishop Strachan School is a leading independent JK-Grade 12 day & boarding school for girls. Students build the academic skills to thrive at university and beyond. Over $2 million available in financial assistance. View School Profile. The Bishop Strachan School is a leading independent JK-Grade 12 day & boarding school for girls. Students build the academic skills to thrive at university and beyond. Over $2 million available in financial assistance. Founded in 1867 Specializing in the learning needs of the 'whole girl' Co-curricular programs and clubs 100 per cent university placement Extensive leadership opportunities Grades: JK to 12 (Girls) Type: Progressive, Reggio Emilia Tuition: $35,800 to $69,145 Living: Day/Boarding Enrollment: 1000 Avg. Class: 18 to 20 View School Profile Our Kids Review User Reviews (1) School Videos (2)	The Bishop Strachan School	35800	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Girls
Royal St. George's College Toronto, Ontario — Our vision: Encourage life-long Georgians ready to use their scholarship, compassion, conscience and courage to make a difference. Our mission: To challenge and inspire each boy to become the best version of himself. View School Profile. Our vision: Encourage life-long Georgians ready to use their scholarship, compassion, conscience and courage to make a difference. Our mission: To challenge and inspire each boy to become the best version of himself. 100% university placement Boy-centric education Computer Engineering & Entrepreneurship programs AP Capstone school Extensive athletic program Grades: 3 to 12 (Boys) Type: Progressive Tuition: $35,880 Living: Day Enrollment: 447 Avg. Class: 16 View School Profile Our Kids Review School Videos (2)	Royal St. George's College	35880	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boys
Delano Academy & Delano High Maple, Ontario — Balanced Academics, Arts, Athletics & Student Wellness. We value best practices & evidence-based approaches. University preparatory & 21st Century Tech-Rich & Future Proof school. Enriched and rigorous curriculum. View School Profile. Balanced Academics, Arts, Athletics & Student Wellness. We value best practices & evidence-based approaches. University preparatory & 21st Century Tech-Rich & Future Proof school. Enriched and rigorous curriculum. International Baccalaureate PYP/MYP Co-Educational & Non-Denominational STE[A]M Gifted High performance school Before & After school care Grades: PS to 12 (Coed) Type: Liberal Arts, International Baccalaureate Tuition: $16,700 to $20,700 Living: Day Enrollment: 200 Avg. Class: 16 to 18 View School Profile User Reviews (4) School Videos (1)	Delano Academy & Delano High	16700	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Coed
featured Blyth Academy The Glebe, Ottawa View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Bank St./Wilton Cres. 9 to 12 Coed $23,586 to $28,152 Blyth Academy The Glebe focuses on personalized education, small class sizes, and strong student support for Grades 9-12. Big experience in a small school! Part of community of nine Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario. Day Liberal Arts User Reviews (4)	Blyth Academy The Glebe, Ottawa	23586	HighSchools Day Coed
featured Northstar Montessori Private School View Profile Mississauga, Ontario Tomken Rd./Eglinton Ave. E NS to 8 Coed $10,500 to $16,350 Northstar Montessori offers an accredited Montessori curriculum from Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference. Day Montessori	Northstar Montessori Private School	10500	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed
featured Northmount School View Profile Toronto, Ontario York Mills Road/Don Mills Road JK to 8 Boys $19,600 to $23,900 We value partnership with parents, creating a genuinely warm and friendly community. We raise the academic bar on academic excellence, and expectations of character, helping the boys become the best that they can be. Day Liberal Arts	Northmount School	19600	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Boys
featured College Prep International View Profile Montreal, Quebec Rue Sherbrooke/Ave Connaught 5 to 12 Coed $12,500 to $15,500 College Prep International, a traditional private school in Montreal, offers English instruction with partial French immersion, for grades five to twelve. Its average class size range from 12 to 18 Students. Day Traditional	College Prep International	12500	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
