"I was excited," Sara Frackoviak recalls about leaving home to become a boarder at a private school. "But my friends were, 'I can't believe you are doing this!' They all thought I was being shipped off because I was bad."
Boarding student or day student? It's a conundrum for many parents and students.
For Sara, who is 17 and has just completed her fourth year at Trinity College School in Port Hope, Ontario, which is a couple of hours from her home in Oakville, it was no contest. Boarding, she says, "was great. The very, very first night I was upset, leaving my parents. But the first morning everyone there was, 'Oh, you are going to love this.' And I have never had so much fun in my life!
Maybe it was because so much was going on," says Sara. "I tried out for rowing, and that was a good way to meet friends."
At first, she says, she wouldn't phone home if she was having a bad day because she didn't want to upset her parents. Then she started sharing her troubles with her housemaster, Sue Traugott. "She's amazing," says Sara. "She's so easy to talk to and she gives such amazing advice. If you have had an awful day, she gives you a hug and a treat."
Looking back on her four years at Trinity, she says, "if I had been a day student, I don't think I would have made as many great friends."
But Collin Cureatz, 18, a day student, like about 40 percent of the kids at Trinity, has also made lots of great friends at school—"friends for life," he says.
One of Trinity's two head prefects, Collin spends almost as many waking hours at school as the boarders. After his fourth-year classes, there are sports. "I use the gym and the lab and I hang out with my friends." He eats dinner at school every weekday, and usually arrives home, two kilometres from the school, about 10 p.m.
Collin realizes he's lucky. For many day students who live further away, commuting takes a big chunk of time, "and you are not as in tune with the school," he says.
With boarders in the majority at Trinity, you could say it has a boarding culture. But the opposite might be true at Concordia High School in Edmonton, Alberta, where only 30 of the 115 students board. Creative director Gil Allan says he sees the boarders waiting for the day students to arrive every day "for things to come alive. The real action happens Monday to Friday."
Sixteen-year-old Luke Adam, for instance, has to get up at 6:05 every morning and face a 45-minute commute to his Grade 11 classes at Concordia, "but I don't feel I lose anything (by not boarding)."
Sarah Davis, a 15-year-old Concordia boarder, sees it differently. The school's uniqueadvantage is being located on a university campus, with access to all the university facilities. "If I was a day student," says Sarah, who's in Grade 10, "I would not be able to participate as much in sports, drama, choir and student council." She has also made friends with fellow boarders from around the world, she says.
Sarah, like many boarders these days, often goes home for weekends. "My friends at home think (boarding is) really neat. They think I'm lucky."
Aude Volstad, director of admissions at Queen Margaret's School, an equestrian academy in Duncan, BC, was both a day student and a boarder in her time. And although she boarded at one of those strict convent schools, she says now, "boarding was probably what ensured my success at school. It kept me closer to work, and I probably pursued personal endeavours I would not otherwise have done."
Boarding is different now, Volstad say. Today it's "like a permanent sleepover party." The day girls at Queen Margaret's who have to catch the 4:15 p.m. bus for the 75-minute journey home to Nanaimo "miss out a lot," she says.
For girls' boarding at Queen Margaret's, like those at The Andrews School, an equestrian school in Willoughby, Ohio, having their own horses on school property—as some do—makes life just about perfect.
"The fact it's an all-girls school makes them feel less stressed," says Bernie Villeneuve, Andrews' Ottawa-born equestrian instructor. "And having their horse —that's their baby—makes them feel at home, part of the family."
Erin Duffy, assistant director of admissions at Wilbraham and Monson Academy in Massachusetts, claims that in any university freshman class you can pick out the kids who boarded at school. "They know how to handle their time and do their laundry. They seem better organized," she says.
Boarding helps with life skills and it's a whole lot of fun living on a floor with 24 other people your age." For families going through turmoil, she adds, boarding offers "a place that's safe and stable."
Talk about stability: Some boarders occupy the same dorms their parents and even grandparents did.
Gale Emery was attending her 50th class reunion at The White Mountain School in New Hampshire, last year when she started to think how nice it would be if her granddaughter, Chloe Watlington, could enjoy the same experiences she did at what, back then, was called St. Mary's in the Mountain.
Now Chloe, a Grade 9 freshman at the school, which is 60 miles from the Canadian border, is enjoying all the things her grandmother once did. "I drive up to the school now, and it all seems so familiar," says Chloe, 15. And some day, perhaps 50 years from now, like her grandmother, she expects to still be in touch with the friends she's making now.