featured Kendellhurst Academy View Profile Mississauga, Ontario Mississauga Road/Eglinton Avenue PS to 8 Coed $13,000 to $15,250 Kendellhurst offers students an enriched curriculum with a blend of project-based, traditional and arts-infused curriculum within a seamless technology program. We include school-issued chrome books for grades 5 to 8. Day Progressive	Kendellhurst Academy	13000	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed
featured Blyth Academy Lawrence Park View Profile Toronto, Ontario Yonge St/Lawrence Ave 9 to 12 Coed $23,550 to $27,750 Blyth Academy Lawrence Park is one of nine Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario. Our campus located in midtown Toronto provides the warmth and community of a neighbourhood school. Day Liberal Arts User Reviews (1)	Blyth Academy Lawrence Park	23550	HighSchools Day Coed
featured Rothesay Netherwood School View Profile Rothesay, New Brunswick Rothesay Rd/College Hill Rd 6 to 12 Coed $24,520 to $69,100 Our unique, daily Advisor Program ensures every student is surrounded by a strong network of highly qualified, dedicated faculty and staff whose mission is to provide academic, emotional, and social guidance and support. Day/Boarding Liberal Arts International Baccalaureate User Reviews (8)	Rothesay Netherwood School	24520	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Coed
featured Nancy Campbell Academy View Profile Stratford, Ontario Ontario Street/Waterloo Street South 7 to 12 Coed $9,750 to $37,275 Stratford, Ontario, Private Secondary School dedicated to inspiring students to achieve their individual potential through academic excellence while fostering a spirit of service to society. Day/Boarding Liberal Arts User Reviews (10)	Nancy Campbell Academy	9750	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Coed
featured McDonald International Academy View Profile Toronto, Ontario 9 to 12 Coed $10,000 to $29,300 Located in the heart of Toronto, McDonald International Academy offers programs for grades 9 to 12 . Our average class size is 10 to 20 students. Day/Boarding Traditional	McDonald International Academy	10000	HighSchools Day Boarding Coed
featured Elmwood School View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Buena Vista Road/Springfield Road PS to 12 Girls $16,160 to $30,900 Elmwood School is Ottawa's pre-eminent school for girls from PreK to Gr. 12. Our high academic standards, small class sizes and safe, supportive environment ensure that each girl is inspired to reach her full potential. Day Progressive International Baccalaureate Our Kids Review	Elmwood School	16160	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Girls
featured St. Jude's Academy View Profile Mississauga, Ontario Erin Mills Parkway/Argentia Rd JK to 12 Coed $10,095 to $14,395 We are different! As a leading IB World School and university preparatory school with a focus on student life, SJA students are inspired to confidently make their mark in the world. Day Progressive International Baccalaureate User Reviews (8)	St. Jude's Academy	10095	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
featured St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School View Profile Oakville, Ontario JK to 12 Girls $25,180 to $32,310 Oakville's SMLS continues to be a premier independent school for girls Preschool to Grade 12 since 1891. "Millie" graduates take on the world with confidence and the knowledge that they can do anything. Day Progressive Reggio Emilia	St. Mildred's-Lightbourn School	25180	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Girls
Toronto STEM School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Yonge/Eglinton 9 to 12 Coed $14,500 to $17,500 We go beyond curriculum expectations to provide opportunities for students to earn admission into their choice of university using our AP accreditation, staff expertise and individual goal setting in small classes. Day/Homestay Progressive User Reviews (5)	Toronto STEM School	14500	HighSchools Day Homestay Coed
Greenwood College School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Mt Pleasant Rd/Davisville Ave 7 to 12 Coed $40,740 Greenwood's uniquely personalized teaching approach delivers the right level of challenge and support for every student. Students and teachers build strong relationships within our warm and inclusive community. Day Progressive User Reviews (2)	Greenwood College School	40740	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Prestige School - Richmond Hill Campus View Profile Richmond Hill, Ontario Major MacKenzie Dr. W/Bathurst St. PS to 12 Coed $17,000 Prestige School offers individualized programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Richmond Hill with an average class size of ten students. Day Traditional	Prestige School - Richmond Hill Campus	17000	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Académie de la Capitale View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Highway 417/Greenbank JK to 12 Coed $18,500 to $22,700 Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale), an IB World School, offers bilingual and/or English programmes from JK to Grade 12. Students thrive in a growth mindset environment and a culture of excellence. Day Progressive International Baccalaureate User Reviews (1)	Académie de la Capitale	18500	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Peak Centre Academy View Profile Kanata, Ontario Cyclone Taylor Blvd/Frank Finnigan Way 5 to 12 Coed $17,250 We are a private school serving grades 5 to 12 whose mission is to provide an exceptional combined educational and sports experience essential for developing high-performance athletes. Day Progressive	Peak Centre Academy	17250	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Aspengrove School View Profile Lantzville, British Columbia JK to 12 Coed $11,000 to $33,300 With a 40-acre campus, Aspengrove School teaches the International Baccalaureate curriculum through a team of passionate faculty committed to providing an exceptional educational experience for their students. Day Progressive International Baccalaureate	Aspengrove School	11000	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Astolot Educational Centre View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Riverside Dr./Bank St 1 to 12 Coed $15,000 to $17,000 Astolot Educational Centre is a day school with grades 1 to 12 in Ottawa, Ontario. Classroom teacher-student ratios are 1 to 10. Students have the ability to reach their full potential with Astolot programming. Day Traditional User Reviews (2)	Astolot Educational Centre	15000	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Coed
Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence View Profile Ottawa, Ontario 1 to 12 Coed $15,400 to $18,000 Heritage Academy provides a multisensory learning environment and supports students with Dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, and Anxiety in Grades 1 -12. Day Traditional User Reviews (4)	Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence	15400	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Academy of Thought and Industry Toronto View Profile Toronto, Ontario Queen St E/Woodbine Ave 7 to 8 Coed $17,000 ATI is a school for ambitious teens who want to develop into independent, curious, self-motivated individuals who thrive in school and in life. Gain the skills, knowledge and agency to build the future that you want. Day Montessori User Reviews (1)	Academy of Thought and Industry Toronto	17000	MiddleSchools Day Coed
Thetford Academy View Profile Thetford, Vermont(USA) 7 to 12 Coed US $20,963 to US $49,545 TA’s award-winning faculty are recognized for their innovative teaching practices, learners are engaged, and diversity is celebrated. TA students work collaboratively and independently to reach their full potential. Homestay/Day Progressive	Thetford Academy	20963	MiddleSchools HighSchools Homestay Day Coed
Blyth Academy Mississauga View Profile Mississauga, Ontario 9 to 12 Coed $23,586 to $28,152 At Blyth Academy Mississauga, we know each of our students and through our individualized approach, we can meet their needs and make school a great place to be. We're one of 10 Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario. Day Liberal Arts	Blyth Academy Mississauga	23586	HighSchools Day Coed
Blyth Academy Downsview Park View Profile North York, Ontario Keele/Sheppard 4 to 12 Coed $20,325 to $28,152 Blyth Academy Downsview Park offers outstanding education coupled with unique opportunities for student-athletes to engage in sports-specific and fitness training throughout their regular school day. Day Liberal Arts	Blyth Academy Downsview Park	20325	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
De La Salle College View Profile Toronto, Ontario Avenue Road/St. Clair Ave. 5 to 12 Coed $16,300 to $16,900 De La Salle College is a Catholic, co-educational, university preparatory school in Toronto from Grade 5 to 12, with an average class size of 20 students and tuition at $16,300 - $16,900. Day Liberal Arts User Reviews (7)	De La Salle College	16300	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
Academie Providence View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Donald St/Frances St NS to 8 Coed $10,670 to $12,320 Providence Academy is the only Private French Catholic School offering a trilingual program of study in Ontario with classes from nursery to grade eight. Tuition: $8,800-10,300. Extracurricular activities: $600-$650. Day Progressive Reggio Emilia User Reviews (2)	Academie Providence	10670	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed
Calgary Changemaker School View Profile Calgary, Alberta 16th Ave/Range Rd 33 K to 7 Coed $12,950 to $15,950 -Passionate Learning: learning should be joyful and for life, not just for tests. -Skills for a Modern World: building the confidence to be leaders and Changemakers. -Holistic Wellbeing: creating conditions to thrive. Day Progressive Reggio Emilia	Calgary Changemaker School	12950	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed
Children's Garden Nursery School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Bayview Ave/Broadway Ave PS to 3 Coed $11,500 to $24,000 A daily goal is for our children to arrive at school excited for the day ahead. Aside from our excellent academic programs, we plan many fun events for the children to enjoy throughout the school year. Day Traditional Reggio Emilia User Reviews (4)	Children's Garden Nursery School	11500	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary Day Coed
Glarea Elevated Learning View Profile Surrey, British Columbia 152 Street/Highway 10 K to 7 Coed $17,000 to $18,250 We understand the importance of developing a well rounded individual. Our Tech, Art and Sport Expert Streams are integrated with the Academic curriculum to amplify our students’ growth into capable and confident adults. Day Progressive	Glarea Elevated Learning	17000	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed
AVRO Academy View Profile North York, Ontario Avenue Road/Lawrence Avenue 9 to 12 Coed $18,875 Through our dynamic individual education plans, mentorship, and therapeutic counselling we ensure all students feel comfortable, respected and cared for, so they stay actively engaged in their educational journey. Day Progressive User Reviews (1)	AVRO Academy	18875	HighSchools Day Coed
Trafalgar Castle School View Profile Whitby, Ontario Garden Street/Hwy. 2 4 to 12 Girls $26,125 to $70,625 Trafalgar Castle offers a close-knit, academically challenging environment where girls feel a strong sense of belonging and discover their unique talents and interests. Boarding/Day Liberal Arts	Trafalgar Castle School	26125	MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding Day Girls
The Sycamore School View Profile London, Ontario Wellington Street/Central Avenue 8 to 12 Coed $18,200 Sycamore School offers grades 8-12 personalized education in an alternative program that addresses the needs of secondary school students who may thrive in a small community of learners while working toward graduation. Day Liberal Arts	The Sycamore School	18200	HighSchools Day Coed
NOIC Academy View Profile Markham, Ontario 9 to 12 Coed $5,000 to $18,000 /semester Markham, Ontario; IB School; OSSD; OSSD online credit course; NOIC ACADEMY’s annual university enrolment rate is 100% and more than 85% of graduates are admitted by University of Toronto. Day/Boarding Traditional International Baccalaureate	NOIC Academy	5000	HighSchools Day Boarding Coed
Balmoral Hall School View Profile Winnipeg, Manitoba Langside St./Westminster Ave. PS to 12 Girls $16,500 to $69,400 We offer a supportive environment for girls’ learning with a strong sense of community. We encourage the love of learning in a place of belonging that nurtures resilience, inspires creativity, and celebrates diversity. Day/Boarding Progressive International Baccalaureate	Balmoral Hall School	16500	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Girls
Agora Prep View Profile Aurora, Ontario Wellington/Yonge 1 to 12 Coed $18,000 to $20,000 Flexible, techy environment. Freedom of choice. ALL ABILITIES welcome and no ideals taught outside the scope of academia. We are a COMMUNITY of incredible future leaders with innate creative genius! Day Progressive Waldorf User Reviews (3)	Agora Prep	18000	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Coed
The Sacred Heart School of Montreal View Profile Montreal, Quebec Atwater/Docteur-Penfield 7 to 12 Girls $17,875 to $61,190 Since 1861, The Sacred Heart School of Montreal, the city’s only all-girls English Catholic high school, has been preparing girls to change the world. We offer grades 7 to 12, day school and boarding. Day/Boarding Traditional User Reviews (3)	The Sacred Heart School of Montreal	17875	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Boarding Girls