School administrators talk too about the maturity boarding brings. "We are looking at preparing kids not just for college but for life as grown-up human beings," says Pete Upham, assistant head at Asheville School in North Carolina. Comparing boarding with daily attendance, he says that boarders at the school, a few of them Canadians, "have a more complete experience."
For kids who commute, it can be exhausting keeping up with the homework load, Upham says.
Like many schools now, though, Asheville tries to blur the distinctions. Day students, for instance, are required to attend dinner and an intellectual entertainment on Thursday evenings. Boarders often go out for pizza together, while day students often hang around the school on weekends - because that's where their friends are.
For Jeff Wright, admissions director at Lee Academy, in northeast Maine, where boarding is being reintroduced after a lapse of some years, the biggest plus is bringing students out of their shells, especially those from overseas.
That works both ways. Kathryn LaBranche, admissions director at Trinity, says that, in addition to learning independence, Canadian boarders get a wider view of the world by living alongside students who might come from Africa or Hong Kong.
The decision? It depends on the student, says Melanie Richter, development director at West Island College in Calgary, Alberta. The college does not offer a boarding program as such, but offers "the ultimate boarding experience"—the chance to spend a semester or two aboard a tall ship.
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Access school reviews, insights, and comparisons through our comprehensive reports below.
These are the leading schools that Our Kids editors have covered most extensively so far, providing detailed insights and thorough analysis of their programs, student life, and more.
"Appleby College in Oakville is recognized globally as one of Canada's leading independent schools. Breadth, excellence, innovation and caring are the characteristics that define the essence of the Appleby experience.
—From the school
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"At TCS, we believe that healthy habits and universal values developed now go a long way in developing curious, capable, and compassionate individuals ready for what's next.
—From the school
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"Branksome Hall is Toronto’s only leading International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for girls in JK-Grade 12, developing the leaders of tomorrow through the nurturing of curiosity and critical thinking at every age.
—From the school
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"This traditional private school in Ottawa offers Grades 4-12 with 100 boarding and 650 day students. Tuition ranges from $38,970 to $84,700. Ashbury excels in academics, co-curriculars, and experiential learning.
—From the school
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"At Ridley College, an IB World School and one of the largest boarding schools in Canada, our mission is to teach students a foundation of skills and habits to pursue their dreams and build fulfilling careers.
—From the school
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"LCS combines rigorous academics, immersive outdoor learning, and a caring global community on Canada’s largest waterfront campus, giving teens the confidence, curiosity, and skills to thrive and succeed anywhere.
—From the school
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"At Upper Canada College tradition, excellence and innovation meet. UCC inspires boys to lead lives of leadership, service and impact through transformative learning experiences that develop head, heart and humanity.
—From the school
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"The Bishop Strachan School is a leading independent JK-Grade 12 day & Boarding school for girls. Students build academic skills to thrive at university and beyond. Over $2 million available in financial assistance.
—From the school
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"Havergal’s supportive environment drives academic excellence and cultivates confident leaders through unparalleled programs, empowering students to pursue their passions, take initiative and thrive.
—From the school
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"Niagara Christian Collegiate offers Grades 6–12 with day and boarding options in a safe, diverse community along the Niagara River. Our graduates earn top university placements in competitive programs worldwide.
—From the school
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"St. George's School in Vancouver offers university-preparatory program to Canadian and International boarding students from Grade 8 to 12. The School's mission: Building Fine Young Men. One Boy at a Time.
—From the school
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 Winnipeg, Manitoba Langside St./Westminster Ave. "Recognizing each student's potential in their pursuit of excellence, we encourage progress, we develop opportunities, and we advocate belonging as they create paths that take them into uncharted territories." —From the school
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 Waterloo Region (Breslau), Ontario "SJK offers an enriched environment of exploration in a caring and inclusive community. Through its IB curriculum and rich co-curricular programming, SJK guides students to discover their unique talents and passions." —From the school
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 Caledon, Ontario Hwy 10/Old School Road "The Hill Academy is Canada's premier independent school for students in K-12/PG. Students are challenged in a supportive environment to explore the boundaries of their academic, athletic and leadership potential." —From the school
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 Shawingan Lake, British Columbia "A close-knit IB school blending flexible pathways with outdoor and hands-on learning. We nurture curiosity, confidence, and critical thinking in a supportive community focused on developing balanced, capable humans." —From the school
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 Stratford / VR Campus, Ontario Ontario Street/Waterloo Street South "Private intermediate and secondary micro-school in Stratford, Ontario dedicated to providing a holistic education that values academic excellence, moral leadership, emotional well-being and social responsibility." —From the school
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 Belleville, Ontario "We are a therapeutic boarding school for Gr. 3-12 students requiring individualized academic, clinical, and behaviour-management solutions in small class sizes and professional home stay or boarding environments" —From the school
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 Fort Erie, Ontario Central Avenue/Wintemute Street "FEIA's environment fosters global awareness and advances our student body into responsible and globally aware citizens who are well-equipped for life beyond academics." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Dundas St W./Mississauga Rd. "The Erindale Academy is a JK-Grade 12 school located next to the University of Toronto Mississauga. We offer small classes, inquiry-based learning, and strong AI and Leadership programs to prepare students for success." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "MIA is proud to foster a family environment through our small class sizes and close knit academic community. Our support for students goes far beyond the classroom to best prepare them for life after graduation." —From the school
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 South Wales, New York(USA) "With 100 years of expertise, The Gow School is the leader in educating and empowering students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences." —From the school
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 Summerland, British Columbia "UNISUS blends an IB education with personalized learning, Scholar-Athlete Academie, Enrichment Programs & weekend boarding adventures within a supportive, close-knit community; inspiring growth beyond the classroom." —From the school
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 Regina, Saskatchewan "Luther College prepares students to be compassionate, creative, and critical thinkers who go on to create a more grace-filled, just, and joyful world. Luther College is the only IB World School in southern Saskatchewan." —From the school
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 Victoria, British Columbia "Brookes Westshore is an IB World School on Vancouver Island, BC, offering small class sizes, engaging teachers and a caring community to boarding and day students from grades 4 to 12." —From the school
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 Rothesay, New Brunswick Rothesay Rd/College Hill Rd "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." —From the school
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 Rosseau, Ontario Hwy. 141/Bright Street "At RLC, Muskoka's outdoors become an extension of the classroom. By integrating academics, outdoor education, athletics, and leadership, students build character, resilience, and confidence to thrive beyond high school." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario 14th Ave/Kennedy "Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten." —From the school
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 Merrickville, Ontario "Our small class sizes, dynamic club programs, and house-based community activities ensure that every student feels a sense of belonging at Fulford Academy. Whether they are boarding or day students, all individuals know" —From the school
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 Lanciano, Other • Richmond Hill, Ontario "Canadian College Italy blends Ontario academics with Italian culture, offering small classes, personalized support, and immersive travel that helps students grow in confidence, independence, and global perspective." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Finch Avenue/Islington Avenue "Nile Academy offers small class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio, while also following the Ontario Curriculum, ensuring our students are well prepared for the rest of their educational pursuits here in Canada." —From the school
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 Rome, Italy Ponte Sublicio/Lungotevere Aventino "An IB World School located in the heart of Rome. A connected community driven by our 5 core values of Scholarship, Integrity, Creativity, Independence, and Care; culturally inspiring students since 1964." —From the school
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 Aurora, Ontario St. John's Sideroad/Yonge Street "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." —From the school
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 Oxford, Oxfordshire "St Clare’s, Oxford is England’s oldest IB World School, inspiring globally minded students through academic excellence, leadership, independence and exceptional university preparation." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario McCowan Road/Denison Road "Markham, Ontario; IB School; OSSD; OSSD online credit course; NOIC ACADEMY’s annual university enrolment rate is 100% and we have 95.74% of graduates admitted by University of Toronto in 2024." —From the school
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 Scarborough, Ontario Brimley Avenue/Finch Avenue East "RCS’s purpose is to unleash the potential in each student and set them on the path for a successful life. We provide rigorous academics with individual attention in a diverse, energizing, and caring environment." —From the school