St. Andrew's College View Profile Aurora, Ontario St. John's Sideroad/Yonge Street 5 to 12 Boys $39,655 to $74,355 With a tradition dating back to 1899, St. Andrew's remains the single largest all-boys boarding school in Canada. Our 126-acre campus provides our students with an ideal setting for learning and growth. Boarding/Day Traditional	St. Andrew's College	39655	MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding Day Boys
Columbia International College View Profile Hamilton, Ontario Main St. W./Longwood Rd. S. 9 to 12 Coed $2,025 to $2,700 /course Columbia International College is Canada’s largest private boarding school, offering Grade 9 to 12 programs. #1 in scholarships awarded by universities. The University of Toronto's official Global Partner School. Day/Boarding Traditional Our Kids Review	Columbia International College	2025	HighSchools Day Day Boarding Coed
Shawnigan Lake School View Profile Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia 8 to 12 Coed $33,205 to $83,615 Beginning in Grade 8, our unique Shawnigan journey purposefully guides students through a distinct, unparalleled and bold educational experience on our stunning waterfront campus on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Day/Boarding Traditional	Shawnigan Lake School	33205	HighSchools Day Boarding Coed
Miss Edgar's & Miss Cramp's School View Profile Westmount, Quebec Mount Pleasant Avenue/Cedar Avenue K to 11 Girls $19,750 to $23,950 Miss Edgar's & Miss Cramp's School offers a Tier 1 education for girls from K-11, located in Westmount, Qc. We develop bold leaders and creative thinkers — equipping each girl to be the entrepreneur of her own future. Day Progressive Our Kids Review	Miss Edgar's & Miss Cramp's School	19750	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Girls
Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S. View Profile Oshawa, Ontario Wilson Road/Adelaide Ave NS to 12 Coed $1,000 to $11,500 At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment. Day/Homestay Progressive Montessori	Durham Elementary, Durham Academy and G.B.M.S.	1000	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Homestay Day Coed
St. Michael's College School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Bathurst St./St. Clair West 7 to 12 Boys $22,250 Canada’s only independent, Catholic school for boys in Grades 7-12, taught in the Basilian tradition of forming the mind, body, and soul. Since 1852, we have educated students in goodness, discipline, and knowledge. Day Liberal Arts User Reviews (4)	St. Michael's College School	22250	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boys
The Giles School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Leslie Street/York Mills Road PS to 8 Coed $19,900 to $23,705 The Giles School has small class sizes, leadership programs and intensive STEAM learning that support both immersion and introductory language programming in English, French and Mandarin. Day Progressive User Reviews (6)	The Giles School	19900	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed
Edelweiss Private Academy View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Carling Avenue/Broadview Avenue K to 8 Coed $19,950 to $25,000 Edelweiss Private Academy offers elementary education to students with ASD and other exceptionalities, maintaining small teacher to student ratios. We promote strong academic, physical and social-emotional development. Day Traditional	Edelweiss Private Academy	19950	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Day Coed
Guidepost Montessori View Profile Toronto, Ontario NS to 12 Coed $1,150 to $1,550 Guidepost is a new Montessori school coming to Toronto, serving children from 10 weeks to 12 years old. We offer year-round programming and rolling admissions into our programs to meet the needs of every family. Day Montessori	Guidepost Montessori	1150	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed
North Point School View Profile Calgary, Alberta 17th Ave SW/Richmond Road SW K to 12 Girls/Boys/Coed $8,000 to $15,500 In addition to academics, our focus on mentorship, hands-on learning in and outside the classroom, and character development, will allow our students to thrive academically and personally as they discover who they are. Day Progressive User Reviews (1)	North Point School	8000	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Day Girls Boys Coed
West Island College (Montreal) View Profile Montreal (DDO), Quebec 7 to 11 Coed $14,230 West Island College offers French and French Immersion programs from grades 7 to 11 in Montreal. It is a leader in innovative teaching methods. Average class size 24 students. Day Traditional	West Island College (Montreal)	14230	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed

These cyber schools use a learning management system (LMS) to deliver course content to students, such as Blackboard, Moodle, Edmodo, Google Classroom, Microsoft teams, and D2L. Students use the LMS to access lessons or learning modules, which may be text-based or multimedia videos. They also use it to access assignments and tests, which they usually complete independently and on their own timetable.

Many online schools, especially at the secondary level, offer mostly independent learning. On this “correspondence” or “distance learning” model, students log in, select their courses, and earn credits on completion. They work largely or exclusively on their own, downloading asynchronous lessons, assignments, and tests, and working through the course material. Normally, they can do this on their own schedule or at least within a very flexible time period.

Role of teachers

Teachers, in online schools, normally communicate with students through email or an LMS. They’ll typically set up clear expectations for the course regarding structure, deadlines, and more. They’ll also often grade student work and provide feedback on it.

In some fully online schools, teachers play a more active role. For instance, they may communicate with students more regularly, as a class, in small groups, or individually. They may also hold regular virtual office hours, say, each week or even each day.

Some teachers set up study and discussion groups and aim to promote student interaction and engagement in various other ways. They may also offer tutoring, special needs support, homework support, and other unique services.

Some online schools offer regular access to staff. They may even have one or more teachers or support staff “on-call” during certain days and times of the week to answer questions and address concerns.

One school, Scholars’ Hall At-Home Private School has a completely different model: it offers a fully synchronous learning environment at the primary level. Teachers are with students face-to-face throughout the entire day. They deliver lessons, promote interaction and discussion, and offer real-time feedback. Right now, though, this isn't the norm among online schools.

Since different schools have different approaches, speak to those you’re seriously considering to learn exactly what they offer. This is a critical step in finding the right fit for your child.

Partly online schools

Some schools offer online courses and programs to supplement in-person learning. These schools have a physical campus but provide some form of online learning, the extent and type of which varies among schools.

Some of these schools, though not all, emerged in response to COVID-19. And, while some will continue offering online learning when the pandemic subsides, others won’t.

In addition to fully online courses, some of these schools offer what’s called “hybrid” or “blended” learning. Hybrid courses provide a combination of virtual and in-person learning. For instance, they may alternate between virtual and in-person learning each day or each week (as some schools have had to during the pandemic). These courses can have many benefits.

Many of these schools have a wide range of online courses. Others have a narrower selection.

In either case, the courses can be delivered in three main formats.

Synchronous: These courses offer exclusively or primarily face-to-face online learning. The teachers deliver live lessons and offer real-time feedback to students. Students can interact with the teacher and their peers during class discussions, breakout groups, and special activities. The aim is to offer the same experience as a traditional in-person school but through a virtual interface.
Asynchronous: These types of courses don’t offer much if any real-time learning. Students log in and complete assignments and tests independently. The teacher doesn’t provide live lectures to students. Students may be able to communicate with the teacher or support staff through email or a learning management system (LMS) (sometimes even face-to-face), but typically minimal time is allotted to this. Some schools with these courses give students the opportunity to access teachers on a regular basis, such as through office hours, but this isn’t currently the norm.
Distance learning: These courses offer no face-to-face interaction with teachers, even virtually. Rather, students access course content through an LMS. This may include learning modules, assignments, and tests, which they complete independently, normally on their own schedule. The main role of the teacher is to grade student work and give them feedback on it. They may also be available through email or even virtual office hours.

Schools offering online learning use different platforms to deliver their course content.

For synchronous courses, visual interfaces include Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype.
Asynchronous and distance learning courses are often delivered through learning management systems such as Blackboard, Moodle, Edmodo, Google Classroom, Microsoft teams, and D2L.
Some schools also use non-visual media like phones.

Again, speak to specific schools to learn more about them, including exactly what kind(s) of online learning they offer.

Formats of online courses

Many schools with online learning have a broad scope of online courses. Others have a narrower selection to choose from. These courses are offered in various formats.

Synchronous

These courses offer exclusively or primarily face-to-face online learning. The teachers provide live lessons and real-time feedback to students. Students can interact with the teacher and their peers during class discussions, breakout groups, and special activities. The aim is to offer the same experience as a traditional in-person school but through a virtual interface.

Keep in mind, many synchronous courses aren’t entirely face to face. Some offer breakout groups where students work with their peers on a task or project, without the teacher. Others offer independent work periods where students can study for a test or work on a project or task. Students are also often given breaks in class in which they’re free to do what they’d like.

Questions to ask:

How much face-to-face time do students have with the teacher?
What kinds of activities will students participate in without the teacher?

Asynchronous

These types of courses don’t offer much if any learning in real-time. Students log in and complete assignments and tests independently. The instructor does not teach or provide live lectures to students. Students will likely be able to communicate with the teacher through email, a learning management system, or sometimes even face-to-face, but this tends to be minimal.

Some schools with these courses give students access to teachers on a regular basis, such as through office hours. Some also offer brief face-to-face meetings with teachers, either in groups or individually. And some promote interaction between students, for instance, through study or discussion groups (though these are rarely face-to-face).

Questions to ask:

How does the teacher communicate with and give feedback to students?
How do students access teachers?
Is there any student-to-student interaction?

Distance learning

Distance learning or correspondence courses offer no face-to-face interaction with teachers, even virtually. Instead, students access course content through a learning management system. This may include learning modules, assignments, and tests, which they complete independently, normally on their own timetable.

The primary role of the teacher in these courses is to grade student work and give them feedback on it. They may also be available through email or even virtual office hours.

Distance learning courses are often provided at the secondary level. They offer mostly independent learning. Students log into the course management system, select their courses, and earn credits when completing them. This can sometimes be a way to supplement the education one receives at their main school.

Questions to ask:

Do students work on their own timetable?
Do you have a dedicated teacher for each course?
How do students communicate with teachers and support staff?

Types of online learning platforms

Schools offering online learning use virtual platforms. These enable students to log into a live classroom (in synchronous courses), access course content, access and complete assignments and tests, and do many other things.

Schools offering online learning use a wide variety of virtual platforms. The platform used by a school will depend on the type(s) of courses it wants to deliver, among other things. Below are some of the most common examples.

For synchronous courses, visual interfaces include Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype.
Asynchronous and distance learning courses are often delivered through learning management systems such as Blackboard, Moodle, Edmodo, Google Classroom, Microsoft teams, and D2L.
Some schools also use non-visual media like phones.

Questions to ask about online learning in school

It’s important to speak with school officials to get a sense of whether any school is the right fit for your child. This is especially true if you’re looking at a fully or partly online school.

Below are some crucial questions to ask.

General

Are you an online independent school?
Are you a distance learning school?
Do you offer online learning (or cyber learning) or online classes?
Are you accredited to a private and independent online education?

Registration and scheduling

How do students register for courses? Is it one-by-one or as a group or stream?
Is registration first-come, first-served?
Are courses flexible, meaning students can register at any time and they have no cut-and-dried start and end dates?
Or, do courses follow a strict schedule, in which all students begin and end at the time? If so, is this also true for assignments, tests, and other course requirements?

Format of learning

Do your courses offer distance (no face-to-face time with the teacher), asynchronous (minimal face-to-face time with the teacher), or synchronous learning (lots of face-to-face time with the teacher)? Do you have different approaches for different courses?
Do you use a learning management system like Blackboard, Moodle, or Google Classroom? Do you use a visual interface like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet?
How is course material delivered? Do you offer learning modules, and if so, in what format (e.g., text-based, video, multimedia, etc.)?

Teacher involvement

Do you have at least one dedicated teacher for each course? If not, how is the course supervised/managed?
What roles do teachers/support staff play?
1. Do they provide live lectures/lessons?
2. Do they promote student interaction?
3. Do they guide students explicitly through the curriculum?
4. Do they merely grade work and provide feedback?

Communication

How do students communicate with teachers and vice versa? Email? Visual interface? Learning management system?
Do teachers have regular office hours? How are they otherwise available to answer questions?
How do teachers provide students with feedback on their work?
Are there any teaching staff on-call?
Can parents communicate with teachers, and if so, how?

To learn more, read our article on questions to ask online learning schools.

The pros and cons of online learning in schools

There are both benefits and concerns with online learning in schools. Below, we outline some of the main points to consider.