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 St. Catharines, Ontario Ontario St./Welland Ave. "Heuristic & autodidactic, inspired by Sudbury & democratic models. Students are self-directed, and holistically empowered. Voluntary attendance, year-round calendar, agency, & consent inspire free learning. Also Forest" —From the school
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 Thornhill, Ontario Bathurst Street/Steeles Avenue West "TAIE International is a prestigious international school in Canada, dedicated to academic excellence and university preparation for students in Grades 7–12." —From the school
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 Newmarket / Stouffville, Ontario Mulock Drive/Bayview Avenue "At Pickering College learning begins with authentic questions, real organizations, and challenges that matter. Students work alongside community partners, develop solutions to real problems, and create tangible impact." —From the school
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 Wilcox, Saskatchewan Railway Ave/Rouleau St "No other high school in the world has developed more Elite, Junior, Collegiate, USPORT, NCAA, National, Olympic or Pro athletes with over 215 in the NHL alone. ND graduates attend the top ranked universities worldwide." —From the school
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 Montreal, Quebec De Maisonneuve West/Park Row West "At Kells, flexibility is key. We develop programs allowing students to work within their comfort zone, which may be above, below or at grade level. The result is students who outperform even their own expectations." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Woodbine Av./Hwy 7 "Character at the core sets apart J. Addison School. Our goal is to build successful well-rounded individuals guided by our core values—Respect, Kindness, and Manner." —From the school
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 Burlington, Ontario Hwy 6/Dundas Street "Laureate’s whole‑brain, cross‑curricular and collaborative project‑based culture, enriched by gifted arts and co‑op programs, offers a forward learning pathway backed by 100% university acceptance rate to date." —From the school
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 Whitby, Ontario Garden Street/Hwy. 2 "Whether exploring science and technology, creating art, or competing in athletics, there is nothing a Trafalgar girl can't handle." —From the school
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 Mill Bay, British Columbia "Brentwood is a leading university prep school that brings to life student choice through its bold tripartite program. We are a true boarding school, not merely a school with boarding, and the ocean is our playground." —From the school
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 Sherbrooke, Quebec "Bishop's College School is an English boarding and day school for students in grades 7 through 12. Small in size and culturally diverse, BCS is an IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme and Canadian curricula." —From the school
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 Rosthern, Saskatchewan "RJC is a Grades 9-12 boarding school accredited by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education. RJC is student and community-focused all while offering excellent academics and exceptional athletic and fine arts programs." —From the school
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 Laval, Quebec Notre-Dame/ "Laval’s only private English high school—no certificate of eligibility required. A launchpad for future leaders, lifelong learners, and thoughtful citizens through strong academics and real-world learning. Grades 7-12." —From the school
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 North York / Port Hope, Ontario York Mills Rd/Don Mills Rd "We inspire global learners through a rigorous IB & AP programs, nurturing curiosity, confidence, and character. In a small-class setting, each student receives individual attention to excel and lead globally." —From the school
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 Windsor, Nova Scotia College Rd/King St "Benefitting from its safe and beautiful Nova Scotia location, King's-Edgehill facilitates the opportunity for every student to Be More – in the classroom, on the sports fields, on stage, in the community and beyond." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario/Bronte College Ct "Bronte College integrates rigorous academics, holistic development, and global awareness through STEM education, leadership development, a diverse cultural environment, and inquiry based, hands-on teaching." —From the school
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 Rigaud, Quebec Rue Saint-Pierre/Rue Bourget "Collège Bourget is a day and boarding school located between Montreal and Ottawa. French and English high school programs are offered. Bourget aims to foster personal autonomy, academic development, and perseverance." —From the school
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 Belleville, Ontario "Discover an exceptional education. Albert College is an independent boarding and day school for students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Belleville, Ontario. AP offered as well as ESL summer school (OSSD credit)." —From the school
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 Stanstead, Quebec Dufferin Street/Willow Lane "An English school in a French milieu, Stanstead College is located on the Quebec-Vermont border, offering rigorous university-prep, Grades 7 to 12 (including AP options), in a secure, family-focused learning environment." —From the school
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 North Vancouver, British Columbia Harbourside Drive/ "A globally oriented university-preparatory day and boarding school combining BC academics, diverse perspectives, and structured pathways that evolve with students from Grades 8–12." —From the school
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 Bradenton, Florida(USA) "IMG Academy is the world's leading sports education brand, providing access and opportunity for student-athletes with an innovative suite of on-campus and online programming." —From the school
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Day schools vs. boarding schools
Comparing day and boarding schools (October 17, 2019)
Tips on schools, scholarships and studying abroad
(June 25, 2019)
Education without borders
International boarding school checklist (May 23, 2019)
Coed boarding schools
Find the top private coed boarding schools (May 15, 2019)
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