Pros

Convenience: No need for drop-offs or pick-ups. Frees up your schedule. Your child learns from the comfort of their own home.
Continuity: Your child can continue their education when issues prevent in-person schooling. Especially critical during the recent pandemic.
Alternative medium: Provides another way to learn and acquire knowledge. Varies the delivery of curricula. Some kids do especially well online and are a good fit.
Physical disability: If your child has physical issues that make in-person school challenging or impossible, online schooling is a good alternative.

Cons

Interaction: No in-person interaction, which is crucial for many kids’ social, emotional, and sometimes, academic development. This can also make school less engaging.
Physical activity: Tends to be less physical activity. Often there are fewer opportunities for recess and free-play time. Teaching gym and physical education can be a challenge online.
Screen time: Increases the amount of time kids spend in front of screens.
Monitoring and supervision: It can sometimes be difficult for teachers and staff to monitor what kids are doing online. Depending on the age of your child, you may have to provide them with supervision.

To learn more, read our article on the pros and cons of online learning in school.

The evolution and controversies of online learning

Online and virtual learning involves integrating technology into the classroom. This can include virtual learning that’s completely or mostly independent of teacher involvement (e.g., synchronous or distance learning) to learning that involves any form of technology.

Online learning, and the technology it depends on, is rapidly evolving. It can enhance students' education in many innovative, exciting, challenging ways.

Using technology in the classroom to provide a virtual learning experience is no simple matter, though. It raises a number of complex questions private and public schools must address.

How should virtual be integrated into the classroom, if at all?
How valuable and practical are virtual classes and programs?
Can most teachers competently integrate technology in the classroom?
How will virtual learning affect student’s engagement, knowledge retention, learning and social skills, and more?
What are the pros of virtual learning?
What are the cons of virtual learning?
What are the budgetary constraints?
Are there potential equity concerns, and if so, what are they?

Schools and educators have a wide range of views on the value of virtual and distance education. Some dismiss it as a distraction, while others entertain the possibility of virtual learning as a complete replacement for all instruction (and some schools offer this). And, of course, there are many views in between these two extremes.

To learn more, read our article on the evolution and controversies of online education.

Helpful resources on online learning

Schools: We list both full- and part-time high schools, middle schools, elementary schools which provide online learning. It also includes schools with online learning in Ontario (such as Toronto), BC (such as Vancouver), Quebec, Alberta, and the Maritimes provinces.
Camps: You can also find online virtual camps and programs to keep your child engaged all year round.
Special programs: Some schools offer online private and group tutoring programs. And, some provide online learning during the summer.
Authoritative articles: Learn at home (Ontario.ca), What is online school/blended learning? (Understood.org), Strengthening online learning (OECD)

Read our more in-depth articles on online learning in schools

Articles

Forms of online learning in schools

Questions to ask schools about their online learning approaches

The pros and cons of online learning in schools

The evolution and controversies of online learning in the classroom

In the spotlight:

Focusing on affordability in private education
Trinity College School’s financial assistance program [Read more]
Where learning takes root
The progressive Kindergarten program at Hudson College [Read more]

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Latest Articles

Forms of online learning in schools
Different approaches to online education (December 14, 2022)

The evolution and controversies of online learning in the classroom
Perspectives, opinions, and debates (May 5, 2021)

The pros and cons of online learning in schools
The viability of an online learning school (May 4, 2021)

Questions to ask schools about their online learning approaches
What you need to know about online learning in schools (May 4, 2021)

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Online schools and distance learning

Schools that are fully online versus schools that offer part-time online learning

Two types of online learning schools

Fully online schools

Course delivery

List of fully online schools

List of partly online schools

Role of teachers

Partly online schools

Formats of online courses

Synchronous

Asynchronous

Distance learning

Types of online learning platforms

Questions to ask about online learning in school

General

Registration and scheduling

Format of learning

Teacher involvement

Communication

The pros and cons of online learning in schools

Pros

Cons

The evolution and controversies of online learning

Helpful resources on online learning

Articles

In the spotlight:

Focusing on affordability in private education

Where learning takes root

Start here: Five steps to finding the perfect school.

Quick Links

Latest Articles

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